Jost Van Dyke
Jost Van Dyke, one of the British Virgin Islands, is a Caribbean gem known for its laid-back atmosphere, breathtaking beaches, and vibrant social scene. Named after a Dutch pirate, the island measures just about 8 square miles but packs a punch when it comes to natural beauty and cultural allure. A haven for yachters, beachgoers, and anyone looking to experience the quintessential island lifestyle, Jost Van Dyke is famous for its beach bars, notably the Soggy Dollar Bar—the birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail—as well as for outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and sailing.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Jost Van Dyke largely depends on what you're looking for in your Caribbean vacation. However, there are generally two seasons to consider: the dry season and the wet season.
Dry Season (December to April):
Pros: This is the peak tourist season. The weather is generally sunny, with lower humidity and less rainfall. It's an excellent time for all outdoor activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and sailing.
Cons: Because it's the high season, you'll find that prices for flights, accommodations, and activities are higher. The island can also be crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port.
Wet Season (May to November):
Pros: Fewer tourists mean that you'll have more of the island to yourself. Accommodations and flights can also be cheaper. The island is lush and green, and diving conditions are generally excellent because of better water visibility.
Cons: The wet season coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season, so there's a risk of hurricanes. The humidity is also higher, and you'll encounter more rain.
Special Events:
Old Year's Night: One of the biggest parties of the year happens on December 31st and is a huge draw for tourists.
Jost Van Dyke Music Festival: Usually held in October, this event attracts a variety of musicians and is a treat for music lovers.
How to Get There
Getting to Jost Van Dyke, one of the British Virgin Islands, usually involves a combination of flights and sea travel.
By Air:
International Flights: There is no airport on Jost Van Dyke, so travelers usually fly into one of the nearby larger islands. The nearest international airports are on St. Thomas (Cyril E. King Airport) in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Tortola (Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport) in the British Virgin Islands.
Regional Flights: If you're already in the Caribbean, you might find it easier to take a regional flight to Tortola.
By Sea:
From Tortola: Regular ferries run from West End or Road Town in Tortola to Jost Van Dyke. The journey usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes.
From St. Thomas: If you're coming from St. Thomas, you'll find ferries that run to Jost Van Dyke. Some services may require a transfer in Tortola. Keep in mind that you'll need to clear customs when moving between the U.S. and British Virgin Islands.
Private Boats and Charters: If you're interested in a more private or flexible journey, there are various private boat charters that can take you to Jost Van Dyke from nearby islands. This is also a popular option for those already sailing around the Virgin Islands.
Day Trips: Many operators offer day trips to Jost Van Dyke from other islands in both the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, usually including a return trip in the late afternoon or early evening.
How to get Around
Once you're on Jost Van Dyke, getting around is relatively straightforward due to the island's small size. Here are some common modes of transportation:
On Foot:
The island is small enough that many locations are walkable, especially if you're staying near one of the main bays like Great Harbour, White Bay, or Little Harbour.
Taxis:
Land taxis are available and are often 4x4s suited for the island's hilly terrain. They can take you between bays, beaches, and other points of interest.
Water Taxis:
These are particularly useful if you're looking to get between different beaches or if you want to visit some of the smaller surrounding islands. Some bars and resorts also offer their own water taxi services for patrons.
Rentals:
Some visitors opt to rent scooters or 4x4 vehicles for more freedom to explore the island.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Jost Van Dyke
Top 7 Beaches on Jost Van Dyke
Jost Van Dyke is renowned for its beautiful beaches, each offering something unique to visitors.
White Bay:
Highlights: Famous for its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands, and vibrant social scene.
Popular for: Swimming, snorkeling, and beach bars, including the renowned Soggy Dollar Bar where the Painkiller cocktail was invented.
Great Harbour:
Highlights: A bustling beach adjacent to the main ferry dock, filled with various amenities.
Popular for: Convenience to accommodations and dining options. It's also the site for the famous Old Year's Night (New Year's Eve) party.
Little Harbour:
Highlights: A quieter, more secluded beach compared to White Bay and Great Harbour.
Popular for: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxation. There are also a few restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a beachside meal.
Sandy Spit:
Highlights: A small, uninhabited islet near Jost Van Dyke, Sandy Spit offers a picturesque "desert island" experience.
Popular for: Photo opportunities, picnics, and shallow water snorkeling. It's accessible only by boat.
Sandy Cay:
Highlights: Another uninhabited island close to Jost Van Dyke, offering a more isolated feel.
Popular for: Hiking (there's a short trail), snorkeling, and enjoying a more natural environment. Also accessible only by boat.
Ivan's Stress-Free Bar Beach:
Highlights: Located in White Bay but slightly removed from the busiest areas, offering a more relaxed vibe.
