8+ Amazing Things To Do In Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Virgin Gorda is a stunning island that, at first glance of its magnificent beachside boulders, you could easily mistake for Seychelles! This tiny island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique geological formations, such as The Baths. Although only small, spanning just 8 square miles, there are an abundance of things to do in Virgin Gorda. Whether you decide to relax and snorkel in the pristine waters or sample some of the best restaurants in the British Virgin Islands, you won’t be bored in Virgin Gorda!

Where is Virgin Gorda?

Virgin Gorda is an island in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), a British overseas territory of 50+ islands in the Caribbean. It is the third-largest island in the BVI and is situated in the eastern part of the archipelago. 

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The 8 Best Things To Do in Virgin Gorda

1. Discover the Magic of The Baths in Virgin Gorda

Exploring the Baths in Virgin Gorda deserves a top spot on your things to do in Virgin Gorda list. The Baths is a series of giant granite boulders scattered along the shoreline, creating a magical labyrinth of tunnels, grottoes and pools. As you make your way through narrow passages and winding trails, the towering boulders create an otherworldly atmosphere surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. 

You can find everything you need to know in our full guide to visiting The Baths in Virgin Gorda here.

For amazing views, head to Top of the Baths restaurant for a drink or breakfast afterwards. The Top of the Baths is located at the entrance to the Baths, so you can’t miss it. Mad Dogs Cafe is next door too, if you’d prefer to grab a quick drink/snack.

Top tip: The Insta-worthy photo spot (pictured above) is located at the end of The Baths, just before you come out at the beach.

🛥️ On this full-day private charter from Tortola to The Baths, you can tick off one of the most impressive attractions in the BVI and stop at a local restaurant in the centre of Virgin Gorda for the true island vibe.

🚤 If you’re visiting from St Thomas, this 37′ powerboat full day excursion is fully customisable. You could visit 5-6 islands in one day, such as Virgin Gorda and The Baths, Jost Van Dyke, St John, Sandy Cay, Cooper Island and Norman Island. This private charter has a 5-star rating, and the boat is beautiful.

Things to Know Before Visiting the Baths in Virgin Gorda

• Arrive before 8 am or between 12 pm and 2 pm to avoid the cruise ship crowds.
• Entry is $3 for adults and $2 for kids, and cash only. You can pay by card, but there is a minimum spend of $20.
• There are lockers at the end of The Baths, near Poor Mans Bar.
• Parking at The Baths is free.
• Pack your sunscreen, a towel, and a waterproof bag to protect your belongings.

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2. Spring Bay & Little Trunk Bay (Hidden Gem)

To escape the crowds at The Baths, make sure to add the neighboring beaches, Spring Bay and Little Trunk Bay, to your list of things to do in Virgin Gorda.

Spring Bay is a hidden gem, nestled along the island’s southwestern coast. This postcard-perfect cove is adorned with swaying palm trees and untouched natural beauty. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding. And the powdery white sand reminded us of some of the beaches on Tortola, the largest island in the BVI.

Little Trunk Bay beach is only accessible by footpath from Spring Bay (or by boat). To get here on foot, take a right as you enter Spring Bay and follow the footsteps in the sand down a path behind a few trees. You’ll likely have this beach all to yourself! The sense of seclusion and tranquillity here make it, without a doubt, one of the best beaches in the British Virgin Islands.

Things to Know Before Visiting Spring Bay & Valley Trunk Bay

• The easy trail to Spring Bay from the car park takes only a few minutes.
• Parking at Spring Bay is free.
• There isn’t much shade, so pack your sunscreen.
• A snorkel is a must to explore the vibrant marine life.

⛵️ One of the best ways to experience Virgin Gorda and the BVI is to charter a boat. Here are the best rated boat charters:

3. Take a Picnic to the Secluded Savannah Beach 

Lord only knows why Savannah Bay isn’t crammed with people daily. A visit to this beach is one of the most incredible things to do Virgin Gorda – we’re not joking when we say this is up there as one the best beaches in the Caribbean (and we’ve been to 30 islands at the time of writing this article!). It’s certainly one of the most breathtaking beaches in the British Virgin Islands.

