This group of over 50 islands is located in the sunny Caribbean, which is a favorite spot for sailing enthusiasts, surf lovers, and dive resorts. Part of the Virgin Islands archipelago, these islands are British Overseas Territory which means they continue to be under British jurisdiction for various reasons. The calm currents and the secure bays make the region an excellent spot for water sports such as scuba diving and snorkeling. A favorite spot with celebrities and yacht owners, these islands offer pristine beaches, clear waters, and luxury villas. However, these islands continue to be largely undeveloped, which seems to only enhance their charm as a tourist destination. Discover the hidden gems and continue reading to discover the best things to do in the British Virgin Islands.
1. Experience the Full Moon Party at Trellis Bay
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We're ready for YOU - FULL MOON PARTY at the bay from 6:00 PM! • FIRE DANCERS & MOKO JUMBIES PERFORMANCE 8:15 PM! ...
Posted by Trellis Bay Market Bar & Grill on Sunday, June 4, 2023
Indulge in an unforgettable evening of excitement and celebration at Trellis Bay Market’s Full Moon Party Nights. Trellis Bay Market is one of the most popular places to visit in the British Virgin Islands. Once a month, this vibrant bay transforms into a lively gathering under the moonlight. Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere as local Mocko Jumbies, fire dancers, and live music set the stage for an extraordinary experience. Satisfy your taste buds with mouthwatering delights, such as BBQ Chicken, Ribs, Grilled Fish, Lobster, Steak, Jerk Chicken, and Jerk Pork, expertly prepared on the barrel smokers and grills for that perfect flavor.
Trellis Bay
Address: Trellis Bay, Beef Island, British Virgin Islands
Website: Trellis Bay
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 6am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 6am - 11pm; Sun: 9am - 6pm
2. Experience pottery making (from USD 120.0)
If you are looking forward to a fun time in the British Virgin Islands, you will get a lot of options, such as fishing, diving, and snorkeling. Enhance your experience with a private pottery-making class. You’ll learn hand-building techniques and witness pottery demonstrations when you are at The Pottery Garden. Get hands-on experience on the potter’s wheel and create your masterpiece. Explore the outdoor kiln and tropical garden, browse the studio gallery, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Don’t miss this opportunity to take home a unique piece of handcrafted pottery.
Private Pottery Experience with Local Artist on Tortola
Duration: 3 hours
3. Delve into the geological history of Anegada Island
Situated at the northern tip of this cluster of islands, Anegada is geographically unique. It is made of coral and limestone, unlike the other islands which are of volcanic origins. It is also flat compared to the other mountainous isles. There is only one village on this island with a population of less than 300. Another unique geological feature here is the many large salt ponds that are home to numerous species of fauna, including flamingos.
Anegada Island
Address: Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
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4. Relax a while at Cane Garden Bay
This beautiful beach on the north side of Tortola is a favored spot for outdoor fun such as sailing and windsurfing. Go swimming in the clear turquoise waters or enjoy kayaking. Once you are done having fun in the water or watching others do so, head to the many restaurants and bars that line the beach to unwind. Live music and dancing are some possibilities.
Cane Garden Bay
Address: Cane Garden Bay Rd, Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Website: Cane Garden Bay
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Explore the flora and fauna of Sage Mountain National Park
This protected area of the British Virgin Islands was established in 1964. The summit of Sage Mountain offers panoramic views of all the islands. Getting to know the local flora and fauna is certainly among the unique things to do in Tortola. The mountain helps bring in the rain to the region and is characterized by large boulders and old-growth forests on one side with old pastures and remnant dry forest on the other. There are plenty of trails that run across the park for hiking and trekking enthusiasts.
Sage Mountain National Park
Address: Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Website: Sage Mountain National Park
6. Go swimming or snorkeling in Smuggler’s Cove
The pristine sands and turquoise waters of this beautiful beach beckon you to stay forever. Getting here is not easy, but once you have arrived you’ll find that it is definitely worth the trip. The road that reaches here is unpaved but decent enough and is frequented by quite a few cruise ship groups. There is a place that sells beer and rents beach chairs. You can also enjoy snorkeling and looking out for sea turtles.
