Just a short boat ride from Anegada, Virgin Gorda offers a day filled with discovery beyond the typical Caribbean experience. The island’s rough limestone terrain and secluded coastline reveal hidden beaches where turquoise waters push gently against pink sand, challenging you to slow down and take it in. This trip invites hikers of all levels to follow clear paths weaving through dry forests and rocky ridges, leading to caves carved by restless waves and wind.

Starting with a ferry ride, plan for roughly 1 to 1.5 hours crossing the calm but sometimes unpredictable Sir Francis Drake Channel. Once on Virgin Gorda, set out on the trail from Little Dix Bay. The hike to the Baths—a collection of giant granite boulders forming natural pools and grottos—covers about 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip with an elevation gain of approximately 200 feet (60 meters). The terrain transitions from sandy beach trails to rocky and uneven surfaces, demanding steady footing and moderate effort.

The Baths’ caves feel alive, water daring you to explore deeper, while light filters through cracks, painting patterns on wet rock walls. Beyond this, nearby Devil’s Bay offers quieter sands protected from the wind, ideal for a restorative swim or picnic lunch. Weather patterns shift softly here; mornings often greet you with cooler ocean breezes that energize the hike, while afternoons bring stronger sun exposure best handled with planned hydration and sun protection.

Keep in mind that footwear with solid grip and support is essential to tackle the slippery rock surfaces and loose pebbles leading into the caves. Start early in the day to avoid the heat and enjoy the subtle wildlife—lizards skittering underbrush and seabirds weaving skyward against the rugged cliffs.

For those seeking more than a beach day, this trip balances exposure to nature’s raw edges with accessible paths and clear landmark directions. Pack a lightweight daypack with water, snacks, and a waterproof camera; phones struggle in caves and shade. Respect the island’s fierce geography—it commands attention but rewards with unforgettable sights and a sense of connection to a landscape formed millions of years ago.

Virgin Gorda’s hidden beaches and caves represent an adventure that doesn’t demand extreme skill, but asks for respect and preparation. Arrive ready to move, to witness, and to respond to an environment alive with possibility. Your day trip from Anegada will not just be a visit, but an engagement with a place fiercely itself.