Jost Van Dyke is one of the most popular day trips in the Virgin Islands — and for good reason. This tiny island (population ~300) is home to the Soggy Dollar Bar on White Bay (birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail) and Foxy's Tamarind Bar in Great Harbour, one of the most legendary beach bars in the Caribbean.
Passport required: Jost Van Dyke is in the British Virgin Islands. You'll need a valid passport and must complete the BVI Online ED Card before travel. See our full BVI entry requirements guide.
How to Get There
What to Do
White Bay is the main draw — a crescent of white sand with the Soggy Dollar Bar (order a Painkiller), Ivan's Stress Free Bar, Hendo's Hideout, and Seddy's. It's about a 15-minute walk from Great Harbour or you can take a beach taxi. The water is calm and crystal-clear, perfect for swimming between drink runs.
Great Harbour is where the ferry docks. Foxy's Tamarind Bar is right on the beach (live music many nights, legendary New Year's party). Corsair's is another good option for food and drinks. Ali Baba's serves fresh lobster and has great harbor views.
The Bubbly Pool is a natural rock formation on the north shore where ocean waves push through gaps in the rocks, creating a natural jacuzzi effect. About a 20-minute walk from Great Harbour. The effect is strongest when there's a north swell — ask locals about conditions before making the trek.
Sandy Spit is a tiny uninhabited cay just off Sandy Cay visible from White Bay. You can sometimes arrange a water taxi to visit, but it's more commonly reached by boat charter.
What It Costs
Ferry: varies by operator. Budget $10-20 for lunch and drinks at a beach bar. JVD is cash-heavy — bring bills. There's no ATM on the island.
Best Time to Go
Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends, especially during high season (December through April). Aim to take the earliest ferry so you have the full day — JVD is small enough to visit White Bay, Great Harbour, and the Bubbly Pool in one trip. Avoid days when multiple cruise ships are in Tortola, as some excursions shuttle passengers over to JVD.
Tips
Bring cash — not all bars and restaurants accept cards. Wear shoes you can walk in (the path to White Bay is unpaved). Bring sunscreen and a towel — there are no rental shops. The island is tiny and walkable; no car rental needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the ferry to Jost Van Dyke?
From St. Thomas (Red Hook), the ferry to Jost Van Dyke takes approximately 50 minutes via Inter Island Boat Services. From Tortola (West End), the crossing is much shorter — about 25 minutes on New Horizon Ferry.
Do you need a passport for Jost Van Dyke?
Yes. Jost Van Dyke is part of the British Virgin Islands, so a valid passport is required when traveling from the US Virgin Islands. You must also complete the BVI Online ED Card at bviedcard.gov.vg before arrival.
Is Jost Van Dyke worth a day trip?
Absolutely. Jost Van Dyke is home to the Soggy Dollar Bar (birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail), Foxy's Tamarind Bar, and the natural Bubbly Pool. The island has a relaxed, uncommercial vibe that's hard to find elsewhere in the Caribbean.
What should I bring to Jost Van Dyke?
Bring cash (no ATM on the island and not all bars accept cards), sunscreen, a towel, comfortable walking shoes, and a waterproof bag for your phone. There are no rental shops on the island, so pack everything you'll need for the day.
Can I take a day trip to Jost Van Dyke from St. Thomas?
Yes. Inter Island Boat Services runs a direct ferry from Red Hook, St. Thomas to Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke. The trip takes about 50 minutes. Since it's a cross-border trip to the BVI, you'll need a passport and must complete the BVI ED Card.