Island Size and Location
Jeffrey Epstein's private island, Little St. James, covers roughly 70 acres in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It sits in the Caribbean Sea east of St. Thomas and is known for its secluded beaches and dense vegetation. The island includes main residential structures, docks, and utility buildings, all on a compact footprint within the 70-acre total area. Public property records and news reports consistently describe the island as under 150 acres, with the most cited figure around 70 acres.
The island is accessible mainly by boat and helicopter, with a private dock capable of receiving yachts and small vessels. Little St. James is located in the Lesser Antilles chain and lies close to other private islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands territory. Real estate listings and investigative reports describe the property as a single parcel with restricted access and limited public infrastructure nearby.
Structures, Facilities, and Layout
Public records and media reports describe the island as having a main house, guest quarters, a dock, and support buildings. The main residence includes multiple bedrooms, living areas, and administrative spaces, while the guest quarters provide additional sleeping capacity for visitors. Infrastructure on the island includes a private dock, power generation systems, water storage, and a helipad for direct air access.
Satellite imagery and investigative journalism show the structures clustered near the shoreline, with large portions of the 70-acre island remaining undeveloped. The layout includes roads, pathways, and landscaping that connect the main buildings and dock. Aerial photos published in major outlets show the density of construction relative to the total island footprint.
Ownership History and Current Status
Jeffrey Epstein acquired Little St. James in 1998, and the property remained under his control until his death in federal custody in 2019. After his death, the island passed to his estate, and legal proceedings have addressed its ownership and potential sale. Court filings and estate documents describe the island as part of Epstein's broader asset portfolio, which also included properties in New York, Florida, and New Mexico.
The U.S. Virgin Islands government and federal authorities have taken an interest in the island's future, with discussions focused on possible sale or transfer to a nonprofit entity. As of the latest public updates, the island remains part of the Epstein estate, and its use is subject to ongoing legal and regulatory review. The property has not been listed on standard real estate markets, and any transfer would require approval from local and federal authorities.
For background on Epstein's broader financial network and assets, see the Forbes overview of his business and legal history here. Additional details on the U.S. Virgin Islands territory and property laws can be found in official government resources here.