Did you know one of the world’s top tax havens is also an island paradise? You may have become aware of the British Virgin Islands, officially called the Virgin Islands and often shortened to BVI, through its lax tax practices and offshore accounts owned by some of the wealthiest individuals and companies.
What most people don’t know about the Caribbean island is that it also has a wealth of natural wonders. The country is a chain of islands, mostly volcanic in origin. There are 4 main islands, along with over 50 other smaller isolated islands and cays. The islands have aquamarine waters filled with reefs, long powdery shorelines and sunny, tropical weather all year long.
The islands are charming and unspoiled — perfect for the next curious traveler to explore it. The little known paradise is definitely worth a visit. Find out what the island offers with our list of the best things to do in the British Virgin Islands.
1. Start your getaway at Cane Garden Bay
View of Cane Garden Bay on Tortola, British Virgin Islands | Thomas Kloc, Shutterstock
On British Virgin Island’s main island, Tortola, is the busiest beach in the country: Cane Garden Bay. Every day, the tropical beach draws in hundreds of visitors and locals seeking to enjoy the picture-perfect view of the beach.
Start off your tropical getaway with your feet in the gorgeous blue water. You can spend your day swimming, kayaking, or enjoying a small picnic by the beach. It’s one of the best ways to introduce yourself to the beauty of the British Virgin Islands. To get to the beach from Tortola, you have to get on a coach, zipping through the small roads to climb a mountain, but the powdery sand and scenery are well worth it.
Cane Garden Bay
Chalwell, Leonards, British Virgin Islands
Admission: Free
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Red Rock (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• A taste of India (4.8/5 stars, Indian, $$)
• Banana Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Cane Garden Bay.
The best hotel to stay near Cane Garden Bay based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, Autograph Collection (9.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
2. See the rock formations at The Baths
The Baths beach area major tourist attraction at Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands with turquoise water and huge granite boulders | BlueOrange Studio, Shutterstock
On the northern shore of the Virgin Gorda Island lies The Baths, a geological wonder of granite boulders. The collection of boulders creates dramatic rock formations that hide secret sea pools right on the edge of the beach. Grab your swim shoes and waterproof camera and explore the hidden maze of caves and grottos created by the volcanoes of ancient times. It is the most recognizable natural landmark in the whole archipelago.
The Baths
Spanish Town, British Virgin Islands
Admission: US$3
Ph: +1 514-839-9673
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• CocoMaya Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Asian fusion, $$$)
• Hog Heaven (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Fat Virgin’s Cafe (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near The Baths.
The best hotel to stay near The Baths based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Villa Del Mar Studios E and W (9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
3. Stumble onto Devil’s Bay National Park
Virgin Gorda, Devil’s Bay (The Baths) National Park | federico neri, Shutterstock
Near The Baths is a lesser-known yet interesting destination. Devil’s Bay National Park is a short 15-minute hike from the top of The Baths. The horseshoe-shaped bay is not as visited as The Baths, giving it a more exclusive vibe. With its soft sand and tranquil waters, it is one of the most beautiful beaches on Virgin Gorda Island.
Devil’s Bay National Park
Spanish Town, British Virgin Islands
Admission: US$3
Ph: +1 514-839-9673
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Radas Restaurant And Bar (5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Nova (4.9/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Sugarcane Restaurant (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Devil’s Bay National Park.
The best hotel to stay near Devil’s Bay National Park based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Rosewood Little Dix Bay (/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
4. Be refreshed at White Bay Beach
White Bay Beach, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands | NAPA, Shutterstock
Located on Jost Van Dyke Island, White Bay Beach is a favorite among visitors. The beach has the staples of any Caribbean beach: bright blue sky, soft pillowy sand, and cerulean blue waters. However, what sets it apart from the other beaches is that it’s known for its refreshing offerings. The beach’s trademark long stretch of white sand is home to amazing beach bars. Visit Pain Killer, the destination’s famed rum concoction from The Soggy Dollar Bar, is the drink of choice.
White Bay Beach
Belle Vue, British Virgin Islands
Ph: +1 284-442-3074
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Sidney’s Peace & Love (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Gene’s Bar & Grill (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near White Bay Beach.
