Description

Perched at the highest point of Providence Hill on 3.24 acres, 88 Water Island is widely regarded as one of--if not the--most extraordinary private residences on Water Island. With commanding views to the East, South, and West over the Caribbean Sea, and St. Thomas to the North, this landmark property offers a rare combination of history, privacy, craftsmanship, and panoramic beauty. Originally selected by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during World War II as a strategic observation and communications site, the property's iconic three-story steel-reinforced concrete tower remains a defining feature. In the early 2000s, the estate was thoughtfully rebuilt and expanded by renowned Virgin Islands architects John Woods AIA and Jaredian Design Group blending traditional West Indian plantation-style architecture with enduring, hurricane-resilient construction. The result is a residence that feels both timeless and purpose-built for island living. The main residence and separate structures total 5,326 square feet under roof, with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor living spaces that flow seamlessly together. Vaulted cypress ceilings soaring up to 20 feet, Saltillo tile floors throughout, and extensive use of custom South American mahogany--doors, windows, cabinetry, trim, and shutters--all contribute to the home's warmth and authenticity. The great house is naturally ventilated by constant trade winds, while the private master suite offers air conditioning, sweeping ocean views, and a stone outdoor shower. Designed for both self-sufficiency and entertaining, the estate features a 28' x 20' swimming pool, spa, expansive tiled terraces, and a beautifully restored pool pavilion with a 12-foot mahogany bar, half bath, and outdoor shower--fully storm-shuttered and easily convertible to an additional guest suite. Infrastructure includes 41,100 gallons of cistern capacity, a 11kW solar grid-tie system, whole-house water filtration with UV purification, a 2026 11kW diesel generator, hurricane-rated shutters, and a NEW Galvalume roof. The historic observation tower--renovated with colonial stonework and modern utilities--offers four finished interior levels and a rooftop observation deck accessed by a rust-free aluminum spiral staircase. From the top, enjoy 360-degree views spanning St. Croix, Vieques, Culebra, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and all of Water Island--a vantage point unlike anything else in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Surrounded by mature landscaping, including over 40 of West Indian mahogany trees and one of the largest neem trees on the island, Providence Hill is not just a home--it is a legacy property, built to endure and impossible to replicate.