The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is a dream destination for families seeking adventure and relaxation. From pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to thrilling water sports and historical sites, BVI offers something for everyone. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable family trip, highlighting the best spots and activities for creating lasting memories with your kids.
Sailing the Sir Francis Drake Channel: A Family-Friendly Voyage
One of the most iconic experiences in BVI is sailing the Sir Francis Drake Channel. This protected waterway offers calm waters, stunning scenery, and easy access to numerous islands and anchorages. Chartering a yacht (either bareboat or with a captain) allows you to explore at your own pace and cater to your family’s preferences. Consider a catamaran for added space and stability, especially with younger children. Moorings offer bareboat, crewed and power yachts for charter here.
Practical Tip: Plan your itinerary carefully, taking into account the children’s ages and interests. Shorter sailing legs, frequent stops for swimming and snorkeling, and plenty of onboard games and activities will keep them entertained.
A typical family sailing itinerary might include:
- Day 1: Arrive in Tortola, provision the yacht, and set sail for Norman Island.
- Day 2: Explore The Caves at Norman Island (snorkeling is a must!) and enjoy lunch at The Willy T (a floating bar/restaurant – but be mindful of the lively atmosphere!).
- Day 3: Sail to Peter Island, relax on Deadman’s Beach, and hike to the top of the island for panoramic views.
- Day 4: Head to Virgin Gorda and explore The Baths – giant granite boulders that create natural pools and grottoes.
- Day 5: Spend the day at Anegada, known for its pristine white-sand beaches, snorkeling, and delicious lobster dinners.
- Day 6: Return to Tortola, stopping at Jost Van Dyke for a final swim and sunset cocktails (or mocktails for the kids!) at White Bay.
- Day 7: Depart from Tortola.
Cost: Yacht charters vary widely depending on the size of the boat, the season, and whether you opt for a bareboat or crewed option. Expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000+ per week. Food provisioning can add another $500-$1500 depending on preferences.
Exploring The Baths National Park: A Geological Wonderland
No trip to BVI is complete without a visit to The Baths National Park on Virgin Gorda. This unique geological formation features massive granite boulders scattered along the shoreline, creating a series of natural pools, caves, and tunnels to explore. It’s a truly magical place for kids (and adults!) to scramble over the rocks and discover hidden grottos.
Getting There: From Tortola, you can take a ferry to Virgin Gorda. From the ferry dock, you can take a taxi to The Baths. Alternatively, if you’re sailing, you can anchor nearby and dinghy ashore.
Tips for Visiting with Kids:
- Wear sturdy shoes or water shoes, as the rocks can be slippery.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Keep a close eye on young children, as the terrain can be challenging.
- Don’t forget your camera!
Cost: The National Parks Trust entry fee is around $3 per person.
Snorkeling and Diving Adventures: Discovering the Underwater World
The BVI boasts some of the best snorkeling and diving sites in the Caribbean. The clear, calm waters and vibrant coral reefs provide a haven for marine life. Several locations cater specifically to families and beginner snorkelers. Consider these spots:
Norman Island – The Caves & The Indians: Both are ideal for snorkeling due to calm waters and abundant fish life. The Caves offer shaded areas and shallow water, perfect for younger children. The Indians provide slightly deeper waters for more experienced snorkelers.
Cooper Island – Cistern Point: Known for its colorful reefs and diverse marine life. The waters are generally calm and clear, making it suitable for families.
Anegada – Loblolly Bay: A bit more remote, but worth the effort. The snorkeling along the reef is excellent, and the beach is stunning.
Practical Tip: Rent snorkeling gear from a reputable dive shop or bring your own. Consider purchasing a waterproof camera or phone case to capture your underwater adventures. To truly enhance the experience, perhaps look into renting a submersible or underwater scooter from stores such as Submarine Safaris BVI here.
Safety First: Always supervise children closely while they are in the water. Use snorkeling vests or flotation devices for less confident swimmers. Be aware of currents and marine life, and avoid touching or disturbing the coral.
Cost: Snorkeling gear rental typically costs around $15-25 per day. Guided snorkeling tours can range from $50-100 per person.
