Virgin Gorda, in the British Virgin Islands, is a relatively long and narrow island with several large sounds and many smaller bays. This makes it an ideal spot for fans of water sports, sailing and beach going. Because all of the beaches on the island are within 25 minutes of one another – in fact, it is around 25 minutes by car from one end of the island to the other – you may think you can just drive around and pick a good one. However, why waste a moment of your precious holiday time looking for the perfect beach? Instead, we offer you a simple guide to the best beaches based on their conditions and prime activities.
However, before setting off on this virtual tour of the island’s beaches, it is a good idea to understand the basic geography of their locations. A vast majority are tucked into the southern end of the island, below Spanish Town. Here you find a delicate chain of beaches that offer safe swimming, gentle and very light surf, gorgeous sands and seawater. They don’t run together because of the enormous boulders that serve as natural dividers, and some areas of beachfront are private here as well.
With this in mind, we suggest the following beaches that are found in the southern areas, and some a bit farther north:
The Baths
By far, one of the most famous beaches on the island (and that is most deservedly) is the one known as The Baths. It is also one of the most famous beaches in all of the islands but is rarely crowded because no large cruise ships visit Virgin Gorda. It gets its name from the amazing caves and hidden pools created by enormous boulders tucked along the shore. These boulders are so massive that they create natural caves, and when the sunlight peers between the cracks, illuminating the lovely sea green waters, it is like another, magical world.
Small cruise ships do visit the island, so you will want to forgo your exploration here until a day when no cruises are in port. The good news is that this is not all that often and you will be able to enjoy the use of the locker room facilities and the different restaurants along the beach.
Devil’s Bay
Close by The Baths, it is found via a trail adjacent to the parking area as well as a trail that runs through the caves of The Baths. If you are a snorkeling fan, this is the beach to choose, but it is also an ideal sunbathing destination that is quiet and relaxed.
Spring Bay
Also close to Devil’s Bay and The Baths, this is a public beach with the same boulders and hidden caves as the other beaches. This beach has “The Crawl” full of pools and safe climbing rocks. The snorkeling here is impressive as well, and it is the perfect place to learn how to enjoy this water sport. Don’t miss your chance to climb up on the famous “jumping rock” and take a thrilling plunge.
Little Dix Bay
This is one of the first “crystal clear” beaches you will find and it is sheltered and pristine. Located near a famous resort, it provides you with access to water sports as well as dining and drinking options.
Savannah Bay
Heading north of Spanish Town is this safe and romantic destination. If you have children, this is the beach to choose. The waters are so clear you can see the bottom and there are many times when the beach here is entirely empty and abandoned.
Other “must see” beaches include Fischer’s Cove for its restaurant and low-key beach, Levericks Bay for its wonderful swimming and water sports, and Pond Bay which is beautiful and often empty.