Ready for the ultimate Caribbean adventure? This meticulously crafted BVI island hopping itinerary will guide you through turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant island life. Forget your worries and dive into this detailed plan, designed to maximize your experience in this breathtaking archipelago.
Setting Sail: Planning Your BVI Adventure
Before you even think about packing your swimsuit, a little planning will save you a lot of hassle, and potentially, money. The best time to visit the British Virgin Islands is generally from November to April. This avoids the hurricane season (June to November) and offers pleasant weather: sunshine and warmth. The peak season (December to February) offers the best weather but comes with higher prices and more crowded conditions.
Flights: Fly into Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, Tortola. While it’s the main airport for the BVI, you might find better deals flying into St. Thomas (STT) in the US Virgin Islands and taking a ferry. Companies like Inter Island Boat Services provide regular ferry services between St. Thomas and Tortola.
Ferries & Boats: Ferries are your lifeline for island hopping. Companies like Speedy’s and Road Town Fast Ferry offer scheduled services between the major islands. For more remote islands or a personalized experience, consider chartering a private boat. Chartering can range from day trips to multi-day excursions. Companies like BVI Yacht Charters can help you arrange these options. Prices vary greatly depending on the size of the boat and the duration of the charter.
Accommodation: Options range from luxury resorts to charming guesthouses and villas. Booking.com and Airbnb are excellent resources for finding lodging. During peak season, book well in advance.
Currency: The official currency is the US Dollar (USD).
Passport & Visa: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Check visa requirements based on your nationality.
Phone & Internet: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for affordable data. Many hotels and restaurants offer Wi-Fi.
Seven-Day Itinerary: A Taste of Paradise
This itinerary provides a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Feel free to customize it to your interests and preferences. Remember to factor in travel time between islands.
Day 1: Tortola – Arrival and Road Town Exploration
Upon arrival at Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, take a taxi to Road Town, the capital of Tortola. The taxi ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Settle into your accommodation, and then explore Road Town. Visit the Old Government House Museum, offering a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. Entry is typically around $5 per person.
Enjoy lunch at Pusser’s Road Town Pub. It’s a local institution known for its famous Painkiller cocktail. In the afternoon, relax at Cane Garden Bay, renowned for its pristine white sand and calm, turquoise waters. Rent a beach chair and an umbrella for a small fee and soak up the sun. In the evening, dine at one of the many beachfront restaurants in Cane Garden Bay, enjoying fresh seafood and live music. Try Myett’s Garden and Grill for a casual and fun atmosphere.
Day 2: Tortola – Sage Mountain National Park & Smuggler’s Cove
Start your day with a hike in Sage Mountain National Park, home to the highest peak in the BVI. The park offers several trails, ranging in difficulty. The main trail to the summit takes about an hour and offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The entrance to the park is free.
In the afternoon, visit Smuggler’s Cove, a secluded beach on the western end of Tortola. The road to Smuggler’s Cove can be bumpy, so consider renting a 4×4 vehicle. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to the top of the hill and walk down to the beach. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters and relax on the white sand. You can grab a bite and a drink at Nigel’s Beach Bar, which is known for its relaxed vibe and delicious grilled food.
For dinner, consider returning to Road Town and trying The Dove Restaurant, offering a more upscale dining experience with Caribbean and international cuisine.
Day 3: Virgin Gorda – The Baths & Spanish Town
Take an early morning ferry from Tortola to Virgin Gorda. Ferries depart from Road Town and Spanish Town. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes, and a round-trip ticket costs around $30. Upon arrival in Virgin Gorda, head to The Baths National Park, Virgin Gorda’s most famous landmark.
Explore the unique rock formations, grottos, and pools. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be climbing over rocks and wading through water. The entrance fee to The Baths is approximately $3 per person. Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing at Devil’s Bay, a beautiful beach accessible through The Baths.
