When you dedicate yourself to reviewing beach bars, you tend to think that you’re in for an easy ride, that life will be simple and decisions becomes as uncomplicated as choosing between a beer or a Mai Tai. Not so fast my friends…
A beautiful bar atop a Caribbean peak, resplendent with decks that provide gorgeous views of the ocean? Surely this is a beach bar, no?
Well, wait just one darn crab-pickin’ moment. Shouldn’t beach bars provide easy access to…a beach? Isn’t it a fundamental requirement to have the option to take your Red Stripe from the bar and stroll on sand?
Well friends, I leave this for you to decide. For now, I’m calling this a proper beach bar, if for no reason than the fact that the view – from bar to beach – is stunning, and with a proper west-facing placement, there are awe-inspring sunsets to take in while quaffing the aforementioned Red Stripe. If this place doesn’t capture the spirit of a beach bar, well, feel free to let me know in the comments.
The Full Story
The Windmill Bar may not be easy to get to, but then again, St. John isn’t exactly known for its infrastructure. And truth be told, we took the back way from Coral Bay, and if there is one thing on this island that is a terrible idea, it’s taking a back way anywhere. So after an interesting voyage (and a super cool stop at the ruins of an old sugar mill) we arrived at The Windmill Bar. Or rather, at their enormous parking lot, which actually had a parking lot attendant – and a $5 fee.
After a short walk up the hill, we entered an enormous space (it’s all relative; it was massive for a Caribbean bar) that was packed to the gills with sunburnt tourists. The food was a pleasant surprise, as they have a pretty wide menu and some fresh fish options. Drinks were spot-on, if a little pricey, but you’re paying for that view.
And speaking of the view, holy mother, it’s amazing. We even had some cloud cover and it was still mesmerizing.
Insider tips:
Aside from the parking lot fee, be aware of the time you go there. If you head there around sunset, be prepared for a full bar. We wrangled a spot at the bar, but kept sharking for a better spot – there are no reservations, so you will need to be on the ball when looking for a table or a sunset-facing seat. We did wind up at a prime location, and it was well worth it.
Beach Bar Bum’s Prime Seat:
Get yourself to any of the tables or bar rail that face west. You’ll be treated to an amazing sight in a tropical heaven.