British Virgin Islands Archives | Page 2 of 7

June 22, 2017July 2, 2019

10 Great Bars You May Not Have Heard of in the BVI

The British Virgin Islands are a sailors paradise and well, face it, sailors are a thirsty bunch. The main islands in the BVI chain are dotted with great bars, some that have become incredibly well known, such as the Soggy Dollar Bar, Bomba Shack, Foxy’s and Willie T’s, but there are dozens of bars that are perhaps not on everyone’s radar, but definitely worth a visit. We don’t know about you, but we’ve made it our mission to check out as many bars in the BVI as possible and here are 10 great bars you may not have heard of in the BVI, but are probably worth putting on your “list”!

Cooper Island Rum Bar, Cooper Island
With over 100 rums to choose from, the Cooper Island Rum Bar boasts the largest selection of rum in the Virgin Island. Order a sampler board and enjoy the variety while learning the origin and history of each rum.

Hog Heaven, Virgin Gorda
Far from one of the beautiful Virgin Gorda beaches, but with a view that will take your breath away, Hog Heaven sits high on a hill over looking the magnificent North Sound. The BBQ is terrific and you should wash it down with a Blondie Special (named after the owner) or a tasty Rum Punch.

CocoMaya, Virgin Gorda
CocoMaya, a newer restaurant/bar on Virgin Gorda is not far from Spanish Town. On a pretty beach with fantastic sunset views, enjoy your favorite cocktail on a comfortable lounge bed in the glow of a fire pit in the sand. (BTW – the sushi is excellent as well!)

The Sandbox Bar & Grill, Prickly Pear Island
Prickly Pear Island, located close to Saba Rock in the North Sound of Virgin Gorda, is a smaller island that was declared a BVI National Park in 1988 – so no additional development will be permitted. Sandbox Bar & Grill sits on pretty Vixen Beach, on the islands southwestern point. The small bar is nothing fancy, but it’s good place to enjoy a beer or a Rum Punch while enjoying the sun and activity in North Sound. If you’re feeling energetic, take the hiking path over the hill to explore the salt ponds and several other pretty beaches.

B-Line Beach Bar, Little Jost Van Dyke
If you’re heading to the east end of Jost Van Dyke (Bubbly Pool, Foxy’s Taboo) from Sandy Cay or Sandy Spit, you may catch a glimpse of a secluded little bar on Little Jost called, the B-Line Beach Bar. You won’t find large crowds and loud music here, but you’ll find a place to unwind and relax amidst the palms. Be sure to try their signature drink, the Passion Confusion.

Hendo’s Hideout, Jost Van Dyke
The new bar on the block, this really pretty bar/restaurant has a prime location right next to the Soggy Dollar. Sip on a Delirious Donkey while gazing out at spectacular White Bay, or lounge in the sun in one of their oversized hammocks.

Pirates Bight, Norman Island
If you’ve been to the Willie T, chances are you’ve at least seen Pirates Bight sitting on the pretty beach at Norman Island. The original Pirate’s Bight burned to the ground in a fire in 2013, but has been re-built and is nicer than ever. Order a delicious Day at the Beach (cocktail) and a Chicken Roti. Prices aren’t cheap, but the taste is amazing!

Anegada Reef Hotel, Anegada
You may be familiar with Cow Weck Beach Bar & Grill and the Big Bamboo at Loblolly, but be sure to stop at the bar on the beach at Anegada Reef Hotel in Setting Point, Anegada. Try a Rum Smoothie with your toes in the sand and a spectacular sunset at one of the prettiest islands in the Caribbean.

Harris’ Place, Jost Van Dyke
Probably known more as a restaurant than a bar, we had to add Harris’ Place to the list as we enjoyed one of the best Bushwacker’s we’ve had, crafted by the owner herself, Cynthia Harris. Sit at the edge of the water and enjoy a beverage and conversation with other sailors and if you’re there long enough, you might as well stay to enjoy a succulent lobster dinner in season.

