Day Trippin’ to Water Island

It may seem impossible to find a more remote Caribbean island than St. John, but nearby Water Island (the fourth Virgin Island) might be in the running. No stoplights, no rental cars, no hotels, no buses, no taxis, no grocery stores, all of which makes this a great day trip destination to truly get off the grid!

How to get there

One of our many private boat charters can take you to Water Island, or you can take a 10 minute ferry ride from Crown Bay Marina on St. Thomas for as little as $15 round trip.

About Water Island

There are less than 100 full time residents on this 491-acre island, earning its name from Europeans for its natural ponds of freshwater thus making it a popular stop for pirates back in the day. Water Island was purchased by the United States in 1944 to protect a submarine base on St. Thomas during World War II. In 1965, Ernest Hemingway’s brother opened a resort which sadly did not survive Hurricane Hugo.

Exploring

Rent a golf cart to get the full scope of Water Island. You will likely receive a hand-drawn map with instructions to be on the lookout for “locals,” the red footed tortoise and iguanas. Island humor is alive and well with stop signs that say, “Stop. Den Go.”

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Heidi’s Honeymoon Grill at the top of Providence Hill. Then head back in time by visiting historical Fort Segarra, what’s left of an underground military bunker. The war ended before construction was complete, however gun emplacements and watchtowers with spectacular views of the sea remain.

From there, wander over to the ruins of the Carolina Point Plantation, a former cotton mill and livestock farm. A Great House, several outbuildings, two freshwater wells and various slave cabins once occupied this space in the early 18th century.

Honeymoon Beach is the most popular spot on the island. Lined with palm trees, this tranquil white strip of sand is the place to have lunch with your friends. Hammocks, horseshoes, corn hole, darts, pool noodles and floating bars are all complimentary at Dinghy’s Beach Bar & Grill. Enjoy a swim in the warm waters of the bay or rent paddle-boards or kayaks for a day of fun. Limestone Beach is a short hike away and perfect for beachcombing.

So next time you want to escape civilization, spend a day at Water Island. It’s a local favorite, especially on weekends!