Visit BVI 2026

the British Virgin Islands

WORLD ADVENTURES

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WELCOME TO THE ENCHANTING BRITISH

VIRGIN ISLANDS, our haven of tranquillity and adventure. Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, our stunning cluster of islands boasts serene anchorages, pristine beaches, and breathtaking sunsets. With our world-renowned marine industry and ideal sailing conditions, we have convincingly earned the title of “Sailing Capital of the World,” amongst several other accolades, making the BVI one of the top vacation destinations in the world.

In the vibrant pages of Visit the British Virgin Islands magazine, you will uncover the rich tapestry of experiences that make our islands truly special. Immerse yourself in our vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and storied heritage, all whilst exploring the best our tourism has to offer. Indulge in the flavours of the islands with dishes crafted by our award-winning chefs. Our national dish, fungi and fish, is a must-try! Set sail with seasoned captains to uncover hidden gems where turquoise waves kiss powdery white sands. Traverse our lush, emerald hillsides for panoramic views that will take your breath away. Along the way, you will meet our charismatic locals,

each adding a colourful thread to your unforgettable journey.

Explore our diverse attractions, from the vibrant murals of Tortola to the relaxed beach bars of Jost Van Dyke and its neighbouring cays. Marvel at the natural wonder of The Baths National Park in Virgin Gorda, delve into the history of the Conch Shell Mounds in Anegada, and dive into the depths of our world-class dive sites. Each island in our archipelago has its own unique charm waiting for you.

Thank you for choosing the British Virgin Islands as your destination of choice. Enjoy your stay with us, and we eagerly await your return, ready to welcome you back with BVILOVE.

HONOURABLE

DR. NATALIO D. WHEATLEY Premier and Minister of Finance

“Jump Aboard for the Best Day of your Vacation!”

The Baths, Virgin Gorda The Baths, Virgin Gorda

WELCOME TO THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS!

Whether you are here for leisure or business, we are thrilled that you selected us as your destination of choice. With more than 60 islands, rocks, and cays, we offer up a buffet of experiences that will prove to be a memorable trip. We hope you enjoy our natural beauty and rich cultural heritage as you explore on land and at sea.

If you are a new guest, we encourage you to pace yourself! Treat your taste buds to our delectable Virgin Islands cuisine whilst being amazed at our beautiful sunsets and visiting the historical sites that capture the journey of our people.

Welcome “home” to those who are now like extended family, and we look forward to seeing you each year. May each visit add to your BVI experience, and we hope you are satisfied beyond your expectations!

WITH A WARM BVI SMILE,

SHAINA M. SMITH-ARCHER Chairman, BVI Chamber of Commerce

islands, there’s something here for every

This year, we’re excited to showcase our

Stay Connected

View the digital edition of this publication online at www.bvichamber.org and download the new VISIT BVI app to have the latest information about what to see and do at your fingertips.

About the Cover

In the BVI, life unfolds on the turquoise waters — hopping between cays, dropping anchor in glassy bays, and chasing the next horizon. Photography by Michael Winter Jr. Turn to page 40 for the artist’s profile.

Land Adventures

Peaks and panoramas

Agritourism

Creating a buzz

Maps of the BVI Navigating the islands

Your Voyage Awaits.

Discover the British Virgin Islands in your own way. Choose the VOYAGE that matches your style of escape:

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Experience the pinnacle of luxury; gourmet dining, world-class service, and seamless  island-hopping.

1. JANE BAKEWELL

Jane Bakewell is a freelance writer based in the BVI, where she has made her home for nearly 30 years. Her love of travel and adventure brought her to the BVI in 1994, where her family had started a small beach cottage rental business on Tortola. Soon after, she formed a day charter snorkelling business, High Sea Adventures, with a local partner. She has written for newspapers and magazines in the United States as well as several publications in the BVI, including the BVI Welcome magazine, where she served as associate editor. Her writing continues to promote the beauty and hidden secrets of the BVI as well as her other favourite destination, Israel.

