“This is a great location and great hosts! Sonny is on property to ask advise and George & Pina answer questions quickly online. You can quickly travel to any beach on the island from this location. We have stayed at both Sundowner and now Sunset Watch Villa and both have great pools. Short walk down the stair to the beach or walk / drive to the beach around the bend. I cook most meals and the kitchen is well equipped or Sugarcane is right up the road for great food & view. From any where on property the views are amazing watching the ocean & waves but the most breathtaking views for me is watching the boats of all sizes dance across the Horizon. Virgin Gorda is a jewel, such a spectacular place to visit.”
-Terry
Wonderful, beautiful and cozy villa!
Our stay at Sundowner was the most wonderful villa experience we have ever had! The villa sits on a terraced hill, beautifully landscaped with tropical plants, abounding! A beckoning private beach sits below, replete with kayaks, beach furniture, rocks to scramble and immediate access to snorkeling. Astonishing sunset photos can be captured right from here. The villa itself is compact, tastefully decorated with interesting art, and provides panoramic views from the entire front. The villa sits on a terraced hill in such a way that when reclining on one of the many sets of deck furniture, the ocean appears within footsteps from the spacious deck. A lovely wading pool with a waterfall beckons villa guests. Azure sky and sapphire ocean dominate the view from every direction Even from the comfy king bed, you can see sky and ocean as soon as you sit up in the morning! You awaken to sounds of lapping waves, which quietly continue throughout the day. A well appointed kitchen includes every convenience, and gourmet utensils to prepare meals. Tons of closet space are located in the back part of the villa, a large dressing area, double sinks and a very private outdoor shower with great water pressure! The villa is located in a lovely, upscale part of Virgin Gorda, called Nail Bay. Within driving minutes are several other small, unique beaches, including Savannah Bay, Trunk Bay, Mahoe Bay, etc. On the opposites end of the Island, the Baths and Spring Bay provide spectacular snorkeling access a short swim off the beach! The villas hosts and helpers, Sonny, Ajit and Pina communicate closely to ensure all needs are met. Sonny responds quickly to every be need, yet totally respects guest privacy. If you desire tropical, ocean beauty and a totally restful stay on Virgin Gorda, pick Sundowner!
-Sandy
Thank you so much we had a great time
Thank you Sony and Ajit for a lovely stay at Sunset watch. The villa is beautifully appointed from start to finish The kitchen with the top end appliances creating a lovely gourmet cooking experience. Very good internet and television service. Ac worked well and very quite, decorations very Caribbean you will have a lovely relaxing time here Pool sparkling and lovely and clean direct access to the beach private and relaxing Will come again soon
-Jonathan
Great location and friendly hosts!
Great location and friendly hosts! Very accommodating and easy to communicate with. Also provided great recommendations to a first time visitor that made the trip memorable.
Tyler
“GREAT Place to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary!”
“Sundowner is a perfect spot for two! The location likely can't be beat---we have stayed at a number of other properties in Virgin Gorda. The views out the front windows are spectacular. For a snorkeler like my bride Nail Bay is fantastic. The villa was a welcome respite from the craziness of the world, especially now with Covid!”
-JIM
"Gorgeous and will definitely be back. thank you!!"
Me and my husband had a perfect stay at Ajits place for the first stop on our honeymoon. Exactly as described and pictured, the pool is awesome for a mid day or afternoon cool off. the private beach area is great for kayaking. kitchen was well equipped for several meals we cooked in. my favorite spot was the patio overlooking the water!
- Lauren
“Thank you again for everything.. we will definitely return!”
As experienced Airbnb travelers to 15 properties in eight countries we’ve found the first place we would return to. It’s truly an exceptional value! The location, quality of property and private surroundings are outstanding. Ajit and his management team are a pleasure to deal with. This is a 5 star plus property for a romantic one of a kind paradise.. 9 days was not enough!
- Brian
“Ajit and his team were such sweet, kind people. We loved their spot at Nail's Bay. It was so nice to be able to access the tennis courts with an unbelievable view and 2 different beaches with walking distance(one just down your private steps). Sugarcane restaurant is less than a 5 min walk. One of the best restaurants on the island open for lunch, dinner and even hanging out by the pool with a full bar! There is also lots of fun wildlife, lots of chickens with babies, a couple neighborhood cats, lots of lizards, and you may even see a couple goats run by!”
