Virgin Islands Campground

Loved staying in the simple, clean bungalow overlooking the sea, surrounded by bougainvillea and various friendly creatures (iguanas, salamanders, birds, etc.). Coral was SO incredibly responsive and helpful with everything from how to book a special dinner at Heidi's restaurant (incredible view and food!) to giving us a ride out to explore the cool fort. Thanks for a beautiful stay!

It was really fun meeting people from all over the US in the communal kitchen. But as is to be expected, sound carries at any campground and not everyone is on the same sleep schedule, so bring earplugs!

Overall, a great stay: helpful staff (super flexible on pick-up/drop-off at the ferry landing), spacious bungalow, comfortable bedding (including the futon), everything well organized (your own kitchenware and half-sized fridge). There’s a good supermarket close to the ferry dock on St. Thomas. And Water Island itself is awesome — we loved walking the island’s roads — so peaceful. However, before booking, GO TO THEIR WEB SITE AND READ THE FAQs. This is “glamping” (sorry, I hate that word, too) and if you’re not prepared, you may be disappointed. Even though we had a great stay, there were lots of things we wish we had known about before going. We pt them in the box below. DO NOT HOLD THESE THINGS AGAINST THE CAMPGROUND.

As for things that VICG can control, there was very little that we did not like, but the higher-numbered bungalows do have a short but steep climb to the shared toilets/showers. (We ended up using a “chamber pot” system overnight. No biggie.) And I’m not sure it’s practical or possible under fire/safety regs, but we wish the kitchen had been screened in — see insect comment below. As for things not in VICG’s control (but mentioning them for your vacation planning): [1] You need to give in and wear insect repellent — manager Jason recommends Skin So Soft. Especially at the beach, the no-see-ums come out at 3 PM and leave itchy welts that last for days, even in your scalp. (These are NOT like mosquito bites, which go away quickly if you don’t fuss with them.) [2] Limestone Beach was a trash-strewn, no-shade, buggy disappointment. [3] Honeymoon Beach was well maintained with sun and shade options, BUT it attracts party boats from St. Thomas. Weekends the worst, Monday the quietest. [4] Food options on Water Island are very limited (not very veg-friendly, Heidi’s better than Dinghy’s but don’t bother with the Heidi’s grilled cheese) and the ferry is not convenient for evening meals — the last regular run from St. Thomas is 6 PM, though they do sometimes run a 9 PM service. [5] The ferry goes between the island and Crown Bay Marina, which seems closer to downtown Charlotte Amalie than it actually is. [6] Taxi drivers on STT refuse to honor the regulated rates.

What a joy to stay at this lovely property! The cabin was exceptional, large, airy, and spotless. Bed and bedding excellent. Cooking in the kitchen house and eating with others there was great fun. The island is so relaxed and gorgeous with the friendliest tortoises. Beach is a gem with perfect water. Host is so nice and accommodating.

I loved everything! But take the info about hills seriously; I would not stay here if walking up steep inclines was an issue.

The exact slice of heaven that we needed for a perfect vacation. Stunning location and excellent accommodations.

The steep hill is short but brutal for someone recovering from chemo-related foot neuropathy. But the hill also added to the amazing view!