Best Hidden Gem Sailing Locations in the BVI
Most sailing research into the BVI will lead you to The Baths, Jost Van Dyke, Norman Island, and Cooper Island. But ask local captains and seasoned sailors where the real magic happens, and you’ll hear a different story.
Many of these stories you won’t hear unless you are onboard with them but our captains were willing to share a few of their favorite hidden sailing locations in the BVI that don’t ever make the brochures. They are quiet coves, uncrowded anchorages, underrated bays, and off-the-beaten-path beaches where you can experience the Caribbean the way sailors dream about it: peaceful, authentic, and uncrowded.
The Best BVI Sailing Experiences Happen Off the Beaten Path
One thing all our captains agreed on is that some of the best sailing destinations in the British Virgin Islands are the ones you will not find on the average tourist itinerary.
From an outside perspective, it may look like there are no virgin lands left to explore in the BVI. As Captain Jalil put it, “there are very few places without people.”
But look a little closer, and you might find some of the best BVI hidden gems in plain sight!
The beauty of a BVI sailing vacation is that every anchorage, bay, and island has its own personality. While famous spots are famous for a reason, some of the most memorable moments happen when you venture just a little farther beyond the crowds. Lets dive into a few of those top BVI destinations for sailors!
Lee Bay on Great Camanoe
First thing to look for when searching out hidden gem sailing locations in the BVI?
“No charter company advertises or tells people to go there,” Captain Corey says.
That’s why he loves Lee Bay. At Lee Bay, you can anchor right up near the beach in shallow water, and there is a good chance you will have the entire anchorage to yourself. Unlike many popular BVI sailing destinations packed with charter boats, Lee Bay still feels untouched.
“You are almost always going to be there by yourself,” Captain Corey says.
Just south of the bay is excellent snorkeling (look for the two rocks sticking out of the water and head that way!). Adventurous swimmers can climb the rocks and jump into the crystal-clear Caribbean water.
For sailors looking for secluded anchorages in the British Virgin Islands, Lee Bay delivers the kind of peaceful experience that is becoming harder to find.
White Bay on Peter Island
When sailors do find those beautiful hidden gems in the BVI, they tend to protect them carefully. Captain Andy and First Mate Julie laughed when asked about their hidden gems.
“We don’t want to share because their locations are so secret,” they admitted. However, if you take a sailing course with them, they provide the caveat that then, “we love taking people to hidden coves and bays.”
They explained that many visitors stick to the same islands and anchorages over and over again, but the BVI offers so much more if you are willing to go beyond the standard itinerary.
One of their favorite underrated spots is White Bay on Peter Island.
“It has that feel of an exclusive, private beach,” they say.
The recent addition of mooring balls has made it more accessible for sailors, but it still feels uncrowded compared to many of the more famous beaches in the BVI. The water is exceptionally clear, and the anchorage is nicely sheltered along the shoreline.
On the right day, it can feel like your own private Caribbean beach.
Monkey Point
Some secret sailing locations in the BVI are less about the location and more about the timing. That’s how First Mate Claire feels about Monkey Point, one of the most loved snorkeling destinations in the BVI.
Claire describes it as one of her favorite places, though she warns that getting a mooring ball can be difficult.
“It’s only a day spot,” she explains.
That challenge is exactly why many sailors still consider it a hidden gem. Those who arrive early are rewarded with fantastic snorkeling, turquoise water, and one of the most scenic stops in the British Virgin Islands.
If Monkey Point is on your sailing itinerary, plan ahead and arrive early in the day for the best chance at securing a mooring.
Trellis Bay
While many sailors rush past Trellis Bay on their way to other islands from the airport, Captain Jalil and First Mate Claire say this is a mistake.
“Trellis Bay is underrated for the BVI,” says Claire.
The bay may not be known for swimming, but it has a completely different charm that keeps sailors returning.
Captain Jalil points out one major advantage: “Mooring balls are $40 a night and usually available. I’ve never once not gotten a ball in Trellis Bay except during a full moon party.”
Compared to some of the crowded anchorages throughout the islands, having reliable mooring availability can be a huge benefit during peak sailing season.
The real magic of Trellis Bay is its personality.
Claire describes how a local artisan’s son often comes around by dinghy selling fresh baked bread, produce, and t-shirts featuring his father’s artwork.
“No one has that t-shirt unless you went there,” Jalil says. “We always have multiple guests buying t-shirts and we always come away with food!”
Claire also recommends stopping at the Loose Mongoose restaurant nearby, which offers a similar atmosphere and menu quality as many higher-end BVI restaurants but often at lower prices and with far fewer crowds during the week.
For travelers flying in or out of Tortola, Trellis Bay is also convenient because you can easily walk to the airport from the bay.
Ready to Discover the Hidden Gems of the BVI?
While famous spots in the BVI are famous for a reason, some of the most memorable moments happen when you venture just a little farther beyond the crowds.
Whether it is anchoring alone at Lee Bay, snorkeling at Monkey Point, relaxing on White Bay’s crystal-clear shoreline, or enjoying fresh baked bread in Trellis Bay, the hidden gems of the BVI are what turn a sailing trip into an unforgettable adventure.
The best way to experience the hidden side of the British Virgin Islands is with experienced captains and American Sailing instructors who know where to go beyond the standard tourist stops.
At Go Sail Virgin Islands, our captains help guests explore both the iconic destinations and the lesser-known anchorages that make sailing the BVI so special.