BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Speckled like a child’s freckles in between the North Atlantic Ocean and the gleaming Caribbean Sea lays a cluster of heaven on earth known as the British Virgin Islands. Quite possibly the most prestigious sailing destination in the world, the angelic archipelago consists of nearly 60 small islands and is famous not only for its unparalleled boating scene but for its wide-reaching diving opportunities, international local dining establishments and, naturally, miles of pristine beaches.

Known commonly as Nature’s Little Secrets, the BVI attract thousands of faithful mariners during its peak season from December to April. With consistent winds, clear blue sparkling water, sunshine every day and islands close enough to navigate by sight, the BVI are undeniably a sailor’s paradise.

In this Special Spotlight, Travelbug will give you the Insider’s Info on all the best things to do and experience in this overabundant oasis that radiates nothing but unspoiled Caribbean cool. While sailing is by far the biggest attraction, another popular activity is to island hop between the varying land masses seeking out snorkeling and scuba diving hotspots or perhaps just an unoccupied hammock to pass the time in.

No matter what you do while visiting the BVI, it’s certain the laidback lifestyle that the islands are known for will get under your skin in an oh, so good way.

Tortola

The largest of the BVI, Tortola, is the hub of the chain and is the entertainment capital of all the islets. From fun bars, music driven nightlife and top-notch restaurants, to exciting water sport activities, beautiful beaches and authentic Caribbean shopping – Tortola has it all.

 

Virgin Gorda

A lesson in stunning contrasts, Virgin Gorda has the visual duality of picturesque resorts nestled into the hillsides of the North Sound mixed with the tranquil beauty of the ethereal beaches that surround; like The Baths where huge boulders encompass a myriad of rock pools, secret sunbathing spots and fun hiking trails.

 

Jost Van Dyke

Regaled as the BVI friendliest atoll, Jost Van Dyke is surrounded by a gorgeous yet treacherous reef, where ships centuries old have sunk providing an unparallel diving experience for its lucky visitors. Also known for its lively New Year’s Eve celebrations and to-die-for lobster feasts, Jost Van Dyke will welcome you like a warm blanket and a cup of hot cocoa.

 

Anegada

While most of the islands are of volcanic origin, Anegada is the only inhabited British Virgin Island formed from coral and limestone, creating some of the world’s best scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. With its highest point being only about 28 feet above sea level, Anegada has earned the translated nickname, “the drowned land.”

 

The Other Islands

There are over 50 additional BVI, ranging in size and attractions. Some have world famous stories named after their pristine shores like Norman Island which Robert Louis Stevenson's pirate novel Treasure Island is said to be based on. Others provide amazing exploration opportunities like the awesome dive site, The RMS Rhone on Salt Island. But most of all, the other BVI are hidden gems for you to discover.

Dating back to the yesteryears of notorious pirates battling for the territory; sailing has long been regarded as the foremost sport in all of the BVI. From the capital island of Tortola, mariners are blessed with incredible variety of pristine land masses in a cruising area that is about 32 miles long and 15 miles wide, making the BVI one of the world’s premiere sailing destinations. So whether you are an experienced captain chartering your own catamaran, or a first time BVI visitor with lofty water wading ideas, as long as you have an air for adventure and a inclination to relaxation, sailing in the BVI will be an amazing encounter.

Constant trade winds fill your mainsail. The Sir Francis Drake Channel stretches out in front of you with tranquil islets as far as the eye can see. These are the British Virgin Islands, and when you come here for the boating scene, your first mates are always the vast visceral ocean and the all-encompassing blue sky. Calm waters along with steady breezes culminate to make some of the best sailing conditions in the Caribbean. Many sailing events are held in the waters of this country, the largest of which is a weeklong series of sailing races called the Spring Regatta.

