Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, is a popular tourist spot with posh resorts, pristine beaches and great sailing. Virgin Gorda is probably most famous for the Baths, a unique national park on the island’s southwest coast. The Baths is unlike any other beach in the Caribbean. It features white sandy beaches framed by gigantic granite boulders, some of these with diameters reaching 40 feet. Geologists believe that these odd formations are the result of volcanoes.
Natural beauty is in abundance and accessible via indigenous plant-lined trails, nature sanctuaries and natural wonders of our protected national parks. Hike to the island’s high point, Gorda Peak, for a splendid panoramic view of the surrounding islands. Stroll or swim at the unspoiled beaches at Savannah Bay, Pond Bay, Devil’s Bay, Mahoe Bay or Spring Bay.
Wading through the colorful coves and granite boulders of The Baths in Virgin Gorda is the most notable experience you can have in the British Virgin Islands. It’s the must-see attraction of the British Virgin Islands archipelago. Massive smooth ash gray boulders of varying sizes rise from the sea’s crystalline waters, making a maze of sorts for travelers to wade or swim through. Climbing through the crevices and grottoes of The Baths isn’t terribly intensive, but the granite boulders can be slippery so swim shoes or sneakers are encouraged. Once you reach Devil’s Bay, the stunning beach clearing at the end of the rocks, you’ll find shallow clear waters perfect for a little light snorkeling or restful sunbathing.
Virgin Gorda Weather (When to Visit)
Because the British Virgin Islands enjoy a warm tropical climate, your Virgin Gorda travel plans don’t need to account for weather, with daytime temperatures in the mid-80s and evening temperatures in the 70s throughout most of the year. The busiest time of year (and most expensive) is the high season, from mid-December through mid-April. Then, of course, there’s the Caribbean hurricane season from June to November, but many travelers still plan trips during these months to take advantage of low rates. Be warned that many hotels close during the summer months, due to the threat of hurricanes.
Best Virgin Gorda Area Beaches
The Baths
This iconic place should be on everyone’s list on essential things to do when visiting the BVI. The area is great for swimming, snorkeling and climbing. You can arrive by boat, swimming from Spring Bay or Trunk Bay or just through the trail from the Top of the Baths. Once there, you’ll find secluded sea pools separated by towering granite rock filled with crystal clear water.
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Leverick Bay
Leverick BayThis is the less secluded beach in Virgin Gorda due to the Jumbies Bar, The Restaurant, Blue Rush Water-sports, Michael Beans, the stores and the pool. You will meet people, have a great time, enjoy delicious drinks by the beach and food too!
Savannah Bay
Savannah Bay…is your dream Caribbean beach come true. Quiet, remote, clean and pristine. The water is crystal clear and shallow. The snorkeling is amazing, turtles, squids, corals, and Caribbean fish to discover.
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Devil’s Bay
Devil’s BayDevil’s Bay is one of Virgin Gorda’s most beautiful beaches. You can access to this beach from the water or on foot. The trail is a 15 minute hike through dry scrub vegetation and boulders from the car park at the Top of the Baths. You can swim and snorkel, or just relax on the silky beach.
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Spring Bay
Spring BayThis dreamy beach is perfect for snorkeling, chilling at the beach and the ideal spot for a beach bbq. You can bring your food to cook there ( there is also a large outside grill) and have the perfect beach day, but remember: leave only footprints! Keep Virgin Gorda crystal clean like its waters!
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Virgin Gorda Tours
Virgin Gorda may not be as well-known as other areas in the British Virgin Islands, but this 8.5-mile (13.6-km) island beholds comparable beauty that makes visiting the third-largest island an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Perhaps its most attractive feature is the geological wonder known as The 
Baths, a set of rock formations that hide partitions of the south beach in giant beautiful alcoves. Swimming and snorkeling in the natural grottoes and pools while also discovering its many boulder fields and caves is as interesting as it is unforgettable.
A heaven for swimmers, divers, and snorkelers, Virgin Gorda also features Devil’s Bay, located near The Baths; Spring Bay, set a short distance away from Devil’s Bay; and the often secluded and romantic Little Trunk Bay. And once your done with your day on the water, one of the island’s large number of restaurants, bars, and resorts can serve as the setting for a relaxing evening. Learn more about available Virgin Gorda Tours.
Best Virgin Gorda Area Tours & Activities
Day Cruise to British Virgin Islands from St Thomas or St John
Explore the British Virgin Islands during this full-day boat trip from St. John or St. Thomas. During this excursion, enjoy a breakfast boat ride to Virgin Gorda’s Baths. Explore the grottoes, arches, and chain of tidal pools formed by eroded rocks along the beach, then head to Diamond Reef to snorkel among schools of tropical fish on the living coral reef. Visit a local restaurant, The Top of the Baths for lunch (own expense), then head to Jost Van Dyke to enjoy some time swimming, lounging, or visiting some beachside bars. Breakfast, snorkeling equipment, and unlimited open bar on the boat are included. Learn more about this Day Cruise to BVI.
