Little Saint James Island is a small private island located in the United States Virgin Islands, roughly two miles southeast of St. Thomas. Spanning approximately 70 to 78 acres, this tiny Caribbean island has become one of the most searched and discussed locations in the world. But what exactly is Little Saint James, and why does it continue to capture global attention? Let’s break it all down.
Nestled in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, Little Saint James may look like any other tropical paradise from a distance — lush green vegetation, sandy beaches, rocky hillsides, and crystal-clear water stretching to the horizon. But behind its postcard-perfect exterior lies a story that has shocked the world. From its quiet beginnings as an uninhabited Caribbean cay to its transformation into one of the most infamous private estates in modern history, this island carries a legacy that continues to make headlines in 2026.
Whether you’ve stumbled upon this name through news reports, social media, congressional investigations, or simple curiosity, this guide covers everything you need to know — the island’s exact location, its geographical features, its full ownership history, what was built there, its dark past, and what the future holds for Little Saint James.
Where Is Little Saint James Island?
Little Saint James sits off the southern coast of St. Thomas, near the East End subdistrict. It neighbors the larger Great Saint James Island, and both are part of the US Virgin Islands territory. The island enjoys a tropical climate driven by Caribbean trade winds, with warm temperatures year-round, stronger winds during winter, and less rainfall in the dry months. Surrounded by turquoise waters, coral reefs, and marine life, the island’s natural beauty is undeniable.
The Virgin Islands themselves are essentially mountain peaks rising from the Caribbean ocean floor. Little Saint James is one of many smaller islands and cays scattered around the three main USVI islands — St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. Its proximity to St. Thomas means it’s visible from shore and easily reachable by boat within minutes.
The Complete History of Little Saint James Island
Early Ownership
Before gaining worldwide infamy, Little Saint James was a quiet Caribbean property. It was previously owned by venture capitalist Arch Cummin and was featured in Condé Nast’s House & Garden Magazine in March 1996. At that time, the island already had several structures in place, including a main house, guest house, an oval-shaped pool, and three cabanas.
The Epstein Era (1998–2019)
In 1998, financier Jeffrey Epstein purchased the island through his company L.S.J. LLC for $7.95 million. Over the following two decades, Epstein transformed Little Saint James into a lavish private compound.
Key developments during his ownership include:
- 2005: Epstein hired the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority to install a combination power and fiber optic cable between St. Thomas and Little Saint James, giving the island dedicated data and electric connections and eliminating the need for generators.
- 2008: The estate employed approximately 70 staff members. Epstein reportedly insisted on strict discretion and confidentiality from all employees.
- 2016: Epstein purchased the neighboring Great Saint James Island, roughly 161 acres in size.
- 2016: The Department of Planning and Natural Resources received complaints about Epstein clearing land on the island without proper permits.
By 2019, the combined property value of both islands exceeded $63 million.
What Facilities Were on Little Saint James?
The island was extensively developed with luxury amenities. According to its real estate listing when it was put up for sale, Little Saint James included:
- A main residential compound
- 4 guest villas
- 2 swimming pools
- A helipad
- A private dock
- A gas station
- High-capacity water filtration system
- 3 private beaches
- A gym
- A tiki hut
- A library
- A movie theater
- A Japanese bathhouse
The island was essentially a self-contained luxury estate, designed for complete privacy and seclusion from the outside world.
Why Is Little Saint James Island Famous?
The island became globally infamous due to its connection to Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal activities. Court documents and victim testimonies allege that Little Saint James served as a location where serious crimes, including trafficking and abuse of minors, took place over many years.
According to attorneys for Epstein’s alleged victims, the island was where many of the crimes against minors were committed. In a 2020 lawsuit against Epstein’s estate, the US Virgin Islands Attorney General stated that Epstein used helicopters to transport young women and underage girls between St. Thomas and Little Saint James.
Local residents told news outlets that Epstein continued bringing underage girls to the island even in 2019, after he was already registered as a sex offender. The island earned several nicknames in the media, including “Epstein Island,” and it remains a focal point in ongoing investigations and public discourse.
After Epstein’s arrest in July 2019 and his subsequent death in a New York jail in August 2019, FBI agents conducted a thorough search of his residence on Little Saint James.
The Epstein Files and Congressional Investigation
The island returned to headlines in late 2025 when House Democrats on the Oversight Committee released previously unseen photographs and videos from Little Saint James. These images provided a new look into the island property and included:
- Bedrooms and bathrooms of the estate
- A room containing what appeared to be a dentist’s chair with masks on the walls
- A telephone with first names written on speed dial buttons
- Videos showing the grounds, swimming pool, palm trees, and ocean views
- A blackboard with words like “power,” “deception,” and “political” written on it
The release was part of an ongoing congressional investigation into Epstein, his associates, and the federal government’s handling of the case. Multiple batches of documents, including phone logs, flight records, daily schedules, and financial ledgers, have been turned over to investigators.
What Happened After Epstein? Current Ownership and Resort Plans
The Sale
After Epstein’s death, the islands sat in limbo for several years. His estate executors, Darren Indyke and Richard Kahn, listed both islands for sale in March 2022 with an asking price of $125 million. After multiple price reductions and no buyers at the original figure, the islands were eventually sold in May 2023.
Financier Stephen Deckoff, founder of Black Diamond Capital Management, purchased both Little Saint James and Great Saint James through his firm SD Investments for approximately $60 million — less than half the original asking price.
