The water in town and at most hotels is perfectly safe to drink. If you are in doubt simply ask. The water at most of the villas on the island is collected rain water that is stored in cisterns below the villas. It may be safe to drink, but we recommend buying bottled water for drinking purposes.

In 2026, you should exercise caution when drinking tap water in St. Croix. While the U.S. Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA) maintains a treatment system, a major 2023–2024 investigation by the EPA revealed elevated levels of lead and copper in certain areas of the St. Croix distribution system. Although remediation efforts have been extensive, many residents and tourists still prefer bottled or filtered water for drinking and cooking. Most high-end resorts and restaurants have installed their own advanced filtration or "reverse osmosis" systems, making the water they serve perfectly safe. For 2026 travelers, it is perfectly fine to use tap water for showering and brushing your teeth, but it is wise to stick to bottled water for primary hydration to avoid the risk of heavy metal exposure or an upset stomach from local mineral content that your body may not be accustomed to.