The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a sailing and island-hopping paradise. With over 60 islands and islets, the BVI offers a unique blend of stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, laid-back vibes, and world-class sailing. This guide explores some of the most visually stunning islands, offering tips on what to see, do, and how to make the most of your BVI adventure.
Tortola: The Hub of the BVI
Tortola is the largest and most populated island in the BVI and serves as the main entry point. While some may skip it in favour of smaller, more secluded islands, Tortola offers a diverse range of experiences that make it worth exploring.
Beaches: Cane Garden Bay is arguably Tortola’s most famous beach, known for its calm waters, white sand, and lively beach bars. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a Painkiller cocktail. Smuggler’s Cove (also known as Lower Belmont Bay) on the West End is a more secluded option, requiring a bumpy ride down a dirt road, but rewarding visitors with stunning views and excellent snorkelling. Brewers Bay, also on the north shore, is another gem, offering a more local and less crowded experience, with great snorkelling and a campground.
Things to Do: Explore 1780 Rum Distillery, an operational rum distillery where you can learn about the rum-making process and sample their product. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle as a souvenir. For panoramic views, hike or drive to Sage Mountain National Park, the highest point in the BVI. The park offers several trails with varying difficulty levels, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. Road Town, the capital of the BVI, is worth a visit for its shops, restaurants, and historic sites, such as Fort Burt and HM Prison Museum.
Practical Tips: Taxis are readily available on Tortola, but renting a car offers greater flexibility. Be prepared to drive on the left. Ferries to other islands depart from Road Town and West End ferry docks. You can find ferry schedules and book tickets online with companies like Best of BVI. Accommodation options range from luxury resorts like Long Bay Beach Resort to smaller guesthouses and villas. Cost for accommodations can vary from $150 to $1000+ per night depending on your preference. Eating out can be moderately expensive; a casual meal can cost around $20-30 per person, so consider stocking up on groceries at local supermarkets to save money.
Virgin Gorda: The Baths and Beyond
Virgin Gorda is famous for The Baths, a geological wonder of massive granite boulders scattered along the beach. But the island offers much more than just this iconic attraction.
The Baths: This natural wonder is a must-see. Explore the grottoes, swim in the crystal-clear pools, and marvel at the towering boulders. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds, especially if you’re visiting during peak season. There is a small entrance fee (around $3 per person to the park). From the top entrance an easy trail and stairs lead you down to the beach, or you can arrive by boat.
Other Beaches: Spring Bay, just north of The Baths, offers similar rock formations on a smaller scale, with calmer waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Savannah Bay is a long, sandy beach ideal for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Little Dix Bay, home to the Rosewood Little Dix Bay resort, is a stunning crescent-shaped beach with pristine white sand and turquoise waters.
Rosewood Little Dix Bay (Virgin Gorda)
Things to Do: Visit The Copper Mine, dating back to the 18th century, to learn about the island’s mining history. Explore Gorda Peak National Park, the highest point on Virgin Gorda, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The park features several hiking trails through lush vegetation. Relax at one of the many beach bars and restaurants in Spanish Town, the main town on Virgin Gorda.
Practical Tips: Ferries from Tortola arrive in Spanish Town. Taxis are available, but renting a car or jeep is recommended for exploring the island at your own pace. Consider staying in a villa for a more private and spacious experience. Restaurants tend to be pricey, particularly those in resorts. There are smaller grocery stores like Bucks Food Market in Spanish Town to stock up on essential for your stay.
Jost Van Dyke: Foxy’s and a Laid-Back Vibe
Jost Van Dyke is known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and legendary beach bars. It’s the perfect island for those seeking relaxation and fun.
White Bay: This is where the action is. Home to the Soggy Dollar Bar, famous for inventing the Painkiller cocktail, White Bay is a lively beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during weekends and holidays. You’ll typically arrive swimming, “soggy” with dollars in your pocket.
Great Harbour: This is where the ferry docks and is home to Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, another iconic BVI institution. Foxy’s is known for its live music, beach barbecues, and New Year’s Eve parties. Check their schedule for special events. Little Harbour has two other unique character-filled establishments: Harris’ Place and Sydney’s Peace and Love.
Things to Do: Hike to the Bubbly Pool, a natural jacuzzi formed by ocean waves rushing through rock formations. It’s a fun and unique experience, but be careful as the rocks can be slippery and seas dangerous. Explore the less crowded beaches on the other side of the island, such as Sandy Cay, a tiny uninhabited island with pristine white sand and turquoise waters (accessible by boat). Go snorkeling or diving in the clear waters surrounding Jost Van Dyke. Several dive operators offer trips to nearby reefs and wrecks.
