Water and drinking water on small islands
You want to know where drinking water comes from and what to do if you are unsure.
Drinking water on a small island depends on the resort and the island, so ask rather than assume. Find out whether tap water is drinkable, where drinking water comes from and whether refills are free. When in doubt, use sealed or filtered water, and pack extra for boat and beach days.
For wider context, read how to choose an island resort and hot water and electricity hours on small islands, since water and power often go together.
Why is water a special question on small islands?
Fresh water on a small island can come from rain, wells, a pipe from the mainland or treatment on site. Each has limits. Supply may change with the season and with how many guests are staying.
This is not a criticism of any place. It is a reason to ask early, and to keep a small reserve of your own. Our page on laundry and drying wet gear also touches on water use.
Which water are you asking about?
There are four uses, and each needs its own question.
| Use | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Drinking | Is tap water drinkable? If not, where is drinking water provided? |
| Cooking and ice | What water does the kitchen use for food and ice? |
| Washing and showers | Are there limits on shower times or water pressure? |
| Babies and formula | Can boiled or filtered water be provided at any hour? |
The honest answer varies by resort. A clear, written answer on all four gives you something to plan with.
What should you carry for boat and beach days?
Thirst arrives fast under the sun. Plan so that water is never the worry.
- Bring a reusable bottle for each person.
- Ask the resort whether you can fill bottles from a dispenser or the restaurant.
- Carry a little extra drinking water for the boat.
- Keep a bottle in your day bag for the beach.
- For children and older relatives, add an extra bottle each.
Read picnic lunch for island hopping if you will be out for a full day, and the island packing checklist for the rest of your kit.
What about babies and children?
Babies and young children matter most here. Ask your doctor what is right for your baby.
For formula, ask the resort whether it can supply boiled or filtered water, and whether it is available at night. Our page on baby food and milk on islands covers the full list.
If you are not sure about the water, bring sealed bottled water for your baby’s needs. It costs little to carry and removes the worry.
Questions to put in writing
- Is tap water drinkable, and how is it treated?
- Where can we fill drinking bottles, and is it free?
- What does bottled water cost at the resort?
- What water is used for cooking and ice?
- Are there limits on showers, hours or pressure?
- Can you provide boiled or filtered water for formula at any hour?
- What happens if water supply is interrupted?
A better fit if…
A resort that explains its water supply and offers free refills may be a better fit if you are travelling with babies, children or older relatives.
A resort that cannot say much may still suit you if you are confident bringing and buying bottled water, and you budget for it.
Whatever you choose, ask in writing and keep the reply.
Common questions
Is the tap water on a small island safe to drink?
Do not assume. Water systems on small islands differ, and we cannot judge any one place. Ask the resort whether tap water is drinkable, where drinking water comes from and how it is treated. If you are unsure, use sealed bottled or filtered water.
Can the resort give me free drinking water?
Some provide refill points or complimentary bottles, and some charge. Ask where you can refill, whether it is free, and what a bottle costs. This affects a family's daily budget more than it seems. Ask for the answer in writing.
What about water for formula and baby food?
Ask the resort how it can supply boiled or filtered water for formula, and whether it can be hot at night. Your doctor can advise on what is right for your baby. Bring sealed bottled water as a back-up.
Why is water sometimes limited on small islands?
Fresh water can depend on rain, wells, pipes from the mainland or treatment on site, so supply can vary with season and demand. Ask whether there are limits on showers or hours, and what happens in a dry spell.