Weekend Trips from Virgin Gorda

One of the quiet luxuries of living on Virgin Gorda is how effortlessly you can slip away for the weekend. While the island itself is known for its calm beaches and upscale serenity, it also serves as the perfect launch point for short island escapes. From relaxed coral atolls to lively beach bars and national parks, these weekend trips offer an incredible variety of experiences—all within a short ride by boat or plane.

Roughly 85 kilometers north of Virgin Gorda, Anegada feels like a different world—one where time slows and the horizon stretches endlessly. Unlike the volcanic terrain of Virgin Gorda, Anegada is a low-lying coral island, which gives it an entirely different look and feel. It takes about 75 minutes by boat, or just 10 minutes by air via charter from Virgin Gorda’s Taddy Bay Airport.

Anegada is best known for two things: its secluded beaches and its fresh-caught lobster. Cow Wreck Beach and Loblolly Bay offer some of the most tranquil stretches of sand in the British Virgin Islands, where you might walk a mile and only pass a handful of people. After a day of snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding, dinner at The Lobster Trap or The Wonky Dog is a must.

A weekend here is about disconnecting—there are no high rises, no crowds, and very little noise beyond the breeze and the sea. It’s a quiet, recharging kind of trip that pairs beautifully with the relaxed lifestyle in Virgin Gorda.

For a more festive change of pace, Jost Van Dyke lies west of Virgin Gorda and can be reached in roughly two and a half hours by boat. Known as the party island of the BVI, it’s a popular spot for weekenders who want to sip rum drinks, dance to live music, and enjoy a more energetic atmosphere.

White Bay, with its shallow waters and powder-soft sand, is the heart of Jost’s scene. This is where you’ll find the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, where Painkillers—Jost’s signature cocktail—are served steps from the sea. Great Harbour, just around the bend, offers a more laid-back but equally vibrant experience at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, which is legendary for its live music and local BBQ, especially on weekends.

Despite its reputation as a lively destination, Jost also offers quieter mornings and intimate guesthouses for those who prefer to take it easy. The island’s versatility makes it one of the most popular weekend trips from Virgin Gorda, especially for residents who want to enjoy a social getaway before returning to the calm of home.

Roughly 30 minutes southwest of Virgin Gorda by boat, Peter Island is one of the British Virgin Islands’ most refined hideaways. Accessible only by sea, the island is home to the newly reimagined Peter Island Resort & Spa, a boutique property offering ocean-view villas, private beach access, and personalized service in a setting that feels worlds away from the everyday.

Days on Peter Island are unhurried and restorative. Guests can unwind on the crescent-shaped sands of Deadman’s Bay or snorkel the coral-rich waters of White Bay, known for its marine life and calm conditions. For those seeking deeper relaxation, the resort’s oceanfront spa delivers massages, body treatments, and yoga sessions with panoramic sea views.

For couples or small groups craving exclusivity, Peter Island offers a rare blend of privacy and luxury. It’s close enough for a long weekend yet far enough to feel like a complete getaway, making it one of the most rejuvenating weekend trips from Virgin Gorda.

For those looking to blend Caribbean beauty with U.S.-style convenience, St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands is an easy and rewarding choice. Located 60 kilometers west of Virgin Gorda, it can be reached by boat in about an hour and 45 minutes, depending on sea conditions.

St. John is renowned for its protected natural beauty. Over two-thirds of the island is preserved as the Virgin Islands National Park, offering hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and historical ruins to explore. The Reef Bay Trail is a popular choice for active visitors, winding through lush forest past petroglyphs and waterfalls. After a morning of adventure, Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay offer excellent snorkeling and postcard-worthy beach time.

Cruz Bay, the island’s main town, adds another layer to the experience with its walkable streets, boutique shopping, and eclectic dining—from laid-back beach bars to chef-driven bistros. Best of all, U.S. citizens do not need a passport to visit, making it a convenient option for American homeowners in Virgin Gorda.

Not all weekend trips from Virgin Gorda require leaving the island. Sometimes, a staycation just minutes from your own doorstep can offer everything you’re looking for. Located in North Sound, both Saba Rock and the Bitter End Yacht Club are accessible by boat in under 15 minutes from Leverick Bay or Gun Creek.

Saba Rock, a small private island resort, was completely rebuilt after Hurricane Irma and now offers a chic, boutique vibe with open-air dining, lively happy hours, and stylish waterfront rooms. Just across the water, Bitter End Yacht Club has also returned with its signature blend of casual luxury, offering villas, water sports, and a clubby ambiance that’s ideal for residents looking for a low-key getaway without packing a big suitcase.

Whether it’s an overnight stay or just a sunset cocktail, these spots prove that even close-to-home adventures can feel like a full escape.

The beauty of living on Virgin Gorda goes beyond the island itself. With so many neighboring destinations just a short ride away, weekend trips turn ordinary Saturdays and Sundays into opportunities for exploration, indulgence, and unforgettable memories. Whether it’s savoring lobster in Anegada, dancing barefoot in Jost Van Dyke, or snorkeling in the reefs off St. John, there’s no shortage of places to explore.

Interested in making this lifestyle your own? Connect with Best Price Properties, the local experts in Virgin Gorda real estate. From luxury homes to income-producing villas, they’ll help you find your perfect island base for enjoying life—and every weekend—in the British Virgin Islands.