My husband started it. That is, my obsession with tropical beaches with water so blue that you can’t take your eyes off of it. I had always dreamed about experiencing this amazing hue, but hadn’t gotten the chance to see it in person. Until our honeymoon in Hawaii….
Well, let’s just say I was hooked from that first Hawaiian beach we laid eyes on. The clear, azure water was absolutely mesmerizing and just as amazing as I had pictured in my mind. Since then, we have been lucky enough to enjoy many, many other beaches in Hawaii, Florida, the Caribbean, Mexico and the Bahamas. They’re all different and most are beautiful in their own way – but there’s still just something about that blue, blue water.
If you’re looking to find a tropical island to visit with incredibly blue water, here’s our list of 12 Tropical Islands with the Most Amazing Blue Water to start with. Are these the only ones? Heck no. As you can tell by the number of entries, it was very hard to narrow it down and there are so many more islands worthy of a mention. We could have actually named several entire island chains with incredibly blue water – such as the British Virgin Islands, Exuma Cays, Abacos, Turks & Caicos, US Virgin Islands, etc…, but space prohibited listing them all. These are some of our favorites to date for the amazing blue color of their water. Be sure to leave a comment with your favorites below!
We first learned of Arlington Creque from Virgin Gorda when we were researching locally owned tourism companies in the British Virgin Islands. Gumption’s Learning Adventures and Sea It Clear Tours appeared as highly rated excursions in the BVI, so we reached out to see if we could learn more about what they do. Little did we know, we’d become very inspired by the young entrepreneur behind the company who never gave up on pursuing his dream.
(This article is part of our “Local Businesses of the Caribbean” series. Find out more at the end of this article.)
You see, Arlington Creque was born with autism and grew up on the island of Virgin Gorda. His nickname is Gumption, and we quickly realized why. School was difficult for Gumption and he left before graduating. He began to dream of starting his own business and contacted several banks but was turned down again and again. Even his mom told him that maybe he should give up. But, he didn’t and his perseverance certainly paid off. (What does the word Gumption mean? Initiative; aggressiveness; resourcefulness; courage; spunk; guts.)
Sir Richard Branson with Gumption on his boat
On October 19, 2012, Gumption received a loan from Sir Richard Branson on behalf of the Branson’s Centre of Entrepreneur Caribbean. He was the first person to get a loan from this program. Gumption purchased a boat, started Sea it Clear Tours and got to work. Within 6 months, he was able to pay back the loan.
Despite occasional setbacks, which Gumption acknowledges are just part of being a business owner, he just gets back up, solves the problem and moves forward – which, I have no doubt is what he will do once tourists are allowed to travel back to the BVI.
The Reef Tour
Gumption, through his company Sea It Clear Tours provides a reef tour on his glass bottomed boat that will give you a glimpse of the underwater life at Eustacia Reef just beyond North Sound on the way to Oil Nut Bay. As Gumption says, it’s like snorkeling without getting wet! Find out about his Reef Tours here.
The Reef Tour
The Nature Tour
His Nature Tour consists of a visit to Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island to visit the lemurs, large tortoises, rock iguanas, flamingos and more. Learn about the animals and important conservation efforts taking place in the area. Gumption is currently the only tour guide allowed to bring people to Necker Island! This tour sells out quickly however, so book ahead! Find out more about the Nature Tour here.
Due to COVID-19 he doesn’t have a BVI reopening date as yet, and says it’s best to follow their social media pages or send them an email at [email protected]. Be sure to ask about a special COVID-19 discount they are running right now which gives 19% off of tours pre-booked for late 2020 and early 2021!
We absolutely can’t wait to book a tour with Gumption as soon as we can get back to the BVI! Thanks Gumption for letting us share your motivating story!
Many locally owned businesses in the islands are being hit hard right now due to restricted tourist traffic during the pandemic. Hoping to help in any way we can, we are highlighting some great local businesses that we hope you will enjoy learning about and may want to visit once we are able to travel to the beautiful islands once again… Some of these businesses also offer merchandise that you can order, gift certificates and pre-booking options. Be sure to contact them for additional info and watch for more articles soon!
If you’ve walked through Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke, you’ve probably seen Jost Van Dyke Scuba. Located between the Methodist Church and Corsair’s you’ll find their shop – newly built since the hurricanes of ’17. The shop is air conditioned and the largest shop on JVD and offers a full array of dive and snorkel gear, 60 original T-Shirt designs- designed here on Jost, and name brand lines like Costa Del Mar sunglasses, Corkcicle, SunBum, Suncloud, Pelagic Gear, Cobian sandals, Chums, Tiki Toss, Cablz, Sun & Sand, and many fashionable women’s beachwear lines. Additionally the Jost Van Dyke Scuba Shop offers equipment rentals such as snorkeling and scuba gear, SUP boards, kayaks & fishing equipment.
