Plan Your Trip to the Gorgeous British Virgin Islands
There are several colorful fish swimming about and coral to observe, according to travelers who describe ideal snorkeling conditions. Beachgoers adored the cove's serene ambiance and the clear blue ocean. Smuggler's Cove is open every day at no charge. Less than 10 miles west of Road Town, it is situated on the westernmost point of Tortola. You'll need to drive down a dirt road to get to the coastline, but previous visitors say the extra dirt on your tires will be worth it for the area's remote beauty.
The British Virgin Islands, which are made up of more than 50 distinct islands, is perfect for vacationers who prefer to venture off the beaten path and experience nature in a stunning tropical setting.Â
A picture-perfect paradise may be found in the British Virgin Islands. White sand beaches, great diving and snorkeling, turquoise water, picturesque hiking trails, plenty of boating options, and as much cheap rum as you can bear can all be found on these lovely islands.
Though not everything in this place is hammocks and pina coladas. If unending leisurely days (and late-night partying) aren’t your style, this corner of the globe has enough to keep you occupied, from festivals and diving to picturesque hiking trails and secret tidal pools.
Despite the fact that these islands are inherently stunning, I thought their inhabitants were what made them so special. There are numerous places in the globe where you may find beautiful beaches, inexpensive rum, and pleasant weather.
What actually made these islands memorable to me were the locals. I had a wonderful visit since everyone was so very helpful and kind. You can plan your vacation and make the most of your stay in this lovely paradise with the aid of this travel guide to the British Virgin Islands!
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10 Adventures & Sights to Visit in the British Virgin Islands
Table of Contents
1. The Baths, Virgin Gorda
Undoubtedly, the most memorable experience in the British Virgin Islands is wading through the vibrant coves and granite rocks of The Baths in Virgin Gorda. Both tourists and professionals concur that it is the BVI archipelago’s top attraction.
Massive, rounded, ash-gray rocks of various sizes rise from the clear waters of the sea, creating a type of maze that tourists must wade or swim through. Although The Baths’ tunnels and grottoes don’t need much effort to navigate, swim shoes or sneakers are recommended since the granite rocks can be slippery.Â
You’ll discover shallow, clear seas ideal for a little light snorkeling or peaceful sunbathing until you arrive at Devil’s Bay, the gorgeous beach clearing at the end of the cliffs. Visitors consistently compliment The Baths, describing the beach as “pristine” and the natural marvel as “wonderful.”
2. Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Cane Garden Bay on Tortola is where much of the action happens in the British Virgin Islands. At this beach in the northwest, you may swim in the clear water, hire a boat or a kayak, go snorkeling towards the beach’s western end, and eat delicious food.Â
Cane Garden Bay comes into view as the sun sets. There are several happy hours, live music may be heard from nearby hotels’ bars, including Quito’s Gazebo, Elm, and Myett’s, and chances are you’ll be dancing.
Cane Garden Bay is a destination that recent visitors gush about. They’re particularly impressed by how fast the region recovered after Hurricane Irma, pointing out a variety of open pubs and restaurants as well as the availability of jet ski rentals. Some claim that the beach’s laid-back vibe is disrupted when cruise passengers arrive.
3. Anegada Island
With over 300 wrecks to dive to and investigate, silvery sand beaches, and flocks (I’m not kidding, flocks) of flamingos, the stunning Anegada is a vacationer’s dream in the Caribbean. Anegada’s highest point is only 28 feet above sea level, it is also known as the “Drowned Island.”
There are a few privately owned inns, hotels, and villas on Anegada, although most visitors decide to sail there for the day from Tortola. The advantage of it is that you won’t have to look for a decent spot to sit on the beach, but the drawback is that you will have to look for the closest convenience shop (or bring your own snacks and water).
However, visitors advise that you go to the waterfront Lobster Trap, which specializes in fresh seafood if you become hungry. Due to its remote location and practically uninhabited beaches, many felt their time spent in the serene Anegada was the most soothing aspect of their vacation to the British Virgin Islands.