General Info

Despite your sailing know-how, the BVI has a cruising experience perfect for you. Most people choose to take small cruise lines, rent a boat (with or without crew) for a day, charter a boat for an entire trip or bring their own sailboat to go island hopping. Some more common terms to know: bareboat sailing means there is no captain or cook because you bring the crew; and a catamaran is your own private boat for a time. Most charters are catamaran sailboats, those bigger than 50 feet generally require a paid skipper.

If you have the knowledge and experience to handle a standard vessel, consider renting a small craft for the afternoon or even for your entire stay. If you can't handle a boat, but want to learn, sign up for sailing school, as there are many options in the area. If you prefer to leave the piloting to someone else, reserve a spot on one of the many full or half day sailing excursions.

Scheduled outings often go to secluded coves on outer islands for snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming and picnicking. Others make day trips to popular sites such as The Baths on Virgin Gorda. It can be useful to call a few operators before you book to ask how many passengers the boat is licensed to carry and how many are expected at the time you want to go. Also, find out if snorkeling equipment and refreshments are included. Just remember to always check your latitude but never bring an attitude.

The Spring Regatta

Part race, part party, part world festival and generally held during the first week of April, The Spring Regatta is the foremost sailing event of the Caribbean. Since 1972, captains and their crews have flocked from all around the world to attend the daily races. Boats include everything from full-size mono-hull yachts to dinghies and thousands of revelers in between enjoying the races, games, and live music that emanate from the island scene during the day.

International Yacht Club Challenge
Warm Water, Hot Racing
BVI Windsurfing Championship

Some of the more prevalent companies for sailing are:
Aristocat Charters
White Squall II
The Moorings
Ed Hamilton & Co.
Bareboats BVI
Barecat Yacht Charters
BVI Yacht Charters
Bitter End Yacht Club
Blue Water Ventures

Next to the supreme sailing scene, the BVI are well known for truly spectacular dive sites and snorkeling opportunities. In fact, there are over 100 dive sites and the underwater vistas in this region rank high among the world’s most breathtaking. While snorkeling gives you a bird’s-eye view of the vividly colored reefs below, diving allows you to get close to the marine life on the reefs showcasing the magical world underneath the water.

Well known for being an infamous pirate haunt, many of the BVI are surrounded by reefs that caused several ships to sink over hundreds of years, giving marine enthusiasts many choices for wreck dives such as the RMS Rhone which is considered a “must-do” for divers. But other adventures are exciting as well, like hiking and horseback riding. It’s just a matter of choice, to be extremely active or enjoy something a little more relaxing.

From inexperienced snorkelers to dedicated deep sea divers, you will not be disappointed in your marine exploration options on the BVI. Take your first lesson or brush up on your brine knowledge; just get yourself into the water wonderland of these amazing atolls and see what unbelievable marine creatures and things you can encounter. Don’t forget your underwater camera!

Dive operators offer both one and two tank dives. Most companies also rent all gear and have experts on-site to answer any questions. While you’ll need certification from PADI or NAUI to go on more in-depth dives, beginners can take dive courses or basic lessons. More experienced divers can also take advance courses that include rescue diving.

Norman Island

Located just seven miles from Tortola, across the stunning Sir Francis Drake Channel, Norman Island offers many great day excursions, from snorkeling and diving to the welcoming Pirates Bight Bar and Restaurant, you can do as little or as much as you want on these calm shores.

One of the more exciting things about the island is the permanently moored boat in the bay known as the popular Willy T., a party-centric floating restaurant and bar. But for the most part, life on Norman Island is unhurried. People have time to chat, watch a crab crawl across the sand or enjoy the sprawling sunset.

The Bight

The Caves

One of the more famous dive sites in the BVI, The Caves are the supposed setting for Robert Louis Stevenson’s well-known novel, Treasure Island. For decades people have come in search of hidden treasure here and enjoy exploring the four caves, three of which you can swim into.

