• Bring Cash – While some places accept credit cards, cash is preferred at small beach bars and local vendors.
• Take a Boat Tour – The best way to explore the nearby islands, hidden coves, and snorkeling spots is by chartering a boat.
• Try the Painkiller Cocktail – A mix of rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, coconut cream, and nutmeg, this cocktail was invented at the Soggy Dollar Bar.
• Wear Water Shoes – Some areas, like the Bubbly Pool, have rocky terrain, so water shoes are recommended.
• Visit During the Off-Season for Quieter Beaches – If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, visit from May to November when there are fewer tourists.
• Stay on a Yacht or in a Beachfront Villa – Many visitors stay on chartered sailboats or rent beachfront bungalows for the ultimate island experience.
• Be Prepared for Limited Wi-Fi – While some bars and hotels offer Wi-Fi, connectivity can be unreliable, so enjoy the digital detox.
• Respect the Marine Life – Jost Van Dyke is part of a protected marine area, so avoid touching coral and be mindful of sea turtles.
• Watch the Sunset at White Bay – The sunsets here are breathtaking, so grab a cocktail and enjoy the view.
• Support Local Businesses – Try locally owned bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops to support the island’s economy.

• Foxy’s New Year’s Eve Party (Old Year’s Night) – One of the most famous New Year’s Eve parties in the Caribbean, featuring live music, fireworks, and thousands of partygoers.
• BVI Emancipation Festival (July-August) – A celebration of the island’s history and culture, featuring parades, music, dancing, and traditional Caribbean food.
• Full Moon Parties – Hosted at Foxy’s and other beach bars, these monthly beach parties feature live music, fire dancers, and drinks under the full moon.
• BVI Spring Regatta (March-April) – A major sailing event where yachts from around the world race through the British Virgin Islands, with parties and events on Jost Van Dyke.

• Named After a Pirate – The island is named after a Dutch pirate, Jost Van Dyke, who allegedly used it as a hideout in the 17th century.
• The Population is Only About 300 People – Despite being a major sailing destination, Jost Van Dyke is one of the least populated islands in the British Virgin Islands.
• There’s No Airport – The only way to reach Jost Van Dyke is by boat from Tortola, St. Thomas, or St. John.
• The Soggy Dollar Bar Got Its Name from Wet Money – Since there’s no dock at White Bay, visitors swim to shore, paying with “soggy dollars.”
• It’s a Hotspot for Yachting – The island is a popular anchorage for sailors and luxury yacht charters.
• The Island Runs on "Island Time" – Everything moves at a relaxed Caribbean pace, so don’t expect things to be rushed.
• It Has Some of the Caribbean’s Best Snorkeling – The waters around Jost Van Dyke are filled with colorful coral reefs, sea turtles, and tropical fish.
• Electricity Only Arrived in the 1990s – Before that, most locals relied on generators and kerosene lamps.
• Foxy Callwood is a Local Legend – The owner of Foxy’s Tamarind Bar is a beloved local musician and storyteller.
• Jost Van Dyke is a Digital Detox Paradise – With limited cell service and Wi-Fi, it’s the perfect place to disconnect and relax.

What is the Island known for?
Jost Van Dyke is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, world-famous beach bars, and laid-back Caribbean charm. The island is a popular stop for sailors and yachters, offering crystal-clear waters, great snorkeling, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s home to White Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, and Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, famous for hosting one of the biggest New Year’s Eve parties in the world. Jost Van Dyke is also the birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail, invented at the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar.

Is the Island a good destination for families?
Jost Van Dyke is a great destination for families who love the beach, boating, and outdoor adventures. The island is small, safe, and easy to explore, with calm, shallow waters perfect for children. Families can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the natural Bubbly Pool, a wave-fed rock pool that acts like a natural Jacuzzi. However, the island has a reputation for lively beach bars and parties, so families looking for a quiet retreat should visit during the off-season or stay in Little Harbour, which offers a more peaceful atmosphere.

