The Fourth Virgin. Explore 20 attractions across the island.
Water Island is the kind of place most visitors to St. Thomas never hear about, and that is precisely what makes it special. Just a 10-minute ferry ride from the Crown Bay Marina in Charlotte Amalie, this half-square-mile island feels like stepping into a quieter decade. The ferry ($12 round trip) drops you at Phillips Landing on the east side, from where a single paved road winds uphill through a residential neighborhood of modest homes and vacation villas.
The main destination is Honeymoon Beach on the island's northwest side, about a 15-minute walk from the dock or a short golf cart ride. The beach is a gentle crescent of white sand with calm, clear water that is ideal for swimming, and a small concession stand operates most days serving rum punches, beer, and simple food like burgers and fish sandwiches. The snorkeling around Carolina Point, the rocky headland at the western end of Honeymoon Beach, is surprisingly good - expect to see parrotfish, sergeant majors, spotted eagle rays, and the occasional nurse shark resting under a ledge. Bring your own gear, as rentals are not always available.
From Honeymoon Beach, follow the trail south through scrubby hillside vegetation to Fort Segarra, the most intriguing historical site on the island. The US military began construction during World War II to defend the submarine base at St. Thomas, blasting tunnels and gun emplacements into the rock, but the war ended before the fort was completed. Today you can walk into the unfinished concrete tunnels - bring a flashlight and watch your footing, as the site is not maintained or lit. The tunnel complex opens to dramatic views of the harbor and Hassel Island.
For a quieter beach, continue past the fort to Limestone Beach on the south side, which sees very few visitors and has a rocky entry but excellent snorkeling once you are in the water. Sprat Bay, near the ferry dock, is a small sandy beach suitable for a quick dip while waiting for the return ferry. The island has no cars - everyone gets around by golf cart or on foot, and the total road network is about two miles. This makes Water Island ideal for families with young children or anyone who simply wants to unplug. Residents organize informal events like beach movie nights and potluck dinners, and visitors who stay in a rental villa quickly feel like part of the community. The entire island can be explored in a few hours on foot, but the pace here encourages you to slow down, plant yourself on Honeymoon Beach, and let the afternoon dissolve.
The island's main beach offers calm turquoise water, white sand, and a laid-back concession stand serving drinks and simple food. The water is shallow enough for young children, and the beach rarely feels crowded even when St. Thomas is overrun with cruise ship passengers.
The rocky headland at the west end of Honeymoon Beach drops off into deeper water with healthy coral, parrotfish, spotted eagle rays, and occasional nurse sharks. Bring your own snorkel gear as rentals are not guaranteed. Best visibility in the morning before afternoon winds pick up.
Walk into unfinished military tunnels blasted into the rock during World War II. The fort was never completed, leaving a haunting concrete shell that opens to harbor views. Bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes - the tunnels are unlit and the ground is uneven. Free to explore.
A network of trails and roads lets you circumnavigate the island in about two hours on foot, passing through residential areas, scrub forest, and multiple viewpoints overlooking St. Thomas, Hassel Island, and the harbor. The terrain is hilly but manageable for moderate fitness levels.
On the island's south side, this secluded beach sees very few visitors. The entry is rocky, so water shoes help, but once in the water the snorkeling is excellent with minimal boat traffic. A short trail from Fort Segarra leads down to the beach.
The late afternoon ferry from Phillips Landing back to Crown Bay offers spectacular views of Charlotte Amalie and the surrounding hills bathed in golden light. Sit on the upper deck and bring a camera - it is one of the best free sunset experiences in the US Virgin Islands.
Marine park with 5 acres of activities such as a touch pool, undersea observatory tower & aquariums.
Gondola rides 700 ft. up to an observation area with scenic views of the bay & a restaurant/bar.
Polished rooms, most with beach access, in a casual seafront resort with an outdoor pool & dining.
Parking is available at this popular lookout point with panoramic views of Magens Bay & the islands.
Mermaid's Chair is a nature attraction on Water Island. This natural area showcases the lush tropical landscapes and diverse ecosystems that Water Island is known for. Visitors can explore the local flora and fauna in a serene setting.
Charlotte Amalie Overlook is a nature attraction on Water Island. This natural area showcases the lush tropical landscapes and diverse ecosystems that Water Island is known for. Visitors can explore the local flora and fauna in a serene setting.
Hull Bay Beach is a nature attraction on Water Island. This natural area showcases the lush tropical landscapes and diverse ecosystems that Water Island is known for. Visitors can explore the local flora and fauna in a serene setting.
Fort Christian is a historical site on Water Island. This historic site reflects the rich cultural heritage and storied past of Water Island. It offers a glimpse into the events and traditions that have shaped the island over centuries.
Home base for a lively zip-line attraction in the rainforest with island views & multiple platforms.
Pirates Treasure Museum is a cultural attraction on Water Island. Visitors can experience the vibrant local culture and artistic traditions of Water Island at this destination. It is a window into the creative spirit and community life of the island.
Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden is a nature attraction on Water Island. This natural area showcases the lush tropical landscapes and diverse ecosystems that Water Island is known for. Visitors can explore the local flora and fauna in a serene setting.
Long brick staircase leading up a hill to a 17th-century watchtower known as Blackbeard's Castle.
Find hotels, restaurants, and bookable experiences on our full island page.
