


Dolphin Cove
Those of you familiar with St. Thomas know the desirability of acreage on the east end of the island. The Dolphin Cove property, which is located just west of the Secret Harbor Beach Resort, is the most unique of them all. Finding a waterfront 1acre lot in this area is challenging but finding 19 acres with 2000+ feet of shoreline is unheard of. This is the largest undeveloped waterfront property on the desirable east end of St. Thomas and also one of the largest undeveloped waterfront properties on the island. Two beaches, panoramic views and gentle grade throughout are the icing on the cake.
This property also has a very special history. On site was the first dolphin training center, built in the 1940’s as it became evident that this amazing creature was highly intelligent. The training and research center did not have any holding pens and the dolphins came and went as they pleased at this truly remarkable facility. The objective of the dolphin training was to assist with locating ocean mines during World War II. The original concrete training areas on the water still stand and were to be preserved as part of the development plans of the current owners. The permitted development plans include “The Dolphin House”, a restaurant facility to be built as a tribute on the cliff above the original training center.
What makes Dolphin Cove even more special from a development standpoint is the W-1 Waterfront Pleasure zoning, which allows for the flexibility to build a hotel, multifamily, single family, commercial or a combination of them all. The property is easily accessible from the main road with some roads on the property already cut and utilities to the site.
Properties on St. Thomas with usable shoreline are quite limited and therefore carry a premium. This scarcity of useable waterfront property that is large enough for a resort or major development has created natural high barriers to entry, precluding an over-supply in the market.
The present owners of Dolphin Cove have even further added to the value of the property by securing Coastal Zone Management (the local governing board for coastal land use) approved permits and plans for 104 units made up of 4 oceanfront bungalows, 64 villas, 36 luxury flats, a restaurant and other amenities. The current owners invested significant time and capital securing these transferable permits which are included in the sale of the property. Minor modifications to the permits are possible without having to repeat the entire process if amendments to the plans are required. If the property is to be used as a private estate by the new owner then the process of applying for a major permit will not be required.
The location of the property is ideal on the highly desired east end of St. Thomas and is within walking distance to both Secret Harbor Beach Resort and the town of Red Hook. It is also in close proximity to the Ritz Carlton and St. Thomas Yacht Club. Just 30 minutes from the airport, luxury homes litter this very special area of the island for its beautiful sandy beaches and spectacular views. Dolphin Cove overlooks Secret Harbor, Cass Cay, French Cap Cay and St. Croix.
The nearby town of Red Hook, about a two minute drive from Dolphin Cove, features shopping, markets, restaurants, nightlife, and a marina facility. There is also a major Ferry Terminal located in Red Hook connecting visitors and locals to St. John and the British Virgin Islands by passenger and car ferries.
Golfers can enjoy the Tom Fazio designed Mahogany Run golf course which is only 15 minutes away featuring the celebrated “Devils Triangle” of the 13th, 14th, and 15th holes, this championship golf course should not be missed.
The savvy purchaser of Dolphin Cove will have a one-of-a-kind asset and an irreplaceable development opportunity.
Please call or email for more detailed information.
