Virgin Gorda
Boulders bigger than houses on white-sand beachesA Caribbean island known for its granite boulders at The Baths, white-sand beaches, and clear waters. Popular for sailing and snorkeling around coral reefs.
Virgin Gorda, the third-largest of the British Virgin Islands, stretches across 8 square miles of Caribbean landscape. You can swim between giant granite boulders at The Baths, hike to the 1,359-foot summit of Gorda Peak, or sail in the protected waters of North Sound. The island has kept its local character, with Spanish Town's family-run restaurants and shops instead of large resorts or chain stores.
Exploring The Baths National Park
The Baths National Park sits at the southwestern tip of Virgin Gorda, where granite boulders up to 40 feet in diameter create natural tunnels and pools along the beach. You can follow a marked trail with steps and rope handrails through the rock formations, leading to Devil's Bay's calm waters. The clear water makes it ideal for snorkeling among tropical fish and coral formations. The park opens from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, with an entrance fee of $3 for adults and $2 for children.
Discovering North Sound
North Sound's 3,000-acre harbor lies protected by four islands and coral reefs, creating calm waters for sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing. The Bitter End Yacht Club extends along a mile of coastline, where you can rent equipment or join guided water excursions. In the middle of the sound, Saba Rock's restaurant welcomes boaters for meals with harbor views.
Hiking Gorda Peak
Gorda Peak rises 1,359 feet above sea level, with trails winding through dry forest filled with rare plants and wildlife, including one of the world's smallest lizard species. The moderate hike takes 1-2 hours round trip. At the top, climb the three-story observation deck for views across the British Virgin Islands chain.
Getting Around Spanish Town
Spanish Town, the main settlement on Virgin Gorda's southwestern coast, centers around its yacht harbor. Local restaurants serve Caribbean specialties like conch chowder and barbecue ribs. The town has grocery stores, craft shops, and the main ferry terminal. While you can walk around Spanish Town easily, renting a car helps you reach the island's more remote beaches and viewpoints.
Transportation and Access
Ferries connect Virgin Gorda to Tortola and St. Thomas multiple times daily. Virgin Gorda Airport handles small aircraft from neighboring islands, but most international travelers arrive through Tortola or St. Thomas first. Taxis run throughout the populated areas, and car rental agencies operate near the ferry terminal and airport.
