Devil's Bay Beach Trail: A Natural Virgin Gorda Paradise
Hike through stunning rock formations to discover a serene beach at Devil's Bay, Virgin Gorda – a Caribbean gem.
Devil's Bay Beach Trail, located on the southwestern tip of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, is a stunning natural attraction within the Baths National Park. Established in 1964, this picturesque area combines a moderately challenging hiking experience with the reward of a beautiful, secluded beach. The trail itself is a 15-20 minute hike from the parking lot at the Top of the Baths, leading through dry scrub vegetation and impressive granite boulders. The path winds through the boulders, with some sections requiring crawling, climbing ladders, and wading through shallow water. Ropes and wooden steps are in place to assist hikers, but caution is advised due to slippery rocks. Devil's Bay Beach is a horseshoe-shaped bay known for its tranquil, crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. The bay is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The unique granite boulders extend into the sea, creating sheltered sea pools and grottoes perfect for exploration. The waters around the rocks teem with vibrant marine life, offering excellent snorkeling opportunities. For those arriving by sea, mooring buoys are available outside the bay to protect the reef, and a dinghy dock provides easy beach access. Swim lines guide dinghies safely and separate swimming areas from boat traffic.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking over uneven terrain and rocks.
- Bring water and sunblock, as there are no vendors on the beach.
- Snorkeling gear is recommended to explore the vibrant marine life around the boulders.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
- Check the flag warning system for swimming conditions; a red flag indicates dangerous currents.
A brief summary to Devil's Bay Beach Trail
- CHH4+7V, Spanish Town, Devil's Bay, VG1150, VG
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the Top of the Baths parking lot, follow the marked trail downhill towards Devil's Bay. The trail is approximately 15-20 minutes and involves navigating rocky terrain, including some climbing and wading. The entrance fee to The Baths National Park is $3 for adults. Be sure to stay on the designated paths to protect the natural environment.
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Taxi
From the Spanish Town ferry terminal, take a taxi to The Top of the Baths. The taxi ride is approximately 10 minutes and costs around $20. From there, follow the walking directions to Devil's Bay Beach.
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Dinghy
If arriving by boat, dinghy access to the beach is available via a designated swim line. Mooring buoys are available outside the bay for larger vessels. Be aware of the safety flag system; a red flag indicates that mooring buoy use and swimming are prohibited due to rough seas or strong currents.