Jumbie’s, Virgin Gorda
Belly up to the bar to enjoy a $4 Rum Punch at Happy Hour or try to catch a Michael Beans Pirate Show (in season). Fun atmosphere, good drinks and, if you’re hungry, some delicious food served at the water’s edge.

Who’s ready to go back to the BVI? Have you been to any of these BVI Bars? Tell us about it!

Other BVI Posts that you may enjoy:

Barhopping on Jost Van Dyke

What to See and Do in Cane Garden Bay

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC

June 12, 2017April 20, 2021

Best Beaches of the British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands, a chain of islands well known as a premiere sailing destination, seem to have more than its fair share of stunning beaches as well. We’ve been asked by many to recommend our favorite BVI beach and well, it’s hard to even narrow it down to our favorite 5 – and I’m quite sure there are still more to discover. All of the beaches listed below are beautiful in their own way and we’ve enjoyed the time we’ve been able to spend on each one. Really though, if you’re on any beach in the BVI, you are one lucky beach bum.

Best Beaches of the British Virgin Islands

Deadman’s Beach/Little Deadman’s Beach, Peter Island

The Baths, Virgin Gorda
(see more here)

Spring Bay, Virgin Gorda

Little Dix Bay, Virgin Gorda

Savannah Bay, Virgin Gorda
(see more here)

Cow Wreck Beach, Anegada
(see more here)

Loblolly Bay, Anegada
(see more here)

White Bay, Jost Van Dyke
(see more here)

Sandy Cay, British Virgin Islands
(see more here)

Sandy Spit, British Virgin Islands
(see more here)

Cane Garden Bay
(see more here)

Smuggler’s Cove, Tortola
(see more here)

Long Bay , Tortola
(see more here)

How many of these beautiful BVI beaches have you had a chance to visit? Tell us about it!

To see more posts on Tortola and other islands, check out our Island Blog Directory

All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC

August 19, 2016April 26, 2021

10 Things You Shouldn’t Miss On Virgin Gorda

Ahhh, Virgin Gorda. This hilly beauty is rumored to have been named “The Fat Virgin” by Christopher Columbus who, upon approach, thought the profile of the island resembled a plump lady lying on her side. At 8 square miles, it is the 3rd largest island in the British Virgin Island chain, and although it offers a variety of luxurious resorts and villas and one of the highest rated beach attractions in the world, it still somehow maintains it laid-back island feel.

Are you planning to spend some time on this beautiful island? Here is a list of 10 Things You Shouldn’t Miss On Virgin Gorda to help you start your planning.

1. Hike the Trail Through The Baths
Giant boulders surrounded by crystal clear, blue water. The path takes you through a maze of boulders and calm, turquoise pools of water where you can spend hours lounging and exploring. The path leads to Devil’s Bay – another stunning white sand beach. See Exploring the Baths of Virgin Gorda

2. Top Of the Baths
After exploring The Baths and Devil’s Bay, make a stop at the Top of The Baths for a little shopping a dip in the freshwater pool and a delicious rum cocktail with a beautiful view of Sir Francis Drake Channel and Tortola in the distance.
Find out more about the Top of the Baths here

3. Spring Bay
Just north of The Baths is another great beach and area to explore. Same huge boulders, more crystal clear water and a few less people. Sound good? It is…

4. CocoMaya Restaurant & Bar
After a full day of sun, salt water and fresh air, there’s nothing better than watching a colorful sunset with a cold drink in hand from a cushy chair around a beach campfire – well, technically a gas fire pit, but it’s a beautiful atmosphere nonetheless. CocoMaya is located on the beach just south of Spanish Town. We hear the food is pretty awesome as well.
Find out more about CocoMaya here

5. Saba Rock
Technically located in the North Sound of Virgin Gorda, this private island offers a lot in just less than an acre. Saba Rock boasts not only a famous over-the-water lounge bar and restaurant, but also an 8 bedroom hotel, 10 slip marina, gift shop, gardens and sun deck. Go for dinner, the views, and a famous Saba Rock Banana Daiquiri.
Update: Saba Rock received significant damage in the hurricanes of 2017. It is currently being rebuilt and hopes to re-open in Fall of 2021. Please check their website for updated opening info.