Magic Mangrove Paddle in Beef Island Lagoon
Paddle through the mangrove forests of Beef Island on a stand-up paddleboard or kayak on a 1.5-hour excursion from Road Town. Known as the ‘nurseries of the sea’, these mangrove forests are a safe haven for juvenile marine life just learning to fend for themselves. Travel at a leisurely pace with your small group and local adventure guide, keeping an eye out for barracuda, baby sharks, stingrays and turtles. Use of all equipment is provided. Learn more about this Beef Island Lagoon Tour.
British Virgin Islands 8 days catamaran cruise, inc. food
- Flexibility to customize your itinerary to your own preferences
- Travel by boat and see the sights from the water
- See native wildlife in their natural environment
Learn more about the BVI 8 Day Catamaran Cruise.
Full Day Boat Charter and Snorkel Trip
Let a powerboat speed you to some of the best beaches of the US and British Virgin Islands in one hassle-free experience with this private boat charter from St. Thomas. Board your comfortable, skippered boat and enjoy an itinerary customized to you, stopping at prime snorkel and swim spots such as The Baths, Virgin Gorda, and more. Snorkel gear, onboard music, and hotel pickup are provided for a complete experience. Learn more about the Full Day Boat Charter & Snorkel Trip.
Private Sunset Sail of the British Virgin Islands
Watch the sunset from the decks of a private 40-foot (12-meter) catamaran from Tortola or Virgin Gorda. Over the course of 1.5 hours, dictate your own itinerary, which can include snorkeling, swimming, or island-hopping. This cruise can accommodate up to 30 passengers, and use of snorkeling equipment is included. Learn more about the Private Sunset Sail of the British Virgin Islands.
Best Virgin Gorda Restaurants
Chez Bamboo $11 – 30
This pleasant little hideaway isn’t difficult to find; look for the building with bamboo fencing. Candles in the dining room and on the patio help make this a mellow place where you can enjoy a bowl of lobster bisque, something from the tapas menu, or one of the specialties such as lobster curry. For dessert, try the chocolate cake or crème brûlée. Stop by Friday night for live music. Telephone: 284-495–5752 Web: Chez Bamboo.
Fat Virgin Cafe $11 – 30
Very laid back casual, outdoor, waterside dining on picnic tables. This casual beachfront eatery offers a straightforward menu of baby back ribs, chicken roti, vegetable pasta, grouper sandwiches, and fresh fish specials for lunch and dinner. You can also find a good selection of Caribbean beer. Telephone: 284-495–7052 Web: Fat Virgin Cafe.
Fischer’s Cove Restaurant $11 – 30
Dine seaside at this alfresco restaurant that’s open to the breezes. If pumpkin soup is on the menu, give it a try for a true taste of the Caribbean. Although you can get burgers and salads at lunch, local fish (whatever is available) and fungi (a cornmeal-based side dish) are tasty alternatives. For dinner, try the Caribbean lobster or grilled mahi mahi with lemon and garlic. Telephone: 284-495–5252, Web: Fischer’s Cove Restaurant.
Bath And Turtle $11 – 30
You can sit back and relax at this informal tavern with a friendly staff (or enjoy the outdoor Rendezvous Bar on the waterfront), although the noise from the television can sometimes be a bit much. Well-stuffed sandwiches, homemade pizzas, pasta dishes, and daily specials such as conch soup round out the casual menu. Local musicians perform many Wednesday and Sunday nights. Telephone: 284-495–5239 Web: Bath and Turtle.
Top of the Baths $11 – 30
At the entrance to The Baths, this popular restaurant has tables on an outdoor terrace or in an open-air pavilion; all have stunning views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel. The restaurant starts serving at 8 am for breakfast; for lunch, hamburgers, coconut chicken sandwiches, and fish-and-chips are among the offerings. Sushi is served 11 am to 3 pm every day except Sunday. For dessert, the key lime pie is excellent. The Sunday barbecue, served from noon until 3 pm, is an island event. Telephone: 284-495–5497 Web: Top of the Baths.
Best Virgin Gorda Bars
The Rock Cafe
Many tourists regard this as a must-visit Virgin Gorda bar. The setting is something of a kind, with tables arranged around boulders offering spectacular views. The food served is also very good, and they have lobster as well as freshly caught local fish on the menu too. Telephone: 284-495-5482 Web: The Rock Cafe.
