Captain’s Favorites: Best Restaurants in the BVI

When it comes to searching for the best restaurants in the BVI, you’ll find plenty of lists but very few come straight from the people who know these islands best: local sailing captains.

When you sail the British Virgin Islands, where you eat is often just as important as where you anchor. We asked our captains and crew to share their go-to restaurant picks across the islands. These are the places they recommend to students, revisit themselves, and quietly hope don’t get too popular.

CoCoMaya: Celebrate After A Long Sail

JT didn’t hesitate: “CocoMaya is always #1 with my students.”

Located right on the beach in Virgin Gorda, CocoMaya blends a laid-back Caribbean setting with a more elevated dining experience. Think tapas-style dishes with an Asian-Caribbean twist, paired with expertly crafted cocktails.

What makes it stand out:

• A social, upbeat atmosphere (often with a DJ spinning at sunset)
• Shareable plates that make it perfect for groups
• Some of the best cocktails you’ll find in the BVI

If you’re looking for a place that feels like a celebration after a day of sailing, this is it.

Tipsy Beach Bar: For A Daytime Sailing Break

For a completely different vibe, Captain Andy and First Mate Julie cruise straight to Anegada: “Tipsy’s during the day—there’s just so much to do.”

Why they love it:

• A rare activity-packed beach bar (cornhole, mini golf, a DJ and the only place they’ve seen outdoor billiards in the BVI)
• A pool and shaded bar area (a luxury in the BVI heat)

This is the kind of place where you plan to stay for an hour and end up spending the entire afternoon!

Marina Cay: Sail into Simplicity

Captain Jalil recommends Marina Cay for a reason that might surprise you: “The menu is simplified so you aren’t overwhelmed.”

In a destination where some menus can feel hit-or-miss, that simplicity is a strength.

What Jalil loves about it:

• A relaxed, scenic setting on a tiny private island
• A streamlined menu that focuses on doing the basics well
• A stress-free dining experience after a long day on the water

Jalil says it isn’t quite Michelin star but it’s definitely a gourmet treat!

Bitter End Yacht Club: A Holiday Must

If you’re looking for one of the best upscale restaurants in the BVI, Claire points to a standout: “The Bitter End Yacht Club during the holidays—one of the best meals I’ve ever had.”

This is where you go when you want to elevate the experience.

Claire says it feels:

• Refined: Boasting an upscale atmosphere compared to most BVI dining
• Special: They have seasonal and holiday menus that truly stand out
• Perfect for celebrations!

A final note: Make reservations. This isn’t a last-minute drop-in kind of place.

Plan Your Own BVI Food Tour

The beauty of sailing the BVI is that you don’t have to choose “the” best restaurant in the BVI to eat at.

You can:

• Sip cocktails at CocoMaya one night
• Spend the next day at Tipsy’s in Anegada
• Keep things simple at Marina Cay
• And finish with an upscale dinner at Bitter End Yacht Club

Give us a call to learn more about how Go Sail can help you plan your dream sailing vacation, complete with the best foodie stops and anchorages!