Cottages by the Sea could be described as an idyllic suburban haven in the tropics: white picket fences, green lawns, and little summer cottages are spread across two acres, all within steps of the sandy beach. Maybe that’s why many of the hotels guests who come here stay a while -- these cozy studios are often booked far in advance by returning vacationers. There isn't much in the way of public areas, and the main focus here is the lovely beach, though there's also a covered terrace adjacent to it and a small front office with a computer station. The ambiance is relaxed and quiet, and guests are mostly older couples and families. 

Cottages by the Sea is located in the western end of Frederiksted. It’s a ten minute drive to Sandy Point Wildlife Reserve, an active nesting area for endangered sea turtles. The hotel is within walking distance of downtown Frederiksted, although there’s no real draw there except for an ATM and a few minimarts. Just past the town is Rainbow Beach, though, a favorite strip of sand among locals and tourists that takes seven minutes to reach by car. Frederiksted Pier and Waterfront is a 20-minute walk away (five minutes by car), and Cane Bay Beach, a famous dive site where the ocean floor drops a whopping 3,200 feet, takes 25 minutes to reach by car. The waterfront shops and restaurants in downtown Christiansted are about 30 minutes away. There are a few tour operators in Frederiksted for watersports and boat tours, like West End Water Sports and Freedom City Surf, but the majority of them operate out of the eastern side of St. Croix in Christiansted. The Cruzan Rum Distillery is about 12 minutes away by car. 

These 27 cottages are different in their decor, size, and layout, though all are cheerful and close to the beach, and most come with full kitchens. The majority of rooms have a cozy charm and style -- some rooms have nautical themes while others are brightly decorated with tropical trinkets and paintings. Rooms are carefully organized to be able to fit a number of amenities, including flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, microwaves, stovetops, full-sized fridges, dishes, and a variety of cookware. The Standard Room we visited had an updated, modern style, with wood paneled walls, chic gray seating, and sharp navy blue bedding. Martha's Treat, on the other hand, felt much more homey, with sea foam green wall paneling and bird-themed bedding. Guests should check ahead to see which units are suitable for families or couples, as the number of beds varies, and two units lack kitchens. Bathrooms, like guest rooms, vary, but all are clean and functional and include tiled stand-up showers, stand-alone sinks, and toiletries. Housekeeping is provided five days a week.

The cottages sit on Dorsch Beach, a long and sandy strip that is one of the loveliest on St. Croix and is as renowned for its calm and transparent waters. The beach has an adjacent covered terrace with tables and chairs. Bike rentals and watersports equipment are free for guests to use and the small lending library on the property is a unique touch. The hotel does not have an on-site restaurant or pool, but it is next door to Beach Side Cafe, the restaurant at Sand Castle on the Beach Hotel, which serves a tasty lunch and dinner. There is laundry on-site, and Wi-Fi is free and functional throughout the property. There’s also a computer and printer next to the front desk that's available for guest use. The hotel provides towels for the beach and there are grills located on the grounds. Parking is free.