-Robin
“Great place! We’re soooo glad to have finally made it down here."
Sundowner is a great place. The pool and deck are great if you feel like relaxing. We took the kayaks out and ventured to the north end of long bay beach for some snorkeling and a hike to the sugar mill ruins. We walked over to Trunk bay and the snorkeling there is fantastic on the north end. We bbq’d a few times, made breakfast in the stocked kitchen. They had enough seasonings In the pantry to make about anything. It’s a short walk to Sugarcane if you don’t feel like cooking. Other nearby restaurants were Hog Heaven just up the hill for lunch with a stunning view. Make sure to try Coco Maya for dinner.
- Drew
This place is not one to be missed!
The location is spectacular and the host and host and his staff are wonderful. Thank you a million for my stay! The communication beforehand and the check-in process were perfect! I am sorry that I was out most of the days since I was in VG for work, but I will be back soon just for pleasure! What an oasis.
Thank you again. Sincerely, Norman Allen
You will not be disappointed. This place is a slice of heaven..
“Absolutely phenomenal stay. The home is magical, tranquil and so breathtaking. So glad we chose your home and we can’t wIt to return!! Thank you for your outstanding attention to detail... and your communication in advance of our arrival and also while we were visiting! Will be back soon for another dose of nirvana!!!”
Linda Thompkins' (a.k.a. @justatraveler) Guide to Virgin Gorda
by Ray Larson
Caribbean blogger Linda Thompkins knows the Caribbean. @justatraveler
Linda Thompkins is one of the most experienced Caribbean travelers in the industry and has visited each island at least once with the exception of St. Eustatius – but it’s currently on her bucket list. Linda ran a successful full-service travel agency specializing in the Caribbean region for 15 years, helping countless people plan their dream island vacation.
2 years into retirement, she currently runs a Caribbean travel blog – www.travel2thecaribbeanblog.com – where she shares unique stories and breathtaking pictures while interacting with individuals on social media (follow her on Twitter at @justatraveler).Linda has previously stayed with us at Sunset Watch Villa, and we were lucky enough to speak with the Caribbean veteran recently to learn her favorite things about the beautiful island of Virgin Gorda. Here’s Linda Thompkins’ guide to Virgin Gorda:
Scenery
The first thing Linda pointed out was the stunning scenery throughout Virgin Gorda. She says, “It’s impossible to walk or drive anywhere around the island without stopping to take in the breathtaking panoramic views.” One of the best places to do so is a delicious BBQ restaurant called Hog Heaven. At 1,300 ft. above sea level, Hog Heaven’s deck offers gorgeous views of North Sound, Mosquito Island, Saba Rock and Sir Richard Branson’s private Necker Island. Here’s a video Thompkins took while dining atop the peak.
Island Hopping
The British Virgin Islands are known as one of the world’s top sailing destinations, offering more than 40 islands all within one hour of each other by sailboat. One of her favorite trips is taking the ferry to Anegada, an island floating atop a remote reef. Another way to enjoy the sailing culture is to spend the day at a premier Virgin Gorda resort, the Bitter End Yacht Club.
Natural Wonders and Secluded Beaches
The Baths are a must for anyone traveling to Virgin Gorda. Travelers can walk around and climb over giant granite boulders the size of houses while hiking to the remote Devil’s Bay Beach for some of the island’s best snorkeling.
How Virgin Gorda Stands Out among Other Caribbean Islands
Thompkins has been traveling her entire life and has gone through customs throughout the Caribbean region. She claims that going through customs in Virgin Gorda was one of the most pleasant experiences in the region, adding that the officials are “Welcoming, friendly and efficient.”
Thompkins also feels that Virgin Gorda presents a tropical escape from some of the mega-tourism destinations that have littered the Caribbean, and the villas and resorts are spread out to give travelers feelings of seclusion and privacy.
One Piece of Advice
Virgin Gorda can be a difficult place to travel to depending on where you’re coming from. Linda advises to spend time figuring out your transportation route, as it may take more than a day. Sunset Watch Villa has put together a series of blogs on getting to Virgin Gorda to help you finalize your travel plan.
