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ST. JOHN, U.S. Virgin Islands — Virgin Islands National Park today announced a request for proposals for the redevelopment of Caneel Bay.
All interested parties can submit a response package with a proposal to rebuild, rehabilitate, improve and operate overnight lodging accommodations and amenities at Caneel Bay.
“We are eager to take this next step in the lease process,” said Virgin Islands National Park Superintendent Penelope Del Bene. “Restoring resort accommodations and visitor services at this exceptional location will boost the local economy by creating jobs and providing financial benefits for St. John and the wider Virgin Islands community.”
Laurance Rockefeller and Jackson Hole Preserve, Inc. originally established the Caneel Bay Resort as one of its “Rockresort” locations in the mid-1950s. Caneel Bay Resort has historically represented an early model of eco-tourist luxury accommodations. Since hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, Caneel Bay Resort operations no longer included overnight accommodations because many guest rooms and other support structures were severely damaged by the hurricanes.
The National Park Service will work with the selected operator for this iconic site to provide a world-class experience blending luxury with environmental responsibility. The operator will design a resort that aims to:
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Conserve the environment
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Preserve the natural and cultural resources
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Support the well‑being of the people of St. John and the U.S. Virgin Islands by strengthening sustainable economic opportunities.
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Educate visitors to the resort about the natural and cultural heritage of the Caneel Bay property and Virgin Islands National Park
Virgin Islands National Park has implemented a phased reopening of the site since the VI District Court issued their decision regarding the ownership of the Caneel Bay Resort lands and improvements to the United States in April 2024. The United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit affirmed the VI District Court’s decision in May 2025.
Tours of the Caneel Bay site for those planning to respond to the Request for Proposals will happen in early June. Proposal submission deadline is July 8, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. (ET) Additional information will be available at: Request for Proposals - Leasing (U.S. National Park Service)
About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.
Last updated: May 7, 2026