Beach Bliss: Relaxing on BVI’s Pristine Shores
The BVI is famous for its stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm. Here are a few family-friendly options:
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola: This long, sandy beach offers calm waters, plenty of shade, and a variety of restaurants and bars. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Myett’s Garden and Grille is a popular spot for lunch or dinner. You can find options for day trips via services like this here.
White Bay, Jost Van Dyke: Home to the Soggy Dollar Bar (where you pay with wet money!), White Bay is a must-visit. While the bar scene can get lively, the beach itself is beautiful, with soft white sand and crystal-clear water. It’s a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy a Painkiller cocktail (or a virgin version for the kids!).
Trunk Bay, Virgin Gorda: This secluded beach offers stunning turquoise waters and soft white sand, perfect for swimming and relaxing. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling. The calm, shallow water on the far end of the beach is ideal for younger children.
Loblolly Bay, Anegada: One of the most beautiful beaches in the BVI, with calm waters, powdery white sand, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. It’s a bit more remote, but worth the effort.
Practical Tip: Pack a beach bag with essentials such as sunscreen, towels, hats, water bottles, and snacks. Consider bringing beach toys and games to keep the kids entertained.
Cost: Beach access is generally free. However, you may need to pay for parking or transportation to reach certain beaches.
Historical Sites and Cultural Experiences: Learning and Exploring
Beyond its natural beauty, the BVI offers a glimpse into its rich history and culture. Consider visiting these sites:
Fort Burt, Tortola: Overlooking Road Harbour, Fort Burt offers a fascinating glimpse into the BVI’s past. Explore the ruins of the fort and enjoy panoramic views of the harbor.
Callwood Rum Distillery, Tortola: Take a tour of this historic rum distillery and learn about the process of rum-making. The distillery offers samples (for the adults!) and souvenirs.
North Sound, Virgin Gorda: This large bay offers a variety of activities, including watersports, nature trails, and historical sites. Visit the Bitter End Yacht Club, a legendary sailing destination, and learn about its history.
Practical Tip: Check the opening hours and admission fees for historical sites before you visit. Consider hiring a local guide to provide insights into the history and culture of the BVI.
Cost: Admission fees for historical sites are generally reasonable, ranging from $5-15 per person. Guided tours can range from $20-50 per person.
Water Sports Galore: Thrills and Fun for the Whole Family
The BVI is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. From sailing and windsurfing to kayaking and paddleboarding, there’s something for everyone. Many resorts and charter companies offer rentals and lessons.
Sailing & Windsurfing: The calm waters and steady trade winds make the BVI ideal for sailing and windsurfing. Several companies offer lessons and rentals for all skill levels.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Explore the coastline and mangrove forests at your own pace. Kayaking and paddleboarding are great ways to get exercise and enjoy the scenery.
Jet Skiing & Waterskiing: For a more adrenaline-pumping experience, try jet skiing or waterskiing. Be sure to follow safety guidelines and operate in designated areas.
Flyboarding & E-Foiling: Unleash your sense of adventure by trying out the newest adrenaline-pumping water sports, jet sky flyboarding or E-Foiling. Several locations offer classes and certified instructors to help you master this skill safely, like Last Stop BVI Adventure center.
Practical Tip: Choose water sports activities that are appropriate for your family’s skill level and experience. Always wear a life jacket and follow safety instructions. Check the weather forecast before you head out on the water.
Cost: Water sports rentals vary depending on the activity and location. Expect to pay around $30-50 per hour for kayaking or paddleboarding, and $80-150 per hour for jet skiing or waterskiing.
Dining in BVI: A Culinary Adventure
The BVI offers a diverse culinary scene, with options to suit every taste and budget. From casual beach bars to upscale restaurants, you’ll find plenty of delicious food to enjoy.
Fresh Seafood: Given its island location, it is hard to overlook Fresh Fish, Conch and Lobster—these are staples of BVI cuisine.
Local Specialties: Try some of the BVI’s local specialties, such as fungi (a cornmeal-based dish), roti (a curried meat or vegetable wrap), and callaloo soup (a leafy green vegetable soup).
Beach Bars & Grills: Enjoy casual meals and refreshing drinks at the numerous beach bars and grills located throughout the BVI. Myett’s Garden and Grille in Cane Garden Bay, Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay, and Pusser’s Road Town Pub are all popular choices.