4. Smugglers Cove, Tortola
Smuggler’s Cove is the ideal beachfront for a covert beach meeting rather than a boisterous beach with tonnes of services, as its name implies.Â
Compared to other beaches in the BVIs, you’ll find these sands on Tortola’s western coast to be less crowded, with a restful ambiance and nothing but the horizon to enjoy. The sole beach bar/snack spot in the area is Nigel’s, which is a favorite of many tourists.
There are several colorful fish swimming about and coral to observe, according to travelers who describe ideal snorkeling conditions. Beachgoers adored the cove’s serene ambiance and the clear blue ocean. Smuggler’s Cove is open every day at no charge.
Less than 10 miles west of Road Town, it is situated on the westernmost point of Tortola. You’ll need to drive down a dirt road to get to the coastline, but previous visitors say the extra dirt on your tires will be worth it for the area’s remote beauty.
5. Brewers Bay, Tortola
Brewers Bay, which is located on the northwest coast of Tortola about north of Cane Garden Bay, is said to be one of the greatest snorkeling beaches in the British Virgin Islands.Â
For those who are only interested in sunbathing and swimming, the wide coral is excellent for snorkeling, and the beach is less crowded than the neighboring Cane Garden Bay. However, several visitors complained that the hygiene of the neighboring amenities was a little lacking.
Recent visitors praised the beach’s relaxed atmosphere, while snorkelers noted that the sea’s pristine clarity made it simple to observe the vibrant fish aggregating around the coral reefs. Additionally, visitors noted that it’s a perfect place to bring a book, unwind on a lounge chair, or go swimming in the warm water.
6. White Bay, Jost Van Dyke
White Bay is one of the greatest beaches on southern Jost Van Dyke for unwinding with a drink in hand. White Bay is usually bustling with activity since it is close to Great Harbor, practically all of the island’s bars, and a number of oceanfront houses and villas.Â
Passengers may swim or use a dinghy to go to land from several independent yachts and boats that dock in the sea. While the bars are more of a boisterous party atmosphere, the area’s real beach provides plenty of space for visitors to spread out their towels or set up their chairs to sunbathe.
Local eateries like Soggy Dollar or One Love Bar and Grill provide bar food and fairly cheap burgers, but you can also get very strong beverages there. Request a pain reliever, a combination of coconut, pineapple, and orange juice, drowned in black rum, and sprinkled with nutmeg: This beverage is said to have originated on Jost Van Dyke.
7. Sailing, Yachting & Boat Tours
Every lover of water sports should visit the British Virgin Islands. The islands are best visited from the sea since they are encircled by kilometers of miles of magnificent blue, transparent Caribbean Sea.Â
Others may just be interested in kayaking and paddleboarding across the calm water at shorter depths off the shore of their resort or closest beach. Many tourists opt to island-hop aboard a catamaran, sailboat, or yacht, whether for a day trip or a weeklong expedition.Â
The worry of organizing a holiday is eliminated with crewed charter boats since all you have to do is show up and enjoy a trip with a captain, crew, and chef on board. The option to enroll in day sails or specialty boat trips that provide snorkeling or party-focused itineraries is also available to tourists who may be based in one of the British Virgin Islands or anywhere else in the Caribbean.
8. Rhone National Marine Park, Anegada
One of the best shipwrecks to examine is the RMS Rhone. On October 19, 1867, the ship made her final voyage before sinking in a Category 3 hurricane close to Salt Island, the only park of its sort in the British Virgin Islands; the wreck site and its surrounding waters are now recognized as the Rhone National Marine Park.Â
It is a popular dive for intermediate to expert divers, while there are certain portions that beginners may also enjoy.Â
You can see the ship’s bow from the surface of the water, but you must dive 90 feet below the surface to explore the remainder of the substantially undamaged ship and swim with the moray eels, turtles, and octopus who currently reside there.
Even seasoned scuba professionals said it was the nicest dive they had ever done as they marveled at how much of the ship was still in condition.