Is the Island a safe destination for tourists?
Yes, Jost Van Dyke is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. The local community is small and friendly, and crime is extremely rare. Visitors should take basic precautions, such as securing valuables and being mindful of their surroundings when drinking at beach bars or swimming in open waters. As with any island destination, it’s important to be aware of ocean currents and always swim in designated safe areas.

Do you need a visa to visit the Island?
Jost Van Dyke is part of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), a British Overseas Territory. Visitors from the U.S., Canada, the UK, and the EU do not need a visa for stays of up to 30 days. If you are traveling from another country, it’s best to check visa requirements with the BVI immigration department before planning your trip.

What is the best way to get to the Island?
Jost Van Dyke does not have an airport, so visitors must arrive by boat. The most common way to reach the island is by ferry or private charter from Tortola, St. Thomas, or St. John. The closest airport is Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) in Tortola, from where you can take a short ferry ride. Many visitors also arrive by yacht, as Jost Van Dyke is a popular stop on Caribbean sailing itineraries.

Should I rent a car on the Island?
Renting a car on Jost Van Dyke is not necessary, as the island is small and walkable. Most visitors explore on foot, by boat, or by using local taxis. If you want to visit off-the-beaten-path locations, a 4x4 vehicle or golf cart is available for rent, but keep in mind that the island has narrow, steep roads.

Is the Island wheelchair accessible?
Jost Van Dyke has limited wheelchair accessibility due to its hilly terrain and lack of paved roads. Some beachfront bars and restaurants have flat, sandy access, but most accommodations and natural attractions may be difficult to navigate for those with mobility challenges. Visitors needing wheelchair-friendly transport should contact local businesses in advance to ensure accommodations can meet their needs.

What are the Island’s most famous landmarks?
Jost Van Dyke is known for several iconic landmarks, including White Bay, home to the Soggy Dollar Bar, and Great Harbour, where visitors will find Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, a legendary Caribbean beach bar. The Bubbly Pool, a natural rock formation that creates a wave-fed "Jacuzzi", is another must-visit spot. Sandy Spit, a tiny uninhabited island just off Jost Van Dyke, is a postcard-perfect sandbar surrounded by turquoise waters. Diamond Cay, a protected marine area, is great for snorkeling and spotting sea turtles.

What are the best beaches on the Island?
Jost Van Dyke has some of the best beaches in the British Virgin Islands. White Bay is the most famous, featuring powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and legendary beach bars. Great Harbour Beach is the island’s main anchorage, perfect for enjoying local food and nightlife. Little Harbour offers a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere, great for those looking to relax. Sandy Spit is an uninhabited island just offshore, offering a true desert-island experience.

What is unique about the Island’s wildlife?
Jost Van Dyke is home to diverse marine life and tropical birds. The surrounding waters are teeming with sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful reef fish, making it a paradise for snorkelers. Dolphins are often spotted off the coast, and in certain seasons, humpback whales pass by the island during migration. The island itself has iguanas, small lizards, and various seabirds, including frigatebirds and pelicans.

What traditional foods should you try on the Island?
BVI cuisine is a delicious blend of Caribbean and British influences, and Jost Van Dyke has some great local specialties. The island is famous for its fresh seafood, especially grilled lobster, conch fritters, and Johnny Cakes. The legendary Painkiller cocktail, made with rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and nutmeg, was invented at the Soggy Dollar Bar and is a must-try. At Foxy’s, visitors can enjoy Caribbean BBQ with fresh fish and plantains.

Can you drink tap water on the Island?
Tap water on Jost Van Dyke is not always safe to drink, as it is primarily collected rainwater or desalinated water. Most visitors drink bottled or filtered water, which is widely available at restaurants, bars, and shops.

What is the nightlife like on the Island?
Jost Van Dyke has a lively and famous nightlife scene, particularly at its beach bars and open-air parties. Foxy’s Tamarind Bar is the heart of the island’s nightlife, hosting live music, beach parties, and its legendary New Year’s Eve (Old Year’s Night) celebration, one of the biggest parties in the Caribbean. Soggy Dollar Bar and Ivan’s Stress-Free Bar are also popular for cocktails and sunset drinks. Nightlife on the island is casual, fun, and centered around music, dancing, and beach vibes.