(This article is part of our “Local Businesses of the Caribbean” series. Find out more at the end of this article.)
Jost Van Dyke Scuba
We’ve walked by Jost Van Dyke Scuba many times and stopped in on occasion (thank goodness that they also carry sunscreen and bug spray!) but really didn’t know the extent of the services they offered until doing some research for this article. Read on to find out what they do above and beyond scuba gear and excursions!
Scuba School. Jost Van Dyke Scuba additionally offers a scuba school. Says the owner, Capt. Colin Aldridge, “We are a PADI 5 Star Dive Center and the only dive shop on Jost. We teach all levels of diving up to Assistant Instructor and are also the only SCUBA company diving the North side on the BVI. We’ve discovered, named and charted over 40 World Class Dive Sites that no one dives but us. We have been filmed by National Geographic, Discovery Channel, Water Channel, Dive Zero, SCUBA Diving Magazine and many others because our dive sites are so off the beaten path and hold big animal life and unmolested healthy corals!”
For those that already are diving enthusiasts, you can set up a diving excursion with Jost Van Dyke Scuba to some of the ‘must see” dive sites visited only by them. Read about some of these sites here.
Private and Group Powerboat Charter and Fishing Charters. Additionally, for non-divers or families, they run Private and Group Powerboat Charters all over the BVI for snorkeling, site seeing, island hopping AND deep sea fishing charters!
Snorkeling on a BVI Eco-Tour
Calypso Day Sail
Calypso Day Sails. And if that doesn’t keep him busy enough, Capt. Colin also added Calypso Day Sails to the services he offers about 8 years ago. Calypso is the only Day Sail Yacht on Jost Van Dyke: a 45ft Robertoson and Caine Leopard certified for groups of up to 24 people. Book a day sail on the luxurious yacht, or inquire about other sailing options such as sunset cruises, dinner cruises and overnight charters!
Upcoming Online Shop. Jost Van Dyke Scuba is currently working on an online store and hope to have it up and running in August, so check back then to see their online merchandise offerings. Their beautiful wall art can already be purchased by calling or emailing them.
Stingray Wall Art, Jost Van Dyke Scuba
Capt. Colin Aldridge
So, who is Capt. Colin? Colin Aldridge moved to the Caribbean 32 years ago, got a Captains license, and started running Sailing Yacht Charters and yacht deliveries all over the World. He’s lived on sailboats most of his life, and is an avid fisherman and Sportfishing Captain as well. Colin is a single father of two kids from Jost who are 14 and 11. He and his children are serious farmers here on Jost, owning and working the Laid-Back Farm on the East End of the island.
Be sure to stop by to talk to Capt. Colin and his crew while visiting JVD and call ahead for more info or questions about services you are interested in at 1.757.287.2731 (USA cell) or 1.284.443.2222 (BVI cell). You can also reach Jost Van Dyke Scuba by email at [email protected].
Keep up to date on re-opening dates and requirements for the BVI here.
Many locally owned businesses are being hit hard right now due to restricted tourist traffic during the pandemic. Hoping to help in any way we can, we are highlighting some great local businesses that we hope you will enjoy learning about and may want to visit once we are able to travel to the beautiful islands once again… Some of these businesses also offer merchandise that you can order, gift certificates and pre-booking options. Be sure to contact them for additional info and watch for more articles soon!
Perched up high and overlooking The Baths, a well known and very popular beach in Virgin Gorda, you’ll find a restaurant/bar and shopping area called Top of the Baths. The first time we visited Top of the Baths was during our very first BVI sail in 2006. We’d spent the entire day exploring the trail through the gigantic boulders of The Baths and lounging in the crystal clear water of Devil’s Bay. Thirsty and hungry, we climbed the path to Top of the Baths.
(This article is part of our “Local Businesses of the Caribbean” series. Find out more at the end of this article.)
Top of the Baths is in a beautiful setting with panoramic views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel and many of the surrounding islands. Large bushes of Bougainvillea add a beautiful pop of color to the already stunning vistas.
The restaurant/bar at Top of the Baths, which originally opened in November of 1994, offers open air dining with that magnificent view.
They serve local specials, sushi and a variety of other signature dishes. See their menu here. Top of the Baths also features a new coffee bar which serves Caribbean coffee and a variety of tea drinks including the local Bush Tea.