Keep up with all of Linda Thompkins’ Caribbean travel blogs to learn more about the beautiful region, and make sure to check back with the Sunset Watch Villa blog for more posts about the spectacular island of Virgin Gorda.
Protect Yourself from the Unexpected with Trip Insurance
by Ray Larson
Buying trip insurance is the only way to prevent yourself and your family from being on the hook for flights and hotel costs or, worse, unforeseen medical expenses incurred while on vacation. The most common reasons travelers cancel a trip is because of an illness or death in the family, and those who have trip insurance generally receive a full refund on flights and hotels even if the ticket or cost was non-refundable.
Why purchase trip insurance for a Sunset Watch Villa vacation?
At Sunset Watch Villa, we recommend that all of our guests purchase travel insurance. When traveling to the Caribbean, accommodations are often made months in advance and getting to Virgin Gorda takes multiple flights or ferry rides. These expenses add up, and cancelling at the last minute due to a death in the family or a young child’s illness leaves you on the hook for the bill. We recommend AIG Travel Guard to our guests because they offer a selection of reasonably priced travel insurance packages. All will give you peace of mind should anything unexpected arise prior to your island getaway.
Trip insurance is a great way to protect your vacation investment.
Travel insurance options
You can purchase travel insurance from a number of established businesses, such as airlines, travel agents, private insurance firms and insurance brokers. The variety of trip insurance options has skyrocketed in recent years, and increased competition has led to great rates and deals for consumers. You can find multiple package options, but the two most common protect you from:
Trip cancellation, interruption or delay: This type of coverage pays for non-refundable parts of your vacation due to cancellation because of an illness or death in the family. This also covers costs due to a flight change or delay because of poor weather – hurricane season in the Caribbean is generally between mid-June and November.
Medical expenses or evacuation: If you become sick during a vacation or need serious medical attention that requires you to be flown back home, this package covers those extreme costs.
It’s wise to look over your insurance policy closely so you understand it before making a purchase. The average trip insurance policy costs between 4 and 8 percent of the total travel expenses, and it is based on the selected coverage, age of travelers and cost of trip.
We want you to enjoy every aspect of your Sunset Watch Villa vacation on the beautiful island of Virgin Gorda, and buying travel insurance is a great way to reduce your stress before and during any vacation. Our reservation policies can be found here on our site, and don’t hesitate to contact us at info@sunsetwatchvilla.com or call 1-888-734-8890 if you have any questions about staying with us at Sunset Watch Villa.
Why You Need to Rent a Vehicle in Virgin Gorda
by Ray Larson
Although cabs are available in Virgin Gorda, the best way to get around the second biggest island in the British Virgin Islands is to rent a vehicle. Our beautiful islands consists of two main areas – Spanish Town, which is also known as the valleys to the south, and The North Sound, which consists of several resorts and a small harbor community named Gun Creek. Sunset Watch Villa is located between these two areas. If you rent a vehicle in Virgin Gorda will help you experience everything our island has to offer.
A car rental is essential for experiencing the best of Virgin Gorda.
Car Type and Driving Style
Because of the steep climbs and rolling hills throughout Virgin Gorda, jeeps with varying passenger capacities are the most likely vehicles to be available. Virgin Gorda also follows the British style of driving on the left side. United States driver’s licenses are valid for 90 days when you purchase a temporary BVI license for $10.
Ray Harrigan’s Island Style Jeep Rental – (284) 495-6300
Ray Harrigan has one of the most trusted fleets on the island with four to 10-passenger jeep-style options, including:
Four four-passengers – Suzuki Jimny, Suzuki Sidekick, Geo Tracker and a Daihatsu Terios
One five-passenger – Suzuki Grand Vitara
One six-passenger – Suzuki minivan
Two seven-passengers – Suzuki van and Mitsubishi Montero
One eight to 10-passenger – Mini Safari (pickup truck with converted safari-style seating in the truck bed
All vehicles at Ray Harrigan’s Island-Style Jeep Rental come equipped with air-conditioning, and the respected company also offers free pick-up and delivery for all vehicles. Rates vary from $45 to $70 per day during the calm season – June 16 to December 14 – and $50 to $75 per day during the busy season – December 15 to June 15. If you’re interested in booking a car for your upcoming vacation, contact Ray Harrigan’s Island-Style Jeep Rental by calling the number above or by filling out a reservation form for more information. Make sure to ask about weekly specials if you are planning an extended stay.