Practical Tips: Ferries from Tortola and Virgin Gorda serve Jost Van Dyke. Due to its small size, walking is a popular way to get around. Golf carts are also available for rent. Accommodation options are limited, ranging from small guesthouses to villas. Book in advance, especially during peak season. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, particularly in White Bay. Be sure to pace yourself with the Painkillers, as they can be deceptively potent! They are usually $8-$10 per drink.
Anegada: The Unique Coral Island
Anegada stands apart from the other BVI islands. It is the only coral island, characterized by its flat terrain and vast surrounding reefs. This makes it a haven for snorkeling, diving, and lobster lovers.
Beaches: Loblolly Bay on the north shore is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the BVI, with powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling along the reef. Cow Wreck Beach, also on the north shore, is known for its shallow, crystal-clear waters and laid-back beach bar. It’s a popular spot for families with young children. Flash of Beauty is another stunning stretch of sand on the west end with dramatic rock formations.
Things to Do: Visit the Anegada Lobster Festival (typically held in November) for a celebration of local cuisine and culture. Observe the flamingos at the salt ponds (known as the “flamingo pond”). Hire a local boat to take you bonefishing, or explore other islands in the surrounding reef system. Take a jeep tour to see different parts of the island.
Practical Tips: Ferry service to Anegada is less frequent than to other islands. Check the schedule in advance and book your tickets. Consider chartering a private boat for more flexibility. Renting a jeep or car is essential for exploring Anegada, as it covers a larger area than other islands. Due to limited infrastructure, Anegada can be more expensive than other islands. Be sure to bring enough cash, as ATMs are not readily available. Be aware of the strong sun and protect your skin with sunscreen and hats. Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in the evening, so bring mosquito repellent. There’s only 300 or so inhabitants, so tourism and fishing are the major economic drivers.
Norman Island: The Treasure Island Inspiration
Norman Island is believed to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island.” While there’s no buried treasure to be found, the island offers stunning anchorages, excellent snorkeling, and a legendary floating bar.
The Caves: Snorkel or dive in the caves on the west side of the island. The caves are filled with colorful fish, corals, and other marine life. The Indians, a group of rocky islets just offshore, provide very good snorkeling and diving spots, too. All these spots are best visited earlier in the morning if possible, before cruise-like boat tours start.
Willy T: Enjoy lunch, drinks, and a lively atmosphere at the Willy T floating bar and restaurant in The Bight. Be prepared for a fun, party-like atmosphere. Jumping off the boat is a popular (though sometimes discouraged) activity. Note that Willy T. was moved to Great Harbour, Peter Island after being sunk during Hurricanes Irma and Maria, but has since returned to its original location in The Bight on Norman Island.
Things to Do: Hike to the top of Norman Island for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Relax on the beach at Benures Bay, a secluded cove on the south side of the island. The island is largely uninhabited, adding to its appeal as a relatively wild place.
Practical Tips: Norman Island is only accessible by boat. Charter a private boat or join a snorkeling tour. Consider anchoring in The Bight overnight for a peaceful and secluded experience. The Willy T can get crowded, especially during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot. Provision your own boat or eat at the establishments to dispose of trash properly.
Peter Island: Luxury and Seclusion
Peter Island is a privately owned island boasting a luxury resort and several stunning beaches. It’s a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and pampering.
Beaches: Deadman’s Beach is arguably the most beautiful beach on Peter Island, with powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling. Honeymoon Beach is a secluded cove perfect for a romantic getaway. White Bay Beach is another beautiful stretch of sand with calm waters and swaying palm trees.
Things to Do: Enjoy spa treatments and fine dining at the Peter Island Resort & Spa. Hike to the top of the island for panoramic views of the BVI. Go snorkeling, diving, or sailing in the surrounding waters. Peter Island Resort offers watersports rentals for its guests.
Practical Tips: Staying at the Peter Island Resort is the primary way to access the island. Day passes may be available, but it’s best to inquire directly with the resort, which was meticulously rebuilt after Hurricanes Irma and Maria. While this is a luxury destination, it’s worth considering the cost when you’re looking for pure seclusion in a world class setting.
Cooper Island: Eco-Friendly Charm
Cooper Island offers a unique blend of eco-friendly tourism and natural beauty. This small island is home to a solar-powered beach club, a rum bar, and excellent snorkeling spots.
Cooper Island Beach Club: The heart of the island, the Cooper Island Beach Club offers comfortable accommodations, a restaurant, and a rum bar with over 280 rums from around the world. It’s powered entirely by solar energy, reducing its environmental impact. They also have a microbrewery on site!
Snorkeling and Diving: Cistern Point and Manchioneel Bay are excellent snorkeling and diving sites located just off the coast of Cooper Island. The waters are teeming with marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral formations.
