Romance in Paradise: The Ultimate BVI Honeymoon Itinerary

Dreaming of a honeymoon where turquoise waters meet sun-kissed skin? Look no further than the British Virgin Islands (BVI). This itinerary is designed to whisk you away to some of the most romantic spots in the BVI, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready for pristine beaches, gourmet dining, and adventures that will bring you even closer together.

Setting the Scene: Arriving in Paradise

Your BVI adventure begins the moment you touch down. While Tortola has the main airport (Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, EIS), connecting flights may be necessary depending on your origin. Consider flying into St. Thomas (STT) in the US Virgin Islands and taking a ferry to Tortola – this can sometimes be a more cost-effective option and offers stunning views en route. You can find various ferry schedules and book tickets online through websites like Virgin Islands Now.

Once in Tortola, consider a private transfer to your hotel. It’s a splurge, but after a long journey, it can make a huge difference in your relaxation and ease. Many hotels offer this service or you can pre-book with local taxi companies. Expect to pay around $50-$75 for a private transfer from the airport to a hotel in Road Town or West End.

Day 1-3: Relaxation and Romance in Tortola

Where to Stay: Cane Garden Bay is known for its relaxed vibe, calm waters, and beautiful beach. Consider staying at Cane Garden Bay Beach Hotel or Myett’s Garden Inn & Restaurant for beachfront access and easy access to dining and bars. For a more secluded and luxurious experience, look at Long Bay Beach Resort, known for its stunning villas and tranquil setting. Expect to pay anywhere from $250 – $700+ per night depending on the location and level of luxury.

Activities:

• Beach Day at Cane Garden Bay: Spend your first day doing absolutely nothing but relaxing on the beach! Rent a beach chair and umbrella, sip on a Painkiller (the BVI’s signature cocktail – be careful, they’re potent!), and soak up the Caribbean sun. Head to Myett’s for lunch – their Caribbean BBQ is renowned. Expect to payaround $8 – $12 per cocktail and $20-$30 for lunch per person.
• Sunset Sail: Nothing screams romance like a sunset sail. Several companies in Tortola offer sunset cruises. Companies like Sailonline operate in the BVI. Many cruises include drinks and snacks. Expect to pay around $100-$150 per person for a 2-3 hour sunset sail.
• Dinner at Brandywine Estate Restaurant: Indulge in a romantic dinner at Brandywine Estate Restaurant. It’s located slightly inland, but the ambiance and food make it worthwhile. Their Mediterranean-inspired dishes offer a delicious escape from typical Caribbean fare. Consider making reservations in advance, especially during peak season. Expect to pay $50+ per person for dinner including appetizer and entre.
• Explore Sage Mountain National Park: If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike in Sage Mountain National Park, the highest point in the BVI. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands. There is a small entrance fee of a few dollars. A guided tour is recommended for those unfamiliar with the trails and plant life.

Day 4-6: Sailing to Virgin Gorda and Exploring the Baths

Getting There: Take a ferry from Road Town or West End Tortola to Virgin Gorda. Ferries run several times a day and the journey takes around 30-45 minutes. Check the ferry schedule with Virgin Islands Now for updated times and pricing. Expect to pay around $30-$40 per person for a round-trip ferry ticket.

Where to Stay: For luxurious indulgence, consider Rosewood Little Dix Bay. This iconic resort offers stunning villas and unparalleled service, though is pricier than many other accommodations in the area – you should expect to pay $1,000+ per night. A more affordable, yet equally charming, option is the Bitter End Yacht Club, especially if you’re interested in watersports – which normally runs around $500+ per night.

