Water Island & Honeymoon Beach – US Virgin Islands
A quick trip to Water Island is one of the easiest and most relaxing add‑ons to your St. Thomas cruise day. Just a short ferry ride from Crown Bay Marina, this tiny island feels peaceful, laid‑back, and wonderfully uncrowded. Its main attraction, Honeymoon Beach, is known for calm turquoise water, soft sand, and a relaxed beach‑bar vibe that makes it perfect for families, couples, and anyone who wants a simple, low‑stress beach day.
Fun Facts & History About Water Island
Water Island is the smallest of the four US Virgin Islands and the last to become part of the United States — officially transferred from Denmark in 1996. Unlike St. Thomas and St. John, Water Island is mostly residential and intentionally undeveloped, which keeps its beaches quiet and natural. Honeymoon Beach has long been a local favorite for its calm water and easy access, and the island’s name comes from the freshwater ponds that once supplied passing ships.
Where Water Island Is Located
Water Island sits just south of St. Thomas, only a few minutes away by ferry. The island is small, quiet, and easy to explore, with Honeymoon Beach as its main visitor spot.
Why Water Island Is Worth Visiting
Honeymoon Beach offers some of the calmest water in the USVI, making it perfect for swimming, floating, and relaxing. The beach has soft sand, gentle waves, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels like a hidden escape. Beach bars offer food, drinks, and chair rentals, giving you everything you need for a simple, stress‑free beach day.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Expect a wide, crescent‑shaped beach with clear, shallow water and plenty of space to spread out. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, with locals and visitors mixing easily. You’ll find beach chairs, umbrellas, and casual food options, but the island still feels quiet and natural. Sea turtles often feed in the shallows, especially in the morning.
How to Get to Water Island From the Cruise Port
Take a short taxi ride to Crown Bay Marina, then board the passenger ferry to Water Island. The ride takes about 10 minutes. From the dock, you can walk or take a quick golf‑cart shuttle to Honeymoon Beach.
Best Time to Visit Water Island
Mornings and early afternoons offer the calmest water and the best chance of spotting sea turtles. The beach stays beautiful all day, but arriving earlier gives you more space and softer crowds.
Tips for Visiting Water Island
- Bring cash for the ferry and beach rentals.
- The water is very calm — great for families and new swimmers.
- Food and drinks are available from beach bars.
- Shade is limited, so consider renting an umbrella.
- Keep an eye out for sea turtles near the shoreline.
Final Thoughts
Water Island and Honeymoon Beach offer a peaceful, easygoing escape just minutes from St. Thomas. With calm water, soft sand, and a relaxed island vibe, it’s a perfect choice for cruisers who want a simple, beautiful beach day without crowds or long travel times.
You can see the full list of top things to do in St. Thomas here.
