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White Bay Beach: Jost Van Dyke's Crown Jewel

Discover White Bay Beach in Jost Van Dyke: pristine sands, turquoise waters, and legendary Caribbean beach bars await!

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White Bay Beach, located on Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands, is a world-renowned destination celebrated for its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and vibrant beach bar scene. It's a must-visit for those seeking a laid-back Caribbean experience.

A brief summary to White Bay Beach

  • VG

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a good spot on the beach and avoid crowds.
  • Try the Painkiller cocktail at the Soggy Dollar Bar, the birthplace of this famous drink.
  • Bring cash, as some establishments may not accept credit cards.
  • Consider bringing water shoes, as there may be some rocks in the water.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong Caribbean sun.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The most common way to reach White Bay Beach is by ferry. Ferries run multiple times a day from West End, Tortola (Soper's Hole) to Jost Van Dyke's ferry dock in Great Harbour. The ride is about 25 minutes and costs around $20–$30 USD for a round-trip ticket for adults. From Great Harbour, you can take a taxi or walk to White Bay Beach. A taxi ride from Great Harbour to White Bay is approximately $5 per person. Alternatively, the walk is about 30 minutes.

  • Water Taxi/Private Charter

    For a more direct and personalized journey, consider a water taxi or private boat charter from Tortola, St. Thomas, or St. John. These options offer flexibility and can drop you directly at White Bay. Prices vary depending on the provider and distance, but expect to pay a premium for this service. Contact Allure Charters BVI for options. Negotiate the fare before departure.

  • Dinghy

    If you're arriving by yacht or staying on a boat, you can use a dinghy to reach White Bay. There's a small dinghy dock at the east end of White Bay, near Ivan's Stress-Free Bar. Dinghy rentals are available; contact a local provider for rates.

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Discover more about White Bay Beach

White Bay Beach is a stunning arc of powdery white sand and calm, neon-blue water, backed by palms and beach shacks. Frequently ranked among the Caribbean's best beaches, White Bay is the daytime party hub on Jost Van Dyke. Dozens of sailboats and day charters moor just offshore, and their passengers famously swim ashore for drinks since there's no dock – in fact, this is how the Soggy Dollar Bar got its name (patrons would arrive with wallets soaked from the swim). The vibe here is lively and fun: music playing, people floating with rum cocktails in hand, and a mix of visitors and locals soaking up the sun. Along the beach, travelers are spoiled for choice with all the lively bars and restaurants. The most iconic spot is the Soggy Dollar Bar, which opened in the 1970s and is known for its Painkiller cocktail, a frozen concoction of dark rum, coconut cream, and orange and pineapple juices topped with a dusting of nutmeg. Another popular White Bay institution is next door at Hendo's Hideout, which serves delicious Caribbean cuisine, such as local conch fritters, coconut shrimp, and fish tacos. Active travelers can rent paddle boards, kayaks, and snorkel masks on the beach and explore the tranquil bay. White Bay's coral reef provides breathtaking views of the ocean below. For a quieter beach day, head to the eastern end of White Bay (less crowd) or check if your accommodation has a small private beach (some villas do).

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