Scrub Island, Beef Island Travel Guide

4.4 (31)

Discover Scrub Island: A luxurious Caribbean escape with pristine beaches, world-class amenities, and a rich pirate history in the British Virgin Islands.

Scrub Island, a 230-acre private island in the British Virgin Islands, offers a luxurious escape with pristine beaches, world-class diving, and a rich history steeped in pirate lore. Accessible by a short ferry ride, this secluded haven blends natural beauty with high-end amenities, making it an unforgettable Caribbean destination.

A brief summary to Scrub Island

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Scrub Island.

Take advantage of the complimentary ferry service from Trellis Bay on Tortola, which runs every 45 minutes, to easily access the island.
Explore the island's three private beaches: North Beach for sunbathing, Pavilion Beach for snorkeling, and Honeymoon Beach for a secluded getaway.
Consider booking a boat trip to nearby islands like Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke to experience more of the British Virgin Islands.
Indulge in the Ixora Spa, known for its ayurvedic wellness treatments, massages and outdoor yoga.
Pack reef shoes if you plan to explore North Beach, as the shoreline is shallow and may have some rocks.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Aragorn's Studio

Cane Garden Bay

Trellis Bay

Cooper Island

Cane Garden Bay Beach

Explore Scrub Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Scrub Island, mapped for you.

Getting There

Ferry

The primary access to Scrub Island is via ferry from Tortola. Upon arrival at Terrance B. Lettsome Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, Tortola, a Scrub Island representative will escort you to the Trellis Bay Ferry Dock, a short 2-minute drive. From there, board the Scrub Island private launch for a scenic 10-minute ferry ride to the resort. The ferry operates every 45 minutes. The service is complimentary for Scrub Island guests.
Water Taxi

Alternatively, you can take a water taxi from St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands directly to Scrub Island. Upon arrival at Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas, take a taxi to either the Charlotte Amalie Ferry Dock (20-30 minutes) or the Red Hook Ferry Dock (40-45 minutes). From Charlotte Amalie, the ferry to Road Town, Tortola takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. From Road Town, take a taxi to Trellis Bay Ferry Terminal (15-20 minutes, approximately $15 per person). Finally, take the Scrub Island Ferry from Trellis Bay to Scrub Island (10 minutes, complimentary for Scrub Island guests). Contact providers directly for pricing and availability.

Discover more about Scrub Island

Scrub Island, a jewel in the British Virgin Islands, is a 230-acre private island that promises an exclusive Caribbean experience. Located just 1.5 miles northeast of Tortola, it combines luxury, natural beauty, and a fascinating history. The island is divided into two main sections: Big Scrub, home to the resort, marina, and most amenities, and Little Scrub, a quieter, undeveloped area.Formed by volcanic activity, Scrub Island features rugged terrain with peaks offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and neighboring islands. Its history dates back 5,000 years, with evidence of Arawak and Ciboney tribes. Christopher Columbus discovered the island in 1493, but it later became a haven for pirates and buccaneers who, according to legend, scrubbed barnacles off their ships in its shallow waters, giving the island its name.Today, Scrub Island is known for its three pristine beaches: North Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming; Pavilion Beach, ideal for snorkeling; and Honeymoon Beach, a secluded romantic hideaway accessible by kayak. The island is also home to the Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, which offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a range of activities, including watersports, hiking, and island hopping. The Ixora Spa is a highlight, offering ayurvedic wellness treatments and yoga.Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Scrub Island provides an idyllic escape with its blend of natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and intriguing history.