Iconic Beach Bars of The Virgin Islands

Ahoy! And welcome aboard! Does thinking about the Virgin Islands instantly make your mouth water for a Painkiller or a Bushwacker? A Rum Punch, perhaps, or a Dark ‘N’ Stormy? Well, you’re not alone. Iconic beach bars abound on the islands and each has its own unique atmosphere and view as well as interesting food options to complement the experience. Here are a few popular watering holes of the Virgin Islands. (If you’re a regular visitor, put a checkmark by the ones you’ve frequented; then make plans to add a few more to your “completed” list!)

Let’s start with the British Virgin Islands.

Did you know that the BVI has more beach bars per square mile than anywhere else in the Caribbean? That’s quite a statistic, and while some beach bars are little more than weathered shacks, others are rather upscale with pretty decor and chef-inspired cuisine. Whatever suits your fancy, you’re sure to find a watering hole that meets your approval.

Coco Loco’s best beach bar on White Bay!!

• Our Crews Favorite!! – CoCo LoCo – Located in White Bay, Jost Van Dyke. The SDB is not the only beach bar at White Bay, this picturesque bay is lined with several beach bars and CoCoLoco’s is by far our crew’s favorite hang out and you may find them here on their days off.
  Created in 2008 by Uncle Wendall Callwood, who was born and raised on JVD and he built this bar himself. Guests feel at home as soon as they walk in and are greeted with a big hug from Mama Loy. CoCo’s is well known for Uncle Wendall’s Rum Punch, The Coco Loco Wacker and their tasty Lime in ‘d Coconut, but if you don’t want to enjoy one of their concoctions Mama Loy will welcome you behind the bar to make your and your groups own cocktails. Their lunch specialties are: Lobster Taco’s, Chicken Roti (best in the Caribbean), Fish Taco’s, Homemade Freshly Breaded Chicken Fingers and Conch Fritters.

• The Soggy Dollar – Also located in White Bay, Jost van Dyke, this iconic (and original) swim-up bar has been up and running since the 1970s. Situated on one of the most beautiful coves in the Virgin Islands, the Soggy Dollar has continued to attract common tourists and celebrities alike, making it a 2024, 2023, 2021, 2020 and 2019 USA Today Readers’ Choice Award recipient. 

For all those trivia players out there, you might be interested to know that this popular beach bar is where the Painkiller was invented and perfected. Of course, what’s not to love about a mixture of premium dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple and orange juice, topped with freshly grated Grenadian nutmeg? It’s one of my favorite’s, too.    

Rebuilt after hurricanes Irma and Maria tore through the islands in September of 2017 and left only the concrete footprint, the Soggy Dollar still won’t win any awards for its aesthetic structure of turquoise-painted cinder blocks, but it’s highly rated for its party atmosphere, top-notch drinks, and that beach-front location that welcomes everyone to plop down in a comfy chair under the palms, sip on a frosty drink and idle the hours away. Though you’ll need a boat or charter company to get there (Stormy Pirates can assist you!), it’s an adventure you’ll talk about for years to come.

• The Willy T – Located on The Bright, a large bay on Norman Island, which sits opposite of Tortola, The Willy T is a former Baltic trading boat that now serves as a double-decker restaurant and bar that blends Caribbean and American themes into its various menus. Lunch is served from noon until 3pm and dinner runs from 6:30pm to 9pm. Offerings include Anegada Conch Fritters, Caribbean BBQ Chicken Wings, and their signature Honey Stung Chicken. Definitely leave room for a slice of Key Lime Pie! No matter what time of day, life is a lively party at the Willy T so be prepared to engage your wild side as dancing on tabletops and jumping from the top deck into the water are not discouraged.

• Hendo’s Hideout – Located in White Bay, Jost van Dyke, Hendo’s Hideout sits right next to The Soggy Dollar, but the two beach bars have distinctly different vibes. Open everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner with sushi on Thursday nights and bottomless mimosas for Sunday brunch, Hendo’s strives to provide friendly and efficient service in surroundings that are a bit more upscale from its neighbor. Seating is offered on an open-sided hardwood deck with rope balustrades as well as at the bar which is covered by a thatch roof, while solid wooden tables and chairs, rather than plastic ones, adorn the sandy surroundings.