6. Leverick Bay
Leverick Bay is a Resort & Marina located on the North Sound of Virgin Gorda. Laid back, colorful and fun, this is a great place to dock a boat, rent a suite, enjoy a scenic dinner at the Restaurant at Leverick Bay or sip a rum punch while savoring a roti at the beachside Jumbie’s bar.
Read more about Leverick Bay here

7. Michael Beans Show
This musician, sailor and showman puts on a “Happy Arrr” musical pirate show at Jumbies at Leverick Bay Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 5-7 pm during the season. The entertaining two hour show includes a lot of audience participation and good clean pirate fun for the whole family.

8. Hog Heaven
Hog Heaven is a Bar & Grill sitting high atop Virgin Gorda with an absolutely beautiful view of the entire North Sound. If you have the chance, take the drive up the hill to enjoy a plate of delicious BBQ, a Blondie Special (a rum drink named after the owner) and a spectacular view of the entire North Sound, including Necker Island, and on a clear day, Anegada.
Read more about Hog Heaven here

9. Rent a Dinghy and Tour North Sound
Got a full day to explore? Rent a dinghy from Leverick Bay (call ahead to reserve one – they sell out) and take your time exploring all that beautiful North Sound has to offer, including Bitter End Yacht Club & Saba Rock (when they re-open) and Prickly Pear Island. Our rental instructions included a warning – seaplanes have the right of way!
Read What to See and Do In North Sound here

10. Hike Virgin Gorda Peak
To be honest, you can get some almost as good views of both sides of the island (without hiking) from the road that takes you to the trailhead, but making the trek to the top is worth it to check out the foliage (seems odd to see cactus on a tropical island!) and to burn off some of the amazing rum drinks you’ve probably been enjoying in paradise. Best to go on a clear day for the best views (as you see, we didn’t), and bring water and a snack. It takes about 50 minutes to get to the summit and there are picnic tables at the top.

BONUS – Savannah Bay
From the moment we first sailed past this pretty beach, we knew it would be one of our favorites. Usually very quiet; it’s a long arc of soft, light sand fringed by gorgeous turquoise water. Great place to put your toes (and more!) in the water…

To see more posts on Virgin Gorda and other islands, check out our Island Blog Directory

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC.
All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.

January 20, 2016January 15, 2020

The Beautiful Beaches of Tortola

When you think of Tortola, the largest island of the British Virgin Island chain, do you think of the place you meet to embark on your BVI sailing adventure? Do you think of bustling Road Town or the picturesque Soper’s Hole? Do you think of a stop on the ferry on the way to another island? Perhaps Full Moon Parties?

For whatever reason, Tortola is known for many things, but not always it’s beaches – which really is surprising. Tortola has some stunning beaches. The best beaches are found on Tortola’s North and West sides and range from wide swaths of soft, light colored sand to beaches with some of the best surfing in the area. Because many face north, some can really rock ‘n roll when there’s a north swell, but on calm days they can be downright tranquil.

Although Brewer’s Bay and Josiah’s Bay are both beautiful Northside beaches that should probably be on a “best of Tortola” list, we’ve seen them only by boat (We won’t talk about that time we rented a Jeep while staying on island and the adventure we had trying to get there. Have we mentioned that parts of Tortola are hilly and VERY steep?). Anyway, for the purposes of this post, we’ll cover just the Tortola beaches we’ve actually gotten to stick our toes in – so far.

