The quiet island of Virgin Gorda is one of those idyllic, white-sand, blue-sky destinations that feels like paradise on earth. It’s considered by many to be one of the most beautiful islands of the BVI archipelago, with unspoiled stretches of coastline, lush landscapes, and multiple nature sanctuaries that are protected from development.
At 8.5-square-miles, it’s the third largest of the British Virgin Islands. It’s also one of the least crowded and underdeveloped, making for a luxuriously relaxing vacation. Forbes magazine named the British territory one of the 23 Best Places to Travel in 2023. And several of our investors say it’s one of the most exotic destinations they’ve been to.
While getting to Virgin Gorda takes a little extra effort, it’s all part of the vacation adventure and totally worth the time (and planning). Commercial flights to nearby islands are typically followed by a small charter flight to Virgin Gorda’s light-craft airport or a scenic ferry or private water taxi ride to the dock in Spanish Town. There, you’re met by the Equity Estates Local Host who will take you to your villa and get you settled in.
The vibe on Virgin Gorda is upscale but laid-back, and the full-time residents are friendly and welcoming. That, combined with the pristine beaches, stunning natural attractions, fantastic weather, and lack of crowds, makes this island the perfect destination for a one-of-a-kind Caribbean vacation.
We asked our Virgin Gorda Local Host (who’s lived on the island for 13 years), to share his top picks for three perfect days in this Caribbean paradise. The result is an itinerary filled with fun-in-the-sun activities, delicious food, and plenty of time to rest and relax.
DAY 1: See the Big Sights
Start your vacation off with an al fresco breakfast on one of the covered patios at your Equity Estates villa. Enjoy a light meal with fresh juice and coffee from the fully stocked kitchen or your Local Host will arrange to have a chef-prepared breakfast waiting for you when you wake up.
Following breakfast, take a walk down to the private beach where you can stroll along the shore or enjoy a morning swim in the clear, blue waters of Mahoe Bay. The beach is about a third of a mile long and is great for walking, especially in the morning before anyone else is up.
By mid-morning pack up towels and beach shoes and head out to explore The Baths — a true natural wonder and Virgin Gorda’s most popular attraction. Located on the southwestern tip of the island, The Baths features caverns, secret rock pools, and a stunning geological phenomenon of house-sized granite boulders stacked on top of each other. A series of steps and handrails lead you along the maze-like trail through the boulders, opening up to an expanse of sandy beach at Devil’s Bay. The going can be rough in spots, so you may consider taking a small-group guided tour or even approaching the attraction from a chartered boat rather than on land, if the short hike is a concern.
Once you’ve made it through the caves and rock pools, treat yourself to a swim in the aquamarine water or spread out your towels on shore to soak up the sun and admire the picture-perfect views.
For lunch, enjoy reservations at Top of the Baths restaurant where the conch fritters, stone-baked flat breads, and pulled pork sandwich can’t be beaten. Dine outside on the patio overlooking the beach below, then do a little shopping at the onsite boutiques.
Afterwards, drive over to Copper Mine National Park 10-minutes away to take a walk among the old copper mine ruins and rock outcroppings there. The abandoned mine played an important role in the history of Virgin Gorda from the early 18th century until it closed in 1862. Prior to that, in the island’s pre-colonial days, Amerindians used copper from the area to make tools and jewelry. Today, the spot is a nice place for birdwatching, photos, or a quick introduction to some of the island’s rich history.
It’s easy to rent a car or have a taxi service take you wherever you want to go on Virgin Gorda. So, getting around on the island is relatively simple. Just keep in mind that there are a lot of speed bumps to ensure drivers keep to a slower pace, but there are zero traffic lights.
That evening, unwind with a luxurious sunset cruise on the Pelagial (a beautiful 56-foot Hinckley sailboat) complete with delicious cocktails and a light dinner — relishing the feel of the sea breeze as you glide through the water watching the sun set.
DAY 2: Explore BVI
There’s more fun and sun on day two, with a full-day powerboat excursion to explore a few highlights of the 60+ islands of the BVI.
Travel to tiny Jost van Dyke, to explore the ruins of early sugar mills and visit the Bubbly Pool, a naturally occurring swimming hole on the northeast shore. Visit the Norman Island caves (said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel, “Treasure Island”) for incredible snorkeling. Stop for birdwatching on uninhabited Prickly Pear Island (and grab a refreshment at the boat-up bar while you’re there). Take a private eco-tour of Richard Branson’s Necker Island to see local wildlife. Or spend a little time on Tortola (BVI’s capital isle) for shopping, surfing, and touring the island’s historic landmarks. The day is yours, with your charter excursion personalized to your interests.