Located just south of Treasure Point, The Caves are a favorite for both snorkelers and scuba divers alike. One cave has a skylight opening that causes sunrays to shimmer off the rich rust hues of the cave. Another caverns walls are encrusted with small ornate corals that feel unworldly with Secretary Blennies peering from the holes and Glassy Sweepers patrolling the entrance.

Dive depth range: 4 – 40 feet (1 – 12m)

The Caves

The Indians

Not exactly on Norman Island, but close enough to it and just a short boat ride from Pelican Island lays the rocky outcrops of The Indians, a popular dive site that resemble an Indian's headdress from a distance. Quite spectacular when viewed from the 50 foot sandy bottom, The Indians are splattered with stunning colors of the copious corals and sponges that contrast wonderfully with the rocky ledges and steep walls that rise to the surface.

On the east side of the rocks you'll find a large cave filled with Glassy Sweepers. A saddle at about seven feet between two of the rock pinnacles gives access to a broad, shallow pool. Follow the arched swim-throughs and you'll find yourself right back where you started.

Dive depth range: 10 – 50 feet (3 – 15 m)

The Indians

Peter Island

Located four miles south of Tortola, Peter Island is a popular anchorage for charter boaters and a great day destination for Tortola vacationers. As the fifth largest land mass of the BVI, it does have a prominent beach resort, aptly named Peter Island Resort, but that doesn’t mean it comes with all the amenities of modern day life. You’d be hard pressed to find a television on the island, let alone a car or even a paved road (except at the resort). This island is for exploration and appreciating the wonderments of nature.

Peter Island is an idyllic hideaway with stunning views, white-sand beaches, and the only private island in the BVI. Picturesque yachts and sailboats drift by as the day lazily passes. Apart from the amazing scuba diving and snorkeling options on Peter Island, there are plenty of wonderful hiking trails for novice hikers to experienced explorers to enjoy.

Peter Island

Cooper Island

A quaint, hilly island found on the south side of the Sir Francis Drake Channel, Copper Island is rife with the charter-boat crowd. While there are no roads, there is a quaint resort called the Cooper Island Beach Club and even some nice cottages to rent. Located just five miles south of Tortola, Cooper Island is most known for its fascinating dive sites like Devil’s Kitchen and Wreck Alley.

Cooper Island

Wreck Alley

One of the more interesting dive sites, Wreck Alley is a region where tugboats were intentionally sunk in order to create an artificial reef. Each tugboat was laid to rest in different years so each are at varying rates of disintegration.

We explored the triple wreck site called Tugboats Beata, Marie L & Pat, these three wrecks make for an awesome dive with divers getting the best of both worlds due to their close proximity to the coral reef. On this dive you will be able to see Glassy Sweepers, Barracuda, Garden Eels in sandy areas, Southern Stingrays, Sergeant Majors, Groupers and there is also a porcelein toilet next to one of the wrecks that you can pose on for fun!

Dive depth range: 45-85 feet (14-27 m)
Water temperature: 73F in January

Tugboats Beata, Marie L & Pat

Salt Island

Although it’s named after its remarkable salt ponds that you can still harvest salt from, one of the most well-known dive sites in all of the BVI is located on Salt Island, just 4.5 miles southeast of Tortola.

The RMS Rhone was split in two and sunk during a nasty hurricane back in 1867 making it one of the BVI’s premiere diving attractions today. The Rhone’s two massive pieces are situated on a reef in 20-80 feet of water, diving to various depths provide unparallel visuals or snorkeling is optional as well. If you only have time for one dive trip in the BVI, the RMS Rhone is it.

Scuba divers over the wreck of the RMS Rhone
Snorkeler over the RMS Rhone
Scuba diver over the RMS Rhone

Consider yourself lucky if you happen to be a certified scuba diver because it offers the best view of the RMS Rhone. Snorkelers will be able to see portions of the boat (the best being the stern section) and still be impressed but scuba divers will be rewarded with easy to access swim-throughs and brightly colored coral that have taken over the ship, as well as an abundance of sea life that now call this impressive wreck home.