In the late afternoon, visit Spanish Town, the second largest town in the BVI. Explore the shops and restaurants, and visit the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour. Have dinner at CocoMaya Restaurant, known for its beachfront setting and Asian-Caribbean fusion cuisine.
Day 4: Virgin Gorda – Savannah Bay & North Sound Exploring
Start your day with a visit to Savannah Bay, a pristine and secluded beach on the north shore of Virgin Gorda. The beach is known for its calm waters and soft, white sand. It’s a great spot for swimming and relaxing.
In the afternoon, explore the North Sound of Virgin Gorda. Charter a boat or take a water taxi to explore the islands and resorts in the North Sound, like Biras Creek, Saba Rock, and Bitter End Yacht Club (currently under reconstruction but worth observing the rebuilding process). Enjoy lunch at Saba Rock Resort (once reopened) or at another restaurant in the North Sound. Saba Rock is famous for its happy hour and stunning views.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hog Heaven Bar & Restaurant, perched high on a hill overlooking North Sound, offering breathtaking sunsets as a backdrop.
Day 5: Jost Van Dyke – White Bay & Great Harbour
Take a ferry from Virgin Gorda to Jost Van Dyke. Ferries depart from Spanish Town. Check the schedule and book your ticket in advance, especially during peak season. The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes, and a round-trip ticket costs around $40.
Spend the day at White Bay, home to the world-famous Soggy Dollar Bar, where the original Painkiller cocktail originated. The iconic bar got its name from the fact that patrons swam to the shore with wet money. Relax on this gorgeous beach, swim in the turquoise waters, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Expect to spend! Drinks are wonderfully intoxicating but not inexpensive.
In the afternoon, visit Great Harbour, the main harbor on Jost Van Dyke. Explore the shops and restaurants, and visit Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, another legendary BVI establishment with lively music and a friendly vibe. Have dinner at Foxy’s or at one of the other restaurants in Great Harbour. Participate in a beach bonfire, should one be available.
Important note: If you’re sensitive to crowds, Jost Van Dyke can get very busy. Consider visiting during the off-season or early in the morning to avoid peak times.
Day 6: Anegada – Loblolly Bay & The Wrecking Bar
Take a ferry from Tortola or Virgin Gorda to Anegada, the only coral island in the BVI. Ferries to Anegada are less frequent than to other islands, so plan accordingly and book your ticket well in advance. The ferry ride takes approximately one hour, and a round-trip ticket costs around $50.
Rent a jeep or scooter to explore the island. Anegada is flat and relatively undeveloped, offering a unique and secluded experience. Visit Loblolly Bay which has an amazing reef right off the beach, where snorkeling is a dream. Anegada is known for its lobster, so be sure to have it grilled on the beach.
Enjoy lunch with a view, and in the afternoon, explore the Flamingo Pond, home to a flock of pink flamingos. End your adventurous day at the Cow Wreck Beach Bar, named after a shipwreck incident, is a relaxing beach spot serving cocktails and offering some snorkeling fun.
Tip: Due to the limited infrastructure on Anegada, bring cash, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Accommodation options are limited, so book well in advance.
Day 7: Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast in paradise before taking a ferry back to Tortola to catch your flight home. Or, if your flight departs from St. Thomas, take a ferry directly from Virgin Gorda. Reflect on your incredible BVI island hopping adventure, filled with memories of breathtaking beaches, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Alternative Island Hopping Destinations and Activities
The British Virgin Islands offer a wealth of experiences beyond this seven-day itinerary. Here are some additional islands and activities to consider:
- Cooper Island: Known for its eco-resort and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- Norman Island: Said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island,” offering caves and snorkeling spots.
- Peter Island: A private island resort offering luxurious accommodations and secluded beaches.
Saba Rock Resort
Snorkeling & Diving: The BVI are a world-renowned destination for snorkeling and diving. The wreck of the RMS Rhone, a Royal Mail Steamer that sank in 1867, is a must-see dive site. Various companies provide diving and snorkeling excursions like Dive BVI. Even snorkeling along the shore at many beaches is an experience to remember.
