In St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands), the tap water is technically safe to drink according to government standards, but most locals and visitors avoid it. The water is often collected in cisterns from rainfall or produced via desalination, which can lead to a flat or slightly metallic taste. In 2026, there have been ongoing concerns regarding the aging piping infrastructure, which can occasionally lead to elevated levels of lead or copper in specific areas. While the Water and Power Authority (WAPA) treats the water to meet EPA standards, many people prefer to use a high-quality filter or purchase bottled water for drinking to avoid potential contaminants or stomach upset. It is perfectly safe for showering, brushing your teeth, and washing dishes. If you are staying at a high-end resort, they likely have their own advanced filtration and UV purification systems that make the water much more palatable than standard municipal tap water.