Stern depth: 20-50 ft (6-15 m)
Bow depth: 65-80 ft (20-24 m)
Midsection: 50-70 ft (15-21 m)
Temperature: 79F in December

Some of the more prevalent companies for these activities are:

Dive BVI
Caribbean Image Tours
Blue Water Divers
UBS Dive Center
We Be Divin’
Dive Tortola
Sunchaser Scuba, LTD
Paradise Watersports

While the island of Tortola offers the majority of hotels, resorts, restaurants and activities, it’s likely that you’ll come across exciting finds while exploring the many islands and cays of the BVI. In fact, the meaning of Tortola in Spanish is turtle dove, and that’s a fitting imagery as nature is the shining star in the BVI with visitors primarily enjoying various water sports and sailing.

You won’t find imposing high-rise hotels, glitzy nightclubs or overly contrived tourist attractions on Tortola or any of the islands for that matter. But one of the best tips for travelers is to not to get discouraged of entering an establishment due to its shoddy or rundown outside appearance. Quite often the best offerings are hidden behind the shabbiest exteriors. A good rule of thumb for restaurants is that if you see local people eating there, give it a try.

 

Local Hotspots

 


Bomba's Surfside Shack Cappoon’s Bay, Tortola

Bomba's Surfside Shack is a barrage of local island flare. Established in 1976 by the owner, Bomba, the shack is literally made of driftwood, broken surfboards, old license plates and all around junk, but its charm more than makes up for its lack of architecture. Adorned with decades of delicate underlings, from bras to panties, Bomba’s ceiling is a testament to its faithful customers and easily eliminates inhibitions of weary first timers.

Draw: Full Moon Parties, Drinking & People Watching
Dress Code: Relaxed Island Casual
Cost: $
Locale: At Cappoon's Bay, which is beside Apple Bay


Brandywine Bay Restaurant East End, Tortola

One of the finer dining establishments in the BVI, Brandywine Bay Restaurant serves true Italian food prepared Tuscan style, grilled with lots of fresh herbs. An elegant candlelit patio welcomes you with sweeping views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel and anchorage is available nearby. But it’s the authentic fare with a caring personal touch that keeps their reservation books full (and yes, they are a must.)

The menu changes nightly and gets handwritten on a whiteboard then intricately explained by the friendly staff. Homemade delicacies like fresh mozzarella and pasta are some of the bigger draws, and Owner/Chef Davide Pugliese is always on hand to go into detail of his delectable dishes. His wife and partner, Cele, handles the extensive wine list that pairs perfectly with Brandywine Bay’s unique offerings making it a wonderful date spot.

Draw: Fine Italian Food
Dress Code: Upscale Casual (slacks, shirts w/ collars, shoes)
Cost: $$$
Locale: At the East End of the island about 10 minutes from Road Town and close to the airport.


Calwood Distillery Cane Garden Bay at the Arundel Estate, Tortola

As the only place in the BVI that still produces rum, the Calwood Distillery is a slice of island history. You’ll probably need to ask a locale about its exact location as it is not a marked building and it pretty much looks like a dilapidated barn complete with chickens and roosters pecking about its grounds.

A family owned business for over four centuries, Calwood Distillery also produces some nice local wines that are available for purchase and tasting, along with their two rums, the Calwood Spiced Rum and the Arundel White Rum (80 proof), the latter of which is usually out of stock due to its popularity with the cruise ship crowd. So if you see it, snatch it up and buy it!

Draw: Rum & Wine Tasting
Dress Code: Island Casual
Cost: $$
Locale: Off the main road in Cane Garden Bay on the North Shore


Charlie's Bar & Restaurant Wickhams Cay II, Road Town, Tortola

A quaint patio-driven bistro that sits at the water’s edge in the popular Moorings Village, Charlie’s Restaurant is a delightful place to watch the sailboats, catamarans and yachts drift by. Open daily in high-season for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Charlie’s is a local favorite offering a variety of cuisines, from island flair to European classics.