Tucked away on the island’s northern coast, Savannah Beach is a hidden gem offering, what feels like, an escape from the world. The beach is vast, the sand is soft and the water is several different shades of blue and breathtakingly clear. It’s the perfect beach for a stroll, swimming, taking a dip or simply just admiring.

We recommend packing a picnic basket, gathering your beach essentials, and preparing for a day of blissful relaxation!

Top tip: On your way to Savannah Bay (there is only one road from the south), stop at this viewpoint overlooking the bay. Here you can really appreciate the different shades of blue.

Things to Know Before Visiting Savannah Beach in Virgin Gorda

• The unpaved road down to the beach is drivable without a 4×4.
• Parking at the beach is free.
• There are no amenities on the beach, so pack drinks and snacks.

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4. Indulge at Coco Maya and Sugarcane

When it comes to delicious food in Virgin Gorda, two exceptional restaurants stand out: Coco Maya and Sugarcane. Both renowned for their exquisite cuisine, welcoming atmospheres and beautiful views, these restaurants offer incredibly memorable dining experiences in Virgin Gorda are two of the best places to eat on this island.

Coco Maya 

Coco Maya is located on the stunning beachfront of Spanish Town and offers a fusion of international and Caribbean dishes. We particularly loved the tapas and Asian dishes. The giant beach Jenga was also super fun, and often, they have a live DJ, which compliments the cosy and chic feeling of the restaurant.

Sugarcane

Nestled in Nail Bay, Sugarcane Restaurant is one of the most romantic, charming restaurants in the British Virgin Islands and reminds us a lot of Bananakeet on Tortola. The poolside dining makes for a special atmosphere alone, but with impeccible views of the Caribbean Sea, top-notch service and a variety of delicious options on the menu, we felt completely spoilt dining here.

Things to Know Before Visiting Coco Maya and Sugarcane Restaurants

• We didn’t make reservations at either restaurant, but perhaps we just got lucky. It is best to reserve a table in advance, especially if you’re a large party.
• Try to visit both restaurants at sunset – the ambience at Coco Maya is incredible, and the views from Sugarcane are second to none.
• Both restaurants have free parking.

5. Visit Hog Heaven for Scenic Views and Mouthwatering Barbecue

No trip to Virgin Gorda would be complete without a visit to Hog Heaven. 

Perched high on a hill overlooking the North Sound, this rustic yet charming bar and restaurant is one of the best things to do in Virgin Gorda as it not only offers a mouthwatering selection of barbeque dishes, but breathtaking panoramic views across the islands. It’s a super casual place but the food is incredibly delicious and the views are totally unmatched. Make sure to try its infamous pulled pork!

Top tip: From Hog Heaven, you can see Sir Richard Branson’s two islands, Necker Island and Moskito Island!

Things to Know Before Visiting Hog Heaven in Virgin Gorda

• There is casual lay-by parking on the side of the road.
• There is no need to make a reservation or even purchase a drink to enjoy the view (although we recommend you do to support a local business).

6. Take the Free Ferry to Bitter End Yacht Club 

For a taste of luxury and maritime charm, one of the best things to do in Virgin Gorda is to hop on the free ferry from Gun Point Creek and head to the iconic Bitter End Yacht Club. 

Situated on the northern tip of Virgin Gorda, this renowned resort and marina is a paradise for sailors and travellers seeking a luxury vacation experience. Whether you arrive as a guest or a day visitor, Bitter End Yacht Club welcomes you with a variety of things to do and a warm, laid-back ambience.

There are plenty of water-based activities here, whether you’re an experienced sailor, a novice eager to learn, or just a beach bum wanting a great place to swim. You can charter a sailboat to explore the nearby coves and islands, go on a snorkelling adventure to discover vibrant marine life or unwind on the stunning beach that lines the coast.