2. CAROL M. BAREUTHER

Carol M. Bareuther, R.D., visited St. Thomas by cruise ship in 1986, returned two months later from her native New Jersey to work as the hospital’s nutritionist, and never left. One husband, two children, and a three-decade tandem-writing career later, Bareuther still loves life in the U.S. Virgin Islands. She’s authored Virgin Islands Cooking and Sports Fishing in the Virgin Islands and has written for Cooking Light, Vegetarian Times, Cruising World, Marlin, and Sail In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, swimming, hiking, and reading.

3. ANIKA M. CHRISTOPHER

Anika M. Christopher is a journalist, writer, and author of the picture books Planting Peace and Anansi and the Green Sea Turtles. She writes for both children and young adults. She was also recently named Miss British Virgin Islands 2023–2024. She believes that words can change the world and uses them to empower others through her work as a writer and journalist.

4. CLEAVE MICHAEL FARRINGTON

Cleave Michael Farrington is passionate about photography. Born and raised in the BVI, his love for photography was not an instant thing but more of a journey in which he discovered a love for the art. He has been a professional photographer for the past 12 years, focusing mostly on sports, weddings, maternity, and special events. He loves to tell stories through his photos, and the aim is always to capture unlikely, unusual, and memorable shots. During the pandemic, he discovered another newfound passion in landscape photography; and he has also been doing drone photography. Find him on Facebook at C M Farrington Photography or Instagram at @cleave_michaelfarrington.

5. APRIL TIA GLASGOW

April Tia Glasgow is a writer living in the Virgin Islands. While working

in government communications for over a decade, she recalibrates, or “comes back to centre,” with poetry and music. She is the founder and member of the Callaloo Poets and Artists Collective and was a participant for the premiere Moko Writers Workshop. Her poems have been published in three anthologies: VI Callaloo: Poems from the Caribbean, The Caribbean Writer: Volume 23 (2009), and Where I See the Sun: Contemporary Poetry from the Virgin Islands. She also curates poetry events, including Microphone Messenjahs, the BVI’s first big-stage poetry event.

6. DEAN GREENAWAY

Dean “The Sportsman” Greenaway — a former BVI Olympian — has covered local sports and culture since 1986. He competed for Pasadena City College and the University of Colorado, and in 2023 was inducted into the Pasadena City College Hall of Fame alongside the 1978 state championship team. In 2025, he received the VI Icon Award, recognising three decades as a sportscaster.

7. ANDREA MILAM

Andrea Milam has lived in the Caribbean since 2005. Enamoured with the region’s culture and natural beauty, she moved to St. John in the Virgin Islands after graduating from

college. There, she got married, built a home and a family, and established her writing career. She strives to shine the spotlight on the region’s incredible food, music, culture, and people in her writing assignments. Andrea is grateful every day to be a part of the Love City community.

8. AS-ZEKE OLLIVER

As-zeke Olliver is a self-taught digital artist from Tortola, British Virgin Islands, specialising in landscape and aerial photography. Inspired by his island’s beauty, he transforms familiar shores into soulful works of art, inviting viewers to feel both wonder and nostalgia whilst seeing the Caribbean through his unique lens. View his work at www.roughdraftgallery.pictorem. com.

9. MICHAEL WINTER JR.

Michael Winter Jr. is a freelance photographer based in the British Virgin Islands. Over the past five years, he has developed a passion for capturing sunsets, sweeping landscapes, and the natural beauty of island life. With a love of nature and visual storytelling, his work highlights the vibrant colours, serene seascapes, and the distinctive charm of the Virgin Islands.

ere

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Official Publication of the BVI Chamber of Commerce (BVICoC) Tropic Isle Building, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands VG1110

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Contributors

Jane Bakewell, Carol M. Bareuther, Caribbean Jules Photography, Anika M. Christopher, Cleave Michael Farrington, J. Kevin Foltz, Marta Garraus, April Tia Glasgow, Dean Greenaway, Sarah Jones, Jeff McNutt, Andrea Milam, Caitlin Nichols, Janet Oliver, As-zeke Olliver, Steve Simonsen, Chris Smith, Sarah B. Swan, David Umla, Michael Winter Jr.