Weekend brunch is one of the bigger draws offering traditional American creature comforts like Steak and Eggs or Eggs Benedict. Charlie’s also offers a variety of pizzas as they boast one of the only wood burning pizza ovens on the island. But it’s the über relaxed atmosphere and gentle ocean breezes that keeps most coming back for more.

Draw: Caribbean Fusion Food
Dress Code: Upscale Casual
Cost: $$
Locale: On the east side of Road Town in the Moorings Village About a 20 minute walk from Village Cay Marina


The Moorings Mariner Inn Hotel & Restaurant Wickhams Cay I, Road Town, Tortola

A stalwart in Tortola for over three decades, the The Moorings Mariner Inn Hotel and Restaurant sets the standard for classic Caribbean hospitality. Perfect for business travel, family vacations or romantic getaways, each room is equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi and has a private balcony, among all the usual amenities.

Nestled near the gorgeous Moorings Inn Hotel pool is their open-air restaurant by the same name offering an eclectic mix of locale Caribbean fare and international delights. Dine outside overlooking the sparkling sea in fairytale conditions as row after row of scenic sailboats cruise by. Also, a superb spot for Sunday breakfast as not many restaurants on the island are open on this day.

Draw: Eclectic/International Food & Ambiance
Dress Code: Upscale Casual
Cost: $-$$$
Locale: 15-20 minute walk from Road Town Ferry Dock


Pisces Restaurant & Bar Frenchman’s Cay, Tortola

A local West End favorite, Pisces Restaurant and Bar is tucked away in Frenchman’s Cay far from the hubbub of the main town. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner in the high season, Pisces smiling proprietor, Omar is well known for his generous helpings and out-of-this-world breakfast sandwiches.

Like many places in the BVI, the quaint mint green restaurant looks humble from the outside with plastic chairs and a hand written chalk board menu. So if you don’t judge a book by its cover, this darling island gem will amaze you with tasty West Indian food using fresh sea fare like shellfish, shrimp and spiced meats like mutton, beef and BBQ.

Draw: Authentic West Indian Cuisine
Dress Code: Island Casual
Cost: $$
Locale: At the West End before Soper’s Hole Marina


Pusser’s Rum Tortola & Virgin Gorda

A Caribbean favorite, Pusser’s Rum is said to be the only rum that is distilled in wooden-pot stills giving it a truly original flavor. Available just about anywhere on the BVI, Pusser’s award winning rum is often enjoyed in the popular island drink called the ‘Pusser’s Painkiller’ consisting of the heavenly rum, pineapple and orange juice, a dash of cream of coconut and garnished with zesty nutmeg.

Known as the single malt of rum, Pusser’s was the official rum of the Royal Navy and remains a stalwart of class and taste. Be sure and sample the Pusser's Rum Aged 15 years which sells out quickly even at $49.95 a bottle.

Draw: Authentic West Indian Rum
Dress Code: N/A
Cost: $$
Locale: Various Stores


Quito’s Gazebo Cane Garden Bay, Tortola

One of the more significant nightlife destinations on Tortola, this North Shore hotspot is named after its owner and resident musician, Quito Rymer who plays guitar and sings on Tuesday and Thursday then also plays with his reggae band, The Edge, on Friday and Saturday leaving Wednesday dedicated to their popular island fish fry.

A trendy activity in Cane Garden Bay is barefoot bar-hopping and one way or the other it seems everyone ends up at Quito’s Gazebo dancing and enjoying the unique atmosphere. Spirited customers often gather on the large first-floor balcony where the band’s stage and dance floor are which also prove to be a major draw every New Year’s Eve.

Draw: Quito Rymer’s Music & Dancing
Dress Code: Island Casual
Cost: $$-$$$
Locale: On the North Shore


Road Town Bakery 123 Main Street, Road Town

A sweet local find, the Road Town Bakery is a great way to experience the sugary side of Tortola. Known for their delectable pastries and affordable prices, they also serve quick bites, breads, and authentic "pates" which is a West Indian dish of pita bread filled with spiced meat, seafood or vegetables.