Thirsty for something a bit stronger? They’ve definitely got that covered. The Top of the Baths signature drinks are the Rasta Man Punch and Boulder Roller. “However,” says owner Charlene, “Our Painkillers, Mango and Pina Colada’s, Bushwhackers and lots of other creations are equally as popular. Our bartenders are always creating something new for our customers to try.”
After getting your fill of delicious food and drink, you might want to do a little shopping at the shops right there including Caribbean Flavor Gift Shop, which features Cuban Cigars, souvenir items and a large selection of beautifully designed t- shirts for the entire family. It also has a nice selection of sandals and swim wear. Or Bamboula Boutique, which offers sterling silver Caribbean Hook Bracelets, Larimar sterling silver jewelry and Island Crystal sterling silver jewelry. Sterling necklaces and the island West Indian bracelets can also be found here. The store also has a large selection of men’s cotton and linen clothing and a complementary women’s clothing line. An interesting fact – the mother of the owner of Bamboula’s was the owner of the original Bamboula located on Main Street on St Thomas, US Virgin Islands in the 1950’s. The store on Virgin Gorda is named in her honor.
Although closed right now, they expect to re-open around October 31, 2020. Charlene says, “We all look forward to the time that they can completely reopen our borders. Our entire team at Top of The Baths will be awaiting the arrival of repeat guests that come to visit us while welcoming first time visitors to this magical place.”
If you’d like to stay on Virgin Gorda, we’d highly recommend Mon Repos which is also owned by the owner of Top of the Baths. It’s a beautiful villa, just a short walk from Top of the Baths. We loved our stay at this stunning and unique accommodation and you can read more about it here.
Many locally owned businesses are being hit hard right now due to restricted tourist traffic during the pandemic. Hoping to help in any way we can, we are highlighting some great local businesses that we hope you will enjoy learning about and may want to visit once we are able to travel to the beautiful islands once again… Some of these businesses also offer merchandise that you can order, gift certificates and pre-booking options. Be sure to contact them for additional info and watch for more articles soon!
Anchored off the coast of Jost Van Dyke in White Bay, the floating Ocean Spa BVI is the first of its kind in the British Virgin Islands. “It’s the only spa that I know of where brightly colored tropical fish swim under your massage table,” says Dale Mapp, the spa’s owner and creator.
(This is the 2nd article in our “Local Businesses of the Caribbean” series. Find out more at the end of this article.)
Ocean Spa BVI in White Bay, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
Ocean Spa BVI opened for business in the fall of 2018 but it wasn’t without a few bumps in the road. After 25 years in hospitality industry, Dale initially came up with the idea of a floating spa about 10 years ago. He began to research how to make the idea a reality and began building a version of the floating spa in 2009 on a different island. Unfortunately that one never quite got off the ground.
His dream of building a floating spa remained on his mind and after relocating to the British Virgin Islands, he began building a new structure. Then, in 2017 came Hurricane Irma. Dale had to start his structure from scratch – again, but this time he used salvaged wood, metal and other material left in the wake of the devastating hurricane.
Ocean Spa BVI now rocks gently in the beautiful blue water of White Bay and offers massages in the easy ocean breezes and the gentle waves. Enjoy a Champagne Moonlight Couples Massage , a Private Spa Party or one of the other relaxing offerings.
Although the road to get here was not easy, Dale reflects on the trying times with calmness saying, “Beauty comes in many forms, and out of the most dire circumstances. Storms don’t always come to disrupt our lives – they come to clear a path for us also.”
Gift Certificates are available for purchase! Contact Ocean Spa BVI at (284)340-0772 or email them at [email protected] . Check out their website here: Ocean Spa BVI as well as their Facebook page and Instagram too!
Many locally island owned businesses are being hit hard right now due to restricted tourist traffic during the pandemic. Hoping to help in any way we can, we are highlighting some great local businesses that we hope you will enjoy learning about and may want to visit once we are able to travel to the beautiful islands once again… Some of these businesses also offer merchandise that you can order, gift certificates and pre-booking options. Be sure to contact them for additional info and watch for more articles soon!
Have you ever heard of SNUBA? Well, SNUBA, or Surface Nexus Underwater Breathing Apparatus, allows you to explore more of the underwater world than you can experience while snorkeling. If you already like to snorkel, but have yet to dive in and learn how to scuba dive, SNUBA is a perfect blend. Learning to SNUBA is easy and does not require any Scuba diving certification or previous experience; if you can breathe, look and kick your legs then you too can SNUBA!
