The Lodge on the Beach

The host was very friendly, there were sweet dogs, and the place is right on the beach. But calling it a lodge is a stretch. It felt more like a run-down backpackers with none of the good atmosphere. The bathroom was private, but across the corridor rather than en-suite. The kitchen and fridges were filthy, and for the price I expected somewhere much tidier. If I'd known, I probably wouldn't have stayed. The backpackers down the road looked like a better option, with a bar and restaurant too. Check the Tripadvisor reviews for a more accurate picture, because this place was sorely misrepresented.

Cat and Mike were relaxed, helpful hosts, and the whole lagoon area has such a laid-back, almost otherworldly feel. I even had a good beer at Kiko's down the road with some very unusual, nonconformist people who seemed to live there for free. The landscape is lush and jungle-like, the garden is full, and the stars are incredibly clear at night. This is a memorable spot that feels like the other end of the world. The old thatched building sits in a beautiful, unusual area. The room was comfortable and homely, with a balcony overlooking the bay and a private shower and toilet. The shower had hot water and good pressure. Everything was clean and well kept without feeling fussy. The place has no official rating, but to me it felt well within the 3-star range. I definitely recommend it.

The garden is lush, the hosts are wonderful, and the dogs are very loving. Tucked away at the end of the road, it has the best location and views in Port St John. It's a charming old thatched house, and the faded door frames just add to its rustic character. The essentials were all very clean.

The mountain-top location gives you an easy sea view, but this was nothing like the website suggested. It felt like sleeping in someone's house with dogs, not the simple self-catering stay I expected. The rooms weren't neat or clean, and the so-called blankets were stinking and made my sinus worse. The kitchen was awful too.