The beautiful island of Virgin Gorda offers Sunset Watch Villa guests a wide range of things to do, from spectacular beaches to outstanding adventures. We look forward to being part of your unforgettable island getaway.
Flight Delayed? What to do and Where to Stay in San Juan
by Ray Larson
Although rare, visitors to the Caribbean have experienced flights delayed or postponed due to bad weather when trying to travel from Sunset Watch Villa to Virgin Gorda. But if you find yourself stuck in San Juan, Puerto Rico, don’t worry – the gorgeous Caribbean island provides plenty of entertainment and comfortable places to stay until your next flight arrives. Here are a few suggestions:
Where to stay in San Juan:
San Juan Airport Hotel – (787) 791-6000
Located just steps away from the airlines’ counters in San Juan’s International Airport, this hotel offers guests a number of sought-after amenities. The hotel is home to 125 guest rooms, a full-service restaurant and an exceptional sushi bar. Guests can also indulge in the hotel’s free hot breakfast buffet or take a dip in the relaxing Jacuzzis before catching their flight to Virgin Gorda.
Embassy Suites Hotel and Casino – (787) 791-0505
The Embassy Suites Hotel and Casino is just a quick five-minute drive from the airport and a ten-minute walk from the breathtaking Isla Verde Beach. The stunning Caribbean destination offers the comforts of home with a free cooked-to-order breakfast every morning and late-night entertainment at the Oasis Casino and Lounge. The tropical pool and waterfall on-site are kid favorites.
Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort – (787) 791-0404
Located on Isla Verde Beach, the Courtyard by Marriott offers majestic views of San Juan’s best beachfront. Enjoy a romantic stroll down the mile-long stretch of white sand beach, or dine in style at one of four restaurants at this beautiful Marriott location.
What to do in San Juan:
Castillo San Felipe del Morro – (787) 729-6960
Whether your flight to Virgin Gorda was delayed or you’re visiting Puerto Rico for your vacation, this is a can’t-miss destination. Full of history, the Castillo San Felipe del Morro is a 16th-century fortress that was built to guard the entrance of San Juan. Located on the northwestern point of the Old San Juan islet, this prominent castle withstood numerous attacks and remains one of the most spectacular attractions throughout Puerto Rico. In 1983, the United Nations declared the Castillo San Felipe del Morro a World Heritage site, and the destination receives more than two million visitors per year.
Club Gallistico de Puerto Rico – (787) 791-1557
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, visit Club Gallistico de Puerto Rico, which is home to legal cockfighting – a one-of-a-kind experience. Cockfighting is a big part of the culture in Puerto Rico, and people flood into the arena night after night to witness the excitement.
Sunset Watch Villa will be here when you arrive, providing you a spectacular island home and an unforgettable experience. But if you find yourself stuck in San Juan for a day or night, use our suggestions to help pass the time and rest peacefully.
5 Places to Stay in St. Thomas if You Miss the Ferry
If your flight to Sunset Watch Villa takes you through St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands and you arrive after the ferries to Virgin Gorda have departed, don’t worry. The island of St. Thomas offers plenty of great hotels close to the airport and ferry dock. Here are 5 places to stay in St Thomas if you miss the ferry:
Best Western CARIB Beach Resort – (340) 774-2525
With newly renovated rooms, the Best Western CARIB Beach Resort caters to guests with plenty of refreshing ocean views. Offering wide-open rooms and pool decks overlooking the Lindbergh Bay and Caribbean Sea, the hotel also features a signature restaurant called the OceanSide Bistro, which is open for breakfast and dinner with nightly specials on fresh mahi-mahi or lobster.
Best Western PLUS Emerald Beach Resort – (340) 777-8800
Another Best Western resort just minutes from the airport gives guests all of the same amenities listed above, including a luxurious spa and an authentic Caribbean buffet. All rooms at the PLUS Emerald Beach Resort deliver beachfront views.
Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort – (340) 776-8500
With beachfront guest rooms, four pools, the luxurious Lazule Sea Spa and nine different cafes, bars and restaurants, you’ll enjoy a relaxing night at the Marriott Beach Resort before departing for the serene Sunset Watch Villa in the morning.
Island Beachcomber Hotel – (340) 774-5250
Located on Lindbergh Beach just minutes from the airport, the Island Beachcomber Hotel is surrounded by spectacular gardens with native plants and trees. Each room has a private patio, air-conditioning, ceiling fan and cable so you’ll be sure to enjoy a relaxing night.
Mafolie Hotel & Restaurant – (340) 774-2790
Just a ten-minute drive from the airport, the Mafolie Hotel & Restaurant provides guests with luxurious amenities and gourmet dining at affordable prices just off the white sand beaches of Magens Bay.
Speed bumps are common when traveling, but if you find yourself stuck in St. Thomas for a night, give one of the above hotels a call. No matter which property you choose, you’ll enjoy a peaceful and comfortable night before officially starting your memorable Sunset Watch Villa vacation on the bountiful island of Virgin Gorda.
Snorkeling in Virgin Gorda: 6 Can’t Miss Places
by Ray Larson
Virgin Gorda is known for its calm and clear waters in addition to the colorful creatures and exotic marine life it boasts beneath the surface. During your stay at Sunset Watch Villa, make sure to experience all of the snorkeling hot spots throughout the beautiful island. Whether you’re a beginner or expert snorkeler, Virgin Gorda presents multiple spots to observe the spectacular underwater sights. Here are six of the best spots for snorkeling in Virgin Gorda:
The Baths
Virgin Gorda’s signature boulders present ample opportunities for underwater exploration. This area features less reef growth and more rock formations – all featuring multiple hidden nooks and crannies to explore – and beautiful archways will present new obstacles in your quest for adventure. Check out the video above for a unique look as a recent visitor snorkels The Baths.
Spring Bay
Located next to The Baths, Spring Bay presents similar rock formations with multiple crevices for unique snorkeling. This is one of the most romantic places throughout the BVIs. Pro Tip: After a morning of snorkeling, make sure to climb the famous jumping rock and dive in for an afternoon thrill.
Savannah Bay
Located on the west shore of Virgin Gorda, getting to Savannah Bay is just as exciting as snorkeling in the warm waters. You’ll follow a trail with multiple signs introducing you to the underwater wildlife you’ll encounter, such as hard and soft corals, marine plants and colorful fish.
Little Dix Bay
This is a great spot for beginner snorkelers as the waters are primarily calm and exceptionally clear, making it easy to navigate and find an assortment of colorful fish.
Mountain Truck Bay
This is another great introductory spot for snorkeling, as the sandy beach boasts a gentle slope with spectacular coral and tropical fish close to shore. Check out the video above for a firsthand look at the beach.
Mountain Point
A snorkeler’s delight, Mountain Point provides underwater explorers with a number of caves, grottoes, huge rock formations and magnificent coral heads atop a white sandy-beach bottom. Snorkelers will find a 20 to 70-foot slope cutting through canyons, and they’ll see a number of unique underwater species like bobbing garden eels, stingrays, occasional eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, parrot fish, butterfly fish, damsels and grunts. Check out the video above for an underwater look at Mountain Point snorkeling.
Virgin Gorda is a beautiful place for snorkeling, and it offers endless opportunities for underwater fun and adventure. Don’t forget: you can always snorkel at your private Sunset Watch Villa beach and enjoy the breathtaking coral just steps from the shore.
SCUBA Diving Hot Spots in Virgin Gorda
by Ray Larson
Half of Virgin Gorda’s beauty is found underwater, and Sunset Watch Villa visitors have ample opportunities to explore the ocean’s mystique with a variety of SCUBA diving areas. Our friends at Dive BVI offer a number of day trips for SCUBA throughout the BVIs, and they have multiple locations right here in Virgin Gorda where beginners and experts alike can enjoy the water. So read on for the SCUBA diving hot spots in Virgin Gorda.
