Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) isn’t just an island; it’s a state of mind. And that state of mind is best experienced through a legendary bar crawl, the centerpiece of which is the Soggy Dollar Bar. Prepare for a day of rum punches, white sand beaches, and unforgettable memories as we guide you through the ultimate Jost Van Dyke bar hopping adventure.
Planning Your Jost Van Dyke Bar Crawl: Essential Need-to-Knows
Before you set sail (literally), a little planning goes a long way. Jost Van Dyke is a relatively small island, but efficient travel and smart choices will maximize your fun. Consider these factors:
Getting There: The primary way to reach Jost Van Dyke is by boat. Ferries operate from Tortola (West End and Road Town) and St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands). Check ferry schedules carefully, as they can be infrequent, especially during the off-season. Companies like Best of BVI offer updated schedules. A round-trip ferry ticket from Tortola will likely cost around $40-$60 USD per person. Alternatively, you can charter a private boat for a more personalized experience, but expect to pay significantly more. Many day trip operators include Jost Van Dyke in their itinerary.
Cash is King: While some establishments might accept credit cards, it’s always best to have cash (US dollars) on hand. Smaller bars and beach vendors will likely only accept cash. There are no ATMs on Jost Van Dyke, so withdraw sufficient funds before you head over. Budget around $100-$150 USD per person for the day, depending on your drinking and spending habits.
Sun Protection is Crucial: The Caribbean sun is intense. Pack sunscreen (reef-safe, please!), a hat, sunglasses, and a rash guard or cover-up. Reapply sunscreen frequently throughout the day, especially after swimming. Sunburn can quickly ruin your vacation.
Pace Yourself: This is a marathon, not a sprint. The rum punches are delicious and potent. Drink plenty of water between cocktails to stay hydrated and avoid a nasty hangover. Consider alternating alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic options like coconut water or soda.
Transportation on the Island: Jost Van Dyke is small enough to navigate on foot, especially between the bars in White Bay. However, if you want to explore other parts of the island, you can hire a taxi or a local “safari bus.” Agree on the fare before you start your journey.
Respect the Environment and the Locals: Jost Van Dyke is a beautiful and relatively unspoiled island. Help keep it that way by disposing of your trash properly, avoiding single-use plastics, and respecting the local culture. Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas.
Best Time to Visit: The BVI experiences peak season from December to April, offering ideal weather but higher prices and more crowds. The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-November) offer a sweet spot with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Avoid hurricane season (July-August) if possible.
The Soggy Dollar Bar: The Epicenter of the Painkiller
No Jost Van Dyke bar crawl is complete without a stop at the Soggy Dollar Bar. This legendary beach bar is famous for inventing the Painkiller cocktail, a potent blend of Pusser’s Rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, cream of coconut, and grated nutmeg. The quintessential Soggy Dollar experience involves swimming ashore to the bar, hence the name “Soggy Dollar,” as your cash gets wet. The bar itself is a laid-back, open-air structure right on the beach, with hammocks strung between palm trees and stunning views of White Bay. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during peak hours. A Painkiller will set you back around $10-$12 USD. While they have a menu of other drinks, the Painkiller is a must-try.
White Bay Warm-Up: Starting Your Day Right
While the Soggy Dollar might be the main attraction, several other fantastic bars along White Bay deserve your attention. Starting the crawl at the far end of the beach allows you to work your way towards the Soggy Dollar, building momentum (and potentially a buzz) along the way.
One Love Bar & Grill: Start your day at One Love, known for its relaxed vibe, friendly service, and delicious BBQ. Grab a Bushwacker, a creamy, chocolatey rum concoction, and enjoy the views. They often have live music in the afternoons, creating a festive atmosphere. Try their grilled lobster for a truly indulgent experience.
Hendo’s Hideout: Walk slightly further down White Bay and you’ll find Hendo’s Hideout, a charming restaurant and bar, it’s a great spot for a breakfast cocktail or a light early lunch. Enjoy the laidback ambience, before the crowds start to roll in.
Mid-Crawl Delights: Keeping the Party Going
As you move closer to the Soggy Dollar, the energy picks up. Don’t skip these gems:
Ivan’s Stress Free Bar: A Jost Van Dyke institution, Ivan’s is all about relaxation and good times. This rustic beach bar is known for its “honor bar” system, where you pour your own drinks and keep track of your tab. On Sundays, Ivan’s hosts a beach BBQ that is very popular. Chat with Ivan himself (if he’s around), and soak in the laid-back vibes. This embodies the “stress-free” spirit of the island.
Gertrude’s Beach Bar: Nestled right on the sand, Gertrude’s offers a mix of local flavors and classic cocktails. Sample some of their homemade rum punch or try a fresh seafood dish. Gertrude’s is a great spot to mingle with locals and other visitors.
Beyond White Bay: Exploring More of Jost Van Dyke
While White Bay is the heart of the Jost Van Dyke bar scene, venturing beyond this stretch of sand will reward you with even more unique experiences. Consider taking a taxi or safari bus to explore other parts of the island:
Great Harbour: This is the main settlement on Jost Van Dyke and home to several bars and restaurants. Foxy’s Tamarind Bar is a must-visit, known for its legendary parties, live music, and Foxy himself, a local icon known for his witty songs and colorful personality. Foxy’s hosts several big events throughout the year, including a famous New Year’s Eve party. Just up from Foxy’s, Rudys is another Great Harbour institution.
Little Harbour: This quiet harbor is home to a few smaller bars with a more local feel. Harris’ Place is a popular spot for fresh seafood and strong rum drinks. Enjoy the tranquility and soak in the local atmosphere. Sidney’s Peace and Love is a little further along.