Local Admin, Distribution Sel Parsons 284-441-0530

WELCOME

Discover the BVI, where electric-blue waters meet emerald hills and vibrant island culture. Slip into crystal shallows, wander lush trails, and meet the makers, musicians, and storytellers who give these islands their soul. Let this guide be your compass to tucked-away coves, sunset sails, beachside eateries, and time-honoured traditions — each one a step in an unforgettable journey.

FIND YOUR ISLAND VIBE

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, culture buff, foodie, or sun-soaker, the BVI offers tailor-made experiences to help every traveller plan their ideal itinerary.

By Anika M. Christopher

THINGS TO DO

There’s a vacation, and then there’s a British Virgin Islands vacation.

The latter is a special kind of escape — one where pristine natural landscapes, laid-back luxury, and a unique sense of place come together to create an experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world. A trip to this beautiful haven is a journey that invites you to linger at the horizon of every island in this treasured paradise, inspiring you to relax and enjoy the view.

Ready to begin planning your trip? Then let this be your blueprint to experience the best of the BVI.

INSPIRED BY NATURE

For a distinctive Virgin Islands experience, start off in Virgin Gorda. Here, you’ll find The Baths, a breathtaking site formed by gigantic granite boulders the size of houses stacked along its shore, creating grottos and tidal pools that invite both curiosity and quiet reflection. From there, hop over to Gorda Peak for a hike that offers stirring panoramas of the surrounding isles. Keep your eyes peeled along the way for the tiny

Virgin Islands dwarf gecko, the smallest lizard on Earth — a blink-and-you-miss-it marvel you won’t encounter elsewhere.

After your visit to Virgin Gorda, drift on over to Jost Van Dyke. Here, the Bubbly Pool electrifies the coast with playful foamy waves that meet rock crevices, causing bubbles to rise in a moment of natural wonder that seems almost too magical to be true. Anegada, meanwhile, adds a different shade of wonder with its Conch Shell Mounds, towering ancient piles of discarded shells that tell the story of the sea’s everyday life and the people who thrived alongside it.

Back on Tortola, set out on a picturesque hike along the trails of Sage Mountain National Park. Climb to the island’s tallest peak and take in breathtaking views of the nearby islands.

DIVE IN AND DISCOVER

Theron Thomas of Rock City once said, “If ah can’t see in the water, ah ain’t going in it!” Fortunately, clear water is the steady heartbeat of every Virgin Islands vacation. On these pristine shores, the ocean isn’t merely a backdrop — it’s an invitation to dive into the sparkling waves through experiences that feel unmistakably local.

GOOD TO KNOW

The art of limin’ is a treasured experience in the Virgin Islands. Limin’ is more than just downtime — it’s a chance to slow down, unwind, and connect with friends.

Begin with a paddle along Cane Garden Bay, where glassy turquoise waters invite you to take a gentle glide before fully diving in to explore the depths below. Snorkel amongst colourful fish and hidden caves off Norman Island, where every ripple hints at old pirate stories and new discoveries.

Island hopping is another staple experience that is unique to a Virgin Islands vacation. In this treasure chest of unspoilt volcanic islands, their close proximity allows you to easily visit multiple destinations in a single day with just a hop, skip, and jump from island to island. With operators like Dive BVI, Blue Water Divers, and VOYAGE Charters, it’s easy to blend guided discovery with spontaneous island moments — all set to the rhythm of waves and trade winds.

TIME TO CHILL

The art of limin’ is a treasured experience in the Virgin Islands. Limin’ is more than just downtime — it’s a chance to slow down, unwind, and connect with friends as the sun sinks below the horizon.

