Exploring the Hidden Gem of the Caribbean: Virgin Gorda, BVI

Virgin Gorda is a hidden gem in the Caribbean. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and friendly locals, this island in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offers a perfect escape for travelers seeking a relaxing and beautiful destination.

A lot of people choose to sail in the BVI, which is incredible, but we have found the island of Virgin Gorda to be so special that we keep going back. We’re sharing your ultimate guide to making the most of your visit to Virgin Gorda.

Location

The British Virgin Islands, including Virgin Gorda, are located in the northeastern Caribbean, to the east of Puerto Rico. The BVI is known for its beautiful coastlines, especially the islands of Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Anegada, and Virgin Gorda.

Getting There

There are a few options for reaching Virgin Gorda, but our preferred route is flying into St. Thomas and then taking a ferry or chartering a boat. From St. Thomas, it’s a scenic 1-1.5 hour journey to Virgin Gorda. We recently had an excellent experience with Island Time charters, who took care of everything from arranging transportation to providing a seamless journey to and from the airport. Alternatively, there’s an airport in Virgin Gorda itself, although we haven’t personally tried this option.

If your flight is landing late or you are concerned about delays, I recommend spending a night in St. Thomas before traveling to Virgin Gorda. We did this on our most recent trip and it was such a relaxing way to start our trip — we’ll be doing this again in the future. We stayed at the Pink Palm Hotel and I definitely recommend it.

What to Know

Virgin Gorda may be small, but renting a car is highly recommended for getting around the island conveniently. There are taxis, but it is not an affordable way to get around the island, and I would only recommend taxis to get to and from dinner if you need a safe ride. Mahogany Car Rentals has consistently provided us with reliable service, making exploring the island a breeze. 

Additionally, it’s advisable to carry cash for various places during your trip. There is an ATM on the island if you need it, but I do recommend bringing cash. They use USD.

Finally, Virgin Gorda has several grocery stores offering a variety of essentials, including food, liquor, and beer/wine. These grocery stores receive shipments on varying schedules, so it’s advisable to seek advice from a local to determine the best one to visit during your stay. Whether you’re stocking up for a day of exploration or preparing for a cozy evening in your villa, these stores provide convenient access to everything you need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Where to Stay

For those seeking a luxurious stay, Rosewood Little Dix Bay Hotel is our top recommendation. Their impeccable service, breathtaking views, and sumptuous breakfast make for an unforgettable experience every time we visit. If you don’t stay here, we still recommend making a reservation to enjoy the all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling with a larger group, Villas Virgin Gorda offers many stunning villas that cater to every need, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. We have stayed with Villas Virgin Gorda, in three different villas, each time we have visited. Every single time the experience has been incredible and I highly recommend booking your stay with them! Feel free to DM us on Instagram if you have any questions about the villas that we have stayed at.

Our Villas Virgin Gorda rental house was absolutely stunning!

Where to Eat

Some of our favorite dining spots on the island include:

• Cocomaya: Nestled along the shores of Virgin Gorda, Cocomaya offers Asian fusion cuisine and a lively ambiance. This upscale beachfront restaurant is recommended for food enthusiasts, offering a fun atmosphere with nightly live music.
• Sugarcane Restaurant: Tucked away in Nail Bay, Sugarcane Restaurant offers incredible views for sunset. From refreshing salads to delicious pizzas and fantastic painkillers, this is a go-to restaurant for us every time we visit. You can also opt to sit at the bar for sunset and enjoy and drink and apps.
• Top of the Baths: After visiting the Baths National Park, plan to get lunch at the Top of the Baths located at the top parking lot. They offer delicious cocktails, good food, excellent views, and a pool to cool off during lunch.
• Mad Dog: Located near the Baths National Park, this is a must-visit for their conch fritters and frozen cocktails. They offer casual outdoor seating.
• Saba Rock Restaurant: We haven’t personally been here, but it is on our bucket list to visit during our next trip.
• Rosewood Little Dix Bay: I recommend making a reservation for the all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast, which includes unlimited mimosas and made-to-order egg dishes.

What to Do

Virgin Gorda has some of the best and quietest beaches that I have ever seen. Don’t miss the iconic Baths National Park, where massive granite boulders form stunning grottos and pools perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The cost per person to enter is $3. Next, make sure to visit Savannah Bay and Devil’s Bay for more secluded beaches with powdery sands and blue waters. I recommend bringing water and snacks with you because there are no options for food and drinks at Savannah Bay or Devil’s Bay.

I also recommend carving out an entire day for our favorite day of the trip every year. Arrange a private charter with Dive BVI, located on Virgin Gorda, and hop on a boat and visit Jost Van Dyke and Willy T’s. You can design your own charter experience, so you will also have the option to add in snorkeling and/or other stops. Experience the laid-back vibe of Jost Van Dyke’s beach bars and pristine beaches, with the iconic Soggy Dollar Bar and several others. You will want to order a painkiller at Soggy Dollar Bar, as they originated and designed the painkiller in the 1970’s and it’s one of the best that you will find. Next, head to Willy T’s, a legendary floating bar and restaurant where you can enjoy drinks and delicious food amidst breathtaking ocean views. I don’t recommend visiting with Willy T’s in the evening with kids.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, adventure in the outdoors, or simply a slice of paradise, Virgin Gorda offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and island charm that will leave you enchanted and rejuvenated. Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to this Caribbean paradise.

Wishing you a wonderful trip to one of our favorite places!

– Karen