(This is the 1st article in our “Local Businesses of the Caribbean” series. Find out more at the end of this article.)
We’d like to introduce you to BVI SNUBA. It’s located in the beautiful North Sound of Virgin Gorda at Leverick Bay Marina and is run by a lovely lady named Elaine who will immediately make you feel comfortable and excited to get under that clear blue BVI water! Elaine has been living on Virgin Gorda since 2000 and loves taking guests on their first underwater adventure. Right now, BVI SNUBA is the only SNUBA operator in the BVI and strives to enhance guests underwater experience and make it an easier transition to diving.
BVI SNUBA, offers SNUBA and snorkeling trips, full and half day charters and sunset charters and has been in business since Feb 2018. BVI SNUBA can also do rendezvous SNUBA where they can come to their guests if they are staying on a yacht, or on a crewed or bareboat charter.
Are you heading to, or thinking of heading to the BVI and would like to learn more about the SNUBA experience? Give BVI SNUBA a call or WhatsApp 1 (284)341-0660 or email them at [email protected]. Check out their website at BVI SNUBA for rates and booking info and follow them on Instagram and Facebook for more photos of this fun experience! Check out their reviews on Trip Advisor!
Tour Guide, Elaine
Need some masks, snorkels, fins, underwater fish ID’s, BVI maps or rashguards? Email them for more info!
Many locally island owned businesses are being hit hard right now due to restricted tourist traffic during the pandemic. Hoping to help in any way we can, we are highlighting some great local businesses that we hope you will enjoy learning about and may want to visit once we are able to travel to the beautiful islands once again… Some of these businesses also offer merchandise that you can order, gift certificates and pre-booking options. Be sure to contact them for additional info and watch for more articles soon!
The British Virgin Islands are British Overseas Territory located a little less than 100 miles east of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is a beautiful archipelago comprised of 60 islands and cays scattered about the turquoise water. The largest island in this chain is Tortola. It is also the tallest and most populated island of the BVI. Tortola has come a long way in it’s recovery from the monster hurricanes of 2017 and is once again attracting tourists from all over the globe.
Due to the closeness of the islands, the great number of beautiful beaches, calm coves, lively beach bars, great weather and the Sir Francis Drake Channel, (a long, normally calm body of water, sometimes called an inland sea, that runs between Tortola and the southern islands), the BVI has become a premier sailing destination and for many, Tortola is the major point of embarkation. Although many people visit Tortola just at the beginning or end of their sailing vacation, it is a great place to spend your entire vacation. Read on to find out why you should plan a trip to Tortola, BVI!
Beaches and Watersports.
The British Virgin Islands have some of the prettiest beaches anywhere in the Caribbean. Tortola included. Most are located on the north side of the island. Some of our favorites?
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Cane Garden Bay – we first visited this pretty bay, mentioned in the Jimmy Buffet song, ” Mañana”, in 2006. It’s a long expanse of light colored sand fringed by calm, turquoise water. It has changed a lot since our first visit and has now become busy on days when cruise ships are docked in Road Town, but we still enjoy some of the beach bars, restaurants, live music and walking the beach. It’s a great bay for mooring, so there are usually catamarans and sailboats dotting the harbor and the sunsets here are simply out of this world. This beach is great for swimming, SUPing, canoeing, surfing and windsurfing.
Smuggler’s Cove, Tortola
Smuggler’s Cove – tucked away on the far west side of the island is a gorgeous arc of sand called Smuggler’s Cove. Prior to the hurricanes of 2017, Smuggler’s Cove was lined with beautiful palm trees which offered a lot of shade to those spending the day playing in the beautiful water. Unfortunately, most of the palms were destroyed in the strong storms, but now you can see more of the beautiful white sand beach! The snorkeling here is good in areas. Be sure to check out Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar for cold drinks, a bite to eat and to chat with Nigel, the very friendly owner.
View of Smuggler’s Cove from Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar
Long Bay Beach West, Tortola
Long Bay – There are actually 2 beaches named Long Bay on Tortola. The Long Bay on the east side is found on Beef Island which attaches to Tortola via the Queen Elizabeth Bridge, so technically not Tortola, but attached to it. This beach is quiet with no amenities, but great for swimming and relaxing. Long Bay West is a mile long expanse of white sand on the far north and west side of Tortola. With a view of Jost Van Dyke and beautiful blue water, this is a great place to spend the day lounging in the sun. Be sure to check out Nature Boy Beach Bar tucked into to foliage on the far west side for a cold brew!