SCUBA Diving in Virgin Gorda
Dive BVI has a number of unique areas for divers to explore. Even if you’ve never been SCUBA diving before, you can earn your certification directly from Dive BVI – learn more about program options. Once you’re certified, you can start enjoying the depths of the pristine waters off Virgin Gorda’s shoreline; here are some of Dive BVIs best Virgin Gorda adventures:
The Aquarium – Novice (35 ft.): Launching straight from Dive BVI’s Yacht Harbor headquarters, this novice dive offers similar surroundings to The Baths with granite boulders lining the sandy bottom – some of the boulders rise to 10 ft. below the surface. This area is known to attract some of the largest schools of reef fish on the island. You’ll see grunts, snappers, chub and angelfish. Divers should also be on the lookout for lobsters, eels, stingrays and nurse sharks.
Mountain Point – Novice (70 ft.): The launch site is northeast of Mahoe and Mango Bays along the shoreline of Virgin Gorda Peak, offering a sloping reef and a number of shallow grottos, archways and undercut coral heads divers can swim through. The area is frequently visited by eagle rays and stingrays. It’s walkable and kayakable from Sunset Watch Villa as well.
The Invisibles – Advanced (60 ft.): An abundance of sponge and soft corals give this reef a breathtaking color. The presence of a pinnacle peak rising to within 4 ft. of the surface makes this dive truly unforgettable. The top of the peak is also known to attract large schools of permit fish.
Day Trips- Dive BVI offers a number of day trips that we always recommend to Sunset Watch Villa visitors. These trips include private boat charters, BVI Safaris and Island Hopper adventures to Cooper Island and Anegada, in addition to a delicious Caribbean-inspired lunch.
Sunset Watch Villa– Don’t forget that you can SCUBA directly outside your villa at Sunset Watch. A reef starts 4 ft. from the shoreline, and Dive BVI offers SCUBA gear rentals for less than $40 per day.
Virgin Gorda’s exquisite scenery is matched only by the spectacular sights beneath the immaculate waters. From the delights of traveling fish to the unforgettable colors of coral, you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime during your SCUBA adventures in Virgin Gorda.
5 Best Beaches in Virgin Gorda
”You need only to walk down the steps from the villa and you’re on a secluded beach. No people, no distractions.” - Adelfa Gonzalez, Miami, FL
by Ray Larson
Virgin Gorda is full of beautiful beaches, crystal waters and ample opportunities for adventure. While staying at Sunset Watch Villa you’ll have a variety of nearby beaches to explore, and we’ve determined the five can’t-miss best beaches in Virgin Gorda, all of which offer a variety of activities from world-class snorkeling to spectacular parasailing.
Savannah Bay
South of Sunset Watch Villa, Savannah Bay is a long strand of powder white sand with gorgeous open-ocean views and healthy coral – here’s a video of the beautiful beach. This beach is ideal for novice snorkelers and those looking to relax in the warm waters. You can walk out more than 50 feet in waist-deep water.
Mountain Trunk Beach
Even closer to Sunset Watch Villa, Mountain Trunk Beach provides breathtaking snorkeling opportunities with coral on each side of the beach. You’ll be surrounded by lush tropical forests while digging your toes in the white sand. This beach also has several beach huts for shade and lounge chairs so you can rest and relax after a soothing swim.
Devil’s Bay
Known for its enormous granite rocks, Devil’s Bay takes beachgoers on an adventure through The Baths – the well-known and historic landmark on Virgin Gorda. Once you arrive at Devil’s Bay, you’re greeted by pristine waters and soft white sand on the secluded and scenic beach with gentle surf. It’s ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and it’s a great place for kids.
Long Bay Beach
Just north of Sunset Watch Villa, Long Bay Beach features a mile-long stretch of talcum-powder-like sand and luxurious ocean views. This is one of the most secluded beaches on the island so make sure to pack a cooler because you won’t want to leave.
Nail Bay Beach
Surrounded by coconut palms and tropical foliage, Nail Bay Beach is exceptionally close to Sunset Watch Villa. The Nail Bay Resort is another place to indulge in fun daily beach activities such as scuba diving, sail boating and parasailing. This beach is also known for its majestic coral caverns where experienced snorkelers can interact with some of the island’s most beautiful underwater sights.
Secluded Nail Bay Beach at Sunset Watch Villa.