Fine Dining: For a more upscale dining experience, check out restaurants like CocoMaya on Virgin Gorda or Brandywine Estate Restaurant on Tortola. Note the dress-code policy – sometimes, dress pants are required.
Practical Tip: Make reservations in advance, especially during peak season. Check out the online reviews to ensure you find the best cuisines.
Cost: Dining in the BVI can be expensive, especially at upscale restaurants. Expect to pay around $20-40 per person for a casual meal, and $50-100+ per person for fine dining.
Accommodations: Finding the Perfect Place to Stay
The BVI offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts and villas to more budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses. When choosing accommodation for your family, consider factors such as location, amenities, and budget.
Resorts: Several of these offer amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and kids’ clubs. The Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina and Rosewood Little Dix Bay are popular choices for families.
Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina
Rosewood Little Dix Bay (Virgin Gorda)
Villas: Renting a villa can be a great option for families, especially if you want more space and privacy. Villas often come equipped with kitchens, private pools, and other amenities.
Hotels & Guesthouses: A number of boutique hotels and guesthouses offer a more affordable accommodation option. These can be a great option for families who are on a budget but still want to be close to the beach and other attractions.
Practical Tip: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Consider booking a package deal that includes flights, accommodation, and activities.
Cost: Accommodation costs vary depending on the type of accommodation and the time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from $150-500+ per night for a hotel room or guesthouse, and $500-2000+ per night for a villa.
Getting Around the BVI: Transportation Options
Getting around the BVI is relatively easy, with several transportation options available.
Ferry: Ferries are the most common way to travel between the islands. Several ferry companies offer regular service between Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available on most of the islands. Be sure to negotiate the fare before you get in the taxi.
Rental Car: Renting a car can be a good option if you want to explore the islands at your own pace. However, keep in mind that driving can be challenging on some of the roads.
Water Taxi: Water taxis are a convenient way to travel between bays and beaches. They are also a great option for exploring the coastline.
Practical Tip: Allow plenty of time for transportation, as ferries and taxis can sometimes be delayed. Be sure to factor in the cost of transportation when budgeting for your trip.
Cost: Ferry fares typically range from $20-40 per person. Taxi fares vary depending on the distance traveled. Rental cars can cost around $50-100 per day.
Sample Family-Friendly Itinerary (7 Days):
Here is suggested itinerary that includes various spots with timing and days:
- Day 1: Arrive in Tortola, check into your accommodation, and relax on Cane Garden Bay.
- Day 2: Take a ferry to Virgin Gorda and explore The Baths National Park.
- Day 3: Go snorkeling at Trunk Bay, Virgin Gorda, and relax on the beach.
- Day 4: Take a ferry to Jost Van Dyke and spend the day at White Bay.
- Day 5: Enjoy watersports such as kayaking or paddleboarding.
- Day 6: Take a day trip to Anegada and explore Loblolly Bay.
- Day 7: Depart from Tortola.
FAQ Section
What is the best time to visit the BVI with kids?
The best time to visit the BVI is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The weather is generally sunny and warm, with low humidity. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
What should I pack for a family trip to the BVI?
Pack light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and insect repellent. Bring water shoes for exploring The Baths and other rocky areas. Don’t forget your camera and any necessary medications.
Are the BVI safe for families?
The BVI is generally considered to be a safe destination for families. However, it’s always important to take precautions such as locking your valuables and being aware of your surroundings.
What age is appropriate for sailing in the BVI?
Children of all ages can enjoy sailing in the BVI. However, it’s important to choose a yacht and itinerary that are appropriate for their age and abilities. Consider a catamaran for added stability, or a crewed boat for help.
Do I need a passport to travel to the BVI?
Yes, you will need a valid passport to enter the BVI. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Are there any kid-friendly restaurants in the BVI?
Many restaurants in the BVI are kid-friendly. Look for restaurants with casual atmospheres and menus that offer options such as burgers, pizza, and pasta. Be sure to ask about high chairs and booster seats for younger children.
References
British Virgin Islands National Parks Trust Website.
The Moorings Yachting Company Website.
Viator Tour Operator Website.
Submarine Safaris BVI Website.
Last Stop BVI Adventure center Website.
Ready to embark on the family adventure of a lifetime? The British Virgin Islands await, offering a blend of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable experiences that will create cherished memories for years to come. Start planning your BVI family escape today!
