Smuggler's Cove

Is Smuggler's cove still the place to go in Tortola?

We are a group of 4 couples on the Getaway going in October and this place seemed really nice. But I've read also that restaurants are now closed since 2012.

Also, if it's really the place to go, how long is the ride back & forth to the ship?

Have you been to SC in the past? Patricia had her grill there and Nigel sold beers and rented snorkel gear but they were removed some time back. Bummer...:(

Not sure what you mean by "the place to go", but it is a stunning beach with very few people with nice views of Jost and other islands and also offers good snorkeling. Our favorite spot to pack a lunch and enjoy along with Long Bay, Beef Island. Last I knew there were just portapotties in the parking lot, no other facilities.

If taking a taxi from the dock it's a 25 - 30 min ride and about $24pp round trip. Because it's a bit more secluded you'll want to be assured the driver will return for you. The best option is to rent a Jeep and drive yourself. The road is pretty flat all the way there except for a small hill on Mt Zion and as you get on the unpaved road past the Long Bay Resort.

For the nicest beach on Tortola that's the ticket! ;)

For another nice beach with one beach bar, easier taxi and pick-up, good snorkeling and not too crowded brewers Bay is a good choice. Nicole's serves a great burger, has restrooms, and rents lounges and snorkel gear.

ANd of course Cane Garden bay has several beach bars and will be where most of your fellow passengers head to.

But Smuggler's is worth the effort to get there, just pack a cooler of food and drinks on the way. We like the French La Baguette deli in WIckham's Cay II - amazingly good imported foods, their turkey/provolone baguette is simply delicious -

http://www.labaguettebvi.com/

Thanks for these comments. Much appreciated! It will be our first time in Tortola...

We went to St-Thomas several times and loved Magen's Bay... We keep going there everytime, early in the morning before all fellow passenger arrives.

Yes Magens is nice when quieter. We rent a condo on Sapphire Beach on STT and find that more beautiful. But the most gorgeous beaches we've visited between the BVI and USVI are Lindqvist Beach on STT, and Smuggler's Cove on Tortola.

Both are stunning...