Question
What buildings and structures were on Little Saint James island?
Answer
Little Saint James, Epstein’s approximately 75-acre private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, developed into a substantial compound over the decades he owned it. Key structures included:
Main Residence (Great House) The primary mansion was a large Caribbean-style main house with multiple bedrooms, entertainment spaces, and views across the surrounding sea. It served as Epstein’s primary residence when on the island.
The Blue-and-White Striped Structure (“Temple Building”) The most visually striking structure — widely photographed from boats and aircraft passing the island — was a blue-and-white striped building with a gold dome positioned on a prominent rise. Its purpose was disputed: some accounts described it as a music studio; others suggested it was a gym. Victims and researchers have speculated about its possible role in the operation. The gold dome was reportedly removed and replaced with an orange roof during the period after Epstein’s 2008 conviction.
Guest Cottages Multiple guest cottages provided accommodation for guests who visited the island. The cottages allowed Epstein to host several guests simultaneously with some privacy between groups.
Staff Quarters The island had a substantial support staff — including groundskeepers, domestic workers, and boat crew — who required dedicated accommodation. Staff quarters were separate from guest facilities.
Dock and Boat Facilities Little Saint James had dock facilities for coming and going by boat. Most transfer of people and supplies by sea used small vessels operating from St. Thomas or St. John.
Helicopter Pad A helicopter landing pad enabled air transport to and from the island, providing an alternative to sea transport particularly useful for quickly moving guests without custom/border documentation at larger airports.
Sources
- Aerial photography and satellite imagery of Little Saint James
- Civil litigation discovery documents describing island facilities
- Investigative reporting including Miami Herald and New York Times