How can I stay connected to the internet on the Island?
Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, restaurants, and bars, but internet speeds can be slow, and service may be unreliable in remote areas. There is cell phone coverage, but roaming charges can be expensive, so visitors may want to use a local SIM card from a BVI carrier or rely on Wi-Fi.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home from the Island?
Popular souvenirs from Jost Van Dyke include Foxy’s t-shirts and rum bottles, which are iconic in the British Virgin Islands. Locally made hot sauces, spices, and tropical jams are also great gifts. Handmade jewelry, Caribbean art, and Soggy Dollar Bar merchandise are perfect keepsakes. If you love the Painkiller cocktail, grab a bottle of Pusser’s Rum, the traditional ingredient in this island-famous drink.

• Foxy Callwood – The founder of Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, he is a beloved musician, storyteller, and entrepreneur who put Jost Van Dyke on the map with his world-famous New Year’s Eve parties and local hospitality.
• Seddy Callwood – Son of Foxy Callwood and owner of Seddy’s One Love Bar, he is known for his magician tricks, laid-back bar atmosphere, and strong island spirit.
• Jost Van Dyke (Dutch Privateer) – The island’s namesake, Jost Van Dyke was a 17th-century Dutch pirate and privateer who supposedly used the island as a base for his maritime raids.
• William Thornton – Though born in Tortola, the architect of the U.S. Capitol Building had strong ties to Jost Van Dyke and the British Virgin Islands.
• Julius Wallace – A respected local fisherman and boat builder who played a significant role in preserving traditional sailing and fishing culture on Jost Van Dyke.
• Calypso Joe – A legendary Caribbean musician from the BVI known for spreading the love of Calypso and reggae music throughout Jost Van Dyke.
• Sidney Chinnery – Founder of Sidney’s Peace & Love, a famous seafood restaurant in Little Harbour, and a pioneer in Jost Van Dyke’s tourism industry.
• Ivan Chinnery – Founder of Ivan’s Stress-Free Bar, a legendary spot on White Bay known for its laid-back vibes, hammocks, and self-serve drinks.
• Dale Van Dyke – A descendant of the island’s early settlers, he has worked to preserve Jost Van Dyke’s history and culture, keeping the island’s heritage alive.
• Jevon Callwood – A young entrepreneur from Jost Van Dyke working to promote sustainable tourism while protecting the island’s unique ecosystem.

• The Bachelor (Season 17, 2013) – A special episode of the hit U.S. reality TV show was filmed on Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay, where the contestants enjoyed romantic beachfront dates.
• Into the Blue (2005) – This action-packed Paul Walker and Jessica Alba thriller about underwater treasure hunting featured diving scenes filmed off the coast of Jost Van Dyke.
• The Island (2005, TV Series) – A reality survival show filmed several episodes on Jost Van Dyke’s remote beaches and rugged terrain.
• Shark Week (Discovery Channel, Multiple Years) – The waters surrounding Jost Van Dyke have been featured in multiple episodes highlighting Caribbean reef sharks and marine conservation efforts.
• Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (2006) – Rumored – While most of the filming took place in Dominica and St. Vincent, some scenes of tropical shorelines and rocky coves were reportedly shot near Jost Van Dyke.
• Below Deck (Bravo TV, Multiple Seasons) – This reality show about luxury yacht charters frequently films in the British Virgin Islands, with Jost Van Dyke serving as a stop for crew parties and guest excursions.
• Caribbean Pirate Treasure (Travel Channel, 2017) – This show, hosted by Philippe Cousteau, explored shipwrecks and pirate history in the waters surrounding Jost Van Dyke.
• Blue Planet II (BBC, 2017) – The stunning coral reefs around Jost Van Dyke were featured in this highly acclaimed nature documentary.
• Love in the Sun (2019, Hallmark Movie) – A romantic drama featuring tropical island scenery, with some BVI and Jost Van Dyke scenes used for beach settings.
• Sailing La Vagabonde (YouTube Series) – This popular YouTube sailing vlog has featured Jost Van Dyke as a must-visit stop for sailors, showcasing its beaches, bars, and marine life.