Known for their signature “Delirious Donkey” cocktail, as well as great food and beautiful views, this iconic watering hole even takes reservations. Mouth-watering entrees like Grilled Lobster, Rum N Coke Pulled Pork and Portobello Panini are served for lunch, while Roasted Rack of Lamb and Pan Seared Salmon are favorites on the dinner menu. So, why not make a day of it and stop by both The Willy T and Hendo’s Hideout to round out your Jost experience?

• Tipsy by Ann – Located on a beautiful beach on the island of Anegada, this family-run establishment takes pride in treating guests like one of their own. Whether you’re stopping by for a refreshing cocktail or in search of mouthwatering cuisine, Tipsy by Ann has you covered. This casual beach bar gets high marks from its customers for its authentic Caribbean cuisine that features fresh seafood, locally-sourced tropical fruits and chef-prepared entrees like grilled lobster, jerk chicken and conch fritters. Rum rules supreme at this iconic bar with a wide selection of cocktails that combine expertly crafted local rum with tropical fruit flavors. Whether it’s a piña colada or their signature rum punch, the mixologists at Tipsy are sure to put a smile on your face and a little ease into your day.

Let’s Hop Over To St. John! 

While this little island doesn’t cover much square footage, it has an ample supply of beach bars that are as casual and unique as the numerous beaches surrounding this spit of sand. Many of the bars listed are near the ferry dock, so you can pop in as you arrive and again, right before you leave for home.

• The Beach Bar – Located right next door to the Rum Hut, this iconic gathering place is always running at full throttle. Two things distinguish this bar from all the others: 1) Two HD Webcams that stream live to YouTube and 2) a live music schedule that draws locals and tourists alike. The Beach Bar is open 7 days a week and has a menu that includes typical bar food as well as tuna bites, conch fritters with house-made chipotle aioli, crabmeat wontons as well as daily drink and food specials. If you’re looking for the social scene on the island, this beach bar should be on your list.

• High Tide – Also located next to the ferry dock in Wharfside Village, this Cruz Bay watering hole opens at 8am and closes at 9pm, serving breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner daily. Offering a great view of the harbor and spectacular sunsets, High Tide also serves up hearty breakfast entrees like biscuits & gravy, eggs benedict, and various omelets. At lunch, they switch it up to fried calamari and fish sandwiches, while chimichurri ribeyes and seared Ahi tuna are dinner fare. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, make sure you try their key lime or peanut butter pies! 

• Maho Crossroads – Located at the 5.5 Mile Marker of North Shore Road, across the street from Maho Bay, this little enclave is dubbed “the paddle-in Tiki Bar.” Take advantage of Maho’s half-moon beach and idle away the day watching turtles and barracuda swim by your feet. When you get hot and thirsty, head across the street to sample the bar’s signature drink: the CocoMaho! The recipe is secret, but no one ever complains about the taste. While imbibing your favorite drinks, take advantage of the food truck that operates out of an old VW Bus, named “A Step Further,” in memory of the famous VW Bus that traveled the country in the 60s during the hippie movement. 

• Skinny Legs – Located in Estate Emmaus, this long standing establishment is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 8pm. While sand and water are not directly on this beach bar’s doorstep, Coral Bay marina is only steps away. This casual gathering place got a permanent roof after the 2017 hurricanes tore through the island, but little else has changed over the years. The menu is simple yet delicious – burgers, fish sandwiches, and salads – but there isn’t a fryer, so you’ll get a bag of chips instead of fries with your meal. The bar has plenty of options but I recommend the rum drinks, especially their rum punch, which is always a heavy pour. Looking for the perfect place to head after a morning or afternoon in the sun? This is it as long as you’re okay with a sprinkling of sand on the floor, a stray cat or two begging for leftovers and roaming chickens crowing nearby. Wooden tables and plastic utensils are the norm and when you’re done eating, buy yourself a t-shirt from the  small shops next to the eating area. 