These beaches will inspire countless daydreams leading up to your memorable Sunset Watch Villa vacation. In addition to these spectacular beaches, don’t forget about your own private beach steps away from your island home at Sunset Watch Villa.
Top 10 Virgin Gorda “Must Do’s”
“Virgin Gorda is heaven on earth.” - Jim Rosenthal, Minneapolis, MN
by Ray Larson
Sunset Watch Villa provides pristine views, a private pool and luxurious amenities all nestled in a lush Caribbean garden that is filled with fruit trees and stone pathways leading to the secluded Nail Bay Beach. In addition to the private Sunset Watch Villa, the island of Virgin Gorda offers travelers an abundance of fun and relaxing attractions. Here are the top ten adventures you need to experience during your memorable British Virgin Island getaway. Without further ado, here’s your list of Virgin Gorda “must do’s”:
The ruins are fascinating. The views are breathtaking at Virgin Gorda’s Copper Mine Ruins.
The Baths and Devil’s Bay Trail: Exploring The Baths is a can’t-miss Virgin Gorda experience. Comprised of truly majestic rock formations showcasing Virgin Gorda’s volcanic origins, The Baths have been a BVI National Park since 1990. The Devil’s Bay Trail takes visitors from the main beach at the top of The Baths to Devil’s Bay Beach by navigating through a series of boulders – check out a video here. After reaching Devil’s Bay Beach you’re rewarded with prime swimming and snorkeling.
2. Copper Mine: Recently named a BVI National Park, the Copper Mine is an outstanding place to explore and an impressive landmark on the southeastern tip of Virgin Gorda. Constructed in 1837, the Copper Mine features the visible ruins of a smoke stack, engine house and mine shafts scattered throughout the grounds.
3. Gorda Peak: Standing 1,370 ft. above sea level, the top of the Gorda Peak boasts a stunning panoramic view of the BVIs. Lawrence Rockefeller donated the 265-acre dry forest surrounding the peak, which has become home to reptiles, amphibians and birds. It is truly one of the most biologically diverse areas in Virgin Gorda.
4. Fishing excursions: For a thrilling deep-sea fishing adventure in Virgin Gorda, look no further than Big Ting Fishing and Island Excursions. Big Ting offers a 42-foot vessel with a professional crew, or the Princess 1 Fishing Charters with two boats ready for a full or half day of exciting deep-sea fishing. You can reach Princess 1 Fishing Charters at (284) 495-7480.
5. Little Fort National Park: Just south of Yacht Harbor, the Little Fort National Park is the former site of a Spanish Fortress and still features ruins of structures called the Powder House. The 36-acre park contains a wildlife sanctuary and beautiful flora and fauna unique to the BVIs.
6. Mahoe Bay Beach: South of Sunset Watch Villa, this quiet and remote beach offers vivid blue water, nearby restaurants and two picturesque reefs that are perfect for snorkeling. This is a great spot to relax and explore the tropical landscape for the day.
7. Spanish Town: One of the most beautiful villages throughout the BVIs, Spanish Town sprawls along a gentle slope and offers a number of attractive homes, shops, churches and schools. This is a great place for an afternoon walk and to get a taste of the local culture in Virgin Gorda.
8. Spring Bay National Park: Just half a mile from The Baths, Spring Bay National Park features a similar landscape with large boulders and a little less traffic. The exquisite white sand beach and captivating landscape make for a spectacular destination for day full of relaxation and water activities like swimming and snorkeling.
9. Get a massage: Melt into relaxation with helping hands from The Spa at Leverick Bay or Sense, A Rosewood Spa at Little Dix Bay. Both spas offer transcendent treatments with a wide variety of choices – The Spa at Leverick Bay will even make house calls directly to Sunset Watch Villa.
10. North Sound: Hike, walk and explore the tiny and colorful village at North Sound of Virgin Gorda. Hillside homes, manicured gardens and rum shacks are scattered throughout the small village, making for a peaceful and scenic walk on a quiet afternoon.
Enhance your Sunset Watch Villa vacation by experiencing everything the beautiful island of Virgin Gorda has to offer. These are just ten of our favorite things to do on the picturesque island, and you’re sure to find something that you and your family will love right here on Virgin Gorda.
