This guide is designed for guests staying at Tavolara or our Tortola guests who are planning a day trip to the legendary Jost Van Dyke (JVD). Though it is one of the smaller main islands in the BVI at only about 4 square miles, it packs a massive punch of personality, history, and “barefoot” luxury.
Arriving: Great Harbour
Your ferry from Tortola will glide into the calm waters of Great Harbour, the island’s primary port of entry.
- The “Main Road”: Forget asphalt. The “main street” here is a wide, sandy beach lined with shops, boutiques, and world-famous bars.
- Foxy’s Tamarind Bar: A true BVI institution. Whether you’re dancing in the sand to live music or attending their famous Barbecue Night, Foxy’s captures the island’s soul. It’s a melting pot where locals and tourists rub shoulders over a “Flying Fox” cocktail.
- Tipsy Shark: A charming, family-run gem. Renee and Randy run the show, and their commitment to “fresh” is literal: they grow their own vegetables, and “Papa” Singh (the Dad) goes out fishing before Renee serves up dinner.
- Ali Baba’s: Located right on the beach, it’s perfect for a relaxed drink or local fare with your toes in the sand.
- Corsairs: Known as the “Pirate Restaurant,” it’s famous for its quirky vibe and hearty food. Note that it currently has potentially limited opening hours, so check ahead before you arrive.
The Famous White Bay
From Great Harbour, you can take a short, bumpy taxi ride over the hill or enjoy the scenic walk to White Bay. This is the quintessential Caribbean beach, blindingly white sand and turquoise water where the “swim-up bar” culture was born.
The Busy End
- Soggy Dollar Bar: The birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail. Its name comes from the sailors who would swim ashore, leaving their dollars soggy by the time they reached the bar.
- Hendo’s Hideout: For a slightly more upscale experience, head to Hendo’s. It’s an elegant bar and restaurant and hotel that manages to feel sophisticated yet laid back. They have sports on the big screens in the bar and offer refined dining in the evening.
The Quieter End
- Ivan’s Stress-Free Bar: A legendary spot for those seeking a “no shoes, no shirt, no problem” vibe. Don’t miss their fun BBQ night on Wednesdays.
- Alice’s: Tucked away serenely in the trees but still offering spectacular beach views, Alice’s is the place for wood-fired pizza and a peaceful atmosphere away from the main White Bay bustle.
Little Harbour
If you prefer a quieter anchorage, Little Harbour is your sanctuary. It is famous for its Honour Bars, where you can mix your own drinks and record your tab, a testament to the island’s trusting spirit. The walk from Tavolara commences with a very steep incline, but is worth it after 40 minutes of ups and downs along the road. Check on opening hours of the Little Harbour establishments out of High Season.
- Abe’s by the Sea: A staple for lobster dinners and local West Indian flavours.
- Harris’ Place: Another fantastic stop for local hospitality.
- Sidney’s Peace and Love: Famous for its lobster and its relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
The East End & Beyond
- Foxy’s Taboo: Located at Diamond Cay, it’s the gateway to the Bubbly Pool, a natural rock pool where the Atlantic waves crash in, creating a “jacuzzi” effect. The staff are always friendly bar; the food tasty and additionally social events are on offer. You can stroll here easily in under 30 minutes from Tavolara.
- The Views: From here, you have clear sights of the other famous islands scattered across the channel.
- Sandy Spit & Sandy Cay: These are the “picture-perfect” desert islands you see on postcards, tiny patches of sand and palm trees surrounded by reef.
- The B-Line: Located on Little Jost and accessible only by boat, this beach bar is an unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path spot for those looking to escape the crowds.
Walking the Ridge
For the active guest, walking the Ridge Road is the best way to see the island.
While guests may start at Sandy Ground and walk up the very steep hill to the eastern end, we prefer walking it in reverse. Start near the Perfect Pineapple Inn at White Bay. You’ll walk along a mix of concrete, gravel, and grassy meadows. The ascents and descents are numerous but the reward is a 360-degree panoramic view of the archipelago. Whether you end in Great Harbour or continue toward the East End, there is always a cold drink waiting for you at the finish line.
For Tortola Guests
For our Tortola guests there are day ferries but often in High season an evening Dine and ferry option is on offer. This allows you to experience Jost at night.
