Nestled on the western tip of Bequia, one of the most enchanting islands in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Moonhole stands out as an extraordinary fusion of art, nature, and sustainable living that continues to captivate travelers seeking a truly distinctive Caribbean experience. Originally conceived in the late 1960s by American couple Thomas and Gladys Johnston, Moonhole began as a visionary retreat built beneath a striking natural volcanic archway, through which the setting moon occasionally aligns — the source of its evocative name. Wikipedia+1
Today, Moonhole is a private community and conservation preserve covering roughly 30 acres of rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and secluded beaches. The landscape’s raw beauty and the community’s unconventional architecture create a sense of timelessness and immersion in the natural world that is rare even in the Caribbean. Wikipedia
A Legacy of Visionary Design and Sustainable Living
From the outset, Moonhole was envisioned as more than a mere vacation spot. The Johnstons sought to build homes that blended seamlessly with the island’s environment, using local stone, native hardwoods, repurposed materials, and even whalebones in the construction. These features — along with open-air living spaces, shaded verandas, and panoramic ocean views — reflect a design philosophy where indoor and outdoor life flow together uninterrupted. paradise-islands.org+1
In keeping with Moonhole’s eco-ethos, the homes traditionally relied on rainwater collection, natural ventilation from trade winds, and energy sourced from solar and wind power, long before such practices became mainstream. Many residences remain off-grid, with stone paths in place of roads and a conscious effort to minimize environmental impact. Moonhole
A Community Rooted in Conservation
As Moonhole evolved, the founders established Moonhole Company Limited and later entrusted their holdings to a conservation trust aimed at preserving the community’s architectural heritage and surrounding environment. Today, Moonhole is recognized as both a sanctuary for wildlife and a model of sustainable development. Its unspoiled terrain supports diverse birds, marine life, and endemic flora, while dunes, reefs, and tranquil waters encourage low-impact outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and beach exploration. Moonhole
While the original structures are no longer regularly inhabited, the community now comprises roughly 19 homes, some privately owned, others maintained by the Moonhole Company and available for rental. Each house has its own character and layout, yet all preserve the core ethos that shaped Moonhole from the beginning: a harmonious balance between architecture and the natural setting. Wikipedia
Experience Moonhole Today
Travelers interested in experiencing Moonhole typically arrive via Bequia’s ferry or small aircraft connections from larger Caribbean hubs, followed by a scenic taxi ride to the peninsula. Once there, guests are transported into a world apart — one where the rhythms of the sea and wind replace modern hustle, and where the simplest pleasures — spectacular sunsets, moonlit beaches, and barefoot exploration — define daily life. Moonhole
Accommodations vary from intimate cottages with captivating sea views to larger villas such as Villa Vincent, perched high above the shoreline with expansive decks and generous living spaces. Some homes feature traditional Moonhole elements like open arches, integrated natural vegetation, and panoramic ocean vistas, while others combine historical character with modest modern comforts. Moonhole
For travelers seeking a sustainable getaway that celebrates heritage, natural beauty, and creative architecture, Moonhole offers an unforgettable escape. Its remote setting, ecological sensitivity, and storied past make it one of the Caribbean’s most compelling and singular destinations — a place where every sunset feels like a revelation and every moment invites deeper immersion in the natural world. Wikipedia
If you’d like, I can tailor a travel guide version (with tips on how to get there, best activities, and recommended stay durations) or a rental showcase article focusing on specific houses like Villa Vincent or beachfront properties.
