Water Island, U.S. Virgin Islands: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Water Island is actually the fourth and least known of the U.S. Virgin Islands? Despite being just 2 sq. km (0.77 sq. mi) and visible from the shores of St. Thomas, this hidden gem remains a mystery to most Caribbean travelers. With no main town, very few cars, and only about 200 residents, Water Island offers a peaceful escape from the tourist crowds while still delivering world-class beaches and fascinating historical sites.

Getting to Water Island & Planning Your Journey

To reach Water Island, you’ll first need to fly into Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas. From there, take a taxi to Crown Bay Marina in Charlotte Amalie where the Water Island ferry departs. The ferry runs hourly from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (9:00 AM start on Sundays and holidays) and takes just 10 minutes to reach Phillips Landing on Water Island.

Round-trip ferry tickets cost $15 for adults and $5 for children, payable in cash when you arrive at the dock. Look for the ferry near Tickles Dockside Pub with its distinctive red roof. The small vessel holds about 20-25 passengers, and while it rarely fills up during the day, the afternoon return trips can get crowded with day-trippers.

Best Time to Visit Water Island

The ideal time to visit Water Island is during the dry season from December through April when temperatures hover around 26-29°C (79-84°F) with minimal rainfall. This period offers perfect beach weather and coincides with the high tourist season across the U.S. Virgin Islands.

May through November brings the rainy season, with September and October seeing the heaviest rainfall. The hurricane season officially runs from June through November, with the highest risk of storms from August through October. While prices may be lower during these months, the weather uncertainty makes it a riskier time to visit.

Getting Around Water Island

Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation on Water Island

One of Water Island’s most charming features is its lack of cars. The primary mode of transportation is golf carts, which you can rent from Rachael’s Rentals located at the top of the hill from the ferry dock. Golf cart rentals cost approximately $55 per day, and it’s highly recommended to reserve one in advance as they’re in high demand.

If you prefer exploring on foot, it’s entirely possible but be prepared for some hills. The walk from the ferry to Honeymoon Beach takes about 10-15 minutes, while reaching Fort Segarra takes around 30 minutes. Some restaurants offer free shuttle service from the ferry at certain times of day.

Where to Stay on Water Island

Accommodation options on Water Island are limited but unique. Unlike the larger Virgin Islands, you won’t find big resorts or hotel chains here. Instead, the island offers a small selection of vacation rentals, villas, and eco-friendly cottages that provide an authentic island experience.

Note that many accommodations require a minimum stay of 3-5 nights, especially during the high season. Since options are limited, it’s essential to book well in advance of your trip.

Top Things to Do on Water Island, U.S. Virgin Islands

Honeymoon Beach is Water Island’s premier attraction

Relax at Honeymoon Beach

Honeymoon Beach is undoubtedly the island’s crown jewel and main attraction. This stunning stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water is just a short walk from the ferry landing. The beach offers tiki umbrellas for shade, beach chair and water sports equipment rentals, and even a floating bar. Dinghy’s Beach Bar and Grill provides food, drinks, and occasionally hosts live music, creating a lively yet laid-back atmosphere.

Explore Fort Segarra

History buffs will appreciate Fort Segarra, an underground fort built by the U.S. government during World War II to protect the submarine base on St. Thomas. Though never completed, visitors can explore gun emplacements, underground tunnels, and bunkers. The observation tower at the top offers spectacular panoramic views of Water Island and neighboring St. Thomas. Bring a flashlight if you plan to venture into the darker areas.

Discover Carolina Point Plantation Ruins

Water Island has a unique history that includes plantations once owned and operated by free Black men—unusual for that historical period. The excavated ruins of Carolina Point Plantation offer a glimpse into this past. Located about 1.5 miles from the ferry dock, the site requires a hike along a dirt road but rewards visitors with an authentic historical experience.

Visit Limestone Beach

For a more secluded experience, head to Limestone Beach on the opposite side of the island from Honeymoon Beach. While rockier and less suitable for swimming than Honeymoon Beach, it offers solitude and excellent opportunities for finding sea glass. Follow the path near the Virgin Islands Campground to reach this hidden spot.

Water Activities and Snorkeling

The waters around Water Island offer excellent snorkeling opportunities with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Honeymoon Beach is a perfect starting point for snorkelers, with equipment available for rent right on the beach. Kayaks and paddleboards are also available for those wanting to explore the coastline from the water.

Dining on Water Island

Dinghy’s Beach Bar and Grill offers casual dining right on Honeymoon Beach

Despite its small size, Water Island offers a couple of dining options that serve delicious food in spectacular settings. Don’t expect fine dining or extensive menus, but do anticipate fresh ingredients and authentic Caribbean flavors.

Dinghy’s Beach Bar and Grill

Located right on Honeymoon Beach, Dinghy’s is the go-to spot for lunch and drinks while enjoying the beach. Open from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, they serve casual beach fare like burgers, sandwiches, and seafood dishes priced between $14-20. Their floating bar is a unique attraction where you can enjoy a tropical drink while literally in the water.

Heidi’s Hilltop Hideaway

Originally located on Honeymoon Beach before hurricane damage forced relocation, Heidi’s now operates from a scenic hilltop location. Known for having the best fish tacos on the island, this restaurant serves lunch on Wednesdays and Thursdays and is open throughout the day from Friday to Sunday (closed Mondays and Tuesdays).

The Crossroads Shaved Ice

For a refreshing treat, visit the shaved ice stand at the Crossroads on Main Road. This spot also features a small art gallery showcasing works from about 20 local artists—quite impressive considering the island’s small population.

Practical Tips for Visiting Water Island

Day Trip or Extended Stay?

Most visitors experience Water Island as a day trip from St. Thomas, which works well for those with limited time. A day gives you enough time to enjoy Honeymoon Beach, visit Fort Segarra, and have lunch at one of the island’s restaurants.

However, staying overnight offers a more immersive experience. Once the day-trippers leave on the afternoon ferry, you’ll have a peaceful island largely to yourself. The stargazing is exceptional due to minimal light pollution, and you’ll get to experience the true tranquility that makes Water Island special.

Is Water Island Worth Visiting?

Water Island offers a distinctly different experience from the more developed U.S. Virgin Islands. If you’re seeking a peaceful retreat with beautiful beaches and interesting historical sites but without the crowds and commercialization, Water Island is definitely worth your time.

While it may not have the extensive amenities or activities of St. Thomas or St. John, its charm lies precisely in what it doesn’t have—traffic, crowds, and noise. Water Island gives you a glimpse of what Caribbean travel was like before mass tourism, making it a refreshing addition to your Virgin Islands itinerary.

Whether you visit for a day or stay longer, this hidden gem of the U.S. Virgin Islands provides a perfect balance of natural beauty, history, and relaxation that will leave you with lasting memories of Caribbean island life at its most authentic.