Poorman’s Bar
A lower-profile Virgin Gorda bar located in The Baths, Poorman’s is located in an incredible beachfront location with amazing atmosphere (and great fresh mango margaritas)! It is your go-to place after a day spent exploring The Baths and Devil’s Bay. Telephone: 284-346-7037 Web: Poorman’s Bar.
Rendezvous Bar
The Rendezvous Bar is part of Bath & Turtle, offering a great view of the yacht harbor in an extremely casual atmosphere (with delightful food and drinks, of course)! The desserts are the most talked about among customers, and we recommend you try the Key Lime Pie while here! Telephone: 284-495–5239 Web: Rendezvous Bar.
Saba Rock Bar
The Saba Rock Virgin Gorda bar is not only a top-notch Caribbean location, but a world-class one too. The bar is part of the Saba Rock Resort, which is literally a hotel and restaurant built on a rock in the middle of the Sea. During your Virgin Gorda trip visiting here is a must, and you can do so either by water taxi or by dinghy. When you do visit, don’t forget the bar and restaurant – you won’t regret sipping from your favorite cocktail or enjoying the Lobster Special here! For more information call 284-495-7711 Web: Saba Rock Bar.
Jumbies Beach Bar
Jumbies Beach Bar, or simply “The Beach Bar at Leverick Bay” as many refer to it, is first of all your go-to place for the best Pina Colada on Virgin Gorda. Secondly, the Bar is highly regarded for its friendly staff (notably a beyond helpful guy by the name of Joe), and amazing food too! Telephone: 284 346-7241 Web: Jumbies Beach Bar.
Best Virgin Gorda Hotels
Ke Villas
This property is a 10-minute walk from the beach. Just minutes away from several beaches, Ke Villas is located on the north-west side of Tortola in Carrot Bay. Offering beautiful ocean views, this self-catering accommodation features a garden and air conditioning. Free WiFi access is available. Each room at Ke Villas comes equipped with a flat-screen TV, desk and refrigerator. Featuring a bath or shower, private en-suite bathrooms also offer a hairdryer.
Anegada Reef Hotel
On the southwest coast of Anegada, this tropical hotel is right on the white sandy beaches of the Caribbean Sea. It features an on-site restaurant and spacious rooms with a garden or ocean view. Air conditioning and coffee-making facilities are included in every room at Anegada Reef Hotel. All rooms have island décor with tile floors and a large private bathroom. The Garden Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, specializing in seafood and coastal fare. Wine and cocktails can be enjoyed at the beach bar or outside dining tables. Guests of the Reef Hotel Anegada can explore the island and go on deep-sea fishing trips.
Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, Autograph Collection
The rooms at Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, Autograph Collection feature air conditioning, a safety box, iPod docking station, seating area and a flat-screen cable TV. The Scrub Island Resort serves international and seafood. There are also a pool bar and a beach bar for the guests to enjoy.
Icis Villas
Just a 2-minute walk from Brewers Bay Beach, Icis Villas offers an outdoor pool and lush tropical gardens. Each air-conditioned studio and villa has a well-equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi. The bright studios and villas feature cable TV, a dining area and a balcony, most with views of the gardens or pool. Kitchens include a microwave, hob, coffee maker and fridge. You can enjoy a free continental breakfast each morning at Icis Villas. The on-site restaurant serves international cuisine and local dishes.
Fort Recovery Villa Suites Hotel
This tropical hotel offers a private pool and private beach overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Guests have access to beach and pool equipment. The villas feature a full kitchen area. The spacious villas at Fort Recovery Villas Suites Hotel include a microwave and refrigerator. The villas also have sitting areas and bright, island decor. Guests can dine at the Fort Recovery Restaurant, which is open for breakfast and dinner. Guest can also relax at the full-service spa, which offers massages and exercise classes. Fort Recovery Villa is adjacent to the historic Fort Recovery, which was built by the Dutch in 1640.
The Virgin Islands are stunningly beautiful! I love the baths. Amazing how those even exist around the world. Very fond of the Copper Mine Pointe too. I love old stone structures and ruins/remains of an earlier civilisation! Thanks again for sharing!
The Baths are just amazing Robert. I too love to go to beach destinations with more to offer than just the sand, sun and beach. I enjoy seeing the history, the architecture, and just immersing myself in the culture. I can’t think of a better vacation, and Virgin Gorda British Islands has it all.
Wow it looks really amazing there I have just rewatcht the pirates of the carribean movies with my Girlfriend the other day and we so want to go there now… 😀
Definately on our travel bucket list now, thanks for this wonderful articel
You guys will have to visit! You will have a wonderful time for sure. Thanks for stopping by.