The best hotel to stay near White Bay Beach based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, Autograph Collection (9.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
5. Feel elevated at the Sage Mountain National Park
Tortola from Sage Mountain National Park – British Virgin Islands | Jason Patrick Ross, Shutterstock
The highest peak of the British Virgin Island in Tortola is Mount Sage, located in the Sage Mountain National Park. Mount Sage, with an elevation of 1,716 feet, offers picturesque, sweeping views of the surrounding areas. The peak can be reached through the relatively easy and well-marked designated trails.
Hike your way to the top and be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the British Virgin Islands. From the observation deck, you are treated to a 360-degree view of the island and the nearby islands. You can choose from the 12 looping trails that run through the forest.
Sage Mountain National Park
Sage Mountain, British Virgin Islands
Admission: US$3
Ph: +1 284-494-2069
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• The Rooftop by Brandywine (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Crandall’s Pastry Plus (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• The Dove Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Sage Mountain National Park.
The best hotel to stay near White Bay Beach based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Sebastian’s on the Beach Hotel (8.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
6. Go snorkeling at Brewers Bay
Beautiful sunny day at Brewers Bay on Tortola – BVI | Jason Patrick Ross, Shutterstock
The British Virgin Islands has largely untouched reefs home to rich and colorful marine life. On Tortola’s north shore is a popular destination for snorkeling. Brewer’s Bay is a peaceful and uncrowded reef beach. On any typical day, you will find calm and clear waters. This gives a great advantage in spotting the sea creatures.
Grab your snorkeling gear and head underwater to get up close and personal with various sea life. You may even spot a shark! Snorkeling equipment and fins are available to rent at the beach.
Brewers Bay
Brewers Bay Road Brewers Bay Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Admission: Free
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Island Tacos (5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Lady Sarah’s Farm (5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Sweet and Savoury (5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Brewers Bay.
The best hotel to stay near Brewers Bay based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Fort Burt Hotel (6.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
7. Hang out at Smuggler’s Cove
Smuggler’s Cove is one of Tortola’s best-kept secrets. To get to it involves a bumpy ride on narrow roads. The ride is worthwhile, though, as you are treated to a stunning and secluded beach that is picturesque in every angle. It is also another favorite spot for snorkeling activities. The beautiful, quiet beach has calm and shallow waters, which helps you view the coral beds and fishes under the sea.
Relax on the soft, white sand and let your worries be washed away by the soothing turquoise waves of the sea. It is paradise on earth. If you’re charmed by the quaint Smuggler’s Cove, you can opt to spend your trip in Gun Point, a luxury villa accommodation with a private trail to the beach.
Smuggler’s Cove
Belmont, British Virgin Islands
Admission: Free
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Caribbean Vybez Restaurant & Bar (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Pearl of the Orient (5/5 stars, Asian, $$)
• Tandoor (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Smuggler’s Cove.
The best place to stay near Smuggler’s Cove based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Villa Del Mar Studios E and W (9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
8. Go yachting
Catamaran Drone picture from Bitter End Yacht Club in the British Virgin Islands | Kevin Kopf, Shutterstock
The deep blue expanse between the chain of islands of the British Virgin Islands is absolutely perfect for yachting. In fact, the British Virgin Islands are nicknamed the sailing capital of the Caribbean. Its yacht sector has over 2,000 boats and cabins available for charter. The location is famous with sailors for its warm weather and steady trade winds that make sailing a breeze. You’ll have your pick of yachting adventures.
9. Stop by and see Willy T
Willy T | Tom Trelvik, Flickr
One of the British Virgin Island’s legends, Willy T, has been in operation for over 35 years. The floating bar and restaurant are anchored off the Bight near Norman Island. It is popular with visitors and locals alike as it offers a unique experience: an all-day boisterous seaside party on the boat. Kick off the afternoon festivities by heading up to the poop deck atop the bar area. You can dive off into the clear blue Caribbean sea for a thrilling time.
Willy T
Road Town, British Virgin Islands
Admission: $$
Ph: +1 284-340-8603
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• The Dove Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Red Rock (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Willy T.
