Jost Van Dyke (Great Harbour) - Image 1
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Great Harbour Jost Van Dyke

4.7
·3 reviews·, British Virgin Islands

Jost Van Dyke's largest harbor, a vibrant social hub with iconic beach bars and a gateway to White Bay.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Sunset vibes and lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Jost Van Dyke (Great Harbour) - Image 1

Great Harbour Jost Van Dyke

Best Time

Late afternoon

Sunset vibes and lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Jost Van Dyke's largest harbor, a vibrant social hub with iconic beach bars and a gateway to White Bay.

4.7
(3 reviews)

"Foxy's, Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke. #bvisailing #bvisecrets #bvistrong #tortola #virgingorda #stthomas #stthomasvirginislands #vacation"

Vertical photo
TIP

⚓ Book Moorings in Advance

Popular moorings fill up days ahead, especially during holidays. Secure yours early to avoid disappointment!

🍹 Try the Painkiller

Foxy's is famous for its Painkiller cocktail – a must-try when visiting Great Harbour.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Foxy's Tamarind Bar

Foxy's Tamarind Bar

Great Harbour

Legendary hangout with a unique atmosphere, live music, and a must-try Painkiller cocktail.

Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant

Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant

Great Harbour

Enjoy delicious food and drinks with your toes in the sand in a relaxed beachfront setting.

Laid-Back Outfitters

Laid-Back Outfitters

Great Harbour

Your go-to for beach boutique finds and souvenirs right in the heart of Great Harbour.

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Planning Your Visit

Secure Your Mooring Early

Great Harbour is a popular spot, especially during peak seasons like New Year's. Mooring buoys fill up fast, sometimes days in advance. Arrive early or book ahead if possible to guarantee your overnight stay.

Dinghy to White Bay

While Great Harbour is ideal for overnight stays, many visitors use it as a launchpad to the famous White Bay. A short dinghy ride connects you to the iconic Soggy Dollar Bar and other White Bay attractions.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Sunset vibes and lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Live music and vibrant bar scene
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Foxy’s, Great Harbor, Jost Van Dyke. #bvisailing #bvisecrets #bvistrong #tortola #virgingorda #stthomas #stthomasvirginislands #vacation
scubasteve284
9 likes • 203 views

⚓ Book Moorings in Advance

Popular moorings fill up days ahead, especially during holidays. Secure yours early to avoid disappointment! Reddit

🍹 Try the Painkiller

Foxy's is famous for its Painkiller cocktail – a must-try when visiting Great Harbour. Instagram

*repost because the last one got deleted 🙃* This place was a dream! 💭✨ 📍Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke, BVI #bvi #britishvirginislands #jostvandyke #vacation #travel #vacationinthebvi #virginislands #explorepage #paradise #caribbean #beachbums
beach.bums__
0 likes • 1.3K views
Besides Jost Van Dyke being a great get away spot, here are a few GREAT spots to check out for GREAT food in GREAT Harbour! That's alot of great things in one place. 😉🍴#bvifoodfete #JostLimeAndDine #JostLove #LimeInWhite
bvifoodfete
16 likes • 849 views

🚤 Dinghy to White Bay

Easily hop over to White Bay for the Soggy Dollar Bar and beach day fun. Instagram

🚤 Boat Delivery Service

Fresh empanadas and snacks delivered right to your boat! Call 284-543-9016. Instagram

Had a great time at Jost Van Dyke Island. We stayed at the anchorage in Great Harbour and visited Foxy’s Tamarind Bar & Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant, went to White Bay for a full beach day and enjoyed the Soggy Dollar Bar. . . . #BVILove #jostvandyke #soggydollarbar #womenwhosail #livingonaboat #boatlife #sailing #caribbeansailing #sailingadventure #adventure #sail #instasailing #sailinglif...
sailing_aquatherapy
15 likes • 320 views

Tips

from all over the internet

⚓ Book Moorings in Advance

Popular moorings fill up days ahead, especially during holidays. Secure yours early to avoid disappointment! Reddit