Alternative Activities in Jost Van Dyke
While the bar crawl is a central activity, Jost Van Dyke offers many things to do. You can combine a few of these with your bar crawl or dedicate a day to a specific experience:
Snorkeling and Diving: The waters around Jost Van Dyke are teeming with marine life. Several dive operators offer snorkeling and diving excursions to nearby reefs and wrecks. This is an excellent chance to explore the underwater world.
Hiking: Several trails crisscross Jost Van Dyke, offering stunning views of the island and surrounding waters. Hike to the top of the island to see incredible views.
Swimming: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of White Bay. The calm waters are perfect for a refreshing swim.
Relaxing on the Beach: You can stretch out on the sand, soak up some rays, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Bar Crawl
Following some practical advice can make a big difference in how you experience the island.
Start Early: Arrive at Jost Van Dyke early in the day to avoid the crowds and make the most of your time. This gives you ample time to explore all the bars and enjoy the beach.
Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly throughout the day to combat the effects of the sun and alcohol.
Wear Water Shoes: Walking barefoot on the beach is great, but water shoes can protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral when swimming ashore.
Keep an Eye on Your Belongings: While Jost Van Dyke is generally safe, it’s always wise to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Check Ferry Schedules: Plan your return journey carefully, as ferry schedules can be limited, especially in the late afternoon. Missing the last ferry can mean an unexpected night on the island (which could be fun, but costly).
Book in Advance: Especially during peak season, consider booking ferry tickets and accommodations in advance to avoid disappointment.
Cost Breakdown: How Much Will It All Add Up To?
Here is a rough breakdown of potential expenses for your Jost Van Dyke bar crawl:
Ferry/Boat Transportation: $40-$150 USD per person (depending on the mode of transport)
Cocktails: $10-$15 USD per drink (expect to have at least 4-5)
Food: $20-$50 USD per person (lunch or dinner)
Taxi/Safari Bus: $10-$20 USD (depending on the distance)
Souvenirs: Variable (budget accordingly)
Overall, expect to spend between $150-$350 USD per person for a full day of bar hopping on Jost Van Dyke. This is just an estimate, and your actual expenses may vary depending on your choices.
Extending Your Stay: Where to Sleep on Jost Van Dyke
If one day isn’t enough, consider extending your stay on Jost Van Dyke. While accommodation options are limited compared to Tortola, several charming hotels and villas are available:
White Bay Villas & Suites: Luxurious villas with stunning ocean views.
Sandcastle Hotel: A boutique hotel right on White Bay, offering comfortable rooms and a beachfront restaurant.
Renting a Villa: Several private villas are available for rent, offering more space and privacy. Sites like AirBnB and VRBO offer various options.
Capturing the Memories: What to Photograph
Jost Van Dyke is a photographer’s paradise. Be sure to capture these moments:
The Painkiller at Soggy Dollar: A must-have photo op.
The White Sand and Turquoise Water: The iconic view of White Bay.
The Colorful Bars and Beach Shacks: Capture the vibrant atmosphere.
Sunsets: Jost Van Dyke offers stunning sunsets over the water.
Your Friends and Fellow Travelers: Document the fun and camaraderie of the bar crawl.
Safety First: Staying Safe While Having Fun
While a bar crawl is all about fun, staying safe is paramount:
Don’t Drink and Swim: Avoid swimming after consuming too much alcohol.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid walking alone in dark or unfamiliar areas.
Protect Your Valuables: Keep your belongings secure and avoid flashing expensive jewelry or electronics.
Know Your Limits: Pace yourself and avoid drinking excessively.
Travel insurance: Always have travel insurance in case of any unexpected events that may occur.
The Local Lingo: Essential Phrases
Learning a few basic phrases can enhance your interaction with the locals:
“Good morning/afternoon/evening”: A polite greeting.
“Thank you”: Always appreciated.
“Please”: Shows respect.
“How much?”: Useful for bargaining or confirming prices.
“Respect”: A common greeting or expression of agreement.
FAQ Section: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to get to Jost Van Dyke?
A: The most common way is by ferry from Tortola (West End or Road Town) or St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands). You can also charter a private boat. Be sure to check ferry schedules in advance.
Q: How much money should I bring?
A: Budget around $150-$350 USD per person for the day, depending on your drinking and spending habits. Cash is king, as many places don’t accept credit cards.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Comfortable beach attire is ideal. Swimsuit, cover-up, hat, sunglasses, and water shoes are recommended.
Q: Is Jost Van Dyke safe?
A: Yes, Jost Van Dyke is generally safe, but it’s always wise to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Q: What if I miss the last ferry?
A: Missing the last ferry can be problematic. Try to arrange a water taxi or be prepared to spend the night on the island. Book a room at an hotel, if any are available.
Q: What is the best drink to order?
A: The Painkiller at the Soggy Dollar Bar is a must-try. But experiment with other rum punches and cocktails at the different bars.
Q: Is there anything to do besides drink?
A: Yes! Snorkeling, diving, hiking, swimming, and relaxing on the beach are all great options.
Q: Do I need to book activities in advance?
A: During peak season, booking ferry tickets, tours, and accommodations in advance is highly recommended.
References
Best of BVI. (n.d.). BVI Ferry Schedules.
Virgin Islands Now. (n.d.). Jost Van Dyke.
Ready to Set Sail?
The Jost Van Dyke bar crawl is more than just drinking; it’s an experience. It’s about soaking in the Caribbean sunshine, meeting new people, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, gather your friends, book your tickets, pack your sunscreen, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. The Soggy Dollar Bar and the entire island of Jost Van Dyke await. Don’t just dream about it – do it! Start planning your trip today and get ready to say “cheers” to paradise!