Popular for: Lounging, casual swimming, and a less crowded bar scene.
Foxy's Taboo Beach:
Highlights: Near Diamond Cay and the Bubbly Pool, this beach is more off-the-beaten-path.
Popular for: Proximity to the Bubbly Pool, a natural jacuzzi created by ocean waves breaking into a rock formation.
Top 12 Activities and Attractions in Jost Van Dyke
Jost Van Dyke, part of the British Virgin Islands, offers a blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Here's a list combining some of the best attractions and activities to consider:
Beach Activities:
White Bay: Known for its crystal-clear waters and powdery sand, it's a haven for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Great Harbour: This bustling area is not just for beach activities but also for socializing, with a good selection of beachside bars and restaurants.
Water Sports:
Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater world around Jost Van Dyke. There are various dive sites nearby, including reefs and wrecks.
Sailing: Whether you rent a sailboat or join a sailing tour, the waters around Jost Van Dyke offer an excellent sailing experience.
Bars and Dining:
Soggy Dollar Bar: This bar in White Bay is famous for its "Painkiller" cocktail. Relax in a hammock and enjoy the vibe.
Foxy’s Bar: Located in Great Harbour, this is one of the Caribbean's most famous beach bars. Foxy himself often entertains guests with calypso songs and stories.
Nature and Exploration:
Hiking: There are various trails on the island that offer panoramic views. A hike up to the Majohnny Hill offers a fantastic view of the surrounding islands.
Bubbly Pool: Near Foxy’s Taboo in Diamond Cay, the Bubbly Pool is a natural Jacuzzi created by the incoming tide through a rock formation.
Local Culture:
Old Year's Night: If you’re visiting over New Year's Eve, the Old Year's Night celebration in Great Harbour is an event you don't want to miss.
Island Tours: Take a land-based tour to learn about the island’s history, flora, and fauna. Many tours will also include stops at significant cultural sites.
Nearby Excursions:
Day trips to Sandy Spit and Sandy Cay: These uninhabited islets offer beautiful beaches and are just a short boat ride away. Great for snorkeling and picnicking.
Island-hopping: With its proximity to other islands like Tortola and Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke makes an excellent base for exploring the rest of the British Virgin Islands.
Snorkeling and Diving Spots near Jost Van Dyke
Jost Van Dyke and its surrounding waters are a paradise for underwater exploration, offering a variety of scuba diving and snorkeling sites.
Scuba Diving Spots:
Twin Towers: This is a dive site featuring two pinnacles rising from the ocean floor. Marine life such as barracudas, snappers, and sometimes sharks can be spotted here.
Playground: Located near Great Harbour, this dive site offers a mix of reef and wreck diving, home to various fish species and coral formations.
Wreck of the Chikuzen: Although it's a bit further away, near Virgin Gorda, many dive trips from Jost Van Dyke go here. This is a 246-foot Korean refrigerator ship that sank and now serves as an artificial reef. It’s known for attracting large schools of fish and even some bigger predators like barracudas and sharks.
Coral Gardens: This is a shallower dive featuring stunning coral formations and abundant marine life, suitable for divers of all skill levels.
Snorkeling Spots:
White Bay: Known for its crystal-clear waters and sandy bottom, snorkelers can enjoy schools of small colorful fish and perhaps a ray or turtle if lucky.
Sandy Spit and Sandy Cay: These small, uninhabited islands near Jost Van Dyke offer shallow waters that are great for snorkeling.
Diamond Cay: Located near Foxy's Taboo, the area around Diamond Cay is a National Park and offers good snorkeling opportunities. You might encounter lobsters, octopuses, and various kinds of reef fish.
Green Cay: A small island off Little Jost Van Dyke, the waters around Green Cay offer excellent snorkeling with good visibility, coral formations, and a range of marine life.
Little Harbour: Quieter than other beaches, the rocky areas offer good snorkeling opportunities where you can spot different species of reef fish.
Island Hopping
Island-hopping is one of the most popular activities when visiting Jost Van Dyke, thanks to its proximity to other islands in the British Virgin Islands and even the U.S. Virgin Islands. Here's a rundown of what you need to know:
Nearby Islands for Hopping:
Tortola: The largest of the British Virgin Islands, Tortola is known for its beautiful beaches, sailing opportunities, and rich cultural heritage. It's a short boat ride away from Jost Van Dyke.
Virgin Gorda: Known for the famous Baths, a unique geological formation, Virgin Gorda offers a blend of adventure and relaxation. It's reachable by a longer boat trip but is well worth the journey.
Anegada: Unlike the other British Virgin Islands, which are volcanic, Anegada is a coral island known for its lobster, flat landscape, and stunning beaches.
Norman Island and Peter Island: Both are known for their snorkeling and diving spots and are easily accessible from Jost Van Dyke.