Activities:

• The Baths National Park: This is a must-see! The Baths are a collection of giant granite boulders scattered along the beach, creating grottos, tunnels, and pools. It’s a truly unique and magical place. Arrive early (before 10 am) to avoid the crowds from cruise ships as it tends to get very crowded. There is a small entrance fee of around $3 per person. Wear comfortable shoes or water sandals, as you’ll be doing some climbing.
• Swim at Devil’s Bay National Park: After exploring The Baths, head to Devil’s Bay National Park, a beautiful secluded beach that is accessible through The Baths or by a short hike from the parking lot. The waters are calm and perfect for swimming.
• Hog Heaven Bar & Restaurant: Another must-visit spot on Virgin Gorda, this restaurant/bar has some of the best views on the island. Expect breathtaking panoramas. They’re known for their BBQ ribs and laid-back atmosphere. Expect to pay $20-$30 per entree.
• Explore Savannah Bay and Trunk Bay: Enjoy less crowded beaches on the island by visiting these beautiful spots. Savannah Bay for example is a long and sandy beach with calm, clear water. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and long walks. Trunk Bay, while not as famous as its namesake in St. John, is still a beautiful and quiet beach.
• Leverick Bay Resort & Marina: Enjoy a sundowner at Leverick Bay Resort followed by dinner at their restaurants. Check their schedule for live music, which is often a highlight of the evening.

Day 7-9: Jost Van Dyke – Relaxation, Rum, and Rhythms

Getting There : From Virgin Gorda, there are ferries to Jost Van Dyke. Or, if you’re coming from Tortola you can also get there by ferry, with ferries leaving from West End. Ferry frequency may vary, so double-check schedules beforehand. You can expect to pay around $30 – $40 for a round trip ticket.

Where to Stay: White Bay Villas offer beachfront accommodation with stunning views. For a more secluded experience, consider renting a villa on a hillside overlooking Great Harbour. Expect to pay $300 – $600 per night for a villa, depending on the amenities and location.

Activities:

• White Bay and the Soggy Dollar Bar: This is the place to be on Jost Van Dyke. White Bay is a stunning beach with crystal-clear waters, and the Soggy Dollar Bar is famous for inventing the Painkiller cocktail. The name comes from the fact that people often swim to the bar from their boats, resulting in “soggy dollars.” Plan to spend the whole day here – swimming, sunbathing, and sipping Painkillers. Tip: try to not get too drunk to swim your way back!
• Ivan’s Stress Free Bar: A short walk down from Soggy Dollar, Ivan’s is a smaller, more laid-back beach bar. They offer camping options and frequently have bonfires at night.
• Foxy’s Tamarind Bar: Located in Great Harbour, Foxy’s is another iconic bar. Foxy himself is a local legend, known for his impromptu songs and storytelling. Check their schedule for live music and special events.
• Hike to the Bubbly Pool: Take a short but steep hike to the Bubbly Pool, a natural jacuzzi created by waves crashing over rocks. It’s a fun and unique experience, but be careful as the rocks can be slippery.
• Dinner at Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant: Enjoy a romantic dinner at this beachfront restaurant. Their menu features fresh seafood and Caribbean specialties. Enjoy the night with their cocktails and maybe even dancing!

Day 10-12: A Secluded Escape to Anegada

Getting There: Anegada is the northernmost island in the BVI and is unlike the other islands in that it is flat and coral-based, rather than volcanic. Ferries to Anegada are less frequent than to other islands. The ferry ride from Tortola is around 1 to 1.5 hours or you can charter a plane. The plane charter price varies. Ferry expect to pay around $50 round trip.

Where to Stay : Consider staying at the Anegada Beach Club. They offer luxury glamping tents and beachfront rooms. Another option is the Anegada Reef Hotel.

Activities:

• Loblolly Bay: This is one of the most beautiful beaches in the BVI, with powder-white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling and diving, as the reef is close to shore.
• Cow Wreck Beach Bar & Grill : Enjoy lunch and drinks at this unique beach bar. The name comes from the shipwreck of a ship that was carrying cows. The location is remote and the vibe is relaxed. They are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays from the summertime so check before you go.
• Flamingo Pond: Anegada is home to a large flock of Caribbean flamingos. Take a tour to see these magnificent birds in their natural habitat.
• Bonefishing: Anegada is known as the bonefishing capital of the world. Several local guides offer bonefishing charters for experienced anglers or beginners. An avid Fisherman should not miss this great experience.
• Rent a Scooter or Car: Since Anegada is larger and flatter compared to most other BVI islands, it’s recommended to hire a car or scooter to explore its far-flung and beautiful coastline and beaches. You should expect to pay around $60 – $80 per day for a rental.