The best hotel to stay near Willy T based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Anegada Reef Hotel (9.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
10. Watch the waves at the Bubbly Pool
Jost Van Dyke British Virgin Islands bubbly pool | AmandaADB, Shutterstock
On Jost Van Dyke island, you can take a short to moderate scenic hike through mangroves to a rocky spot with stellar views. The Bubbly Pool is like a natural jacuzzi. You can watch the waves crash through a small opening between the towering rocks and gather into a small pool of water. Don’t miss a golden photo opportunity to capture the moment when the waves hit the rocks with a burst of sea spray.
The Bubbly Pool
Belle Vue, British Virgin Islands
Admission: Free
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• A&B Bar and Restaurant (5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Harris’ Place (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near The Bubbly Pool.
The best hotel to stay near The Bubbly Pool based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, Autograph Collection (9.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
11. Grab a bite at Tortola
Oxtail lunch in restaurant in West End Tortola | Frank Lervik, Shutterstock
There are plenty of mouths to feed on Tortola, the busiest island of the British Virgin Island. As such, the town is known for its diverse and tasty selection of street food ready to feed hungry locals and curious tourists. Sample Tortola’s local cuisine, a fusion of many colorful cultures such as European, African, and East Indian. The East Indians introduced one of the island’s staples: the humble roti.
Roti, a flatbread, is usually paired with curry, and different stalls have its own spin on its roti creations. However, it’s almost always paired with a delectable serving of mango chutney.
12. Learn to kitesurf
Kitesurfing | Tommy Gaunts Kite School
Kitesurfing on Anegada, British Virgin Islands | Kinga Lach, YouTube
The steady winds and calm waters of the British Virgin Islands are great for kitesurfing. Kitesurfing is a popular water sport on the island as there are plenty of areas to glide around. Feel the adrenaline rush as you glide through the deep blue waters.
One of the best places to learn kitesurfing in the British Virgin Islands is on the Anegada Beach Club. Tommy Gaunts Kite School, located in the club, is one of the well-known and respected schools in the sport. The flat and shallow spot on the north shore of the club is perfect for beginners.
Anegada Beach Club
The Settlement, British Virgin Islands
Admission: $220/2 hour for introduction lessons
Ph: +1 284-346-4006
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Neptunes Treasure (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Cow Wreck (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Big Bamboo Beach Bar and Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Bar & grill, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Anegada Beach Club.
The best hotel to stay near Anegada Beach Club based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Anegada Reef Hotel (9.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
13. Grab an eco-friendly brew at Cooper Island
Cooper Island cold beer and refreshing beers | Cooper Island
To cool yourself on the beach, one favorite way to do it is to crack open a cold beer and take a refreshing gulp. Most beaches in the British Virgin island have a bar that offers cold ones to combat the heat. However, at Cooper Island Beach Club, they offer a tiny luxury on this hard to reach paradise: craft beer. The resort has an on-site microbrewery that brews pilsners, lagers, and even IPAs for its thirsty guests. It also offers an eco-friendly alternative to importing bottles and aluminum cans of beer and other beverages.
Cooper Island Beach Club
Manchioneel Bay Cooper Island, VG1110, British Virgin Islands
Admission: $$
Ph: 284-547-2002
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• The Rooftop by Brandywine (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Sidney’s Peace & Love (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Marché At Trellis (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Cooper Island Beach Club.
The best hotel to stay near Cooper Island Beach Club based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Wyndham Tortola BVI Lambert Beach Resort (8.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
14. Take home a conch
Anegada Conch Shell Mounds | Bunchie VI, Shutterstock
At the end of your Caribbean trip, you may be at a loss as to what memento would perfectly encapsulate the sunny beach adventures you’ve had on the British Virgin Islands. A conch shell is an amazing souvenir to get because the charming shellfish would easily inspire blissful memories of the islands.
Rather than getting one from the many souvenir stalls, you can opt to harvest your own. Book a tour with Kelly’s Sea and Land Tours to see Anegada and its giant mountains of empty conch shells. On the tour, you can learn about the mound of shells that have existed for centuries and enjoy an experience where you can harvest your own conch.
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