Sailing: Chartering a sailboat and exploring the islands at your own pace is a popular option within the BVI. Bareboat charters let you captain your own vessel, while crewed charters provide a captain and crew to handle the sailing and navigation.
Fishing: The BVI offer excellent fishing opportunities, from deep-sea fishing for marlin and tuna to reef fishing for snapper and grouper. Several companies offer fishing charters.
Budgeting for Your BVI Island Hopping Adventure
The BVI can be an expensive destination. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:
- Flights: $500 – $1500 (depending on the origin and time of year)
- Accommodation: $150 – $500+ per night (depending on the type of lodging)
- Ferries: $30 – $50 per round trip (per island)
- Food & Drinks: $75 – $150+ per day (depending on your dining choices)
- Activities: $50 – $200+ per activity (depending on the activity)
- Boat Charter: A large boat charter can typically cost $800 – $3,000+ per day
Remember: These are estimates, and your actual costs may vary.
Tips for saving money:
- Travel during the off-season (May-November).
- Cook some of your own meals.
- Take advantage of free activities, such as swimming and hiking.
- Look for accommodation options that offer good value for money.
Essential Packing List for your BVI Trip
Be sure to pack these essentials when preparing for your island getaway:
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothing.
- Swimsuits (at least two).
- Sunscreen (high SPF).
- Hat and sunglasses.
- Insect repellent.
- Water shoes or sandals.
- Beach towel.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Snorkel gear (optional).
- Waterproof bag for electronics.
- First-aid kit.
- Cash (US dollars).
Staying Safe in the BVI
The BVI are generally a safe destination, but it’s important to take precautions:
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Don’t leave valuables unattended.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- Wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Be careful when swimming or snorkeling, and be aware of currents.
- Respect the local culture and customs.
Health & Medical Care: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Peebles Hospital is located in Road Town, Tortola, and smaller clinics are available on other islands.
Understanding BVI Culture
The culture of the British Virgin Islands is a rich blend of African, European, and Caribbean influences. Learning a little about the local customs and traditions will enhance your experience.
- Respect the locals: Be polite and courteous to the people you meet.
- Dress modestly when visiting towns and villages.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Caribbean Creole English.
- Try the local cuisine: Be sure to sample some of the local dishes, such as fungi (a cornmeal-based dish) and saltfish.
During special celebrations, look out for music and dance performances which share the island’s history. The people of BVI are open and welcoming. Interacting with them provides perspective from a truly unique position.
FAQ Section
What is the best way to get around the BVI? Ferries and water taxis are the primary modes of transportation between islands. Renting a car is recommended for exploring Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada.
Do I need a visa to visit the BVI? Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check the BVI government website for the most up-to-date requirements.
What is the local currency? The official currency is the US Dollar (USD).
What is the best time to visit the BVI? The best time to visit is from November to April for pleasant weather and less humidity.
Is it safe to drink the tap water? It’s generally recommended to drink bottled water.
What are some must-try local dishes? Try fungi and saltfish, conch fritters, and grilled lobster (especially on Anegada).
Are there ATMs in the BVI? ATMs are available in Road Town (Tortola), Spanish Town (Virgin Gorda), and Great Harbour (Jost Van Dyke).
What type of electrical plugs are used in the BVI? The BVI use the North American standard of 110 volts, 60 Hz, with Type A and B plugs. You may need an adapter.
References
- British Virgin Islands Tourist Board
- Inter Island Boat Services
- Speedy’s Ferry Services
- Road Town Fast Ferry
- BVI Yacht Charters
- Dive BVI
So, are you ready to turn this dream itinerary into reality? Stop just imagining and start planning! Book your flights, secure your accommodations, and prepare for the journey of a lifetime. The breathtaking beauty of the BVI awaits—don’t miss out on this incredible adventure. What are you waiting for? Your paradise is calling!