Like to surf? Apple Bay and Josiah’s Bay offer surfers some great waves, especially when there’s a north swell.
Surfing at Apple Bay, Tortola
Rum.
As with all of the Virgin Islands, rum is popular and both rum and rum drinks can be found in most establishments on Tortola. Some of our favorite rum experiences on Tortola?
Callwood Rum Distillery, Tortola
Callwood Rum Distillery. Within walking distance of Cane Garden Bay, Callwood Rum Distillery gives visitors a chance to step back in Tortola history as the Arundel Estate is estimated to have been around for approximately 400 years. The Callwood family took over the distillery in the late 18th century and has been producing rum for over 200 years in what is claimed to be the longest continuously operated pot distillery in the Caribbean. For a nominal amount, you can sample several of their rums and purchase some to take home, including the infamous “Panty Dropper”.
Enjoying some Sebastian’s Rum at Sebastian’s on the Beach, Tortola
Sebastian’s Rum. Sebastian’s on the Beach is a small hotel/restaurant on the beach at Apple Bay. Enjoy a dinner overlooking the sea there and ask for a taste of Sebastian’s Rum. It’s not easy to find out much about this rum, except that it’s named after the notorious pirate Sebastian, is produced in Grand Bahama for Sebastian’s (hey, it says so on the internet, so it’s gotta be right, right?) and is only available on Tortola. Sweet and smooth, it makes a great topping for ice cream and is loved by many. Bring home a bottle or two.
Painkiller. The Painkiller reigns supreme in the BVI as the most popular rum drink. Enjoy them in one of three Pusser’s locations on Tortola (Cane Garden Bay, Soper’s Hole and Road Town) or at most other bar on the island! Find a recipe here: Painkiller.
What and Where to Eat.
The first things we search for to eat when we get to Tortola? A good Roti (with Mango Chutney) and fresh Caribbean lobster (in season).
Roti with Mango Chutney at Trellis Bay Market, Beef Island
A Roti is an East Indian dish thought to have been brought to the Caribbean in the 1800’s. It is a thin wrap (similar to a tortilla) filled with curry spices, potatoes and a meat such as chicken, goat, beef, conch or shrimp. It’s fairly easy to find on Tortola, but the last one we bought was at Trellis Bay Market (on Beef Island) during a Full Moon Party. Delicious! Check out a Roti recipe here.
Caribbean Lobster at Bananakeet Cafe, Tortola
Caribbean lobster is another dish we seek out during visits to the BVI. Not a close relative of the Maine lobster (see more info here), it is nonetheless delicious and usually so fresh that it has been plucked out of the sea that day, barbecued and served in the half shell. Our last experience with Caribbean lobster on Tortola was at Bananakeet Cafe’ while enjoying an amazing view and a sunset. Wherever you go, if you’ve got your heart set on having lobster, just call ahead to make sure it’s on the menu that night.
Other local foods to try? Pates (patties) – made up of spiced meats or vegetables wrapped in a flatbread and then deep fried. Soursop – a spiky fruit that is said to taste like a cross between a pineapple and a banana, it grows abundantly on Tortola. Callaloo – a local stew. with ingredients like taro or dasheen leaves, okra, meat or fish, onions and spices. Johnny Cakes – a baked or fried dough snack that is often made with cornmeal.
Other Things to Do and See on Tortola.
Get up high.Tortola has the highest point of the British Virgin Islands and because of that, some spectacular views. Where to see the view?
Sage Mountain National Park. The highest point on Tortola (and all of the BVI) is found at Sage Mountain National Park at 1,716 feet. There are several trails to take, some offering views of many of the surrounding islands.
Stoutt’s Overlook, Tortola
Stoutt’s Lookout Bar. Perched high on a hill overlooking Cane Garden Bay is a small establishment called Stoutt’s Lookout. The view is phenomenal, the breeze is refreshing and the food and drink are served up with a smile and friendly conversation.
Rent a Home or Villa with a View. Tortola is quite hilly and many homes are built on a hillside. If you are looking for accommodations and you’d like a view, you are likely to find something that fits most budgets. We’ve stayed at the Limin’ House overlooking Soper’s Hole and loved the stunning home and the amazing view!
Get on – and in! – the water. As mentioned previously, the calm waters around the BVI make for prime sailing conditions. Get on the water with one of the local excursion companies and enjoy skimming across the water on your way to one of the excellent snorkeling or dive spots nearby.
Island Hop. Tortola offers ferry service to several surrounding islands such as Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda and Anegada so you can enjoy the sights and get a taste of another British Virgin Island for the day!
