Did you know that Marina Cay, a tiny 8-acre private island in the British Virgin Islands, inspired a bestselling memoir and Hollywood film starring Sidney Poitier? This enchanting tropical haven has captivated visitors for decades with its rich history, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back Caribbean charm. Once the cherished home of newlyweds Robb and Rodie White in the late 1930s, their story became the basis for “Our Virgin Island,” later adapted to the silver screen. Today, this resilient gem has been reborn as Marina Cay Bar & Grill after Hurricane Irma’s devastation in 2017, offering travelers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and authentic island experiences.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Marina Cay is located just east of Beef Island (where Tortola’s airport is situated) in the British Virgin Islands. The island is accessible only by boat, making your arrival part of the adventure. Most visitors reach this tropical paradise through one of these options:
- Private ferry from Scrub Island Resort (runs regularly throughout the day)
- Charter boat or water taxi from Tortola
- Your own vessel if you’re enjoying a sailing vacation
- As part of an organized island-hopping tour
The closest international airport is Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, connected to Tortola by a small bridge. From the US mainland, you’ll typically connect through San Juan, Puerto Rico, or St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands.
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Best Time to Visit Marina Cay
The British Virgin Islands enjoy a tropical climate year-round, but certain seasons offer better conditions for visiting Marina Cay:
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowds | Recommendation |
| Peak Season | December-April | 25-28°C (77-82°F), low rainfall | High | Ideal but book early |
| Shoulder Season | May-June, November | 26-30°C (79-86°F), moderate rainfall | Moderate | Good value |
| Low Season | July-October | 28-32°C (82-90°F), high rainfall | Low | Avoid (hurricane season) |
Hurricane Season Warning: The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, with peak activity between August and October. We strongly recommend avoiding travel to Marina Cay during these months, as weather disruptions can significantly impact your trip.
Getting Around Locally
Marina Cay is a tiny island that you can easily explore on foot in less than an hour. The island’s compact size is part of its charm, with everything within a short walking distance. For exploring nearby islands and attractions:
Water Transportation
- Water taxis connect Marina Cay to Tortola and other nearby islands
- Private boat charters available for customized island hopping
- Scrub Island Resort ferry provides regular service
- Mooring balls available for those with their own vessels
Nearby Exploration
- Scrub Island is just a short boat ride away
- Trellis Bay on Beef Island is easily accessible
- Day trips to Virgin Gorda and The Baths are popular
- Guided boat tours available to multiple islands
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Where to Stay
Marina Cay itself doesn’t offer overnight accommodations since Hurricane Irma, but several excellent options are available nearby:
Scrub Island Resort
This luxury Autograph Collection resort sits on a private island just minutes from Marina Cay. Enjoy upscale accommodations with stunning views, multiple restaurants, a spa, and a marina.
Price range: $$$-$$$$
Trellis Bay Accommodations
On nearby Beef Island, find charming guesthouses and vacation rentals with easy access to Marina Cay via water taxi. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic local experiences.
Price range: $$-$$$
Tortola Hotels
Stay in Road Town or other Tortola locations for more accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to upscale resorts, all with day trip access to Marina Cay.
Price range: $-$$$$
Insider Tip: For a truly unique experience, consider chartering a yacht and anchoring near Marina Cay. This “floating accommodation” lets you wake up to breathtaking views and provides ultimate flexibility for island exploration.
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Dining & Local Cuisine
The culinary scene at Marina Cay centers around the recently reimagined Marina Cay Bar & Grill, which has quickly become a must-visit dining destination in the BVI:
Marina Cay Bar & Grill
This open-air restaurant offers breathtaking views of Tortola and neighboring islands while serving up delicious Caribbean-inspired cuisine. The menu features fresh seafood, tropical flavors, and signature dishes that celebrate local ingredients.
Signature Dishes
- Jerk Chicken with mango salsa
- Fresh-caught Mahi Mahi
- Caribbean Lobster (seasonal)
- Baby Back Ribs with island spices
Must-Try Drinks
- The famous Painkiller cocktail
- Marina Cay Welcome Punch
- Crazy Spiced Margarita
- Local BVI beers
Restaurant Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Bar Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Happy Hour: Daily from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
For those exploring nearby islands, Scrub Island Resort offers additional dining options including Donovan’s Reef (casual beachfront dining) and Cardamom & Co. (upscale Caribbean cuisine).
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Despite its small size, Marina Cay offers several attractions and serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding British Virgin Islands:
On Marina Cay
- Historic Viewpoint: Visit the hilltop where Robb and Rodie White built their home, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands.
