Nestled in the British Virgin Islands, Jost Van Dyke is a sun-kissed haven where laid-back vibes and island adventures intertwine. This 8-sq-km gem is about barefoot luxury, where pristine beaches beckon you to dive in. We’ve curated a list of seven memorable things you can do on Jost Van Dyke to make your visit truly remarkable. Dive in and discover the magic of this fabulous island!
1. Hiking to White Bay
Walking from Great Harbour to White Bay is one of the more peaceful and beautiful short walks in the Caribbean. Along the way, you’ll have panoramic views of Tortola across St. John to St. Thomas. Hiking shoes are advisable as the terrain is rocky.
You can do it barefoot, but most people regret this choice halfway through the hike. If you’re up to it, consider hiking to the highest point on Jost Van Dyke. That’s the 1,000-foot-high Majohnny Hill, offering stunning 360-degree views across the Caribbean.
This may be challenging, however. Some people use a 4×4 vehicle, which you can rent at the local “mom and pop” store.
2. Snorkeling on Sandy Cay and Sandy Spit
Sandy Cay is a 14-acre nature preserve. The east side is volcanic, while the west is more coral reef atoll. The middle is a wetland area that’s home to various bird species. Colorful reefs off Sandy Cay teem with marine life and rare Staghorn and Elkhorn corals.
Sandy Spit is a picture-perfect one-acre island. It has gained fame for being the most photographed piece of land in the BVI. The deserted island has an ideally placed coconut palm in the center, surrounded by a barrier reef.
The island has been the backdrop for many commercials, magazine covers, articles, and advertising campaigns. You can find a magnificent sloping coral reef and wall off its south side that you can easily explore by snorkeling.
3. Scuba Diving at The Playground
The Playground between Green Cay and Little Jost is one of the best and prettiest places to explore and dive in the BVI. Look for a large formation of pillar corals and a series of huge boulders/pinnacles on the exposed north side. Marine growth covers them: including hard and soft corals, delicate branching hydroid fans, and brightly colored sponges.
Overhangs in the protected areas teem with various fish species – sweepers, juvenile angelfishes, glassy minnows, and fairy basslets. You’ll notice that some boulders and the bedrock have little hollows and depressions.
More advanced divers may want to check out the Twin Towers north of Little Jost. The unusual topography consists of two large monolithic rock formations rising to 90 feet.
4. Taking a Dip into ‘The Bubbly Pool’ at Diamond Cay
Featured in photo journals and magazines worldwide, the Bubbly Pool remains a closely guarded secret on Jost Van Dyke. Also called “Nature’s Jacuzzi,” this naturally formed tidal pool is located behind jagged cliffs facing the ocean. When the north swell is up, the unique formation outside the pool prematurely breaks incoming waves. The resulting bubbles fill the pool, giving everyone a reason to smile!
The Bubbly Pool is a short hike from the boat ramp at Diamond Cay through Mangroves, a Wild Sage forest. You may have to do a bit of amateur rock climbing. For the more adventurous, serious free-style rock climbing affords unbelievable photo opportunities of the whole area. They also get the chance to visit the Eagle’s Nest and the Mighty Blow Hole.
5. Swimming at White Bay Beach
White Bay is one of the best beaches in the Virgin Islands. This pristine white beach invokes images of Gilligan’s Island. White Bay swimming pool’s calm waters are perfect for swimming or simply floating on a mat.
This secluded half-mile white sandy beach is an excellent place for snorkeling and underwater exploring. It has reefs close to shore. After an afternoon of sun in the fun, find some shade and a cool drink at the nearby Soggy Dollar Bar.
6. Having a ‘Painkiller’ at The Soggy Dollar Bar
Originated and perfected at Sandcastle’s Soggy Dollar Bar in the 1970s, “The Painkiller” is a full-flavored rum cocktail. It has become the essence of Caribbean imbibing. The drink consists of premium dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple, and orange juice (proportions are secret). It’s topped with fresh grated Grenadian nutmeg.
Soggy Dollar’s Bar often holds a large party in the afternoon. Scores of thirsty par-tiers come over on day trips from neighboring islands. Try your luck at the Ring on the Hook game.
If you want to avoid the crowds, try stopping by the Soggy early morning or late in the evening. While enjoying your drink, swing in the hammocks and enjoy a quiet tropical paradise.
7. Relaxing at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar in Great Harbour
Foxy’s Bar is a BVI tradition with a laid-back attitude, good food, and plentiful drinks. “Sly Fox” and “Dread Fox” are the house’s specialty drinks, made with Foxy’s own rum. “Foxy’s Punch” is another delightful concoction with a mango float.
And don’t forget Foxy’s draft beers are fresh from the Microbrewery! Foxy features four distinct brews that combine the finest grain, malt, and hops. Yes, Foxy has built his own microbrewery, the only brew-house in the Virgin Islands.
Foxy’s has a BBQ and live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Foxy is a fixture in his own bar, frequently serenading and weaving a tale for his patrons. So, sit back and relax while Foxy sings and tells jokes in a Calypso style that thrills the crowd.
Island Bliss Awaits!
On Jost Van Dyke, every day is an invitation to reconnect with nature and yourself. In the words of a recent guest:
“Jost Van Dyke is pure magic. It’s a place that makes you forget your to-do list and embrace the present moment. The beaches are breathtaking, the waters crystal clear, and the locals are the friendliest I’ve ever met. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”
Craft Your Jost Van Dyke Adventures Today!
Ready to trade your worries for waves and your to-do list for a tropical cocktail? Let ILX Travel BVI Rental-Specialist be your island guide. We’ll craft the perfect Jost Van Dyke adventures for you. Contact us today, and let’s turn your island dreams into reality.