Surrounded by the popular shopping area of Main Street, the bakery is a convenient location for grabbing a quick bite and people watching as they have a few tables scattered outside. Most likely the most prominent bakery on the island, Road Town Bakery serves up a tasty variety of fresh breads, cakes, muffins, toppings and endless pastries oozing with distinctive island flavors.

Draw: Bakery
Dress Code: Island Casual
Cost: $$-$$$
Locale: On Main Street


Watermark Restaurant Frenchman’s Cay Hotel, Tortola

Known locally as The Dove’s sister restaurant, Watermark is a fine-dining establishment nestled in the beautiful Frenchman’s resort complex and can often be hard to find by novice BVI travelers. Once arriving it becomes wildly apparent that this open-air restaurant is booming with business showing the power of word of mouth advertising.

A romantic beachfront dining experience with knowledgeable and attentive staff, the views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel can be enjoyed from practically any table. Centered by a charming bar, Watermark Restaurant is open daily for dinner and brunch on Sunday’s. Well known for its superior food and inventive island libations, its must try for any traveling gourmet appetite!

Draw: Fine Eclectic/International Dining and Stunning Views
Dress Code: Upscale
Cost: $$$
Locale:At the West End, overlooking the Sir Francis Drake Channel


Willie T’s Floating Restaurant & Bar Norman Island

Re-opened on a new vessel in 1996, the unique “bistro on the brine” commonly known as Willie T’s is a bona-fide party boat complete with rowdy music and bartenders who do body shots. The main fun boards from Norman Island but some customers can also hitch a free ride on Willie T's supply boat, Wet Willie, which departs from Tortola.

Originally a 1930s wooden Baltic Trader which sank in 1995, the legend of William Thorton lives on with the daily sailings and non-stop soirée’s happening on Willie T’s party yacht. With select jumping off spots, lucky guests can choose to leap off the poop deck for a refreshing dip in the Caribbean Sea.

Draw: Fun Party Scene on the Water
Dress Code: Island Casual, or just swimsuits
Cost: $$
Locale:Departs from The Blight at Norman Island, but sails to many islands.

Incredibly lush, thickly forested and different in topography then Tortola, Virgin Gorda is situated in the heart of the British Virgin Islands and is merely 10 x 2 miles in diameter. Dubbed by Christopher Columbus as the ‘Fat Virgin’ the world famous explorer is said to have envisioned Virgin Gorda as a pregnant woman leaning back in recline with her robust belly being Gorda Peak (the highest on the island) and her toes represented by the big boulders of The Baths.

Known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, Virgin Gorda offers unsurpassed snorkeling and scuba diving and is also a superb spot for day excursions like hiking and exploring. While the majority of BVI visitors choose to stay on Tortola, the ones who know stay on the calmly unique island of Virgin Gorda. While there is plenty to do and discover, below is a collection of our favorite spots on this amazing atoll.

 

Local Hotspots

 


Top of the Baths Restaurant & Lounge Baths Hill, Virgin Gorda

Careening over the gigantic granite boulders and half-submerged rocks that line the southern seashore of Virgin Gorda with the sparkling Caribbean Sea as its backdrop, Top of the Baths Restaurant and Lounge provides unparallel views for its privileged guests. And as spectacular as the view is, the food is equally awe-inspiring.

A champion of using freshly caught seafood; the restaurant also grows their own herbs and vegetables, utilizes locally raised ducks and offers a well-established selection of European spices and cheeses. While an evening meal is undoubtedly considered fine dining, it’s also a superb spot for enjoying refreshing cocktails and alfresco lunches overlooking the Bath's picturesque islands' views.

