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Sandy Cay: A Pristine Jewel of the British Virgin Islands

Discover Sandy Cay, a pristine and uninhabited island in the British Virgin Islands, offering breathtaking beaches and vibrant coral reefs.

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Sandy Cay is a small, uninhabited island in the British Virgin Islands, celebrated for its untouched beauty, powdery white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Once owned by Laurance Rockefeller, it's now a national park, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the Caribbean's natural splendor.

A brief summary to Sandy Cay

  • VG

Local tips

  • Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater life surrounding the island.
  • Pack a picnic, as there are no facilities or eateries on Sandy Cay.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Bring an umbrella for shade, as natural shade is limited.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    Sandy Cay is only accessible by boat. Most visitors arrive via private boat charter or as part of a day trip from nearby islands like Tortola or Jost Van Dyke. Several ferry services operate between the islands of the BVI, but they do not directly service Sandy Cay. From Tortola, you can take a taxi to West End or Trellis Bay and arrange for a water taxi or boat charter to Sandy Cay. A round trip private boat charter can cost between $150 and $300. Remember to arrange your boat service in advance.

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Discover more about Sandy Cay

Sandy Cay, a 13.57-acre island in the British Virgin Islands, is a true Caribbean paradise. Located between Tortola and Jost Van Dyke, this uninhabited cay boasts pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. Its untouched environment offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature. Originally owned by Laurance S. Rockefeller for 40 years, Sandy Cay was maintained as a protected island with no development. Rockefeller's conservation team planted over 200 palm trees, established a bird and turtle monitoring program, and created a trail network. In 2008, the island was transferred to the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands. The island features a diverse landscape, including a wide sandy beach, dry coastal woodland, a salt pond, mangrove wetlands, and rocky cliffs. A short hiking trail allows visitors to explore the island's interior, offering scenic views and the chance to observe hermit crabs and various bird species. The surrounding waters are home to vibrant coral reefs, teeming with colorful fish, making it a popular spot for snorkeling. Sandy Cay is an important nesting site for several species of turtles and birds. To protect the island's delicate ecosystem, certain activities are prohibited, including camping, removing vegetation or disturbing wildlife, and using portable music devices. Visitors can access the island by boat and can use the mooring buoys installed by the National Parks Trust. A marine conservation permit is required to use the moorings.

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