Smuggler’s Cove
Address: West End, Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Website: Smuggler’s Cove
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Awaken the history buff in you at Virgin Islands Wartime Museum
The Schooner, Baby Mac at the Cruz Bay Dock. 1967. Baby Mac was Build by Mack Conner and was a weekly supplier of fruit...
Posted by US Virgin Islands Maritime Museum on Tuesday, 20 September 2016
Set within the H Lavity Stoutt Community College in Tortola, this museum showcases the maritime history of the islands with its many interesting displays. The maritime tradition of the islands dates back to the 18th century, and the museum was founded in 2005. The islands’ cultural tradition of handcrafting wooden boats is prominently highlighted here, and you will get to see the numerous tools used to create these boats.
Virgin Islands Wartime Museum
Address: HLSCC Marine Centre, East End, British Virgin Islands
Website: Virgin Islands Wartime Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 4:30pm (closed Sat - Sun)
8. Soak in the views at Gorda Peak National Park
Flower along the path to the top of Gorda Peak.
Posted by Heather Myers Searl on Thursday, 23 July 2015
Make your way to the highest point on Virgin Gorda with your pick of two trails that lead to the summit. The national park has different types of vegetation ranging from dry scrub to moist forest at different elevations. It is also home to a variety of indigenous flora, as well as fauna species. The world’s smallest lizard is found here. Enjoy panoramic views of your surroundings, which extends up to Anegada island on a clear day.
Gorda Peak National Park
Address: N Sound Rd, British Virgin Islands
Website: Gorda Peak National Park
Opening hours: 6am – 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
9. Go paddleboarding through the mangrove forests of Road Town (from USD 90.0)
If you are looking for activities in British Virgin Islands, then set off on this guided paddleboarding adventure into the mangrove forests. Get fitted with the gear and listen to instructions from your guide, which are easy enough to grasp, even for novices. Paddle out into the lagoon as you keep an eye out for the marine life that inhabits these clear waters. Get a glimpse of ospreys and pelicans that can be seen in the sky. See stingrays dart by and look out for baby sharks and barracudas. Listen as your guide talks about the fragile marine ecosystem of the region. Halfway through the tour, step ashore onto a coral atoll as you listen to stories about pirates of the past and the mega-yachts of the present that frequent the area.
Magic Mangrove Paddle in Beef Island Lagoon
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
10. Enjoy a visual treat at stunning White Bay
Fun in the Sun! ⛵☀?? We hope everyone's having a great Sunday! . . . ? : @rumshopryan . . . . . #bvi...
Posted by British Virgin Islands on Sunday, 21 July 2019
Counted among one of the top beaches of the island cluster, White Bay offers you beautiful vistas of pristine sand and the azure water beyond. A massive snorkeling reef beckons you to explore, while award-winning bars along the beach are perfect for a great end to an idyllic day. As the best beach on Jost Van Dyke, it also has plenty of luxury accommodations and beach shelters to help you make the most of your visit.
White Bay
Address: White Bay, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
Website: White Bay
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
11. Tour vibrant Road Town
The capital of the British Virgin Islands is situated on Tortola and is a hub for yacht charters. It is known for its quaint ‘buses’, which comprise of full-sized vans and modified open-air trucks with a canvas top and bench seats. These are an inexpensive and fun way of travelling around town. This is also the place from where you can catch a ferry to one of the outlying islands.
Road Town
Address: Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
12. Scuba dive to explore the underwater beauty of Rhone National Maritime Park
This is the only maritime park in the islands and is made up of the wreck of the RMS Rhone. Lying submerged at a depth of 20 to 80 feet (6m to 24m), this wreck that was once a Royal Mail Steamer is still largely intact. It is a popular site for commercial dive operators and is a rich source of algae and coral. You can take a closer look at these as well as the different parts of the vessel, such as the propeller and the boilers. Anchoring is not permitted and fishing is also prohibited within the limits of the park. A mooring permit is essential, so you must keep this in mind if you’re planning to venture out here on your own.
Rhone National Maritime Park
Address: Lee Bay, Salt Island, Road Town, Tortola
Website: Rhone National Maritime Park
13. Soak in the natural hot tub at Bubbly Pool
Set off for a refreshing soak in the natural hot tub at Bubbly Pool, located on the east side of Jost Van Dyke island. This is a natural pool formed by the waves crashing against a gap in the rocky cliffs resulting in a fizzy, natural bubble bath. However, when the Atlantic Ocean is calm, Bubbly Pool will also stay calm. At this time, you will be able to spot a good number of reef fish and other species in the water. There is a short and easy hike that leads to the pool or you can also access it from the water. The spot is also very picturesque and makes for great photograph opportunities.