🍹 Try the Painkiller

Foxy's is famous for its Painkiller cocktail – a must-try when visiting Great Harbour. Instagram

🚤 Dinghy to White Bay

Easily hop over to White Bay for the Soggy Dollar Bar and beach day fun. Instagram

🚤 Boat Delivery Service

Fresh empanadas and snacks delivered right to your boat! Call 284-543-9016. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Harbour

Enjoy a leisurely walk through Great Harbour, soaking in the colorful cottages and island charm. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Great Harbour is celebrated for its vibrant social scene, iconic beach bars like Foxy's, and its role as a convenient mooring spot for sailors. Visitors appreciate the lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, and the ease of accessing White Bay. However, the popularity means moorings can be scarce and competitive during peak times.

"The largest harbor on Jost, with a number of reservable mooring buoys for overnight stays. It’s possible to take a dinghy from this harbor to the popular day harbor next door — White Bay. The moorings here are very competitive during New Years and other popular times and any first come, first serve spots will fill up days in advance."

Conor McCarter

"Beautiful scenery"

Donnamarie Reese

""

tracey kennedy

What People Like

Lively atmosphere
Foxy's Tamarind Bar
Convenient mooring

What People Dislike

Competitive moorings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Great Harbour is primarily accessible by boat. Many visitors arrive via bareboat charter, sailing trips from the USVI, or by taking a ferry. If you're sailing, you can anchor or secure a mooring buoy. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a common practice! A short dinghy ride connects Great Harbour to the famous White Bay, home to the Soggy Dollar Bar. Instagram

Customs in the BVI typically closes at 4:30 PM. Ensure you plan your arrival accordingly if sailing from nearby islands. Reddit

Ferries do operate to Jost Van Dyke, often connecting from Tortola. Check local ferry schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Absolutely! Many bareboat charters from St. Thomas, USVI, include Jost Van Dyke in their itinerary for a sailing adventure. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no specific entry tickets for Great Harbour itself. However, you will need to clear customs and immigration when entering the British Virgin Islands. Reddit

Overnight stays typically involve securing a mooring buoy, which has a fee. Prices can vary, so it's best to inquire locally or with your charter company. Reddit

Foxy's is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their social media or call ahead for the most current information. Instagram

The beaches themselves are generally free to access. Any costs would be associated with services or amenities at beach bars and restaurants. Instagram

Yes, for popular times, it's highly recommended to book mooring buoys in advance as they can fill up days ahead. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Enjoy the lively atmosphere at Foxy's Tamarind Bar, dine at Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant, explore the shops, and take a dinghy to White Bay. Instagram+2

While not its primary draw, there are opportunities for snorkeling around the harbor. The coral reef mentioned in descriptions offers some marine life viewing. TikTok

Great Harbour has a vibrant, laid-back, and social atmosphere, especially in the evenings. It's known for its beach bars and music. Instagram+1

Yes, you can find beach boutiques and gift shops, such as Laid-Back Outfitters, offering souvenirs and beachwear. Instagram

From Great Harbour, you can easily access White Bay, enjoy water sports, go sailing, or simply relax on the beach and soak in the island life. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Popular spots include Foxy's Tamarind Bar for drinks and food, and Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant for beachfront dining. Sugar & Spice Snack Bar also offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Instagram+1

You can get fresh empanadas (chicken or fish) delivered right to your boat from Sugar & Spice Snack Bar. Call 284-543-9016. Instagram

While specific menus vary, many Caribbean restaurants offer fresh seafood and often have vegetable-based dishes. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant. Instagram

Foxy's is renowned for its Painkiller cocktail, a must-try for many visitors. Instagram+1

Yes, Sugar & Spice Snack Bar offers breakfast options in Great Harbour. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant sunsets over the harbor, the colorful buildings, Foxy's iconic decor, and the general lively beach scene. Instagram+2

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting. Evenings are great for capturing the lively atmosphere of the bars. Instagram+2

The unique decor at Foxy's, the boats anchored in the harbor, and the colorful, rustic architecture provide many unique photo opportunities. Instagram

