Gypset Travel ~ Surfing in The British Virgin Islands

Last week I was enjoying a vacation in the Virgin Islands. There are so many things to love about the Virgin Islands, including the surfing. I know– when thinking about a great surf vacation, you don’t typically think of the Virgin Islands. However, the British Virgin Islands are the perfect place to get your board wet, especially on gorgeous Tortola.

Although the surf is not always consistent in the BVI’s, if you time it right you can get some great rides! During the winter months, the north swells bring solid waves to Tortola’s North Shore. You can get lucky in September and October, but the best months are November through April. One thing you will notice right off the bat is that you won’t have to battle any crowds while trying to catch waves in the BVIs–bliss! Here are a few of the best spots to catch waves in the British Virgin Islands:

• Sandy Cay— Sandy Cay is an uninhabited island located between Tortola and Jost Van Dyke. This is primarily a long board surf spot, with great rights and waist to overhead waves, depending on the conditions.
• Bomba’s— Bomba’s is located in Apple Bay on the island of Tortola. This is a great local surfing spot where you will find waist to overhead waves. It’s a reef break (located right in front of Bomba’s Shack), and you can get great rights or lefts. There is a lesser surfed right if you paddle over to the other side of the channel. Bomba’s is the best wave you will find on Tortola. Bring either your long or short board for these waves.
• West End (Anegada)— Like Sandy Cay, this break is located on an uninhabited island (even more remote than Sandy Cay!). This spot is for more advanced surfers, offering chest to head high waves (with some overhead sets). It’s a reef break that is pretty exposed, so not for novice surfers.
• Cane Garden Bay (Tortola)— You will find more of a crowd at this surf sport–surfing AND hanging out. It’s a great social scene and a great point break. This is also a break for more experienced surfers. When it goes off, you can ride for 300 yards. Bring your big gun when the surf allows–it can get up to 15 ft here!
• Josiah’s Bay (Tortola)— This is a great spot for beginners. It’s not too crowded, so you have plenty of room to practice! It’s also great for long boarding. Josiah’s Bay is the only beach break in the BVIs and provides great lefts and rights. Make sure you check the conditions before you go, because there is a VERY dangerous riptide in rough conditions. There are a couple of beach bars at this spot too, so you can grab a stiff drink after a long day of surfing! 🙂

I had the best time in the BVI’s this past week and can’t wait to get back in the coming months!