Jost Van Dyke

The basics

Jost Van Dyke, which gets its name from an early Dutch settler and former pirate, is recommended as a short-stay option for those visiting the British Virgin Islands. It's popular among boaters, yachters, and those looking for a secluded experience on one of its many coral sand beaches. Most travelers opt to spend the evening on the island's much-heralded Harbor Bay. Private half- and full-day charter-boat tours are available, offering various routes with stops at different islands.

Things to know before you go

• Signature dishes on Jost Van Dyke include West Indian rotis, conch stew, and flying fish sandwiches, plus the "Painkiller” cocktails at the Soggy Dollar Bar.
• White Bay is a popular spot for underwater exploring, with reefs close to shore.
• Travelers suggest greeting locals with a friendly "good morning, afternoon, or evening" rather than a simple “hi."

How to get there

Located in the northern region of the archipelago of the British Virgin Islands, Jost Van Dyke nestles in the Atlantic and Caribbean seas. Much of the island is well preserved, spearheaded by efforts of the Jost Van Dyke Preservation Society. You can travel to the island by charter boat or ferry from Tortola.

When to get there

With only about 300 year-round residents, Jost Van Dyke is relatively empty in comparison to the other islands. But despite its size, it still knows how to party big, and is known for its yacht-filled fetes on Halloween and New Year’s Eve in particular. Overall, expect the biggest crowds of day-trippers and cruise-ship passengers on the weekends, so visit during the week if possible.

Anegada Island

Also part of the British Virgin Islands archipelago, Anegada is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering plenty of plant life and wildlife spotting. Plus, it’s a prime location for scuba diving and snorkeling, with many underwater sites to explore, including shipwrecks. And like Jost Van Dyke, it has a range of seafood restaurants and bars to check out.

Ways to explore

Jost Van Dyke is one of the smallest of the British Virgin Islands, but you won’t run out of things to see and do. Whether you opt for a day trip departing from one of the other islands or you choose to make it your home base, you’ll quickly be captured by the island’s laid-back charm. Cruises and snorkeling trips of the island are popular options to explore, while hikes through the tropical forest will take you to spots such as the Bubbly Pool (a sun-heated swimming hole where waves crash through narrow gaps to create a natural hot tub) and more secluded beaches.

Accessibility

Parts of the island are more accessible than others—if you’re visiting via tour, check with the vendor ahead of time.

Age limits

There are no age limits—while Jost Van Dyke is popular for its beach bars and full moon parties, there are quiet beaches and private villas if you’re after a family-friendly trip.

What to pack

Water, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, towel, cash, swimsuit

What to wear

The island’s vibes are casual and beachy, so focus on comfort.

Not allowed

Don’t leave Jost Van Dyke without sampling a painkiller—the rum, coconut, and orange juice cocktail was invented at the Soggy Dollar Bar.

Amenities

Restaurants, beaches, hotels, shops

Address

You can only reach Jost Van Dyke by boat. Ferries depart Tortola daily and the US Virgin Islands of St. Thomas and St. John on a more limited schedule. Keep in mind that you may need to transfer boats. Private water taxis and charters are also available.

Driving

Most travelers take the ferry from West End, Tortola. The terminal is off the Sir Francis Drake Highway, which runs across the southwestern end of the island. There is street parking near the terminal.

Public transportation

Many tours and private charters to Jost Van Dyke offer pickup at the American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook, St. Thomas, or the US Virgin Islands National Park dock in Cruz Bay, St. John; the easiest way to get to either is by taxi.

Best times to visit

Most cruises and tours of Jost Van Dyke start fairly early to give you enough time to explore before the heat of the day sets in.

Best days to visit

The best day to visit is whenever you make it there, but Thursday through Sunday are usually the busiest.

Best months to visit

February and March are good options—the weather stays warm and dry, but the December and January crowds start to diminish.

Special events

New Year’s Eve at Foxy’s is a wild party, with dancing until dawn. Foxy’s is also known for its full moon parties, which typically start in November and run through May.