This Caribbean Island You’ve Never Heard Of Has White-sand Beaches, Epic Scuba Diving, and a Stunning Luxury Resort

The Caribbean offers a diverse range of vacation experiences, catering to various interests and preferences. For those who seek a blend of diving excursions, vibrant urban landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Curacao is an excellent choice.

Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago present a contrast of experiences, with Trinidad’s lively nightlife and cultural scenes complementing Tobago’s serene beaches and rainforests.

The Cayman Islands resemble Southern Florida, offering outdoor activities like snorkeling and golf, along with upscale dining. The US Virgin Islands, with their main islands St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix, cater to both nature lovers and those who prefer commercial comforts.

Turks and Caicos, known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs, is perfect for those seeking relaxation and wellness retreats. For sailing enthusiasts, the British Virgin Islands are ideal, with opportunities to explore caves and bays. 

Scrub Island, a serene gem in the British Virgin Islands, is a haven of luxury and natural beauty. Known for its exclusive Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, this private island blends upscale accommodations with breathtaking Caribbean landscapes. It’s a unique destination offering relaxation, adventure, and culinary delights in a tropical paradise​.

Why is it called Scrub Island?

Scrub Island
Credits: Nicola Pulham / Shutterstock
Scrub Island

Scrub Island got its name from a legend related to pirates. It’s said that pirates used the island as a haven and dropped anchor in the area to scrub barnacles off their boats. This activity led to the island being named “Scrub.”

How do you get to Scrub Island from the U.S.?

BVI Airports Authority, British Virgin Islands
Credits: BVI Airports Authority, British Virgin Islands/Facebook
BVI Airports Authority, British Virgin Islands

To travel to Scrub Island from the U.S., you would typically book a flight to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on Tortola, which is part of the British Virgin Islands. Most flights to this destination connect through either San Juan, Puerto Rico, or St. Thomas.

From there, you can take a smaller, island-hopper plane to reach Tortola’s airport. Once at the airport, guests of Scrub Island Resort are met and chauffeured to a nearby dock.

From there a private ferry, operated by the resort, takes you on a brief, approximately 10-minute ride across the bay to Scrub Island itself. The ferry service runs hourly from Trellis Bay Dock to Scrub Island, ensuring a seamless connection to the resort​.

What is the best time to visit Scrub Island?

Scrub Island during summer
Credits: Scrub Island/Facebook
Scrub Island during summer

The best time to visit Scrub Island is during late spring to mid-summer. This period offers warm temperatures suitable for swimming in the Caribbean Sea. However, it’s important to note that the Caribbean hurricane season, which runs from June to November, can affect travel plans.

Specifically, the months from September to November are generally the least favorable due to higher chances of rain and hurricanes. Despite the potential for rain, many travelers still choose to visit during the fall.

March is also a popular time for visitors, owing to spring break and increasing temperatures. For those seeking a balance of warm weather and lower chances of precipitation, April through July are recommended, with April being particularly favorable.

What are the best things to do on Scrub Island?

Scrub Island, a luxurious destination in the British Virgin Islands, offers a range of activities for a memorable vacation. Here are some of the best things to do:

Water Sports and Beach Activities: With three beautiful beaches and an overwater trampoline, Scrub Island is perfect for relaxing and enjoying various water sports. Snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are popular, allowing guests to explore the island’s clear waters and marine life. 

Boating and Yacht Charters
Credits: Scrub Island/Facebook
Boating and Yacht Charters

Boating and Yacht Charters: The resort offers yacht charters for exploring the nearby islands. Guests can enjoy sailing to other islands in the BVI, such as Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke, making for perfect day trips.

Spa and Wellness: The Ixora Spa at Scrub Island Resort provides an array of treatments designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. From massages to facials, the spa experience is enhanced by stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

Fitness and Outdoor Activities: For those looking to stay active, the resort offers a fitness center and numerous hiking trails. These trails provide an opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty and offer breathtaking views.

Fitness and Outdoor Activities at Scrub Island
Credits: Scrub Island/Facebook
Fitness and Outdoor Activities at Scrub Island

Events and Cultural Activities: Scrub Island hosts various events, including the North Beach Festival, which celebrates Caribbean culture and cuisine. Yoga classes and guided history walks also provide insights into the island’s heritage and natural beauty.

Where are the best places to stay on Scrub Island?

Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina
Credits: Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina/Facebook
Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina

Scrub Island, a picturesque destination in the British Virgin Islands, offers luxurious accommodation options at the Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina. This resort is the primary place to stay on the island and caters to a variety of preferences and needs:

Guest Rooms and Suites: Ideal for couples or solo travelers, the guest rooms at Scrub Island Resort provide cozy elegance with private balconies, offering views of lush greenery or the Caribbean Sea. These rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities for comfort and convenience.

Suites: For those seeking more space, the resort’s suites offer separate living areas, perfect for families or groups. These suites boast panoramic ocean views and luxurious bathrooms, providing a more lavish stay.

Luxury Villas: For ultimate privacy and luxury, the resort’s hillside villas are an excellent choice. These villas feature multiple bedrooms, private pools, gourmet kitchens, and expansive outdoor living spaces, ideal for larger groups or those desiring a more exclusive experience.

Where are the best places to eat and drink on Scrub Island?

Dinner at Cardamom & Co.
Credits: Dinner at Cardamom & Co. /Facebook
Dinner at Cardamom & Co.

Scrub Island in the British Virgin Islands offers a delightful dining experience with several notable places to eat and drink:

Donovan’s Reef: This restaurant provides a casual dining atmosphere with stunning views. It’s known for serving a variety of dishes including seafood, local and international cuisine. The restaurant’s outdoor setting allows guests to enjoy their meal amidst the natural beauty of the island.

Cardamom & Co.: For a more upscale dining experience, Cardamom & Co. offers fine dining with a fusion of global and Caribbean flavors. The restaurant’s ambiance, combined with its exquisite menu and extensive wine list, makes for a memorable dining experience.

One Shoe Beach Bar: Located on North Beach, this bar is perfect for a relaxed and informal setting. It’s a great spot to enjoy a tropical drink while lounging on the beach.

Resort’s Coffee Bar: For those looking for a quick snack or a refreshing beverage, the resort’s coffee bar is an ideal spot. It offers a selection of coffees, teas, and light snacks.

Final Thoughts

Scrub Island epitomizes a perfect blend of luxury, tranquility, and natural beauty. With its exclusive Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, the island caters to those seeking an upscale retreat in a picturesque Caribbean setting.

From the sumptuous accommodation options to the diverse culinary experiences, and the abundance of water sports and relaxation activities, Scrub Island provides a unique and memorable experience.

Whether seeking a romantic getaway, an adventurous trip, or a peaceful retreat, Scrub Island is an idyllic destination that promises an unforgettable journey.