Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
unsuccessful, so today you'll find lots of interesting ruins of
WWII-era forts and sugar plantations. Also here is the hur-
ricane-ravaged remains of The Water Isle Hotel, destroyed
in 1989. Some say it was the model for Herman Wouk's
Don't
Stop The Carnival.
Most visitors head to Honeymoon Beach to swim, snorkel
and sunbathe. Palm-shaded, it has a beach bar and snack
shop. It's a five-minute walk from the ferry dock. If you enjoy
bicycling, you can join a Water Island bike tour (see
Bicy-
cling
). The ferry (10 minutes) leaves from Crown Bay Ma-
rina several times daily. Check the schedule at Tickles
Dockside Pub.
(340) 776-8500.
Hassel Island
Hassel Island, even closer to shore, is part of the Virgin Is-
land National Park, most of which is on St. John. Not
blessed with great beaches, Hassel's 135 acres are best for
leisurely hikes and exploring the remnants of an 1800's Ma-
rine Railway and military garrison. Bring food and water if
you intend to stay for more than an hour or two. There are
bathrooms but no other facilities.
Buck Island
Buck Island, two miles south of St. Thomas, is not as well
known as Buck Island National Monument near St. Croix,
which is that island's primary tourist stop. This 45-acre
wildlife preserve, managed by the US fish and wildlife ser-
vice, is a popular stop for day-sail operators and scuba ships.
The wreck of the freighter
Cartanser Sr.
is nearby and there
is a colorful reef. The island itself is covered with
cacti-dotted scrublands, flower-filled forests and palm trees
along its coast. They are home to red-billed tropic birds, frig-
ates and terns. No visitors are allowed on the island at this
writing. There is no ferry service, but you can rent a small
power boat and cruise around it.
