Virgin Gorda is the second largest island of the British Virgin Islands, which is situated north of the Lesser Antilles. It lies about 10 kilometers east of the capital, Road Town, on the island of Tortola. Its primary town is Spanish Town, which is located on the southwest coast. During Columbus's second voyage in 1493, he whimsically stated the island as the "Fat Virgin" because it resembled a reclining overweight woman.
Renowned for possessing a number of the Caribbean's most incredible beaches, Virgin Gorda boasts crystal-clear, tranquil waters and the finest snorkeling possibilities, making it an exceptional destination for vacationers. The island's primary business and home hub is Spanish Town, nestled inside the southwestern part of the island, serving as one of the most liked visitor destinations inside the British Virgin Islands.
Map of Virgin Gorda, BVI
| Name | Virgin Gorda |
| Country | British Virgin Islands |
| Coordinates | 18°28′55″N 64°23′25″W |
| Area | 21 km2 (8 sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC-4 |
| Population | approximately 3500 residents |
| Airport | Virgin Gorda Airport |
How to Get to Virgin Gorda
There aren't any business flights from America immediately to Virgin Gorda, so flights from San Juan (SJU) with Air Sunshine or Cape Air provide a handy option. Upon touchdown in San Juan, a quick 30-minute flight aboard a Pilatus PC-12 will take you to the pristine beaches of Virgin Gorda.
Alternatively, you could fly into the coronary heart of the British Virgin Islands, Tortola (Beef Island Airport), after which transfer by Ferry from both Beef Island or Road Town. Speedy's Ferry operates several day-by-day ferries departing from Road Town and has numerous schedules departing from Beef Island. Click to see the schedule. Another option is to fly to St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands (Cyril E. King Airport) and then take a ferry transfer. Inter Island Boat Service offers departures from Red Hook St. Thomas to Road Town Tortola on Tortola every Thursday. Click to see the schedule.
Things to Do in Virgin Gorda
The Baths National Park
For all and sundry thinking about a trip to the British Virgin Islands, this is a must-visit vacation spot. It is the most symbolic natural panorama of the Virgin Islands, with several large and small polished boulders cascading down mild slopes into the sea. These precise geological formations are remnants of the distant volcano beyond the Virgin Islands, with massive portions of granite eroded over hundreds of thousands of years into clean, rounded shapes.
At the coronary heart of this fascinating region on the southern coast of Virgin Gorda lies The Baths, a geological marvel comprised of beautiful granite boulders. These remnants of volcanic lava, which have been in a relationship for about 70 million years, form sheltered sea swimming pools along the beach's aspect.
This blanketed vicinity additionally includes Devil's Bay, reachable from The Baths via a chain of ladder climbs among the enormous rocks. To the north of The Baths lies Spring Bay, accessible via a separate pathway, boasting its own lovely white sandy beach. Here, you can unwind on the soft, white sandy beaches, soak in the picturesque scenery, or indulge in snorkeling in the sheltered waters. Fishing is not permitted in this area, resulting in a rich abundance of marine life.
Spring Bay
Spring Bay is a lovely seashore with a beautiful environment, nestled just north of The Baths, yet devoid of crowds. Here, several giant boulders imbue the panorama with a unique appeal.
The waters of Spring Bay are crystal clean, making it a really perfect spot for snorkeling.
Diving and Snorkelling
Virgin Gorda holds the closing allure of each Caribbean island - diving and snorkeling. With its pristine white seashores and crystal-clean, colorful waters teeming with existence, it offers a serene environment with significantly fewer travelers.
Along the western coast near Little Dix Bay and Mahoe Bay, you can additionally stumble upon sea turtles, colorful soft corals, and a wealthy array of marine life, even while snorkeling. Virgin Gorda is a beautiful vicinity to study and experience scuba diving.
Kite Surfing
One of the best kite surfing spots is positioned near the Necker Island. The sturdy winning winds create huge waves, presenting sufficient possibilities to attempt various strategies.
Kite surfing is a instead severe sport and no longer without dangers. Before taking on the waves, make sure what you are doing! For novices, heading to the Bitter End Yacht Club is a first-rate alternative, wherein specialists provide professional publications and system rentals.
Virgin Gorda Resorts
Oil Nut Bay Resort is nestled on the jap quit of beautiful Virgin Gorda, boasting some of the maximum breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Accessible only by way of water or helicopter, it's an excellent preference for families in search of snug, secure, and secluded villa-style hotels on a non-public island. The most straightforward manner to attain the island is by using a boat or helicopter, and golfing carts are used as the number one mode of transportation at some stage in the entire island. The cliffside suites are indeed lovely, presenting a feel of getting the whole island to yourself!
Rosewood Little Dix Bay is the epitome of luxury on the island, with its beachfront vicinity allowing guests to relax on pristine white sands. It additionally offers tranquil waters, ideal for exploring the nearby reefs. With its commitment to environmental sustainability and secluded luxury, Little Dix Bay is clearly worth returning to time and time again.
If you are seeking to take pleasure in understated luxury far from the mainland, don't forget Saba Rock or Necker Island. Both islands are only a short boat experience far from Virgin Gorda and provide full-island constitution offerings for big businesses and activities.
Virgin Gorda's Weather and Climate
Virgin Gorda enjoys a subtropical climate. Influenced by using exchange winds, the temperature variant at some point of the year is minimal, with summertime temperatures peaking at around 29°C (84°F) and iciness temperatures accomplishing up to 25°C (77°F). The annual rainfall for the island is 115 cm (45 in), with higher precipitation degrees within the mountainous areas and lower tiers in the lowlands.
The maximum humid months are from September to December. From June to October, it's hurricane season, with occasional storms affecting the islands. The excellent time to go to Virgin Gorda for activities is from early December to mid-April.