White Bay: Jost Van Dyke's Blissful Beach Paradise
Discover White Bay, Jost Van Dyke: pristine sands, turquoise waters, and the birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail.
White Bay is a crescent of powdery white sand meeting calm, turquoise waters on the southern shore of Jost Van Dyke, the smallest of the four main British Virgin Islands. This picture-perfect beach is famed for its relaxed vibe and lively beach bars, making it a quintessential Caribbean destination. White Bay's allure lies in its stunning natural beauty and convivial spirit. The bay is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just a short distance from the shore. For a quieter experience, visitors can head to the eastern end of the beach, which tends to be less crowded. The beach is also known for its vibrant beach bar scene, with several bars and restaurants lining the shore. The most famous of these is the Soggy Dollar Bar, the birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail. Other popular spots include Hendo's Hideout, Coco Loco, and Ivan's Stress-Free Bar, each offering its unique atmosphere and menu. Beyond the beach, Jost Van Dyke offers opportunities for hiking, exploring hidden natural pools like the Bubbly Pool, and enjoying the island's laid-back charm. Whether arriving by ferry, private charter, or sailboat, White Bay promises an unforgettable island escape.
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning, especially during peak season, to secure a prime spot on the beach and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Don't miss the chance to try the original Painkiller cocktail at the Soggy Dollar Bar.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the delicate coral reefs.
- Consider exploring other parts of Jost Van Dyke, such as the Bubbly Pool or Sandy Cay, for a change of pace.
A brief summary to White Bay
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Getting There
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Ferry
The most common way to reach White Bay is by ferry from Tortola. Ferries depart regularly from West End, Tortola (Soper's Hole) to Jost Van Dyke's Great Harbour. The ferry ride is approximately 25 minutes and costs around $20-30 USD for a round-trip. From Great Harbour, you can take a taxi or hike to White Bay. A taxi from Great Harbour to White Bay is approximately $5 per person. Alternatively, the walk is about 30 minutes.
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Water Taxi
For a more direct and customized trip, consider a water taxi from Tortola or St. Thomas. Water taxis can drop you off directly at White Bay, avoiding the need for a taxi or hike from Great Harbour. The cost of a water taxi varies depending on the distance and the number of passengers, but expect to pay around $100-$200 USD for a private transfer.
Landmarks nearby to White Bay
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Guana Island
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Wyndham Tortola BVI Lambert Beach Resort
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Red Rock
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Rogues Bay
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Hodge's Creek Marina Hotel
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British Virgin Islands Charters - Dream Yacht Worldwide
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Terrance B. Lettsome Airport
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Trellis Bay Market Bar & Grill
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Marché At Trellis
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Diamond Reef Estate
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Jeremy's Kitchen
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The Aerial, BVI All-Inclusive Private Island
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Loose Mongoose
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Marina Cay
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Scrub Island Marina & Fuel Station