The Resort Development
Deckoff announced ambitious plans to transform the islands into a state-of-the-art, five-star, world-class luxury 25-room resort. He stated that the project would boost tourism, create jobs, and spur economic development in the region while respecting the local culture and natural environment.
Initially, the resort was projected to open as early as 2025. However, as of early 2026, the luxury resort has not yet materialized. According to local reports, the only construction permit Deckoff has requested so far is for an 8,800-square-foot warehouse on Little Saint James. That said, photos from mid-2025 did show some transformation activity underway on the island, including work around one of the existing pools that appears to be incorporated into the new resort plans.
The Settlement Fund
As part of a $105 million legal settlement, the US Virgin Islands government receives half of the proceeds from the sale of Little Saint James. This money is being used to establish a trust that funds support services and counseling for victims of sexual abuse and human trafficking.
Can You Visit Little Saint James Island?
No. Little Saint James is private property, and visitors are not permitted to go ashore. There are “No Trespassing” signs posted on the island’s beaches.
However, the surrounding waters remain fully accessible. Yacht charter guests, boaters, and divers can anchor near the island and enjoy the Caribbean waters. The underwater landscape around Little Saint James is actually quite impressive.
Diving and Snorkeling Near Little Saint James
If you’re a water sports enthusiast visiting St. Thomas, the waters around Little Saint James offer some excellent spots:
- The Ledges of Little Saint James — Located on the island’s west side, coral ridges and outcroppings run at two depths (25 feet and 45 feet). Divers commonly spot schools of French grunt, Spanish lobster, spotted eagle rays, and the occasional nurse shark.
- Cow and Calf — A nearby dive site featuring a network of coral tunnels, caves, reefs, and underwater coral-covered boulders.
- Christmas Cove (Great Saint James) — A favorite overnight anchorage for yachts, offering calm protected waters and good snorkeling.
The unique underwater rock formations around the island create perfect habitats for stingrays, sea turtles, and octopuses, making it a rewarding stop for any marine exploration.
Little Saint James vs. Great Saint James: A Comparison
| Feature | Little Saint James | Great Saint James |
|---|---|---|
| Size | ~72 acres | ~161 acres |
| Location | Southeast of St. Thomas | Adjacent to Little Saint James |
| Purchased by Epstein | 1998 ($7.95 million) | 2016 (~$17 million) |
| Current Owner | Stephen Deckoff (2023) | Stephen Deckoff (2023) |
| Development Level | Heavily developed compound | Less developed, more natural |
| Notable Features | Main compound, villas, pools, “temple” | Larger land area, less infrastructure |
| Public Access | No (private property) | No (private property) |
| Combined Sale Price | $60 million (both islands together) | Included in combined sale |
Both islands were purchased together by Deckoff and are included in the resort development plans.
How to See Little Saint James by Boat
If you’re visiting St. Thomas and curious about the area around Little Saint James, here’s how to plan a trip on the water:
- Charter a yacht or catamaran from Red Hook, American Yacht Harbor, or Compass Point Marina on St. Thomas’s East End. The sail takes approximately 20 minutes.
- Day sail options range from group catamaran trips to private motor yacht charters with captain and crew.
- Anchor at Christmas Cove on Great Saint James for a sheltered spot with calm water, snorkeling, and the famous Pizza Pi floating restaurant.
- Combine your trip with stops at popular nearby spots like Maho Bay, Lovango Cay, Water Island, or even the Baths at Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands (passport required for BVI).
- Pack essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, hats, plenty of water, snorkeling gear, and a camera.
- Respect the rules: You can enjoy the surrounding waters freely, but do not attempt to go ashore on Little Saint James. It is private property with posted no-trespassing signs.
Where to Stay Nearby
Since there are no accommodations on Little Saint James itself, base yourself on St. Thomas for easy access to charter departures:
- The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
- Secret Harbour Beach Resort
- Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove
- Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham
Frequently Asked Questions About Little Saint James Island
Who owns Little Saint James Island now?
As of 2026, the island is owned by financier Stephen Deckoff through his firm SD Investments. He purchased both Little Saint James and Great Saint James for $60 million in May 2023.
Can tourists visit Little Saint James?
No. The island is private property with restricted access. However, boaters and yacht charter guests can enjoy the surrounding waters for snorkeling, diving, and swimming.
Is there a resort on Little Saint James?
Not yet. Deckoff announced plans for a 25-room luxury resort, but as of early 2026, development has been slow. Some construction activity has been reported, but no resort is currently open to guests.
How far is Little Saint James from St. Thomas?
The island is approximately two miles off the southern coast of St. Thomas, easily reachable by boat in just a few minutes.
What happened to the buildings Epstein built?
The existing structures — including the main compound, guest villas, pools, helipad, and dock — were included in the property sale. The new owner plans to incorporate or replace them as part of the resort development.
How much did Jeffrey Epstein pay for Little Saint James?
Epstein purchased the island in 1998 for $7.95 million. By 2019, the property was valued at over $63 million.
The Future of Little Saint James Island
The story of Little Saint James is far from over. With ongoing congressional investigations, continued public interest in the Epstein case, and the uncertain timeline of the resort development, the island remains one of the most closely watched properties in the world.
Whether Stephen Deckoff successfully transforms it into a luxury Caribbean destination or the island continues to be defined by its dark past, Little Saint James will remain a topic of conversation for years to come. The intersection of wealth, power, criminal history, and Caribbean real estate makes this small island one of the most fascinating — and troubling — locations on the planet.
One thing is certain: the legacy of what happened on Little Saint James has already left a permanent mark on public consciousness, and the island’s future chapters will be written under the watchful eye of the world.