Long Bay – West

Long Bay is a “long” stretch of powdery, light colored sand on the west end of Tortola. Long Bay Beach Club occupies a portion of the lovely beach, but the several times we visited, we were one of the few walking along and enjoying the scenery. Good photo ops include the overlook of Long Bay from the road at Lower Bay Point and the western end of the beach with Belmont Point in the background. If Winston is bartending at his Nature Boy Beach Bar, located on the beaches western end, be sure to stop in for a cold beer and some conversation.
Read more about Long Bay here.

Long Bay – East

Not technically on Tortola, Long Bay East is on Beef Island, a small island separated from Tortola by the short Queen Elizabeth Bridge – close enough we thought, to be included on this list. Apparently it’s a favorite with locals on the weekends and why wouldn’t it be? With its white sand and calm water, it’d be a great place to enjoy that Tortola sunshine.

Apple Bay

Not far from Long Bay heading north, you’ll find Apple Bay, sometimes called Capoons Bay.

Apple Bay has a great view of Jost Van Dyke, is one of the premier surfing spots in the BVI and is home of the one and only Bomba Shack, where you can sit and sip a Rum Punch while checking out the scenery.

Smuggler’s Cove

Smuggler’s Cove is on the westernmost tip of Tortola.

With beautiful palms, a view of Jost Van Dyke and an arc of soft light sand, Smuggler’s Cove is one not to miss. It’s a little tricky to get to, but that seems to keep the crowd’s at bay. Read more about Smuggler’s Cove here.

Cane Garden Bay

A boater’s favorite, one could easily while away a few days in Cane Garden Bay just leisurely walking the beach, splashing in the calm water and enjoying food, drink and live music at several excellent beach bars. If that weren’t enough, there is also a rum distillery to tour within walking distance and a recycled glass studio to enjoy. Read more about Cane Garden Bay here.

And to top it off, Cane Garden Bay has some of the best sunsets in the BVI.

If you haven’t had the chance to enjoy some of Tortola’s beautiful beaches, make sure to check a few out next time you’re in the area!

To see more posts on Tortola and other islands, check out our Island Blog Directory

January 6, 2016September 25, 2019

Foxy’s School of Music

Update: Foxy’s School f Music was irreparably damaged during the hurricanes of 2017, but has re-built and recently re-opened since our last visit.

As we previously mentioned in our post about a new business called Foxy’s Charters started by Foxy Callwood of Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands, Foxy is a busy man. He not only owns two bars on the island, Foxy’s and Foxy’s Taboo, and the new business Foxy’s Charters, he is active in preserving the culture and heritage of the beautiful island he calls his home. He was instrumental in founding the Jost Van Dyke Preservation Society to further the education, monitoring and protection of the areas environment and wildlife and has recently started a new venture intended to serve the children of the Jost Van Dyke community and encourage enrichment in a topic near and dear to Foxy’s heart – music.

Anyone lucky enough to visit Foxy’s while Foxy was present has probably been treated to a little of his music. Seen frequently with his guitar, Foxy has been known to sing improvised calypso-esque ballads, many times creating off-the-cuff lyrics about his guests, where they’re from and humorous tidbits about their state or country. So – it makes complete sense that Foxy has begun a new venture designed to entice children on Jost Van Dyke to explore music and encourage budding musicians through a program called Foxy’s School of Music.

On a recent visit to Foxy’s, David Dietrich treated us to a tour of this new facility, opened in March of 2015. Located behind Foxy’s, the dome structure houses a variety of instruments, from drums to violins.

Foxy’s School of Music is open several days a week to the local children (of which there are approximately 43) and is a place they can gather to experiment with music, play music together and take lessons from volunteers.

Several other music lovers and musicians have lent a hand in the creation of this venue, including Tony Martin form “Just Right Music”, Kebbi Williams, a Grammy Award Winning Saxophone Player, William Barnes – composer, producer and musician and Michael Beans – a local musician who performed his famous “Happy Arrr Pirate Show” at the opening ceremonies.