You’ll also find a spa and wellness centre, restaurant, coffee shop, and beach bar. So, definitely take advantage of the free ferry and add this to your list of things to do in Virgin Gorda if you’re looking for luxury and relaxation.

Things to Know Before Visiting Bitter End Yacht Club

• Boats to Bitter End Yacht Club from Virgin Gorda depart from Gun Point Creek.
• There is parking at Gun Point Creek.
• Arrive at least 15 minutes before the boat departs.

7. Visit Saba Rock

Perched between Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island and the northern end of Virgin Gorda is the tiny but beautiful Saba Rock. This small island is home to a small boutique hotel, a waterside restaurant, a small white sand beach, and a second-floor bar with pool tables, all built with a rustic yet elegant design.

What makes this place special is its size, luxurious yet casual vibe, and vibrant marine life surrounding it. The restaurant’s open-air setting is a great spot to eat in Virgin Gorda as you’ll have panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, handfuls of boats and yachts and the mountainous island landscapes.

Or, if you’re just looking to unwind, chill in one of the hammocks on the small beach, play some pool in the upstairs bar, or just kick back with a good cocktail and enjoy the views from this secluded paradise.

Top Tip: To visit Saba Rock and Bitter End Yacht Club from Virgin Gorda, catch the free ferry from Gun Point Creek to Bitter End Yacht Club first. Then, hop on the free boat to Saba Rock. Or, you can visit Saba Rock first and head to Bitter End afterward.

Things to Know Before Visiting Saba Rock in Virgin Gorda

• You do not have to eat at Saba Rock restaurant to visit and enjoy it.
• Boats back to Gun Point Creek in Virgin Gorda run regularly.

8. Go Hiking at Gorda Peak National Park

Gorda Peak National Park, located in the heart of Virgin Gorda, is one of the best things to do in Virgin Gorda for nature lovers.

The park’s main attraction is the hike to Gorda Peak, the highest point on Virgin Gorda. You can find the trailhead on Google Maps, and the trail itself is well-maintained. As you make your way up, keep an eye out for exotic bird species and colourful butterflies that flit among the foliage.

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Once you reach the summit of Gorda Peak, you’re rewarded with panoramic, beautiful views that stretch across the island and beyond.

There are several other trails in the National Park, each with different terrains. So, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, an adventure through Gorda Peak National Park is one of the best things to do in the heart of Virgin Gorda. 

3 More Things To Do in Virgin Gorda, BVI

1. Snap a Photo at the Virgin Gorda Sign 

Another one of the best things to do in Virgin Gorda if you find yourself with some extra time is to capture a photo at the Virgin Gorda sign. Located near Hog Heaven, this photo spot offers a fantastic backdrop of the islands in the BVI.

2. Take a Quick Visit To The Copper Mine National Park

Virgin Gorda had, at one point, a thriving copper industry. If you’re looking to witness the ruins of an abandoned 19th-century copper mine, then a visit to the Copper Mine National Park should be on your list of things to do in Virgin Gorda. There are ancient tunnels and structures located here, as well as a great view across the sea.

3. Wander Around Spanish Town

Rounding off our list of the top things to do in Virgin Gorda is Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda’s capital. This quaint town is home to the only ATMs and fuel stations on the island! There are several places to dine and drink here, like Coco Maya, and some beachside souvenir shops to pick up a few momentos of your time on this beautiful little Caribbean island.

How to Get Around Virgin Gorda

Our top tip for a trip to Virgin Gorda would be to rent a car. You can very easily explore the entire island in just a few hours and the views are jaw-dropping. With a population of around only 4,000 residents, the roads are quiet, especially when you get out of Spanish town. We loved being able to stop at the side of the road and take in all the breathtaking views. Also, taxis in the BVI are pretty expensive, so it’s likely cheaper to rent a car too.