Virgin Gorda British Virgin Islands main attractions are rocks. I must say that it seems like there would be more to do than to just swim around the big ugly rocks. What type of wildlife or festivities goes on there and does any of that happen in the least popular time to go?
Well Eric, I think it is beautiful 🙂 Not just the “rocks” LOL! You will find an abundance of marine life which is great for snorkeling, a variety of birds and several species of turtles. It is most famous for The Baths. More of a destination for the beach and scenic lover for sure. Thanks for stopping by and visiting beach travel destinations.
Wow! That area is breathtaking! One of largest hesitations about traveling to a new area is not knowing what locations to check out or restaurants to visit. Thanks to this article, I have a new place to check out!!!
Great, and you can’t go wrong with the British Virgin Islands for sure. Thanks for stopping by!
I’d imagine that this is a bit out of my price bracket – but it’s a place that I’d like to visit one day if I could.
Thanks for the detailed review.
You are very welcome Dan!
Oh My! Can I go right now? This places looks amazing! Your article is beautifully written and I love the pictures! I Have definitely added the BVI to my travel bucket list! Just pure Awesomeness!
I am so glad you agree with exactly how I feel! Glad you enjoyed the read and thanks for visiting Beach Travel Destinations!
What a great vacation place. It would be nice to spend our vacation here when classes end this year. I will show this blog post to my husband. He might consider as part of our itinerary. I’ll bookmark this page so I can show it to him later.
Your site is totally great, very helpful and full of information needed to easily help visitors to this vacation site.
Glad you enjoyed visiting my site Eli. I think you and your husband would have a wonderful time in Virgin Gorda British Virgin Islands. Thanks for stopping by!
Wow! That’s a lot of information! Looks like you have some experience with this place. You must spend a lot of time traveling. Have you ever been to Ireland? Honestly, that’s where my wife really wants to go next, do you have any articles coming out on that?
I am glad you enjoyed reading about Virgin Gorda British Islands. And yes, I will be doing some reviews on Ireland very soon 🙂
I have heard from different sources that Virgin Gorda is the prettiest of the Virgin Islands. Your webpage shows it too. Plenty to do there. My wife and I have been to St. Thomas, St John and St Croix many times and love the Virgin Islands. We would love a trip to the British Virgins and take in Virgin Gorda and the Baths. Great video!
I’m telling you that The Baths are well worth a visit if you enjoy this type of vacation. So beautiful, so relaxing, and really as you say – there are plenty of things to do in the area. Thanks for reading about Virgin Gorda British Virgin Islands.
Another fantastic review Leahrae. My brother was there about two years ago and he really loved the place. Some of the things he really enjoyed at the Virgin Gorda British Virgin Islands were how reliable the taxis were, the weather and the beautiful scenery. Keep up the good work Leahrae and I look forward to reading your next destination review.
Thank you so much Kuu! I am glad you have enjoyed visiting Beach Travel Destinations. Thanks for stopping by and leaving me some comments as well!
Looks beautiful and also very expensive! Looks well worth it though! I have been looking into vacationing to the Virgin Islands, guess I need to save up some first 🙂 Thanks so much for this amazing content.
Yes Jamaar, probably one of the more top of the line beach destinations. But as you say, definitely well worth it. Please let me know if I can help in any way. There are a lot of other amazing destinations that are more budget friendly, yet just as wonderful. Thanks for stopping by Virgin Gorda British Virgin Islands.
This is a comprehensive review, thank you! Now sign me up, I wanna go!
It is beautiful 🙂 I am glad you enjoyed visiting Virgin Gorda British Virgin Islands. Thanks for stopping by.
I must say this is one destination have not been too, and after reading your post it is definitely on my bucket list, I will be bookmarking this page as a reminder for when I book my next vacation.
You have a great website with great reviews and I will be recommending to my family and friends.
Chris
Thank you Chris and I am glad you have enjoyed visiting Beach Travel Destinations. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands is definitely a bucket list item. I hope you can make it there someday soon!
Hi there,
OH, the BVI is absolutely stunning! Some of my friends have been there, and they loved it. I am also planning to travel there by boat. We want to charter a yacht and sail the areas with the children and friends. Since we don’t stay at a hotel, we will need to do some provisioning. So it would be nice to know if BVI is expensive. If it is, then we will have to buy most of our stuff before we start our trip:) Do you have any idea?
Thank you!
Hi Daniella and great question. I think that if you make most of your meals on the boat, then you will find that there will be quite a savings. Eating out in the BVI averages about $57 per day per person for restaurant food. Seems kind of spendy, but I like to do a bit of both…some cooking in the room, and some eating out. Please let me know if you have any other questions.