9. Sage Mountain National Park, Tortola
Sage Mountain, which is 1,716 feet tall and overlooks Tortola, is visible from numerous locations in the British Virgin Islands archipelago.Â
Most people don’t consider visiting the BVI’s first national park to be a must-do activity, but if you’re looking for something different after seeing The Baths, lounging on Smuggler’s Cove, or snorkeling,,, on Anegada, it may be a delightful afternoon activity.
A large portion of the park is covered in rainforest, which is home to mahogany trees, elephant ear vines, and tropical wildlife.Â
However, at vantage spots along the road, there are some wonderful views of the other Virgin Islands, both British and U.S. Walking through the park, they added, was a good way to break up their beach-focused holiday, and the flora and wildlife were amazing.
Hikers should wear durable sneakers or boots they aren’t afraid to get muddy in, according to travelers, who advise setting aside at least two hours to finish one of the paths.
10. Sunny Caribbee Spice Shop & Art Gallery, Tortola
Visitors who want a flavor of their home islands can schedule a visit to the Sunny Caribbee Spice Shop & Art Gallery. Despite not being a major tourist destination, this charming small shop is a terrific place to get some authentic Caribbean spices, trinkets, and souvenirs.Â
Everything from sauces, jams, and candies to herbs, spices, and seasonings are available at the shop. Additionally available for purchase are sculptures, coffee, lotion, soap, Christmas decorations, and kitchenware.
Recent visitors praised the variety and enjoyed that they could try some of the spices, sauces, and iced teas offered at this store. The jerk seasoning and the specialized spicy sauces were frequently mentioned. The store is located in Road Town, Tortola, on Main Street. It is open from 9:30 am until 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.
Where Can You Stay?
Anam Cara Villa
In Little Bay, South Sound, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, there is a distinctive holiday residence called Anam Cara Villa. The Villa’s breathtaking private beachfront position is close to one of Virgin Gorda’s last remaining unspoiled areas and is within a BVI-recognized marine sanctuary.
The views from the decks and balconies range from spectacular panoramas of the open ocean with unending waves churning up on the offshore reef to looking right down at sea turtles, numerous tropical fish, and the odd manta ray swimming below.
Views of Gorda Peak National Park’s surrounding mountains and hills may be seen to your sides and from behind you. Your closest neighbors are the variety of aquatic life below, pelicans and other seabirds above, and cows peacefully grazing on distant hillsides.
A little less than 5,000 square feet of tropical modernist architecture make up Anam Cara Villa, which is divided between two structures for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Natural travertine stone has been used to tile all of the interior and exterior spaces.
You have the option of lounging by the pool or relaxing on the terrace while watching the marine and bird life of South Sound.
Cachette Cottage
The Cottage, a smaller home attached to La Cachette, is exclusively available for separate rental for two people. The main home has lots of solitude, a private entrance, and a private pool.
You get wonderful breezes and stunning sunrises if you’re on the island’s Atlantic side. A large studio with everything you may possibly need for your trip. A fully equipped kitchen, a private pool, an outdoor shower, and a terrace with a dining table and chaise couches are all included.
Additionally included is daily housekeeping. This spacious, light-filled area in the British Virgin Islands is ideal for relaxing. Couples looking for a romantic retreat can choose this little studio.
The rooms are roomy and contain a contemporary kitchen, and the private pool boasts beautiful views of the shore. Although there aren’t many activities close by, many visitors find the feeling of seclusion to be appealing.
Scrub Island Resort
This magnificent 5-star resort is an excellent choice if you want to splurge when visiting the British Virgin Islands. Thanks to the expansive private beach, you may experience a feeling of unrivaled seclusion and luxury.
The beach is a short stroll from this house. Scrub Island is the location of this beachside development. It has ocean views, a free Wi-Fi hotspot, a private beach area, and an outdoor pool.
Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, Autograph Collection accommodations have flat-screen cable TVs, iPod docking stations, air conditioning, and safety boxes. Each one contains a mini-bar, balcony, and coffee maker. There are slippers, a shower, and bathrobes in the private bathrooms.