Catch a Sunset. Cane Garden Bay has some of the prettiest tropical sunsets that we’ve ever seen, but there are spectacular sunsets to be found from Brewers Bay to Smuggler’s Cove and most any vantage point up high.
Sunset at Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Getting Around.
Not gonna lie. Driving on Tortola can be…challenging. Driving is on the left and there are some narrow streets, steep hills and driving through Roadtown with the roundabouts when there is a lot of traffic – whew! That being said, the best way to see the island is to rent a car and take your time, stopping at shops, beaches and overlooks. There are car rental agencies in several spots on the island. Ask the management of your villa, hotel or resort for the name of a reputable company to rent from. Not comfortable driving? Hire a taxi or shuttle to take you around and show you the best spots!
What You Should Bring Home from Tortola.
Rum from the Callwood Rum Distillery
The shops around the cruise ship terminal carry an assortment of tees and name-dropped goods, but if you want to bring home something authentically Tortolan, bring home some Callwood Rum and some Sebastians Rum – only available for purchase on Tortola! Aragorn’s Studio in Trellis Bay also has locally made carvings, spices, jewelry and more.
During our recent trip to Tortola, we had the chance to stop by to find out more about a charter company based in Soper’s Hole, Voyage Charters.
They had been recommended to us by some friends who had sailed with Voyage in the past, so we thought we’d stop by to find out more about their operation and what they offer for an upcoming sailing trip we’re planning.
Voyage Charters in Soper’s Hole, Tortola
Voyage Charters & Voyage Yachts were both started by Robin and Jo-Ann Downing, a couple from South Africa who first visited Tortola in 1995 and fell in love with the area. Voyage Yachts manufactures performance oriented, luxury cruising sail and power catamarans in Cape Town South Africa, sells pre-owned yachts, and offers yacht management. Voyage Charters offers all-inclusive charters, captain only charters and bareboat charters on a variety of beautiful sailing vessels.
A BVI Sailcation of a lifetime!
When we stopped by to visit, Sarah gave us a tour and told us not only about their operations, but the challenges they faced after the destruction of hurricanes Irma and Maria. Although much of Soper’s Hole is still being re-built, the Voyage Charters building, pier and boats are all in great shape.
Sarah then mentioned that everyone at VC was super excited as they had just received a new vessel the day before. The name of this new boat is Electrified and it is the first electric powered charter yacht in the BVI. Electrified is a Voyage 480 that is eco-friendly with renewable power generation and a high efficiency standby generator. Voyage sees this technology as the future for their charter industry, offering an enhanced boating experience and less impact on the BVI environment. Electrified will be one of the boats available for charter through Voyage!
Electified, Voyage Charters
Looking to book a sailing vacation in the BVI and want to find out more? Give Voyage Charters a call or send them an email to set up a vacation of a lifetime!
In 2012, we wrote an article called “Barhopping on Jost Van Dyke“. We were lucky enough to stay on “The Barefoot Island” for a week that year and wanted to share info on all of the amazing bars on the island. Apparently a lot of people love JVD or want to know more about it, as the article has been one of the most visited articles on our website! Fast forward to 2019. Ivan’s built a new bar in 2014, there was the addition of a new bar on White Bay called Hendo’s Hideout in 2016, and then there was Irma…and Maria. Lots of changes to this beautiful island in the last few years!
We visited the island 6 months after Irma, the strongest hurricane to ever strike the BVI and again in January 2019. Althought there are things that are forever changed on the island of Jost Van Dyke, it is still one of the best beach/beach bar destinations in the Caribbean.
View of Soggy Dollar from the water
Starting on the west side of White Bay, this is what we saw during our latest visit to Jost Van Dyke.
New Picnic/Bar Area for Cruise Ship Visitors
On the far west side of White Bay (next to One Love), a new picnic/bar area has been built to accommodate cruise ship traffic. Although we are told it is locally owned, the architecture is a more modern than the surrounding structures. I’m sure it’s a great place for cruise traffic, but looks a bit out of place.
Seddy’s One Love Bar & Grill
One Love Bar & Grill has rebuilt, is looking good and has retained it’s original character. We didn’t catch Seddy there this trip, but sure enjoyed a rum punch (or two!) Look for the Rum Therapy decal! They are known for their lobster quesadillas and Bushwackers, but we thought they had a pretty bomb rum punch too.