This year, the child who works the hardest at learning how to play their instrument of choice will be awarded with a trip to the annual Music In the Park Event in Atlanta, Georgia held by Kebbie Williams.

photo courtesy of Foxy’s School of Music

Anyway you look at it, Foxy’s School of Music is a win-win situation. It’s a program that will certainly benefit the local children of Jost Van Dyke and a program that could be creating another wonderful musician like Foxy himself.

If you’d like to donate to this great program, contact them via email at [email protected], or if you will be visiting Foxy’s in the near future, there is a donation box between the bar and the Foxhole.

To see more posts on Jost Van Dyke and other islands, check out our Island Blog Directory

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC. All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.

December 10, 2015September 25, 2019

The New Ivan’s Stress Free Bar

Update: Unfortunately, a few years after Ivan completed construction on his new bar, it was destroyed by the hurricanes of 2017. This is what it looked like during our last visit. The small building on the left is the current bar and we have not heard anything yet about Ivan’s plans to rebuild either the bar or the campground.

We loved Ivan’s Stress Free Bar on Jost Van Dyke the moment we first walked through the shell lined doors in 2010. It just had that unique, funky beach bar vibe that drew you in. Not polished, not shiny – it had sandy floors and shell art everywhere, including a very unique shell man standing watch out front. And then there was Ivan. The bars namesake/owner/proprietor was walking around, making sure his guests were having a nice time. Each subsequent visit was as enjoyable as the first.

Fast forward to 2014 when we heard that Ivan had made the very difficult decision to take down the old bar to pour a new foundation which had been sinking and possibly a danger to his guests. Although we understood, we were a bit saddened that the old bar would be gone.

Last month we had the chance to go back to Jost Van Dyke and spend a little time at the new Ivan’s. Here are some photos from that day.

Did the new bar have the same feeling as the old Ivan’s? No, definitely not. But, with time, the floor will get sandier and the shell art will fill up the walls again. Ivan’s still has Ivan, delicious drinks, a spectacular beach – and the view from the new deck is great! It still has friendly people and some of the old memorabilia. In time, we’ll all get used to the new building and begin to love it like we did the old bar. After all, it still is Ivan’s…

Have you been to the new bar? Tell us about it!

To see more Jost Van Dyke and other island posts, check out our Island Blog Directory

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC. All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.

October 22, 2015April 24, 2021

5 Favorite Scenic Overlooks in the Caribbean

It was a challenge to select just 5 of our favorite Scenic Overlooks in the Caribbean – even after narrowing the criteria to those that included water views, but these are 5 of our favorites from our travels to date. Feel free to add some of your favorites in the comments below!

View of Magens Bay, St. Thomas from Drakes Seat.
Legend has it that Sir Francis Drake used this vantage point to keep an eye out for enemy ships.

Check out other island posts here: Island Blog Directory

Overlook of Gustavia, St. Barts – one of the most colorful overlooks in the Caribbean. It’s well worth a short hike on a nice path to enjoy this view.

From this perch high atop Virgin Gorda at Hog Heaven, you can see the entire North Sound including Leverick Bay, Saba Rock, Bitter End Yacht Club, Prickly Pear Island, Necker Island and on a clear day, a very faint sliver of Anegada.

Overlook of Trunk Bay, St. John.
One of the most photographed overlooks in the Caribbean; the sight of Trunk Bay from this spot nearly takes your breath away and gives you a taste of the beauty that lies ahead.

The overlook of White Bay, Jost Van Dyke is absolutely picture perfect. It’s really rather hard to take a bad picture of this beautiful bay!

What are your favorite Caribbean scenic overlooks? Tell us about them!

Check out other island posts here: Island Blog Directory

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC. All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.