A versatile camera that can handle bright sunlight and lower light conditions for evenings is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the harbor views. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local BVI drone laws and be mindful of private property and other boaters before flying. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Great Harbour offers a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for fun. While the bars are lively, the general vibe is relaxed, and children can enjoy the beach areas. Consider visiting during the day for a more relaxed experience. Instagram

Taking a dinghy ride to White Bay can be an adventure for kids, and the calmer waters in some areas of the harbor might be suitable for supervised swimming. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly options, and the unique sights and sounds of the harbor can be engaging for younger travelers. Instagram

⛵ Sailors and Boaters

For sailors, Great Harbour is a quintessential BVI stop. The availability of mooring buoys makes overnight stays convenient, though booking in advance is highly recommended due to high demand. Reddit The harbor provides easy access to amenities and is a perfect staging point for exploring White Bay or other nearby islands. Instagram

Boat delivery services for food and drinks are a fantastic perk for those staying aboard. Instagram The social scene at Foxy's and Corsairs is a major draw for the sailing community, offering a chance to connect with fellow travelers and enjoy live music. Instagram

🍹 Party Goers and Nightlife Enthusiasts

Great Harbour truly comes alive in the evenings, especially at Foxy's Tamarind Bar. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, live music, and signature cocktails like the Painkiller, it's a prime spot for those seeking a lively night out. Instagram+1

Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant also contributes to the evening buzz, offering a great place to enjoy drinks and soak in the beach party vibe. The energy in Great Harbour after sunset is palpable, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and social Caribbean nightlife experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Jost Van Dyke Sailing Experience

Jost Van Dyke is a sailor's paradise, and Great Harbour serves as a central hub for many sailing itineraries in the British Virgin Islands. The calm waters and well-protected harbor make it an ideal stop for both experienced sailors and those learning the ropes. Many charter companies operate out of nearby St. Thomas, with Jost Van Dyke being a prime destination. InstagramReddit

When arriving by sailboat, securing a mooring buoy is the preferred method for overnight stays. These buoys are competitive, especially during peak times, so arriving early is crucial. From Great Harbour, sailors can easily dinghy to the famous White Bay, explore other coves, or simply enjoy the vibrant nightlife. The experience of sailing into Great Harbour, especially at sunset, is often described as magical. Instagram+1

For those on a bareboat charter, Jost Van Dyke offers a taste of authentic island life. The 'high streets' like Great Harbour are not just ports of call but integral parts of the vacation experience, blending the thrill of sailing with the joy of discovery. Instagram

Iconic Beach Bars and Dining

Great Harbour is synonymous with its legendary beach bars, the most famous being Foxy's Tamarind Bar. This iconic spot is more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a cultural landmark filled with character, memorabilia, and often live music. Visitors rave about the Painkiller cocktail, a signature drink that perfectly embodies the island spirit. Instagram+2

Another popular dining destination is Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant, offering a relaxed beachfront setting where you can enjoy delicious food with your toes in the sand. For a more casual bite, Sugar & Spice Snack Bar provides options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and even offers convenient delivery services for boaters. Instagram+1

These establishments contribute significantly to the lively and social atmosphere of Great Harbour, making it a prime spot for evening entertainment and culinary exploration. The food and drink scene here is a key part of the Jost Van Dyke experience. Instagram

The Charm of Great Harbour

Great Harbour on Jost Van Dyke exudes a unique charm that captivates visitors. It's characterized by its colorful, rustic cottages, swaying coconut trees, and the gentle rhythm of island life. A simple stroll through the harbor offers a glimpse into the heart of Jost Van Dyke, where the pace slows and the soul finds a moment to exhale. Instagram

The harbor itself is a picturesque scene, often dotted with sailboats and yachts, reflecting the vibrant maritime culture of the British Virgin Islands. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the local ambiance. Whether you're arriving by sea or simply exploring the island, the visual appeal of Great Harbour is undeniable. Instagram+1

Beyond the visual beauty, the harbor is a social hub, buzzing with activity from its famous bars and restaurants. This blend of natural beauty and lively social scene makes Great Harbour a memorable destination for any traveler. Instagram