Coco Loco
Next, Coco Loco Beach Bar. Looks like a great place to relax and escape the crowds that tend to congregate farther down on the beach. A good lunch menu, a few beach loungers and highly rated for its friendliness. Try the fish tacos and Coco Loco Whackers.
Gertrude’s Beach Bar & Grill
Gertrude’s Beach Bar is looking good. Rebuilt, colorful and a bunch of beach chairs out front. It is said that Gertrude’s has the best Chicken Roti on island. We will be back to test out that theory, but definitely worth a stop by to pour your own drink, have a chat with Gertrude and to enjoy a quieter pace and the beautiful white sand of White Bay.
Soggy Dollar Bar
The Soggy Dollar Bar. Although nearly wiped out (check out the photo book on the table next to the bar), Soggy Dollar is back. As popular as ever, be sure to check out their signature Painkiller, originated and perfected at the Soggy Dollar in the 1970’s, a Nilla Killa, Raspberry Therapy, or if you’re really feeling, uh, thirsty, a Soggy Man. Apparently the Sandcastle will not be rebuilt next door. In it’s place, a new rum tasting area is being built and will probably be the place to sample and purchase the new Soggy Dollar Rum to take home!
Hendo’s Hideout
We first noticed a new bar emerging on White Bay during a day visit in November 2015. Hendo’s Hideout has now been open for a few years (and fared better than some during the hurricanes). Hendo’s is a beautiful dark wood structure with appealing bright orange beach chairs to to soak up the JVD sunshine. Hendo’s offers a delicious lunch and dinner menu. Try the Rum & Coke Pulled Pork and a Delirious Donkey or Hendo’s Helldiver to wash it down.
Path to Ivan’s
Time to walk over the rocky outcrop towards Ivan’s Stress Free Bar. Much of the path is still there – minus a step or two at the end on Ivan’s side. Be sure to wear shoes or flip flops!
Escape Villa (on the left) and Glass House
Before reaching Ivan’s, we were surprised to see two new buildings. One is Escape Villa and the other is Glass House. Apparently both are luxury, beachfront homes on the west side of Ivan’s and available to rent. Find out more on their websites: Escape Villa and Glass House.
Ivan’s Stress Free Bar
Ivan’s Stress Free Bar sustained an incredible amount of damage. When we visited 6 months after Irma, there was nothing left of the campground and only a temporary structure for a bar. So unfortunate given Ivan had just built a beautiful new 2 story bar in 2014(?) because the old bars foundation was settling and he wanted his customers to be safe. All that is left of the new bar now is the foundation. Ivan has built a smaller bar next to it, but unfortunately we were unable to find out any more about his future plans. Be sure to head down to that side of White Bay when you visit to show Ivan some support. The beach is still beautiful and the drinks are nice and cold.
On the far side of Ivan’s is Pink House Villas – 2 separate villas available to rent. Find their website here.
Time to walk over the hill to Great Harbour. When we stayed on-island, we took this strenuous walk several times. We thought perhaps it would balance the number of calories we were ingesting in rum and great food from the local restaurants. Unfortunately we still gained weight… There are, however, taxis that will pick you up and take you over the hill for about $5 per person.
Great Harbour looks so different since the hurricane(s). The yellow church is still in shambles and the beach lost most of its vegetation. Surprisingly though, the view of the beautiful beach is in my opinion, better, and some of the bars are rightly taking advantage of the “new view”.
Jost Van Dyke Scuba is open again and sells sunscreen. Yep. We left ours in our room on Tortola…
Corsair’s
The first bar heading east is Corsair’s. Owner Vinnie was busy rebuilding the bar when we visited last year, but it is now open and looking good! Corsair’s still offers Wench Juice and a Pirate Sandwich, but don’t overlook the other fantastic breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings – delicious! Vinnie and his bar may have a tough exterior, but he is a genuinely nice guy. Best to call for reservations if you are planning to have dinner here. From your boat, you can dinghy right to shore in front of Corsair’s.
Next, Ali Baba’s. In all honesty, we haven’t spent a lot of time at Ali Baba’s, but apparently there are a lot of people that enjoy the food and hospitality. On the list to visit next trip! If you’ve had a good experience at Ali Baba’s – tell us about it!
Cool Breeze Bar & Restaurant. This is the first time we’ve noticed this restaurant in a prime location on Great Harbour although the reviews date back to 2013. Not sure if it just looks different than before or under a new name, but somehow we’ve missed it on previous visits. During this visit, we stopped by around 10 and thought we’d order a cup of coffee, but the nice young man said that no one was there to serve yet, so we moved on. Island time perhaps?
