Dock and Dine: Restaurants to Visit Via Boat in the U.S. Virgin Islands

As turquoise waters stretch toward sun-drenched horizons and the rhythm of island life revolves around the sea, few destinations capture the joy of ocean living quite like the U.S. Virgin Islands. For boaters, sailors and food lovers, dock and dine restaurants offer the perfect blend of nautical adventure and Caribbean cuisine. The journey and the meal become one seamless experience.

Whether you’re cruising around St. Thomas, anchoring off St. John, or exploring the secluded coves near St. Croix, you’ll find an array of spots that welcome hungry mariners. Some boast full-service docks and elegant dining rooms, while others are floating bars that serve tacos to swimmers and kayakers. Each offers its own version of island hospitality, seasoned with salt air and sunshine.

If you’re looking for a bite to eat or sip during a sailing charter or after a day of diving and snorkeling, consider any of these dock and dine restaurants in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Lime Out (St. John)

Set in the calm turquoise waters of Coral Bay, St. John, Lime Out redefines the dock and dine experience. This floating taco bar is accessible only by water. Guests arrive via boat, kayak or paddleboard to feast on gourmet tacos and craft cocktails. Bright green in color and vibrant in spirit, Lime Out captures the essence of the Caribbean: easygoing, flavorful and full of fun. Stay a while and soak up the sun at one of their floating tables or simply drift nearby while savoring your meal.

Lovango Resort + Beach Club (St. John)

For those seeking a more refined experience from a private boat slip rental, head to Lovango Cay, a private island located between St. Thomas and St. John. The Lovango Resort + Beach Club offers dockage and moorings for visiting yachts and a stylish open-air restaurant overlooking the Caribbean Sea. With fresh seafood, island-inspired cocktails and elegant design, Lovango combines fine dining with barefoot luxury. It’s the ideal stop for a romantic sunset meal or a celebratory evening on the water.

Pizza Pi VI (St. Thomas)

Anchored in Christmas Cove, off Great St. James Island, Pizza Pi VI is a true Virgin Islands icon. This floating pizzeria serves up hand-tossed pies straight from a converted sailboat. Boaters radio in their orders and watch as a dinghy delivers hot pizza directly to their deck. With tropical fish swimming beneath and pelicans gliding overhead, Pizza Pi offers a perfect lunch stop after snorkeling or sailing between St. Thomas and St. John.

Dinghy’s Beach Bar & Grill (St. Thomas)

A short cruise from Charlotte Amalie Harbor, Water Island’s Honeymoon Beach hosts Dinghy’s Beach Bar & Grill. It’s quite possibly the very definition of island casual. Boaters can tie up at the floating dock, wade ashore and enjoy grilled favorites, tropical drinks and live music. Hammocks, beach chairs and friendly locals make this spot feel like a home away from home or private boat lift rental. 

Hook’D USVI (St. Thomas)

Located in the bustling American Yacht Harbor in St. Thomas, Hook’d offers a lively dockside atmosphere. Ideal for those traveling between the islands or returning from a day on the water, this restaurant specializes in locally caught fish and Caribbean-style fare. With easy docking and a front-row view of the marina, it’s a convenient and charming choice for a hearty post-sail meal.

If you’re in need of docking and supplies as well as convenience to food, here are a few marinas to consider.

Green Cay Marina (St. Croix)

Located at the Tamarind Reef Resort, near Christiansted, Green Bay Marina is a large and well-equipped marina with 150+ slips, fuel, shelter and amenities. Nearby dining choices include The Galleon Steaks & Seafood. It’s a bit upscale and offers excellent food and waterfront views of Green Cay.

St. Croix Marine Center (St. Croix)

St. Croix Marine Center, located at Gallows Bay in Christiansted Harbor, has 44 fixed slips (for boats up to 125 ft), fuel, supplies, gear, showers and more. It’s near waterfront restaurants and boardwalks, making it accessible for boaters arriving from private boat docks for rent.