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British Virgin Islands Travel Guide
A perfect blend of opulence and undisturbed paradise, the British Virgin Islands are truly unmissable. Often referred to as the playground to the rich and famous, but this authentic and quirky Caribbean Island is bursting full of character that is waiting to be discovered. Untouched beaches, dazzling waters and heaps of activities to do, come and see for yourself why we adore this hidden gem so much.
Beaches in the British Virgin Islands
Encompassing more than 60 Islands, there’s definitely not a shortage of pristine white beaches to choose from. The beaches come in all shapes and sizes, with each one being totally unique. It’s well known that the British Virgin Islands are the most spectacular place for island hopping in all the Caribbean, where you’ll spot a billowing catamaran or snazzy yacht in the distance at any given time. Of course, if there are Islands to hop then there must be a beach to flop onto – not to mention a beach bar serving icy drinks.
Best beaches in the British Virgin Islands
The Baths, Virgin Gorda
Exploring colourful coves and giant granite boulders of the Baths of Virgin Gorda is undoubtedly one of the most memorable experiences you can have in the British Virgin Islands. Smooth boulders vary in size as they rise from the crystal blue water, making a perfect maze for explorers. Find perfect clear shallow waters for some light snorkelling or much needed relaxing sunbathing.
Smugglers Cove, Tortola
A special stretch of beach that is almost untouched by humanity. As much as we all love a beach bar and BBQ shack to unwind in, this isolated gem lets mother nature show off her beauty with stretches of this blindingly white shore. What’s better, the swimming and snorkelling here is said to be the best on the island as no boat charters can cross the nearby reef. Don’t tell too many people about this place though, it’s our best kept secret on the whole islands!
White Bay, Jost Van Dyke
On the southwest coast of Jost Van Dyke, you will find the buzzing beach of White Bay. Convenient to Great Harbour and close to the Island's lively bars and charming villas, White Bay will always be filled with activity. Lay a towel down on sugar-coated sand and admire the views of shimmering yachts and sailboats on the distance, or join the amazing Caribbean party atmosphere at the famous beach shacks. Local joints like Soggy Dollar Bar or the One Love bar will offer some great hospitality, and enjoy a frosty traditional rum Painkiller - a cocktail rumoured to have been invented at this very spot! Although be warned, it may blow your flip flops off.
British Virgin Islands geography
British Virgin Islands history
Wildlife in the British Virgin Islands
Activities in the British Virgin Islands
Watersports
Diving in British Virgin Islands
Whether you’re a beginner looking to acquire an impressive new skill or a veteran looking for new experiences, the British Virgin Islands are world class when it comes to scuba diving. Diving can be done year-round, with water temperature ranging from 25°-28°. Water visibility is amazing at 60-100ft, making your tropical underwater tour one for the memory books.Majority of diving operators are located in Tortola; with Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, Scrub Island and Cooper Island having operators too.
The sites in the BVI feature some stunning coral gardens, shipwrecks and sandy bottoms. The ghostly shipwreck site of the RMS Rhone, a steamboat that sunk in 1867 due to harsh hurricane winds, is found in the Rhone Marine Park. Located near Salt Island and is perfect to see a jungle of corals and tropical fish intertwined with the vessel remains. A whole day is dedicated to diving this wreck as there is so much to take in. There are areas of the wreckage still penetrable where it’ll blow your flippers off with how much you’ll be able to see – including the original silverware!
As you can probably tell by its name, the Angelfish reef is another sought after diving site in the BVI, with tropical marine life pouring out from every angle. This site is great for wide lens photography, often used in magazine brochures. There is a maze of rocky canyons and ridges perfect for exploring, with turtles and even lobsters joining in on the fun too.
Surfing in British Virgin Islands
The waters on the British Virgin Islands may not be as established for surfing as some of its Caribbean neighbours, but the gentle to moderate swells can offer a great launchpad for a beginner or some easy-going fun for the more experienced rider. The winter months bring more consistency, around November through to February due to the low pressures in the Atlantic generating ideal swells around the Islands. Winter swells typically affect north of the Island, and the summer months see the tropical storms of the Caribbean Sea brining some rare swells to the south shores.
Popular hotspots include Josiah’s Bay, Tortola. Found slightly off the beaten track and, therefore never busy. This bay is perfect for a beginner as minimal spectators will witness the initial belly flops off the board. With some friendly beach bars along the stretch of sand, surfers often ride their boards towards a rewarding cocktail after a long day on the water. Josiah’s Bay is the most all-around break in the BVI, which is also ideal for a longboard. Owning the only beach break on the islands too, this bay has a kaleidoscope of lefts and rights, just be careful of an occasional riptide.
Apple Bay is the most favoured location for locals and more experienced surfers join forces. Reggae music from the local Bomba Shack makes this one of the great chilled locations on the island, a perfect atmosphere you’ll be looking for. Having the best all-around wave on the whole of Tortola.
Windsurfing & kitesurfing in British Virgin Islands
Hook in and hold on – the phrase used in the BVI for exhilarating wind sports. The British Virgin Islands have made excellent use of the consistent trade wind felt rippling through the perfectly placed bays. No need to bring any of your own gear as surf and kite schools will have you covered. The Tommy Gaunt Kitesurfing school at the Anegada Beach Club is a great escape destination, offering a great variety of water sports for all ages at every level. With friendly teaching methods, all instructors are RYA certified and passionate about windsurfing. Surrounded by a protective reef, learn the basics or improve your skills with the trained professionals. Carib Kiteboarding in the stunning North Sound area of Virgin Gorda, at the Bitter End Yacht Club also offers fantastic jet ski led lesson and sessions with a 100% approved rating on TripAdvisor, so we're guessing they’re worth a visit or two. The best consistent winds are in the winter months of November-February, so why not book your slots asap.