Draw: Caribbean Fusion Food & Nice Scenery
Dress Code: Island Casual
Cost: $$-$$$
Locale:At the entrance to The Baths


Rosewood Little Dix Bay , Virgin Gorda

Nestled amid lush gardens and shaded footpaths along a half-mile crescent beach on Virgin Gorda, Rosewood Little Dix Bay is a luxury resort complete with multiple dining options, a top rated spa (Sense, A Rosewood Spa®) and with its own vista (Little Dix Bay), it’s the perfect spot to discover snorkeling for the first time.

Located at the heart of the resort beneath four signature vaulted rooftops, the open-air restaurant, Pavillions, serves innovative international cuisine and offers sweeping postcard views from every table. This exquisite establishment blends the intoxicating beauty of the surrounding environment capturing the true essence of the stunning BVI.

Draw: Luxury Resort & Fine Dining
Dress Code: Island Casual
Cost: $$$
Locale:10 min walk from Spanish Town


Chez Bamboo , Virgin Gorda

This delightful dinner-only hotspot is popular with the locals for its addicting Cajun and Creole dishes, charming ambiance and most of all, its beat-driven dancing and live entertainment that happens every Friday night. In fact, some even refer to it as a New Orleans supper club in the BVI.

Like many gems in the BVI, Chez Bamboo has a less than attractive outside appearance topped off with tacky purple and green lattice work. But once inside, customers are transported to a swanky jazz club of yesteryear with its wraparound mural showing a jazz band playing within a forest of bamboo amid an open veranda and spirited guests who are almost always dancing.

Draw: Cajun/Creole Cuisine & Dancing
Dress Code: Island Casual
Cost: $$
Locale:In Spanish Town, near the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor


Biras Creek Resort , Virgin Gorda

Tucked away in the island’s prestigious North Sound region, the stunning Biras Creek Resort is only accessible by boat or helicopter making it feel that much more exclusive. Recognized as one of the top luxury destinations in the Caribbean, this special spot offers all the amenities one could wish for, even complimentary bicycles for their guests to use.

The charming Hilltop restaurant serving international food is located at the highest point on the property, offering striking views of the North Sound and Atlantic Ocean through its "open walls," diners often choose to watch the sunset from here. Moderately priced for the amount of luxury and level of fine dining, Biras Creek even offers a four-course prefix menu for just $85.

Draw: Luxury Resort & International Restaurant
Dress Code: Island Casual & Casual Elegance
Cost: $$$-$$$$
Locale:in the North Sound


Bitter End Yacht Club , Virgin Gorda

Recently added to the acclaimed Fodor’s Choice for 2009, the Bitter End Yacht Club dotes itself as the Caribbean's premiere luxury water sports resort hosting family fun vacations, romantic getaways, and idyllic escapes for all. Uniquely situated along a mile of shorefront on the protected waters of the North Sound, it’s a truly gorgeous location.

Offering six separate dining experiences, the BEYC can appease any pallet. Our favorite was the pictorial setting of the Clubhouse Steak and Seafood Grill where the view is undoubtedly filled with catamarans, sailboats and luxurious yachts sailing by, making it a great spot for sunset cocktails – or they will also serve you dinner right on the beach!

Draw: Luxury Water Sports Resort & Restaurant
Dress Code: : Island Casual
Cost:$$$$
Locale:in the North Sound


Baths on Virgin Gorda

The Baths on Virgin Gorda

The Baths on Virgin Gorda's northwest coast is one of the most visited places in the BVI by both tourists and locals. Its awe-inspiring setting is a unique visual with giant boulders, some piled atop each other, lining white sand beaches providing some amazing swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

This geological oddity consists of giant boulders or batholiths, brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions, the boulders are scattered about forming a beautiful grotto and tranquil pools to explore. Many who visit call The Baths the eighth wonder of the world!