Crafts Alive Village in Road Town is a bustling centre of handmade jewellery, pottery, and local art.

As evening sets in, wind down with food and fun at Foxy’s on Jost Van Dyke. This is a hot spot for nonstop entertainment, whether you’re dancing to live music played by local bands or listening to iconic calypso singer, storyteller, and charismatic owner Foxy Callwood himself tell a tale or sing a song.

Virgin Gorda’s Leverick Bay offers relaxed beach gatherings and casual dockside conversations, while Anegada’s annual Lobster Fest brings the taste of the sea straight to the table. On Tortola, Trellis Bay hosts a Full Moon Party each month that glows with music, Moko Jumbies, fire dancers, and of course, the best Caribbean flavours.

CULTURE ON DISPLAY

Don’t forget to make time to explore the Virgin Islands’ local markets and shops, where craft and colour spill from every storefront. One notable spot is Crafts Alive Village in Road Town, a bustling centre of handmade jewellery, pottery, and local art.

In these boutiques, you’ll find a refined mix of Caribbean-inspired apparel, jewellery, and luxury accents, all paired with warm, attentive service. As you wander through Road Town’s streets, you’ll meet talented artists at work and discover one-of-a-kind pieces crafted by island hands.

DID YOU KNOW?

A trip to this beautiful haven is a journey that invites you to linger at the horizon of every island in this treasured paradise.

TRANQUIL HAVEN

A beautiful Virgin Islands vacation also calls for moments of quiet luxury that allow you time to breathe between experiences. Picture laid-back mornings in a beachfront resort where the sea meets sand and time loosens its grip.

That image comes to life on Scrub Island, where you’ll find Ixora Spa, aptly named since it provides a wide array of treatments that encapsulate

the very beauty and essence of the Virgin Islands. From a Purifying Papaya Body Scrub to their signature Aloe and Cucumber Body Wrap, Ixora Spa captures the healing properties of our natural environment that offer a tranquil haven for guests to become refreshed and revitalised.

Oil Nut Bay is another spot that embodies this sensibility, complete with stunning villas and a private marina that each

feel both elegant and effortless. Another standout experience is the Ocean Spa BVI — a floating spa anchored off Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay, where the rhythm of the waves accompanies all your massages and treatments.

From the dramatic natural boulders of The Baths on Virgin Gorda to the local culture and charm of Road Town, let this guide help you tailor the perfect voyage for your Virgin Islands vacation.

There’s a lot to love about the British Virgin Islands, but no matter how familiar you are with this wonderful little stretch of the sea, you may find some of these fun facts surprising. Here’s a closer look at the BVI by the numbers.

The number of individual islands and cays that make up the entire BVI.

16

The number of those islands that are inhabited.

The

highest elevation in feet of Anegada Island, a unique, almost flat island composed of coral and limestone.

9.8

Percentage increase of tourists between 2023 and 2024.

100 BC to AD 200 1959

The approximate time that the earliest settlers, the Arawak people, arrived in the BVI.

11

The number of oil lamps depicted on the columns of the BVI flag (along with a 12th held by St. Ursula), intended to symbolise her 11,000 followers.

The year that the BVI adopted the U.S. dollar as its currency due to its economic relationship with the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The year that the English invaded and captured Tortola from the Dutch, thus establishing the name the British Virgin Islands.

The average temperature in the BVI throughout the year (in degrees Fahrenheit). 78

The year that British Virgin Island residents received full British citizenship.

The elevation in feet of Sage Mountain, in Sage Mountain National Park on Tortola. This is the highest point in the BVI. 1,710 1672

CULTURAL ITINERARY

Discover the BVI’s creative soul — galleries, music, makers, and living history that turn every island day into a cultural find.

By April Tia Glasgow

HISTORY & CULTURE

Ready for an escapade?

