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White Bay Beach: Jost Van Dyke's Crown Jewel

Discover White Bay Beach: Jost Van Dyke's idyllic paradise with powdery sands, turquoise waters, and legendary Caribbean beach bars.

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White Bay Beach, a stunning arc of powdery white sand and vibrant turquoise water on Jost Van Dyke, is a Caribbean paradise famed for its laid-back vibe and legendary beach bars, including the Soggy Dollar Bar, the birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail. It's a must-visit destination for those seeking relaxation and fun in the sun.

A brief summary to White Bay Beach

  • VG

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure a prime spot on the beach, especially during peak season.
  • Don't miss the chance to try the original Painkiller cocktail at the Soggy Dollar Bar.
  • Bring cash, as some smaller bars and vendors may not accept credit cards.
  • Explore the eastern end of the island to find the Bubbly Pool, a natural jacuzzi.
  • Consider a day trip to Sandy Cay, a nearby deserted island with similar lovely beach vibes.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The most common way to reach White Bay is by ferry to Great Harbour on Jost Van Dyke. From there, White Bay is accessible by taxi or a scenic walk. * **From Tortola:** New Horizon Ferry offers daily service from West End, Tortola, to Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke. The ferry ride is approximately 25 minutes and costs around $20-$30 USD for a round-trip ticket. From Great Harbour, a taxi to White Bay costs approximately $5 USD per person. * **From St. Thomas/St. John (USVI):** Inter Island Boat Services offers seasonal ferry service from Red Hook, St. Thomas, and Cruz Bay, St. John, to Jost Van Dyke. The ferry from St. Thomas takes about 1 hour, while the ferry from St. John takes about 30 minutes. Round-trip tickets cost approximately $120-$140 USD per adult, plus a $30 USD customs fee. From Great Harbour, a taxi to White Bay costs approximately $5 USD per person. *Note: Ferry schedules and availability can vary, so it's best to check directly with the ferry operators for the most up-to-date information and to book tickets in advance.*

  • Taxi

    From Great Harbour Ferry Terminal, taxis are readily available to take you to White Bay. The ride is short, approximately 5-10 minutes, over a steep winding road. * **Cost:** Expect to pay around $5 USD per person for a shared taxi. Private taxis are also available for a higher rate. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey. Taxis are often shared, so you may be riding with other passengers. Taxi services are also available from the airport on Tortola to the West End Ferry Terminal, where you can get a ferry to Jost Van Dyke. Expect to pay $12 per person for a shared taxi from the Tortola cruise pier.

  • Walking

    For those who enjoy a scenic walk, it's possible to walk from Great Harbour to White Bay. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes and involves a steep climb over a hill. * **Cost:** Free, but wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the terrain can be challenging. The path is well-marked and offers stunning views of the island and surrounding waters. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or in extreme heat.

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Discover more about White Bay Beach

White Bay Beach is the undisputed superstar of Jost Van Dyke, a gem in the British Virgin Islands. This idyllic beach boasts powdery white sand that feels incredibly soft underfoot and calm, neon-blue waters perfect for swimming and floating. Backed by swaying palms and a string of iconic beach bars, White Bay exudes a carefree, barefoot atmosphere that instantly melts away stress. Often ranked among the best beaches in the Caribbean, White Bay is a daytime party hub. Dozens of sailboats and day charters moor just offshore, their passengers swimming ashore to enjoy the beach and its famous Painkiller cocktail. The Soggy Dollar Bar, Gertrude's, Coco Loco, Hendo's Hideout and Ivan's Stress-Free Bar each add their unique island flare to the scene. White Bay's history is intertwined with the island's past as a hideout for pirates and early Dutch settlers. Today, it's a haven for yachters, day-trippers, and anyone seeking a slice of Caribbean paradise. The beach offers a variety of activities, from snorkeling along the coral reef to simply lounging in the sun with a refreshing drink in hand. Whether you're dancing until dawn at the New Year's Eve party, savoring a Painkiller at the Soggy Dollar Bar, or simply soaking up the sun on the pristine sand, White Bay Beach promises an unforgettable Caribbean experience.

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