• The Windmill Bar – While not exactly a beach bar, this recent addition to St. John’s libation scene does overlook the aqua-colored waters of Caneel Bay and the sunsets are truly stunning. Located on Estate Susannaberg, the Windmill Bar is casual with outdoor seating, a nine-hole disc golf course and a campsite. Open for lunch and dinner, this popular watering hole is part of Neptune’s lookout, a recreational estate that includes the Susannaberg Windmill, established in 1780. Music, conversation and iconic views make this a must-see while on the island. Of special note: try their Buffalo Chicken Dip and indulge in BINGO night, held on Sundays from 4 to 6pm.

Let’s Head To St. Thomas!

This bustling island has no shortage of restaurants and bars, but here are a few “beachy” favorites that are worth checking out. If you plan to make a day (or night) of bar hopping, hire a taxi. The roads are busy and those switchbacks aren’t for anyone under the influence!

1. Another one of our Crew’s Favorites: Sun & Sea Bar & Grill located on the water at Point Pleasant Resort and an easy walk along the beach from Margaritaville. Chad and Anna, from the now closed Abi Beach Bar, started this restaurant in 2022 and wanted to bring the same beach bar vibe with even better food selections. Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Choose from Surf and Turf Tacos, Even on Sunday Chicken Sandwich (that is better than Chick-Fil-a, fresh Ceviches, locally caught fish specials and specialty cocktails. You may find many of our crew members behind the bar or serving tables here on the days they aren’t out on our boats. 

2. The Shack at Hull Bay – This hidden gem is considered one of the “best kept secrets” of the island, partly because it’s difficult to find! Located on Rt 37, you’ll probably have to ask a local for directions as it’s not a regular stop for tourists. Noted for its fresh catch specials (fish are literally caught that morning!) as well as its Presidente Burger Combo and daily specials, The Shack is open from 11am to 19pm Tuesday through Sunday. Not to be missed: the bar’s house-made hot sauce!

3. Duffy’s Love Shack – Here again, this bar isn’t “beachfront,” but water is close by and the atmosphere certainly is reminiscent of popular beach bars. Located in Red Hook Plaza, this parking-lot shack wins approval for its uniqueness, friendly atmosphere and quirky drink options, including a Voo Doo Shooter, a 64 oz. shareable Shark Tank, and the opportunity to sip your cocktail from a plastic alligator. Seeing as this place is one-of-a-kind, it’s not hard to believe that when it first opened (so long ago that there were only four bars in the area), Duffy’s Love Shack consisted of four employees and a disco ball! 

4. The Patio at Sunset Grille – Located on Secret Harbour Beach, this 58-seat Tiki Bar-style restaurant offers a fusion of Caribbean and Southwest flavors, tropical cocktails and amazing water views. Open from 8am to 10pm, this casual establishment offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Patio at Sunset Grille is a favorite stop for locals and tourists alike.

5.) Sudi’s Caribbean Bar and Grill – Located at Sapphire Ville just up the hill from Sapphire Beach. Owners, Greg and Natalie make you feel at home as they share drinks with the guests and socialize to keep the atmosphere hopping. You will find local musicians hosting “pop-up” jams any day of the week. The fish of the day is always fresh and caught that morning, or you can bring your own and they will cook it up for you and your table. 

Don’t Forget To Check Out Water Island

Water Island, where one more iconic beach bar awaits, lies between St. John and St. Thomas. Yes, it can be difficult to get there, but it’s worth the trouble. Rent a boat or book a charter from a company like Stormy Pirates to experience one more ultimate beachfront oasis.

• Dinghy’s – Established in 2013, Dinghy’s is nestled on the shores of Water Island where sun, fun, sand and cocktails collide. This laid-back, yet intimate watering hole offers great cuisine and an array of tropical libations. Chef Isla Bertrand will dazzle you with creations such as Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad, Tuna Poke Bowls, and fresh catch tacos. Stopping by this little gem will surely top off your vacation to the Virgin Islands with a sigh of satisfaction. 

End Notes: Hopefully, we’ve inspired you to check out some new beach bars on your next visit to the islands. As always, we hope you’ll share this post with your friends, and we encourage you to check out boat day options at Stormy Pirates Charters (bar hopping is actually on our menu of choices!) We promise to put the gang plank down and escort you in style.