Devil's Bay Beach

Devil's Bay Beach

From the main road it is a short 10 minute or so hike to the beaches. You can opt to enjoy the scenery or do a fun hike doing some boulder climbing on a path that will leave you practically crawling in some areas, hanging onto a rope in another and going on ladders in a single file! It is beautiful and definitely worth a visit!

To Buy Or Not To Buy

Life is less hurried on the BVI and in turn, shopping is not exactly a national past time. While many vacation spots are also great for shopping, this tranquil area’s best attribute is its no-stress setting and purchasing keepsakes is secondary to the rest and relaxation that abounds you. But there are a few points of interest.

Tortola is well-known for its fruit preserves like; guava, passion fruit and papaya. Many of these can be sampled in island pastries and desserts. Also on Tortola, you can find superb spices, tamarind chutney, fruit teas, fine jerk seasonings and even authentic English china. Generally speaking on Tortola most boutiques are clustered along Main Street in Road Town, as well as throughout Wickham’s Cay I, adjacent to the marina.

Virgin Gorda has a few more souvenir shops, particularly at The Baths adjoining gift shop. Most resorts will have at least one shop for mementos but the best keepsakes prove time and time again to be the laid-back quality of life on the BVI and whatever photographs you take to remember your trip. So be sure and pack a reliable camera and don’t forget to wear sunscreen!

Where To?

The two main islands that you will most likely stay on, Tortola or Virgin Gorda are both spectacular in their own rights and taking a driving day tour can provide a whole new experience. So if you have a couple of hours find a friendly taxi driver and have him/her take you from one end of the island to the other, this is a much easier feat on Virgin Gorda where you will get to see the top of The Baths during a driving tour.

Also on Virgin Gorda is the islands highest point, Gorda Peak which unveils a stunning birds-eye view of the BVI surrounding atolls. If you decide to rent a car just be careful going around the curves since there are goats and chickens that roam freely about the roads.

• A valid Passport is required for citizens from America, Canada and all other countries before entering the BVI.

• The area code for all of the British Virgin Islands is 284 and can be dialed direct from the United States.

• At its own island pace, the speed limit is generally 20 mph in towns and just 35 mph in the countryside.

• Smoking is banned in public places.

• The BVI are legally a tax haven, meaning it’s a country or territory where certain taxes are levied at a low rate or not at all.

• The primary language is English, usually with a slight Creole accent.

• The official currency is the US dollar.

• When driving in the BVI, it’s on the left side, British-style. However, the vehicles are all American-style with the driver’s seat on the left.

• The majority of the population (about 83%) is Afro-Caribbean, considered to be descendants of the slaves brought to the islands by the British.

• The sun is very strong in the BVI, which are considered sub-tropical with year-round temperatures averaging between 75-85 degrees. Be sure to use plenty of sunscreen, wear a hat or visor and avoid direct midday sun.

• Approximately fifteen of the islands are inhabited.

• The world’s smallest lizards inhabit the BVI, some as tiny as sixth-tenths of an inch long.

• Paté in the BVI is not what you’d expect it to be. It’s a West Indian dish of pita bread filled with spiced meat, seafood or vegetables.

• The BVI sits in the Atlantic Standard Time zone.

• The legal drinking age in the BVI is 16 years old.

• In the BVI American’s will not need to bring an electricity adapter for use of things like a blow-dryer, but British-made electronics will require one.

• There is a Departure Tax when any non-residents leave the BVI. The per person cost is $10 if you leave by plane and $5 if you leave by boat.

• While tourism is most visibly the major financial driving force, the BVI host a huge off-shore banking industry as well; mainly due to the region being a tax haven.

• It’s common knowledge that restaurants often change their hours during low season, and some close for several weeks during the summer. It’s usually best to call ahead to make sure.

• The BVI high season is from December to April and the low season is from July to September.

• While The Spring Regatta (held in April) is by far the most tourist heavy time of year, Christmas and New Years are also highly popular times to visit as the weather has just kicked into its high season.

• For official BVI info, go to: www.bvitouristboard.com


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