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The British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is a collection of islands and capes in the Caribbean Sea, located to the east of Puerto Rico. Made up of 4 larger islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Angegada, and Jost Van Dyke) and over 30 smaller islands, many of which are uninhabited, BVI is one of the most exclusive and least-developed locations in the Caribbean. The main town and port, Road Town, is located on the largest of the islands, Tortola. A collection of unique restaurants, villas and resorts span the British Virgin Islands offering one-of-a-kind experiences and unforgettable memories.
The British Virgin Islands feature beautiful landscapes of low mountains, beaches, lagoons, coral reefs and so much more! Located in the tropics, the BVI average 78°F (26°C) annually, maintaining a mild, subtropical climate which is controlled by the gentle ocean winds. The warm climate and ocean breeze had made BVI an attractive destination for travellers with a love for sailing and solitude. Being called “the sailing capital of the Caribbean”, BVI is one of the safest and most stunning sailing spots in the world. Other popular water-activities of the islands include scuba diving, windsurfing, and fishing.
Not to be confused with the U.S. Virgin Islands which is located south of the BVI and a territory of the United States, The British Virgin Islands is a British Overseas territory. While these two territories share some similarities, they do have cultural differences with the BVI being described as more laid back and relaxing.
Things to do in BVI
- Go Snorkeling in one of the countless stunning snorkeling spots
- Go on a sailing trip
- Swim with dolphins
- Surf off the beautiful BVI beaches
- Kayak along the BVI coastline
Tortola
Tortola is the largest of the British Virgin Islands and has the highest population of all the islands, stretching 12 miles long and only 3 miles wide. A mountainous island formed by volcanic activity, Tortola’s highest peak reaches just over 1730 ft. making this island great for hiking and sightseeing. But the beautiful stretches of white beaches and brilliant blue waters are absolutely breathtaking. Road Town, the largest town and port of BVI, is a popular stop for sailors with a collection of shops, restaurants and more. Whether you want to spend the day at the beach watching the sailboats or shopping on main street, Road Town will keep you entertained from dawn to dusk.
Things to do in Tortola
- Explore Road Town & shop on Main Street
- Hike the Sage Mountain National Park
- Zipline with the Original Virgin Canopy Tour
- Visit the J.R. O’Neal Botanical Garden
Virgin Gorda
The second largest island of the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda, is located only 12 miles to the east of Tortola. Many claim that Virgin Gorda is home to some of the most beautiful natural sights of BVI with popular spots including The Baths, Gorda Peak, and the stunning clear water bays. The southwestern part of the island, known as the Valley, is stretched with soft hills with massive granite boulders found at the south part of the island. The capital, Spanish Town, and most of the population of the island along with most of the restaurants, housing and businesses can be found in the Valley. In the center of the island a mountain, known as Gorda Peak, sitting at about 1350 feet.
Things to do in Virgin Gorda
- Visit The Baths, a cave system formed by massive boulders
- Snorkel at “The Wreck of the Chikuzen”
- Visit Spanish Town for shopping and special annual events
- Hike the Virgin Gorda Peak
- Snorkel at Spring Bay
Angegada
Angegada, unlike the other Virgin Islands, is relatively flat and made of coral and limestone. The largest barrier reef in the Caribbean, the Horseshoe Reef, stretches along this island and has a collection of more than 500 unexplored shipwrecks among them. With a population of only 250, most of this island has been protected for birds and other wildlife including a large flock of flamingos. A number of white-sand beaches attract tourists, along with being the fishing capital of the BVI. Known more specifically for the lobster, every November the Angegada Lobster Festival is held to celebrate this special catch.
Things to do in Angegada
- Visit Loblolly Bay, one of the world’s top beaches
- Snorkel along the Horseshoe Reef
- Enjoy an Angegada lobster, offered at all local restaurants
- Go on a fishing trip
Jost Van Dyke
A small island, only 4 miles long by 2 miles wide, Jost Van Dyke offers a unique private island feel compared to some of the other larger islands. Everything on this island is more secluded and easier to get to in comparison. Great Bay Harbour can be found at the center of the island offering a boat landing, restaurants, and places to stay. Similar to the other islands Jost Van Dyke is home to some of the most beautiful white sand, clear-water beaches in the world. With a population of under 150 people, you are sure to enjoy an exclusive, private experience on this little island.
Things to do in Jost Van Dyke
- Hike to the Bubbly Pool
- Drive to the ‘top of the island’
- Boat to Sandy Spit
- Visit the White Bay