The British Virgin Islands offers a rich canvas of arts, heritage, and island spirit — perfect for travellers seeking real cultural immersion.

From Tortola’s museums and historic sites to Virgin Gorda’s national parks, Jost Van Dyke’s music-filled beach bars, and Anegada’s natural treasures, each island adds its own brushstroke to the BVI’s cultural legacy. Come along as we explore the must-see attractions, local creatives, and living history that bring these four islands to life.

TORTOLA

Tortola is a great way to start your tour of the BVI. Artists and historians will want to begin in the capital, Road Town. Here, you’ll see the preserved colonial architecture of the Old Government House Museum, the one-of-a-kind 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum, and the J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens, perfect for taking a stroll and getting lost in its charming beauty. The gardens were founded on a century-old Agricultural Experiment Station and contain both native and exotic flora and fauna, spread across an almost three-acre estate.

Before leaving town, history buffs should take a silent pause at the Sunday Morning Well. At this well, the Emancipation Proclamation was read on

GOOD TO KNOW

Perfect for a unique photo op, Mount Healthy Sugar Mill is set atop a flourishing hillside with absolutely stunning views.

August 1, 1834, to officially announce the abolition of slavery in the British West Indies.

For a savant of spirits or rum aficionado, Cane Garden Bay on the northern coast is next up on your list. The bay is home to the Callwood Rum Distillery, the Caribbean’s oldest pot distillery, which has been making rum for over 200 years.

After a refreshing sip, head to the Mount Healthy Sugar Mill, the islands’ only windmill structure. Perfect for a unique photo op, the mill is set atop a flourishing hillside with absolutely stunning views.

Even more vibrant views can be found in the community at Fahie Hill, thanks to Jenesis Studios and the Fahie Hill Murals. Jenesis Studios, owned

by artist Reuben Vanterpool, serves as a museum and art studio with paintings and sculptures depicting scenes from the post-plantation era. Reuben is also one of the painters of the Fahie Hill Murals, along with Quito Rymer, Cedric Turnbull, Gath Hewlett, Dean “Ghost” Smith, Pearl Friday, and Thor Downing. Finally, end the Tortola leg of your tour in Long Look and East End. In Long Look, the Stickit is a popular gathering space established in the historic Nottingham Estate, the land allocation granted to freed Africans during the plantation era. Near the Stickit, you’ll also find the eye-catching Long Look Methodist Church Mural.

HISTORY & CULTURE

ANEGADA

Craving an eco-adventure — or curious about the roots of a lasting island legacy? Make Anegada your next stop.

The archipelago’s only lowlying, coral island, Anegada is famed for its spiny lobster — so beloved it inspired the Anegada Lobster Festival (see Annual Events & Festivals section).

Conch is just as plentiful thanks to nearby reefs. Follow a local guide across the shallow seabed to the Conch Shell Mounds. As the name suggests, these mounds are vast piles of conch shells that rise like tiny islets along the island’s eastern end.

Another treat for ecominded visitors is flamingo and birdwatching at The Lookout. The Anegada Salt Ponds were once home to so many flamingos that the area became known as Flamingo Pond.

Round out your island tour with a walk through the

Round out your island tour with a walk through the island’s only museum, the Faulkner House.

island’s only museum, the Faulkner House. This house offers a sneak peek into the home life of the renowned nation builder and Anegadian Theodore Faulkner, serving as an intriguing time capsule. Faulkner is celebrated as one of the leaders of a march in 1949 that led to governance reform throughout the islands.

JOST VAN DYKE

Another ferry ride away is Jost Van Dyke, home of Foxy’s Tamarind Bar (and Foxy himself). A trip to the island is simply not complete without visiting this iconic beach bar and restaurant in Great Harbour, owned by Philicianno “Foxy” Callwood, MBE. Foxy is a cultural icon and entertainer who is

always prepared to share a good story or joke and, if he has his guitar, an improvised song.