Seafood and other cuisines are offered at the Scrub Island Resort. The visitors may also enjoy the beach bar and the pool bar. You may also arrange activities like hiking, kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling at this resort.
Only boats or helicopters can reach this exclusive resort, and it is a 10-minute boat ride from Trellis Bay Dock in the British Virgin Islands. The international airport of Tortola is a 2-minute drive from the pier.
Pelican Peak Villa, Tortola
Pelican Peak is the name of the cozy house, which has long been the family’s ideal residence. You will be able to view far and wide over the Caribbean Sea while listening to the waves crashing on Little Apple Bay’s beach from anywhere in the main Villa.
The guest house, outside on the deck, swimming in the pool, sunbathing on the daybed, or sitting somewhere in the garden. Depending on the number of visitors and the number of nights of your stay, they may provide you with a rate that is specifically tailored to your needs.
This lovely property, which boasts breathtaking ocean views, is the ideal option if you’re looking for something quiet. This is a place for those leisurely beach getaways since there isn’t much to do around. There are two structures there that can accommodate up to six people each. Views of nearby islands may also be seen from the on-site pool.
Mount Healthy Home
The incredibly picturesque resort “Kerensa” is perched on a hillside above a private bay on Tortola’s northwestern coast, surrounded by huge stones and old trees. The residence is situated on a 2-acre private estate that borders Mount Healthy National Park.
It was thoughtfully planned to minimize any negative effects on the gorgeous surroundings and make the most of the breathtaking panoramic views of the North Shore’s Islands and Bays. The only sounds you hear are the waves crashing on the cliffs far below, far from any other dwellings.
Another gorgeous property with a more opulent atmosphere is this one. You will get to enjoy beautiful vistas during your stay because it faces the sunset directly. You may find some fantastic hiking paths in Mount Healthy National Park, which is also nearby.
Consequently, you won’t want to leave the luxurious luxury of this charming little retreat.
Bitter End Yacht Club
The Bitter End Yacht Club reopened in 2022 after being entirely devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017. The four-star resort, which is only reachable by boat or seaplane and boasts more than a mile of beachfront land, has been drawing visitors since the 1970s.
With a fully equipped marina and its brand-new Mariner Lofts, the resort caters to both boat owners and visitors who are just arriving on one. These unique over-water houses in the BVI were designed with inspiration from old sail lofts. You can paddleboard or kayak right up to the wooden buildings, which feature floor-to-ceiling doors that open into furnished patios.Â
There are several activities and a restaurant on-site to keep you occupied. Snorkeling and diving are fantastic here since they are close to some stunning coral reefs. You may also pick up sailing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding skills.
Sugar Mill Hotel
The Sugar Mill Hotel is situated at a 400-year-old sugar mill on Tortola’s Apple Bay. Only twenty rooms make up this boutique hotel, giving visitors the chance to enjoy a private holiday in traditional Caribbean fashion.
The hotel’s 24 double or twin rooms have all recently been refurbished and include balconies or terraces with sea views. The amenities in the rooms range from outdoor showers to refrigerators, robes, and slippers. There is free Wi-Fi accessibility.
There are two restaurants on the property, one of which serves gourmet dining and the other of which is a Mediterranean eatery that is located directly by the water. If you would like, an all-inclusive eating option is offered with your stay. Make use of the free sun umbrellas and loungers on the hotel’s private beach.
There is also a freshwater pool on the property that is surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens and palm palms. With a scrub, wrap, or massage at the on-site spa, you may intensify your state of relaxation.
KEY TAKEAWAYS ...🛪
Regardless of the island you are on; there are many options accessible. Despite this list of amazing cities to visit there, don’t assume the Virgin Islands are dull. Not simply beach loungers may participate in events.
Even if it is pricey, you must take a boat around these islands if you go there. That is incorrect. Whether for a single day or several, take a jet around the islands. The only way to dodge the crowds, see the father-of islands that boats bypass, and discover your favorite snorkeling spots is to do it.