Day 13: Back to Tortola & Departure

Take the ferry back to Tortola from Anegada, allowing ample time to travel to the airport for your flight home. Depending on your flight schedule, you might want to spend a final afternoon soaking up the sun on a Tortola beach or doing some last-minute souvenir shopping in Road Town.

Essential Tips for Your BVI Honeymoon

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the BVI is during the dry season, from December to April. The weather is sunny and warm, and there’s less chance of rain. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
• Currency: The official currency of the BVI is the US dollar.
• What to Pack: Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes. A waterproof bag is also a good idea for protecting your valuables on boat trips.
• Island Hopping: Ferries are the most common and affordable way to get around the BVI (except Anegada – see above). However, if you’re short on time or want more flexibility, consider chartering a private boat.
• Dinner Reservations: Make dinner reservations in advance, especially during peak season, as the popular restaurants tend to fill up quickly.
• Be Respectful : The BVI culture is generally conservative and friendly. However, refrain from wearing overly revealing outfits away from the beach. Politely smile and acknowledge people around the islands.
• Phone and Internet: To improve mobile reception and access more affordable internet plans, buy a local SIM when you arrive!

Budgeting for Your BVI Honeymoon

The BVI can be an expensive destination, but it’s possible to travel on a budget if you plan carefully. Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect to spend per day:

• Accommodation: $200 – $1000+ per night, depending on the level of luxury.
• Food and drinks: $100 – $300 per person per day.
• Activities: $50 – $200+ per person per day, depending on the activities you choose.
• Transportation: $50 – $150 per day depending on whether you take the ferry, hire private cars and whether or not you go between locations.

To save money, consider staying in guesthouses or vacation rentals instead of hotels. Cook some of your own meals, and take advantage of free activities like swimming and sunbathing. Travel during the shoulder season like Nov/October or May/June for discounted prices on activities and hotels!

FAQ Section

What is the best way to get around the BVI? Ferries are the most common and affordable way to travel between the islands. However, for more flexibility and to access remote locations, consider chartering a boat or renting a car on Tortola and Anegada.

How much does a honeymoon in the BVI cost? It depends on your budget and travel style. A mid-range honeymoon for 10 days could cost around $5,000 – $10,000 per person, including flights, accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.

What is the best island in the BVI for honeymooners? It depends on what you’re looking for. Tortola offers a good mix of beaches, restaurants, and activities. Virgin Gorda is known for its stunning scenery and luxurious resorts. Jost Van Dyke is perfect for couples who want to relax and party. And Anegada is ideal for those seeking a secluded escape.

What are some romantic activities to do in the BVI? There are many romantic activities to do in the BVI, including sunset sails, couples massages, private beach picnics, and exploring secluded coves by kayak.

What kind of food and drinks can I expect? Your meals will be a delicious fusion of fresh seafood, barbecued meats, tropical fruit, and Caribbean spices. Be sure to try local specialties like conch fritters, jerk chicken, and of course, the Painkiller cocktail. A Painkiller is a rum-based cocktail which consists of Pusser’s Rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, cream of coconut, and grated Grenadian nutmeg on top which is best enjoyed on white-sand beaches.

Do I need a visa to enter the BVI? Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check with the BVI government website or your embassy for the latest information.

Is the BVI safe? The BVI is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination it is important to be aware of surroundings, avoid walking alone late at night, and safeguard your valuable belongings.

References

• Virgin Islands Now
• Sailonline

Ready to start planning your dream honeymoon in paradise? The British Virgin Islands await! With its stunning natural beauty, romantic atmosphere, and endless opportunities for adventure, the BVI is the perfect place to begin your married life together. Don’t just dream about it; start planning your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Think about booking those flights, checking hotel availability, and plotting out your perfect itinerary. Paradise is calling!