Foxy’s Tamarind Bar
Foxy’s Tamarind Bar. Part of Foxy’s bar/restaurant made it through the hurricane(s), including a sticker we put up in 2015. He has re-built a new bar out front of the restaurant and the dock was rebuilt as well. The store is open again. Foxy was back playing the guitar and singing a song or two while visitors circled around. Judging by the crowds later in the day, the word is out that Foxy’s is open again for business!
We didn’t personally make it past Great Harbour this trip, but here is some current info on Little Harbour restaurants & bars and Foxy’s Taboo in Diamond Cay.
Sydney’s Peace & Love was the first restaurant to re-open in Little Harbour. This was no little feat as Irma deposited a ferry boat on top of their restaurant! The ribs and lobster are always delicious and you can serve yourself at the honor bar!
When we visited Jost Van Dyke 6 months after the storms, we were devistated to motor in to Little Harbour and find Harris’s Place completely destroyed. Years ago, we had met Cynthia, the owner, on a ferry over to JVD. She said if we didnt already have plans, to come to her place for dinner. We took her up on it and had the loveliest evening, an amazing lobster dinner and incredibly tasty Bushwackers made by Cynthia herself! From what we hear, Cynthia just opened Harris’s Place again. Don’t know if the menu is the same as before, but knowing Cynthia, it’s all good!
Abe’s By the Sea. We’ve not had the chance to visit Abe’s in person yet, but hope to on our next visit. According to the grapevine, Abe’s is open again, although still rebuilding. Once we visit, we’ll be sure to report on the “must try” food and drink and in the meantime, if you’ve been to Abe’s, let us know what you enjoyed about it!
Now over to Diamond Cay. Foxy’s Taboo is open again! According to the news we’ve recieved, Taboo recently opened and had a grand re-opening party on New Years Day this year.
There you have it! Jost Van Dyke has recovered so well, although I’m sure it will take years to repair and refinish some of the things that Irma took away. We hope to spend a week on Jost again soon. Do you have plans to visit?
Imagine staying just a few steps from The Baths, Virgin Gorda in a gorgeous, unique villa that is built around and incorporates some of the huge boulders indigenous to the area, has expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sir Francis Drake Channel and Tortola and sits on a lovely 1 acre+ private gated lot.
Mon Repos, translated as “my place of rest” is the name of a beautiful villa that we had the pleasure of calling our “home” during our recent vacation in Virgin Gorda, the third largest island in the British Virgin Island chain.
Virgin Gorda is truly one of our favorite islands and we were excited to get to stay close to one of the best known beaches in the world, The Baths. Little did we know how truly special this villa was.
The villa sleeps 8 in beds with 3 bedrooms on the main level and a lower level apartment with an additional bedroom, bathroom and kitchen. Also on the main level – a large, open kitchen, dining room, living room area which would be great for families or several couples.
On the main level you can also find a nice, cool media room with a good collection of DVD’s. There’s a lovely deck on the back of the home with a great view of the Atlantic Ocean. We enjoyed our coffee out on the back deck every morning.
From this deck you can also view the beautiful South American Tortoises that reside in a fenced area in the backyard.
The owners originally started with 9 of these beautiful creatures and they have multiplied to 40. Some are 50 years old!
In addition to the tortoises, we were visited by a family of goats one evening. So much to enjoy from the back deck!
The front of the home showcases a large patio (partially covered) with an outdoor dining area that sits next to the lovely pool. We spent afternoons lounging in this area and loved the privacy and quietness of the space and the views of the channel and Tortola. The sunsets were spectacular from here.
What makes Mon Repos unique? Well, many things, but first and foremost, the way they incorporated the same boulders that you find in The Baths inside and outside of the structure. The master bedroom was built atop the massive smooth boulders and the headboard of the bed rests up against a large boulder.
The TV at the foot of the bed also rests on a massive boulder.
Downstairs in the apartment, the bedroom encases another enormous boulder in which the bed rests upon! Kids and adults alike may fight over who gets to stay in this bedroom!
If and when you decide to leave the villa for a while to explore, it is just steps away from the entrance to The Baths and Top of the Baths.
Spring Bay is just a little farther away – but still within walking distance.
We rented a car for the stay and spent time exploring gorgeous Savannah Bay, Leverick Bay and the view (and BBQ) at Hog Heaven.
We hated to leave Mon Repos, but are looking forward to returning some day with our entire family. Whether looking for a place to stay with a family (great place for kids!) or several couples, you will absolutely love the privacy, beauty and the amazing location of Mon Repos Villa, Virgin Gorda.