St. Thomas and St. John: These U.S. Virgin Islands are also relatively close, but you'll need to clear customs, so make sure to bring a valid passport.
Modes of Transportation:
Chartered Boats: This is the most flexible way to island-hop. You can set your own itinerary and spend as much time as you'd like on each island.
Ferry Services: Some public ferries operate between the islands, but schedules can be infrequent and may require you to start from a larger island like Tortola.
Water Taxis: Ideal for shorter distances, water taxis can take you to nearby islands quickly but can be more costly for longer trips.
Tour Operators: Many companies offer day-trips that include multiple stops at surrounding islands for snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing.
Things to Consider:
Customs and Immigration: If you're moving between British and U.S. Virgin Islands, you'll need to clear customs. Always carry identification and any necessary visas.
Timing: Travel between islands can take anywhere from 20 minutes to a couple of hours depending on the distance and mode of transport, so plan accordingly.
Cost: Prices can vary significantly based on the type of boat you're chartering or if you're using public transportation.
Entertainment & Nightlife
The nightlife and entertainment scene on Jost Van Dyke, like much of the island, is laid-back but vibrant, epitomizing the spirit of the Caribbean. Whether you're looking for live music, dancing, or simply a place to unwind after a day in the sun, Jost Van Dyke offers a range of options to suit your mood. Here's what you can expect:
Bars and Beach Bars:
Foxy's Bar: Located in Great Harbour, Foxy's is perhaps the most famous bar on the island and offers live music, especially during weekends and holidays. The establishment is also known for its themed parties throughout the year, including the legendary Old Year's Night (New Year's Eve) celebration.
Soggy Dollar Bar: Situated in White Bay, this bar is credited with inventing the Painkiller cocktail. With its beachside location, it's a great place for a laid-back day that turns into a lively night.
Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant: Located in Great Harbour, Corsairs is another popular spot that offers a blend of food, drinks, and often live music.
Ivan's Stress Free Bar: This beachside establishment in White Bay offers a more low-key atmosphere with a self-serve bar, occasional live music, and campfire nights.
Sidney’s Peace and Love: Also in Little Harbour, this family-run establishment is known for its honor bar, where you make your own drinks and note down what you've had.
Special Events:
Full Moon Parties: These parties are popular throughout the British Virgin Islands, and Jost Van Dyke is no exception. Bars like Foxy’s often host these events, which can include bonfires, themed parties, and of course, dancing under the moonlight.
Local Cuisine
The local cuisine of Jost Van Dyke is a delightful fusion of Caribbean flavors, fresh seafood, and international influences. Here's what you can expect:
Grilled Lobster: Often caught fresh off the island's coast, grilled lobster is a popular delicacy that you'll find in many restaurants.
Conch: Prepared in various ways—conch fritters, conch chowder, or even raw conch salad—this mollusk is a must-try.
Fish Tacos and Fish Sandwiches: Made with locally caught fish like snapper or mahi-mahi, these are often served in casual beach bars.
Painkiller: This creamy and fruity cocktail was invented at the Soggy Dollar Bar and is a blend of rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and coconut cream, topped with grated nutmeg.
Rum Punch: A quintessential Caribbean drink made with rum, fruit juices, and often a splash of grenadine for color.
Tropical Fruits: Fresh fruits like mango, pineapple, and papaya often feature in local desserts or are delicious on their own.
Coconut Treats: From coconut cakes to coconut ice cream, the flavor is a common theme in many sweet dishes.
Accommodations
Choosing the right area to stay on Jost Van Dyke depends on what you're looking for in your vacation experience. The island is relatively small, but the different areas offer unique vibes and attractions. Here are some recommendations:
Great Harbour:
Pros:
Proximity to restaurants, bars, and shops, including the iconic Foxy's Bar.
Access to ferries and other modes of transportation.
A blend of local culture and tourist amenities.
Cons:
Can get busy, especially during peak seasons or special events.
Less secluded compared to other parts of the island.
White Bay:
Pros:
Known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Home to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar and other laid-back beach bars.
Generally quieter and more secluded than Great Harbour.
Cons:
Fewer dining and shopping options.
May require additional transportation to explore other parts of the island.
Little Harbour:
Pros:
Even more secluded and peaceful, offering an 'off-the-beaten-path' experience.
Good for water activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
Home to some charming family-run restaurants and bars.
Cons:
Limited amenities and nightlife.
Requires transportation to reach other attractions on the island.
Corsairs Beach and Sandy Cay Area:
Pros:
Offers a balance of seclusion and convenience, with some small eateries and bars.
Good for couples looking for a romantic setting.
Close to Sandy Cay, a popular day-trip destination for snorkeling.
Cons:
Limited amenities and shops.
May require a boat or other transportation to fully explore the island.
