🍹 Captain Matt's BVI Beach Bar Top 5 List


Hi Reader,

No yacht charter in the BVI is complete without a stop (or five) at a legendary beach bar. Sometimes, there’s nothing better than liming away the afternoon, toes in the sand, drink in hand.

Whether you’re after the perfect Painkiller, a cheeseburger in paradise, or just a quiet spot to soak in the last light of the day, the BVI delivers.

After years of sailing these islands, I can confidently say these are my top 5 must-visit beach bars in the BVI.

5. B-Line Beach Bar - Little Jost Van Dyke

While most flock to the bustle of Great Harbour, I prefer a night at the Diamond Cay anchorage, where you’re just a short tender ride from this no-frills, hidden gem of a beach bar. After a hike to the Bubbly Pool, consider cooling off at B-Line.

🏝️ Low-key, off-the-beaten-path vibes—perfect for escaping the crowds
🔥 The Passion Confusion—their signature drink, a rum-soaked mix of Painkiller and rum punch flavors
🍗 BBQ jerk chicken & ribs—some of the best you’ll find in the islands
🎯 Cornhole and ring toss—laid-back fun with a view

Whether you’re stopping in for lunch and a swim or just dropping by for a pre-dinner cocktail, B-Line has a way of making you lose track of time.

4. Willy T - The Bight, Norman Island

Want to embrace your inner pirate? Then drop anchor and take the plunge—literally—at the infamous Willy T.

This floating bar is the stuff of legend, known for:
🏴‍☠️ Rowdy, anything-goes atmosphere—think wild nights and plenty of rum
🌊 The famous top-deck jump—a rite of passage for first-timers (and a great spectator sport)
🎭 Spontaneous costume parties & pirate shenanigans—because why not?
🍔 Solid pub-style lunch—burgers, fish tacos, and strong drinks to fuel the fun

Is it the place for a quiet sunset cocktail? Absolutely not. But if you’re looking for a guaranteed good time with salty characters and strong pours, Willy T delivers.

Just be warned—what happens at Willy T stays at Willy T. 😏🍹

3. Patricia's Beach Bar - Smuggler's Cove, Tortola

If you’re looking for a true hidden gem, Patricia’s Beach Bar at Smuggler’s Cove is as authentic as it gets.

Run by the ever-welcoming Patricia and her husband, Bushman, this rustic beach bar feels like stepping into a Caribbean postcard—a quiet stretch of sand, a cold beer in hand, and the sound of the waves as your background music.

🏝️ Laid-back, no-frills beach bar—perfect for a slow afternoon
🍗 Local flavors on the grill—jerk chicken, fresh seafood, and homemade hot sauce
🍹 Strong, simple drinks—and cheap beer too!
🏖️ Secluded setting—Smuggler’s Cove is off-limits for many bareboat charters, meaning fewer crowds

If you’re on a crewed charter, bug your skipper to bring you ashore—this spot is worth the detour. Grab a cold Carib, sink your toes into the sand, and let Patricia take care of the rest.

2. Soggy Dollar Bar - Jost Van Dyke

While it's no secret, you can’t make a BVI beach bar list without the Soggy Dollar Bar. It’s not just a bar—it’s an institution.

Famous for inventing the Painkiller, this legendary beach bar sits on the pristine sands of White Bay, Jost Van Dyke. There’s no dock, so the only way to get there? Drop anchor, jump in, and swim ashore. That’s how it got its name—by the time you reach the bar, your dollars are soaked.

🍹 Home of the original Painkiller—a perfect blend of dark rum, pineapple, orange, cream of coconut, and fresh nutmeg
🏝️ Pure barefoot beach vibes—white sand, turquoise water, hammocks, and good music
🍔 Solid food—but I actually think Hendo's Hideout next door does it better
🎶 Lively scene—always buzzing with charter guests and day-trippers

It’s bustling, it’s iconic, and it’s a must-stop on any BVI itinerary. Whether you’re ordering another round of Painkillers or just floating in the shallow waters of White Bay, this is BVI beach bar perfection.

1. Tipsy Beach Bar - Anegada

If I had to pick just one beach bar in the BVI, this is it. Tipsy Beach Bar on the north shore of Anegada has it all—stunning scenery, a great vibe, amazing drinks, and the perfect spot to wrap up a day of exploring.

It’s our go-to last stop before heading back to the yacht at Setting Point, and for good reason. The late afternoon hours here, with a cold drink in hand and the sun dropping low over the water, are simply unbeatable.

🏝️ One of the most beautiful beaches in the BVI—soft white sand and impossibly clear water
🎶 Great scene & music—sometimes a live DJ, sometimes just a killer island playlist
🍹 Strong drinks & local flavors—rum punch, frozen cocktails, and fresh seafood straight off the grill
Games, swings & lagoon swimming—play cornhole, roll a few puts, or just cool off in the calm waters
🤝 Locally owned & operated—Ann and her team welcome you like old friends

If you’re sailing to Anegada, you owe yourself a stop here. Stay for a drink, stay for a few hours—it’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger.


What's your favorite BVI Beach Bar? The BVI is packed with great beach bars, but these five stand out as my personal favorites. Each one has its own unique charm—whether it’s the rowdy, dive-in fun of Willy T, the hidden seclusion of Patricia's, or the unbeatable late afternoon vibes at Tipsy Beach Bar.

No matter your style—laid-back and local, party central, or something in between—there’s a perfect beach bar waiting for you.

That's it for today!

Have a great week!

- Matt Weidert

Plan Your Escape | About

113 Cherry St #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
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