Also found in the harbour is the Jost Van Dyke Methodist Church. Built in the 1920s, the church foundation and walls still display old church architecture, even after suffering extensive damage during the 2017 hurricanes.

VIRGIN GORDA

Virgin Gorda, which is Spanish for “Fat Virgin,” is said to have been named by Christopher Columbus, who thought the island’s profile resembled a woman lying on her side. As you approach by ferry or yacht, glance at the skyline and decide for yourself — can you spot the silhouette he described?

DID YOU KNOW?

Once upon a time, in the 1800s, Virgin Gorda was known for its copper mining operations.

Once you’re on Virgin Gorda, there’s three top stops for photo ops. The first is the Copper Mine. Once upon a time, in the 1800s, Virgin Gorda was known for its copper mining operations. Remnants of its prominent mining past remain and can be seen in the engine house’s stone walls still standing today. This site is a national park, and it makes a great place to bird-watch or just stand in awe whilst the views take your breath away.

For another picture-perfect location, take the 99 Steps to Nowhere — the only hiking trail that will take you along the beautiful north shore of the island. To learn more about the two plantations the trail once overlooked, book a local tour guide.

The last stop on Virgin Gorda is possibly the BVI’s largest attraction, in both popularity and size. The Baths are a natural wonder, comprised of huge boulders that form trails and caves along Virgin Gorda’s south shore. Take a walk through The Baths and then a dip at the beach or follow the trail between the boulders that leads to the adjacent beach at Devil’s Bay. The choice is yours!

By April Tia Glasgow

Celebration Central

Consider this your quick guide to the can’t-miss cultural happenings that keep the BVI buzzing all year long.

CRAVING FUN with a uniquely island twist? The BVI serves up exciting annual events, festivals, and one-of-a-kind celebrations that spotlight local culture, cuisine, and community. Think sailing spectacles, beachside fêtes, culinary showdowns, heritage parades, and live music under the stars.

BVI CULTURE WEEK

In November — Virgin Islands Culture and Tourism Month — the Territory celebrates Culture Week, featuring activities such as storytelling, cassava bread making, plait pole dancing, and other live cultural demonstrations in schools across the islands. The week culminates in a Food Fair showcasing BVI classics like fish in mayonnaise sauce, pea soup with pigtail, and fried johnnycakes prepared by some of the islands’ best local cooks.

BVI LITERARY ARTS FESTIVAL

The fifth annual BVI Literary Arts Festival will be held November 6–9, 2025, under the spellbinding theme Long Story Short. The festival features literary panel discussions, poetry workshops, a book fair, a poetry night, and Literary Wonderland for children on both Tortola and Virgin Gorda.

BVI CHARTER YACHT SHOW

Nanny Cay is host to the BVI Charter Yacht Show that attracts yachts, crews, and brokers from all over the world. In November, yachties will enjoy five days of networking, along with contests for best tablescaping, designer water, and cocktails.

CHRISTMAS IN THE CITY

Celebrating 27 years in 2025, this event is the one-stop shop for those needing to purchase presents or in need of some wholesome family fun. What began as Christmas on Main Street is now

Christmas in the City, where patrons will find Shore Way Drive on Tortola lined with a plethora of toys, artwork, food, and games on sale.

LITTLE DIX BAY TENNIS CUP

The Little Dix Bay Cup will take place December 12–14 at Rosewood Little Dix Bay, Virgin Gorda. This year, attendees will have the opportunity to meet tennis stars Sloane Stephens and Eugenie “Genie” Bouchard.

BVI SPRING REGATTA & SAILING FESTIVAL

With five days of racing, from March 23 to 29, the BVI Spring Regatta is the nautical event. If you’re not into sailing, there’s the Nanny Cay Regatta Village with barbecue, live music, art shows, and Moko Jumbies.

The BVI serves up exciting annual events, festivals, and oneof-a-kind celebrations.