Your Local Host will arrange lunch and beverages for you on the boat during your daytrip or you may opt to dine at a recommended restaurant on one of the islands you visit.
That night, you’ll have reservations at the elegant Sugar Mill Restaurant at the Rosewood Little Dix Bay Hotel, where you can relax in the covered open-air dining room overlooking the water. Enjoy creative tapas dishes, fresh seafood, and small plates accompanied by the bar’s pineapple sangria, signature cocktails (or mocktails), or wine from their extensive wine list.
The charcoal grilled octopus with jalapeno aioli is a great start, while the lobster ravioli, rack of lamb, and pistachio-crusted snapper make for excellent entrees. Order the sushi platter or porterhouse steak to share with the table. But don’t forget to save room for dessert — house-made churned ice cream and the sticky toffee pudding are especially delicious.
DAY 3: Low-Key Day & Spanish Town
On your final perfect day, have breakfast by the pool then spend the morning swimming, sunning, snorkeling, or kayaking on the villa’s secluded, private beach. Bring a book with you to read while reclining on shore, take a walk along the sand, or simply kick back and enjoy the amazing views of blue-green water stretched out before you and blue skies overhead.
At lunchtime, head into Spanish Town for a casual, on-the-beach lunch at CocoMaya. Slate tiles, twisted vines, and a thatch roof give the open-air eatery a truly tropical vibe, while the spacious outdoor dining room offers plenty of shaded tables without restricting the views. Additional seating can be found at the water’s edge and beneath swaying palms on the sand. And games of cornhole and outdoor Jenga are set up for guests who want to play before or after their meal. Overlooking Sir Francis Drake Channel, with the island of Tortola in the distance, you’ll enjoy the atmosphere as much as the food.
While the CocoMaya vibe is fun and casual, the food is a sophisticated fusion of Asian and Latin cuisine — mixed with flavors of the Caribbean — served family style. Go for the gochujang fried chicken and dirty fries if you’re craving something crunchy. Dig into tempura fish tacos for east-meets-west deliciousness. And definitely try the lime and goat cheese street corn if you get the chance.
On the way back to your villa, stop by beautiful Savannah Bay Beach for a little more nature-focused sightseeing and sunbathing. This boulder-less beach is a favorite of locals and vacationers because of its quiet, tree-lined shore and calm shallow water perfect for snorkeling or cooling off. Considered one of the prettiest beaches on the island, make sure you have a camera with you to snap the perfect photo.
Spend the rest of your day enjoying the luxury and comfort of your Equity Estates island home. Swim or lounge by the pool, let yourself be pampered with an in-home massage and spa-treatments, or take a well-deserved afternoon siesta in the hammock.
That evening, wrap up your three perfect days on Virgin Gorda with a spectacular dinner prepared by a private chef, with everything — cooking, serving, and clean-up — taken care of for you. Afterwards, enjoy the night sky and fresh sea air before turning in and dreaming of your next Equity Estates vacation.
At Home in Virgin Gorda with Equity Estates
We have two breathtaking vacation properties on Virgin Gorda (Virgin Gorda I and Virgin Gorda II), both set within a private, lushly landscaped, three-villa enclave overlooking Mahoe Bay.
These elegant Caribbean villas boast 8,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor living space, with vaulted ceilings, five bedrooms, and incredible views. Each one is surrounded by tropical green gardens, giving a sense of privacy and seclusion.
You’ll enjoy three primary suites, a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, multiple terraces and high-end luxury details throughout. Spend your days in the home’s private infinity pool or relax on the secluded, warm-sand beach (complete with palapa and lounge chairs) just steps away from your front door.
Concierge, housekeeping, and private chef services are available, and luxurious in-villa massage and spa treatments may also be arranged, making each residence the perfect home-away-from home on the stunning island of Virgin Gorda.
Your Residence Manager will work with you to plan your itinerary before you arrive and make sure your stay is effortless. Leave the details to us and arrive to a fully stocked kitchen and bar with groceries of your choice. With Equity Estates, comfort and luxury are yours.
Travel with Equity Estates for a unique and memorable experience. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or click to schedule a call. Your unforgettable Virgin Gorda getaway awaits!
