This paper argues that freshwater systems on small Pacific islands are fragile, and highly vulnerable to climate change. The islands need resilient freshwater systems to ensure water security for their people into the future. It outlines adaptation measures demonstrated by climate-resilient water systems projects in the Pacific Adaptation to Climate Change (PACC) programme. These include upgrading water infrastructure to improve water capture and storage, increasing the options for sourcing water, and improving water quality. The paper argues that climate analysis is a key step in the early planning stages of climate-sensitive projects, alongside other essential assessments such as socio-economic assessment and cost–benefit analysis. It also states that good governance is also vital for building resilient freshwater systems and gives examples from the six PACC projects.