Bubbly Pool
Address: Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price:Free
14. Soak in the vibes at Soper’s Hole
Posted by Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina, West End, Tortola, British Virgin Islands on Monday, 15 July 2019
This marina on the island of Tortola is a great spot to drop anchor when you’re in the British Virgin Islands. Nestled amid small hills, this is a picturesque area with a charming inn and snack bars close by. A great place to simply stroll around and soak in the ambiance, you can also enjoy watching the boats come in. Believed to have been a favorite haunt of pirates centuries ago, it is easy to see why it might have been given the beauty of the place. It is also a nice spot to wait out rough weather, and it remains popular with tourists today.
Soper's Hole
Address: West End, Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Website: Soper’s Hole
Opening hours: 7am - 2pm (daily)
15. Treat your foodie soul at Pirates Bight
Posted by Pirates Bight on Friday, 2 May 2014
Located on Norman Island, this waterfront restaurant offers seafood delicacies and Caribbean cuisine to tantalize your taste buds. Open for lunch and dinner, this eatery features a blue and white color theme that welcomes you to relax and enjoy the stunning views. Their chicken tenders, fajitas, and sandwiches are worthy of a good start. Entrees such as pan-seared halibut, lobster specials, and salmon are simply out of this world. This restaurant also offers gluten-free options.
Pirates Bight
Address: Norman Island, Creek Village, VG110
Website: Pirates Bight
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)
16. Enjoy the night at Soggy Dollar Bar
Posted by Soggy Dollar Bar on Sunday, 28 April 2019
Situated on Jost Van Dyke, this fun place is a good spot to savor island life. Settle in with a drink and some munchies to watch the boats come in and people swim in the clear waters. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, their signature painkiller – a rum cocktail - is a must-try! From burgers and fries to sandwiches and melts, you can find it all here. Appetizers include seafood kebabs and dumplings, among others.
Soggy Dollar Bar
Address: White Bay, VG1160, Jost Van Dyke
Website: Soggy Dollar Bar
Opening hours: 8am - 6:30pm (daily)
17. Tour the hidden gem called Devil's Bay National Park
Devil’s Bay National Park is just a 15-minute hike from The Baths. The beach here is a picture-perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. This horseshoe bay is accessible through two different trails as well as the ocean. When coming in on a boat, a mooring permit is required. This park was established in 1964 and is considered one of Virgin Gorda’s most beautiful beaches.
Devil’s Bay National Park
Address: Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
Website: Devil’s Bay National Park
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 24 hours (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: Free
18. Go surfing in Josiah’s Bay
Knee high Caribbean peelers all the way to da beach boi. ? @elisetherese
Posted by Ryan Rubino on Monday, 10 July 2017
Set at the East End of Tortola Island, this spectacular beach with its powdery sand and turquoise water is a surfer’s paradise. Suit up and rush out to ride the waves! Swimming is for calm days only, and when the surf’s up it can be difficult to tread water. On some days, you may be able to enjoy horseback riding on this beach too. There are a couple of snack bars within easy reach so you can fuel up after a day of active fun.
Josiah’s Bay
Address: Tortola Island, British Virgin Islands
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
19. Create countless memories at beautiful Spring Bay
Remember Spring Bay before Irma? ♥️ www.ilovevirgingorda.com #caribbean #beach #ilovevirgingorda #islands #travel #virgingordabvi #britishvirginislands #springbay
Posted by I Love Virgin Gorda on Wednesday, 11 September 2019
Set right next to the spectacular Baths, this secluded cove with rock formations makes for a beautiful backdrop and it is also an ideal spot for snorkeling. You are likely to spot quite a few turtles and the occasional octopus here. This tranquil beach does not have any restaurants and there are no snack vendors around either. Taking a picnic basket on your excursion is the best way to avoid going hungry. The water is usually comfortably warm, making it ideal for a day trip. There is a lawn with children’s swings, and the picnic tables and barbecue grill are perfect for families to enjoy meals together.