Things to Do: Relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the island by foot. The island is small enough to be explored in a few hours. Enjoy a rum tasting at the Cooper Island Beach Club’s rum bar. Rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the coastline.
Practical Tips: Cooper Island is accessible by ferry or private boat. Book accommodations and dinner reservations in advance, especially during peak season. Be mindful of the island’s eco-friendly practices and minimize your environmental impact. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of this secluded island.
Salt Island: The Wreck of the Rhone
Salt Island is famous for the wreck of the RMS Rhone, a British mail ship that sank in a hurricane in 1867. It’s now one of the most popular dive sites in the Caribbean. Dive the Rhone and you’ll be getting close to a real piece of nautical history.
The Wreck of the Rhone: Explore the well-preserved wreck of the RMS Rhone, which lies in depths ranging from 20 to 80 feet. It’s suitable for both snorkelers and divers. The wreck is teeming with marine life, including colorful fish, corals, and barracudas. Many scenes from the movie The Deep were filmed here.
Things to Do: Hike to the salt ponds on the island, where salt was historically harvested. Visit the small community of descendants of salt harvesters who still live on the island. Snorkel or dive at other sites around the island, such as Blonde Rock.
Practical Tips: Salt Island is accessible by boat. Join a dive tour to explore the wreck of the Rhone. Bring snorkeling gear if you prefer to explore the shallower parts of the wreck. Support the local community by purchasing souvenirs or making a donation. As with nearly every BVI island, you’ll want to be respectful of the beautiful natural environment.
Ginger Island: Pristine Diving
Ginger Island is known primarily for its incredible diving sites. It doesn’t offer beaches, accommodation, or restaurants. Instead, it is a wild setting and a must-see for divers exploring the area.
Dive Sites: Known for its exceptional dive sites, Ginger Island is uninhabited and relatively underdeveloped. Dive sites such as Alice in Wonderland and the Ginger Steps are popular spots on the south side of the island. The waters are teeming with vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life.
Things to Do: Diving and snorkeling are the main activities. Anchor your boat at one of the island’s dive sites and experience the underwater world.
Practical Tips: The island is only accessible by boat. Diving or snorkeling trips can be organized if you are on other islands, such as Tortola or Virgin Gorda. Bring all of your supplies since there are no facilities on the island. Be mindful not to leave anything on the island when you depart.
FAQ Section
What is the best time to visit the BVI?
The best time to visit the BVI is during the dry season, from December to May. The weather is typically sunny and dry, with average temperatures in the mid-80s. The shoulder months of November and June can also be great, with fewer crowds and slightly lower prices. Avoid hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.
How do I get around the BVI?
The most common way to get around the BVI is by boat. Ferries connect the major islands, and private boat charters are available for exploring the smaller islands and cays. Taxis are available on the larger islands, but renting a car or jeep is recommended for greater flexibility. Some islands, like Jost Van Dyke, are small enough to explore on foot.
What currency is used in the BVI?
The official currency of the BVI is the US dollar.
What should I pack for a trip to the BVI?
Pack light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a waterproof bag for electronics. If you plan on hiking, bring sturdy shoes. A rash guard for snorkeling and diving is also a good idea.
Do I need a passport to visit the BVI?
Yes, you need a valid passport to enter the BVI. Check the expiration date and ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Where do you fly into for the BVI?
Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, Tortola, is the main airport for the BVI. However, it doesn’t handle direct flights from major international hubs like the US or Europe. You’ll typically need to connect in San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU), or St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands (STT). Another option is to fly to St. Thomas and take a ferry to Tortola.
Is the BVI expensive?
The BVI can be an expensive destination, particularly during peak season. Accommodation, dining, and activities can be pricey. However, it’s possible to save money by cooking some of your own meals, choosing less luxurious accommodations, and taking advantage of free activities like swimming and snorkeling.
Are the BVI Safe?
The BVI are widely regarded as a safe destination. However, it’s always best to exercise caution as you would when traveling anywhere. Secure your belongings, avoid walking alone at night in desolate areas, and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime can occur, but violent crime is relatively rare.
How many days is enough for BVI?
7-10 days is adequate to explore a good mix of islands. A shorter trip might focus just on fewer islands while a longer trip allows for more relaxation and deeper exploration.
References
Best of BVI. BVI Ferries.
British Virgin Islands Tourism Board.
Ready to start your island-hopping adventure in the British Virgin Islands? Stop dreaming and start planning. Picture yourself sailing through turquoise waters, lounging on pristine beaches, and exploring hidden coves. Book your flights, secure your accommodation, and prepare for an unforgettable escape to paradise – your BVI adventure awaits! Consider booking your yacht charter with Borrow a Boat today for an effortless island-hopping experience.