October 12, 2015September 25, 2019

Foxy’s Charters

Have you heard? Foxy Callwood, the 7th generation Jost Van Dyker, musician, entertainer, humanitarian and host extraordinaire at his world famous bar, Foxy’s, has opened a new business designed to give guests visiting the Virgin Islands the opportunity to enjoy even more of the beautiful islands.

photo: www.photo.vi

Foxy now offers a variety of adventures through his company Foxy’s Charters. Find out some of the options offered below.

photo: www.photo.vi

Private Boat Charters
Set up a charter on his 12-passenger, 38 foot extra wide power cruiser called “Foxy’s Excellent Adventure” and spend the day exploring Jost van Dyke, the soft sand beaches of White Bay or Sandy Cay, snorkel the Caves of Norman Island, or enjoy yourself at the Baths in Virgin Gorda – the possibilities are endless.

photo: www.photo.vi

Sunset Cruises
Imagine sipping delicious rum drinks while watching an amazing sunset from the water…

photo: www.photo.vi

Water Taxi Service
Need a ride to Jost Van Dyke? Check out his Water Taxi Service that can arrange to pick you up in the USVI or BVI. After hours service to and from Tortola and Jost van Dyke is also available.

Watersports
Daytime Kayak Rental: Rent a clear bottom kayak and enjoy skimming around Great Harbour while scoping out the sea life below.

photo: www.photo.vi

photo: www.photo.vi

Guided Night Kayak Tours: Cruise the waters of Great Harbour at night during a night time kayak tour. See a variety of fish, turtles and rays through your clear bottom kayak illuminated with LED lights!

photo: Foxy’s Charters

Find Foxy’s Charters on the beach in front of Foxy’s Tamarind Bar in Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke. Contact them to set up your Excellent Charter Adventure, Sunset Tour, Water Taxi Service or Watersports Adventure at
1-284-546-1904 or [email protected]

Foxy’s Charters Website

Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram too!

September 13, 2015September 25, 2019

Sunday Serenity: First Tracks on White Bay

Lately when we talk about White Bay or Jost Van Dyke, everybody seems to have been there or has it on their “list”. With it’s stunning beauty and a plethora of great beach bars, Jost Van Dyke has been discovered.

But along with its fame comes crowds. Ever been on White Bay on a sunny afternoon in high season? Yep, it can be busy.

We had the pleasure of staying on-island in the White Bay Villas & Seaside Cottages for a week a couple of years ago. One of our favorite memories about being on White Bay early in the day or late in the evening when the day crowds go home? It’s so quiet…

During our week on JVD we got up early every morning and walked White Bay. Being from Colorado originally, we equated being the first to walk the beach in the morning as being the first one down a ski slope in the morning after a fresh dusting of snow. First tracks. Except warmer. Best thing about that? All we could hear was waves gently lapping the shore and seagulls calling…peaceful.

Of course we usually headed back down to the beach later in the day for the party and a Painkiller or two…

Find more Sunday Serenity posts here:
Tropical Tips & More

To see more island posts, check out our Island Blog Directory

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC. All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.

August 11, 2015April 20, 2021

Perfect Vacation Memory – Virgin Gorda

What’s a perfect vacation memory? You know the one your mind wanders to when your day gets a little too stressful? Well, of course it’s different for everyone, but ours usually has something to do with a beautiful beach…and rum…

A few years ago, while staying on-island in this beautiful villa on Virgin Gorda in the BVI, we packed our beach bags and set off for the day to beautiful Spring Bay, a next door neighbor to The Baths. We spent the day lounging in the crystal clear water, exploring the massive boulders and simply soaking in the sun.

And, as if that weren’t perfect enough, after getting our beach fill for the day, we made our way to CocoMaya, where we ordered a Zacapa 23 on ice and a Pinot Grigio, sat with our toes in the sand around a fire pit at the waters edge,

and watched a gorgeous sunset over Tortola.

Great memory of a great day on a beautiful island.

Do you have any great vacation memories from Virgin Gorda? Share them with us!

To see more posts on Virgin Gorda and other islands, check out our Island Blog Directory

All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.