Spring Bay
Address: Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
Website: Spring Bay
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
20. Snorkel at the absolutely stunning Horseshoe Reef
Known as one of the largest continuous reefs in the world, Horseshoe Reef is a spectacular snorkeling site. With patch reefs and barrier reefs, the area is home to an extensive range of marine species. There are also shipwrecks here that are ideal for a snorkeling odyssey. The area is also a popular spot for conch and lobster fishing through approved agencies. There are plenty of dive boats and tours that can take you to the best spots for memorable snorkeling.
Horseshoe Reef
Address: Anegada Island
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
21. Marvel at the geological formations at Norman Island Caves
Posted by Kelly Reich on Monday, 11 February 2013
Situated in Privateer Bay, these caves are accessible only by boat. Ideal for snorkeling, it can also be a good spot for a night dive if you go really deep into the caves. It is also believed that these caves were the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel ‘Treasure Island’. Getting here early in the morning is a good idea, as it can get crowded later in the day. There are two restaurants on the island that’s pretty much the only signs of habitation.
22. Unwind at Frenchman's Cay
This island in the cluster is connected to Tortola by a bridge and features a resort, a number of restaurants, a marina, and a few houses. There is also a scuba center and water sports center to ensure that your recreational needs are fulfilled. There are plenty of lookout points in the area if you are in search of some spectacular photographs. It is believed that the region was once the home of Blackbeard, the famous pirate. Sunsets are a must-watch when you are at Frenchman’s Cay.
Frenchman’s Cay
Address: Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
23. Swim with the dolphins off the coast of Tortola
Participate in the unique experience of swimming with dolphins off the coast of Tortola. Get to know the friendly mammals up close and enjoy frolicking in the water alongside these gentle creatures. Watch the dolphins swim alongside you in this activity which is a great way for entire families to spend time together.
24. Discover the hidden grottoes in Baths (from USD 170.0)
Set off on this day-long trip to uncover the hidden delights of the beach area of Baths and Jost Van Dyke, the smallest of the island cluster. Enjoy a continental breakfast on board the boat as you make your way to the Baths area. Explore the unique geological formations that form secret grottoes before you head to a restaurant for lunch. Afterward, your skipper will lead you to a good snorkeling spot for some underwater fun. Head to the pristine beach of Jost Van Dyke to spend the late afternoon and make use of the time to swim, snorkel, or just soak in the sun.
British Virgin Islands: Explore the Baths and Jost Van Dyke
Duration: 9.0 hour
25. Watch the sunset on a private charter (from USD 1.0)
Sail into the sunset on this romantic private cruise. It offers a flexible itinerary that can be customized to your requirements. Hop into a catamaran charter and enjoy a welcome drink. Craft your own itinerary and decide whether you want to go island hopping, jump into the water for a swim, or snorkel in prime locations. All snorkeling gear is included and the catamaran can accommodate up to 30 people, which makes it perfect even for large groups. Get back on the boat and settle in to watch the glorious sunset from a vantage point before it’s time to head back to shore.
Private Sunset Sail of the British Virgin Islands
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
26. Discover a fascinating underwater world (from USD 163.0)
This private tour is a great way to enjoy the wonders of the marine world. Enjoy diving down into the depths of the ocean and see up close the numerous species that inhabit these waters. A short introductory briefing to snorkeling and safety precautions will be held before the commencement of the dive. This fabulous, personalized tour of the underwater world is sure to become a cherished memory.
Private Snuba Experience in Virgin Gorda
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
27. Shore excursion from Road Town port (from USD 105.0)
Set off from the cruise port in Road Town in a private taxi and then hop into a water taxi as you head for White Bay on Jost Van Dyke. The shallow waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling to your heart’s content. Soak in the sun on the powdery beach before it is time to turn back. Jost Van Dyke sees fewer visitors than the other islands in the cluster, so you might be glad for the solitude.
Road Town to Jost Van Dyke: Boat to Beach Swim Shore Excursion
Duration: 5 hours
Spice it up
Too much of a good thing can prove boring, and this holds true for miles of unspoiled beaches and crystal clear water. So forget the beaches for a while and go exploring around the islands. Be sure to tick off at least a few of these things to do in British Virgin Islands.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in the British Virgin Islands
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