Saturday, 13 December 2014

Caribbean Islands: Part 3 "Water Island"


Caribbean Islands: Water Island

When thinking of the USVI, three major islands typically pop into your head; St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. But there is a fourth US Virgin Island that most people overlook! It’s called Water Island and it’s located a half mile off the south cost of St. Thomas and is only 491.5 acres. This quaint island is home to 182 residents (according to the 2010 census) and brings in plenty of guests from St. Thomas and all over the world, looking for a truly exclusive island getaway. There are no gas stations, shops, or convenient stores, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to do! Here are some unique popular attractions only Water Island has to offer!

Beaches are a popular attraction throughout the Caribbean, but Water Island has two beaches that keep everyone coming back.
Honeymoon Beach Overlook
Honeymoon Beach
This beach is just as beautiful as any other beach you’ll find in the Virgin Islands, but it also has some unique qualities that set it apart. For one, it’s the main hub of the island, so there is always something going on! On some Mondays, they have Monday Movie Night right on the beach. Also, on Sundays, locals and tourist come down to Honeymoon to have a good time. It’s Sunday Funday! There are a lot of other social gatherings that take place on Honeymoon Beach! Some include birthday parties, holiday parties, and even a music festival. 
Sign for Honeymoon Beach
Colorful Chairs and Bright Blue Water of Honeymoon Beach

Limestone Beach
Unlike Honeymoon, Limestone Beach isn’t lined with white sand, but instead has layers on top of layers of coral. Also, this beach is rarely busy, and chances are, you might be the only one there. In order to get to Limestone, there is a short nature trail that allows you to get a good view of the island's preserved flora and fauna, and even local wildlife.
Your First Sight of Limestone When You Emerge from the Path
Limestone is a Fairly Long Beach and Makes for a Wonderful Walk

 Even though there aren’t any major restaurants, there are two bar/grills located right on Honeymoon Beach!

Heidi’s Honeymoon Grill
With awesome quick to order food and serving happy customers since 1999, Heidi’s is the place to go when you’ve been bumming around on the beach all day. Stick your toes in the sand and enjoy a hamburger that is cooked right in front of you. You can also order up a drink with your meal to make for one good time at the beach.

Dinghy’s Beach Bar and Grill
On the other end of the beach, you have Dinghy’s Beach Bar and Grill. This stays open later than Heidi’s, so if you’re staying late, this might be the spot for you. Order a drink and enjoy a dip in the ocean, all with cup in hand. 
Dinghy's on Hallowween
Dinghy's

Really, no matter where you go, you can’t go wrong!

Fort Segarra
Water Island is full of rich history! That includes the involvement the island had with WWII. All along the island you will find traces of history that link this island to WWII.
The Date is Feb. 7th 1944
One of the biggest examples of this is Fort Segarra. You can still walk around the old tunnels and see history at play, but make sure you bring a flash light if you want to go inside. Climb to the top of the tower and enjoy the 360 degree view of St. Thomas, Water Island and the stunning open ocean. 
View from the Fort
Walk to the Top to get a Great View

One of the Entrances
These are just a few things that sets apart Water Island from the rest. If you want to check it out for yourself, just take the ferry! It is a $10 round trip ticket and it is well worth your time.
The Ferry Dock


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