Sailing in British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands are famed for being the sailing capital of the Caribbean, and rightly so. With near perfect winds and a perfect line of site navigation, these isles are a firm favourite for novices and experienced sailors alike. The calm currents of the warm cobalt blue make the journey to your destination even more glorious. The four main islands offer a wide variety of peaceful anchorages and lively locations perfect to easily hop from Jost van Dyke to Coopers Island, or Virgin Gorda to Norman Island, the choice really is yours. Top places to charter from include the local’s favourites of Dream Yacht Charter or Tortola Dream, with fleets of 70 yachts or catamarans to pick from and all having the option of a skipper to assist and arrange a perfect itinerary.
Join in the amazing annual BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival. Starting in Scrub Island, the week-long festival shows off some incredible racing with heart-warming camaraderie. Sailing around the eastern islands in the first half and the western in the second, enjoy afternoons of festivities, gorgeous cuisine and lively music to celebrate a day's work. A great way to deliver a top-notch experience of world class sailing on the Caribbean’s best waters.
Fishing in British Virgin Islands
A common activity found on Islands like these is of course fishing. With glass-like waters you’re bound to find a perfect catch of the day. Inshore reefs are teaming with coral and marine life, and is a perfect choice for those with children, cruising the shallow Islands flats. Kingfish, Mackerel and Yellowtails will most definitely be on your catch list by the bays, banks and lagoons. Fishing is great year-round, but November-May has the best success rate.
Weather and Conditions permitting (don’t worry, its beautiful everyday), offshore fishing is bigger and better than anywhere in the Caribbean for the distinguished array of trophy fish found in these deep waters. Blackfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Blue Martin and Wahoo are all common catches in the deep warm waters. Head to the capital of Road Town for day trip excursions at the BVIA Catamaran Company, where you can combine fishing, snorkelling and a tasty Caribbean feast into one unforgettable day.
Canoeing & kayaking in British Virgin Islands
There is no better way to see the islands than by a kayak, and better yet it's fantastic fun. Sealingo Water Sports in Virgin Gorda run a great range of activities, including and LED light and glass-bottomed kayak to see the amazing marine life even at night. Island Surf and Sail, located in Tortola offer some great guided tours and profess that they have ‘the best service, best rental gear and best prices’ in the whole BVI! Glide along crystal waters, under volcanic hills and below emerald-green mangroves and see the Islands in a truly unmissable way. No need for a wetsuit in these waters, and if you're after a quick poodle around then some of the bigger resorts have some great equipment for guest use.
Land activities
Golf in British Virgin Islands
Strangely enough, Golf is not a sport featured on the British Virgin Islands. Partly due to a lack of space as a vast 18-hole course would be bigger than a lot of these islands combined! The great news is that Caribbean Island Hopper boat system means it couldn’t be easier to travel between the US Virgin Islands and the BVI, perfect for golf loving guests. The Mahogony Run Golf Course on the north shore of St Thomas, US Virgin Islands is wonderfully scenic and encompasses more than 110 acres, demonstrating Caribbean golf at its finest.
Cycling & mountain biking in British Virgin Islands
Follow in the footsteps of the BVI cycling federation, who have won an impressive 5 Caribbean Cup Master titles and tackle the incredible paths and trails of these islands. Take in the charming and colourful scenery riding the 10mile Sir Frances Drake coastal road from Road Town to the lively Soper’s Hole, and if you’re brave go even further to the North Beach Coast on the paved Zion Hill road. The gentle route is perfect for a leisurely way to take in some breath-taking views.
The more adventurous cyclists, the dirt route behind the gorgeous Smuggler’s Cove is a delight to ride. The first section has a Mediterranean feel with glossy giant cacti on the south-facing sunny side at the entrance at Soper’s Hole. Cycle around the bend high above stunning Steel Point, with a grand view of onward islands. Leading to the Island’s tropical jungle with a rugged dip into the rocky, muddy road of Smuggler’s Cove. Nanny Cay Resort has a great selection of mountain and road bikes perfect for all levels with guides and knowledge of idyllic routes.
Walking & hiking in British Virgin Islands
With many Islands, there are many stunning hiking routes to discover. With spectacular landscapes, what a better way to explore deep into the Island than on foot. For a relaxing stroll, leave your belongings behind and go barefoot at the Devil’s Bay Trail. Taking 20 minutes and leads you through rocks caves and tunnels to the mouth-drooling beautiful Baths of Virgin Gorda, a protected cove with turquoise waters crashing at a crescent of sugar-white sand and giant granite boulders.
For the more nature enthusiast, the glorious sage Mountain National Park in Tortola offers 12 scenic routes through the lush Mahogony Forest Trails. Trek through the serenity of the BVI first National Park, home to a variety of native flora and fauna. Spot native mountain doves and thrushes swirling above whilst hiking to the highest peak in Islands, with a northernly coast overlook to nearby Jost Van Dyke dazzling like a gemstone in the sun. How delightful does that sound?
For a touch of adventure then the Island, and now certified National Park of Prickly Pear. Located just east of Virgin Gorda in its North Sound, the short boat ride will immerse yourself into the marine soul of the BVI, what a great introduction to try some sailing! Tread through paths of flowering cacti adjacent to the stunning salt ponds leading from Vixen Point Beach through to two stunning secluded bays for your own personal enjoyment.