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Things to see in the British Virgin Islands

27 October 2023 3 min

Every sailor has heard of the British Virgin Islands, home of natural beauty, year-round trade winds, and world-famous beach bars. With easy island hops, line-of-sight navigation, and sheltered anchorages, the BVI are perfect whether you’re a new sailor or a skilled skipper.

We put together a list of 5 BVI must-sees to help you find your slice of island paradise:

The Baths

The Baths, a BVI National Park located on the southwest tip of Virgin Gorda, are a must-see! And after my exploration, you’ll understand why they are known as one of the most incredible experiences of the BVI. The Baths are large, clear pools of water in a cave-like atmosphere that were naturally formed by the sea washing over large granite boulders. Light plays on the water in secret rock pools, which are bordered by cool white sand pathways. It’s a truly dramatic effect. Exploring a series of steps, ladders, and rope handrails, you’ll be rewarded when you reach the picturesque sandy beach at Devil’s Bay.

You can pick up a daytime anchorage off the Baths, but often in the winter months, the ground swell makes it really exposed. Stay in Virgin Gorda and hire a taxi for a tour of the island and to visit The Baths instead.

Anegada

Anegada is unlike any of the other islands in the BVI as it is formed from coral and limestone rather than volcanic rock. Beautifully simplistic, the first thing you see as you approach is the palm trees seemingly rising from the sea. Sail from Virgin Gorda over to Anegada, which is famous for its lobster; you can’t visit without having a lobster dinner. Rent scooters and explore the island’s amazing beaches and salt ponds. The beaches at both the Anegada Beach Club and the famous Cow Wreck Beach are simply breathtaking. The snorkelling on the north shore beaches is spectacular, but the view is especially beautiful at Loblolly Bay. Make it back in time for happy hour at Potter’s by the Sea, and enjoy a couple of “Painkillers” (the local BVI cocktail) while watching your lobsters being prepared for dinner.

Norman Island (The Bight)

You’ll love Norman Island, partly because it’s also known as Treasure Island, with stories of pirate treasure being found in the Caves. The stories of this island are as amazing as the beauty of this very sheltered anchorage. The Caves are just a short trip away in the dinghy, and the snorkelling is fantastic. If you’re lucky enough, you may have a chance to swim with a turtle while snorkelling off the back of the boat. Barbecue on board in the evening or enjoy one of the very nice restaurants on the beach at the head of the bay.

Just outside of Norman Island is The Indians, an outstanding day trip for some of the best snorkelling in the BVI. The reefs showcase the most vibrant underwater life. Make sure to add this excursion to your bucket list.

Jost Van Dyke

Great Harbour and White Bay at Jost Van Dyke are perfect stops where you’ll enjoy the Caribbean “island vibes”. If you enjoy a cocktail or two, you’ll love this beach bar-hopping experience. Have a few rounds of Pain Killers at The Soggy Dollar, home of the infamous cocktail and one of the top bars in the Caribbean. Head on to White Bay’s beach bar scene, one of the liveliest anchorages in the BVI. Hop from Coco Loco to Seddy’s One Love and Gertrude’s, which are just a few steps away from Ivan’s Stress-Free.

And of course, an evening spent in Great Harbour wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Foxy’s. Indescribably fun, it is overflowing with island character, great food, dancing, and, of course, Foxy’s Fire Water Rum. If you’re lucky, Foxy himself will be there to play you a tune!

Soggy Dollar Painkillers on Jost Van Dyke

Cane Garden Bay

This beautiful cove is a must-see and comes highly recommended by locals. With calm green water and a large mooring field, there’s plenty of room to enjoy the tranquil anchorage yet energetic vibes. Spot turtles while you cruise around the bay on your stand-up paddleboard. When the sun starts to go down, swim along the shore and head to the beach. An evening bonfire beachside is a beautiful way to end your trip. Reminisce about all the places you’ve been and the many more still on your bucket list. But, hey, mon, no worries, you will be back!