- Beach Relaxation: Enjoy the small but pristine beach with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.
- Sunday Beach Party: Join the weekly beach party (1 PM – 5 PM) featuring local DJs, tropical cocktails, and island vibes.
- Special Events: Check the calendar for Lobster Festival and Burger Bash events at Marina Cay Bar & Grill.
Nearby Attractions
- Scrub Island: Explore this luxury resort island with upscale amenities just minutes away.
- Trellis Bay: Visit this artistic community on Beef Island, famous for its Full Moon Parties and local crafts.
- The Baths: Take a day trip to Virgin Gorda to explore these iconic granite boulders forming spectacular grottos.
- Monkey Point: Discover exceptional snorkeling at this protected cove on Guana Island.
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Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
The waters surrounding Marina Cay offer exceptional opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities:
Snorkeling & Diving
Marina Cay boasts excellent snorkeling right off its shores. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. The northern side of the island along Grand Camanoe offers particularly good snorkeling spots.
For scuba enthusiasts, the surrounding waters feature diverse dive sites suitable for all experience levels.
eFoiling & Watersports
Try the exciting sport of eFoiling with Up ‘n’ Under Watersports at Marina Cay. These electric-powered hydrofoil boards let you glide above the water for a thrilling experience.
Additional watersport options include kayaking, paddleboarding, and AquaDarts for adventurous visitors.
Sailing & Boating
The British Virgin Islands are a sailor’s paradise, and Marina Cay offers mooring balls for visiting vessels. Charter a boat for the day or join a sailing excursion to explore the archipelago’s hidden coves and pristine beaches.
Fishing charters are also available for those looking to catch mahi-mahi, wahoo, or tuna.
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Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
While Marina Cay and the British Virgin Islands are generally safe and welcoming, it’s important to observe certain guidelines:
Safety Tips
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen generously; the Caribbean sun is intense
- Stay hydrated, especially when enjoying alcoholic beverages
- Be cautious when swimming in unfamiliar waters
- Monitor weather forecasts during hurricane season (June-November)
- Secure valuables and don’t leave belongings unattended on beaches
Etiquette & Customs
- Greet locals with a friendly “Good morning/afternoon/evening”
- Casual attire is acceptable, but cover swimwear when dining
- Tipping is customary (15-20% for good service)
- Ask permission before taking photos of locals
- Respect marine environments and wildlife
Environmental Responsibility: The British Virgin Islands are working hard to preserve their natural beauty. Do your part by avoiding single-use plastics, using reef-safe sunscreen, and never touching or standing on coral reefs.
Practical Travel Tips
Currency & Payments
The US Dollar is the official currency in the British Virgin Islands. Credit cards are widely accepted at Marina Cay Bar & Grill and nearby establishments, but it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors and water taxis.
Communication
Mobile coverage is generally good on Marina Cay. Most US carriers offer international roaming in the BVI, though fees can be high. Wi-Fi is available at Marina Cay Bar & Grill and nearby resorts.
What to Pack
Essentials include reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, lightweight clothing, swimwear, and a waterproof phone case or bag. Don’t forget any necessary medications, as pharmacies are limited on smaller islands.
Do I need a passport to visit Marina Cay?
Yes, US citizens need a valid passport to enter the British Virgin Islands. No visa is required for stays under 30 days, but proof of onward travel may be requested.
Can I visit Marina Cay as a day trip?
Absolutely! Marina Cay is perfect for a day trip from Tortola, Virgin Gorda, or other nearby islands. The Scrub Island Resort ferry provides regular service, or you can arrange a water taxi or boat charter.
Are reservations needed for Marina Cay Bar & Grill?
Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended during peak season (December-April) and for special events. Call +1.284.340.8224 or message via WhatsApp to secure your table.
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Your Marina Cay Paradise Awaits
Marina Cay may be small in size, but it delivers an authentic Caribbean experience that captures the essence of the British Virgin Islands. From its fascinating history as the home of Robb and Rodie White to its current incarnation as a beloved day-trip destination, this resilient island continues to charm visitors with its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere.
Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, savoring fresh seafood at Marina Cay Bar & Grill, trying the exciting sport of eFoiling, or simply relaxing on the beach with a Painkiller cocktail in hand, Marina Cay offers a perfect slice of paradise. Its convenient location makes it an ideal addition to any British Virgin Islands itinerary, whether you’re staying nearby or just visiting for the day.
As the sun sets over the Caribbean Sea, painting the sky in brilliant hues of orange and pink, you’ll understand why this tiny island has captured hearts for generations. Marina Cay isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that embodies the magic of the British Virgin Islands.
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The above is subject to change.
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