ANEGADA LOBSTER FESTIVAL

Lobster connoisseurs will bring their empty plates (and bellies) to Anegada from November 28 to 30. The Caribbean spiny lobster is the star of the show, but other dishes are also offered during the festival, now in its sixth year. Other than lunch, the festival features a sunset party, art, music, and fashion.

DID YOU KNOW?

The annual Emancipation Festival begins in the last week of July and ends the first week of August.

FOXY’S

OLD

YEAR’S NIGHT

By far, Jost Van Dyke is one of the most iconic places to be on Old Year’s Night (aka New Year’s Eve). Why?

Because the island is home to Foxy’s Old Year’s Night celebrations — a culinary experience, musical concert, and fireworks display all in one. Past musical guests include Max Cabello Jr., Tanya Stephens, Third World Band, and NoiseCans.

ANNUAL EMANCIPATION FESTIVAL

A festival of freedom to celebrate the African ancestors of the BVI, this annual festival begins in the last week of July and ends the first week of August. At three cultural villages in Road Town, Carrot Bay, and East End, patrons will enjoy musical concerts, calypso shows, culinary competitions, and coney island. Other events hosted include the Miss BVI Pageant, Torch Light Procession, Gospel Fest, the Prince and Princess Show, the “Rise & Shine” tramp, and the August Monday parade.

LEVERICK BAY POKER RUN

Boaters and poker players will rev their engines on May 24 during the Leverick Bay Poker Run. At each stop along the predesignated route, participants draw a card until their final stop at Leverick Bay Resort & Marina. Participants with the best poker hands are crowned Poker Run champions.

VIRGIN GORDA EASTER FESTIVAL

Easter on Virgin Gorda is not only a religious celebration but a full-fledged festival weekend featuring a food fiesta, hat parade, calypso showdown, beach party, and grand parade.

BVI MUSIC FESTIVAL

Cane Garden Bay becomes a stage May 22–24 with the BVI Music Festival. It’s music, fashion, fire dancing, and food.

ONE VI POKER RUN

The home base of this poker run that usually takes place in June is Cane Garden Bay on Tortola.

BVI WRECK WEEK

From June 21 to 27, BVI Wreck Week celebrants will enjoy various activities, including brunch party, quiz night, fun day, and floating movie night.

VIRGIN ISLANDS ICON AWARDS

Honouring Virgin Islanders’ contributions in various areas of industry from fashion to literary arts, the Virgin Islands Icon Awards will be held on July 5 at the Multipurpose Sports Complex on Tortola. In its

third year, the awards show is already known for its curated cultural performances and special surprises.

SUMMER SIZZLE BVI

Held in July, Summer Sizzle BVI Global Glamour Runway Show is a weekend of runways, parties, and sailing. BVI’s top models rip the runway alongside international celebrity models whilst rocking global fashion labels.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY

The “Puerto Rican Navy” organises this annual July weekend party on Pond Bay, Virgin Gorda. Pull up on your pleasure boat or hike down to the beach for music and food.

By April Tia Glasgow

Behind the Lens

Michael Winter Jr. captures the BVI with a native eye — the people, the landscapes, and the food — with a particular love for the colourdrenched hour of sunset.

WHEN MICHAEL WINTER JR. was working in the accounts department of a pharmacy or selling boat parts in a chandlery, he had no idea where life would take him — and he certainly didn’t think he would wind up in the world of photography.

Now, his popularity as a photographer is growing throughout the Virgin Islands for his impressive portfolio of work, ranging from real estate, aerial, sunsets, food, and portraits, along with weddings and engagements.

Winter’s work has earned him the Allamanda Gallery’s 2021 Most Scenic Photo Award, a 2023 win in the “Love Our BVI Culture” photo competition, and more recently, the 2025 Kickin’ It VI Rising Star Honouree.

“I still think it’s a dream… it’s an absolute honour,” says Winter. “Never thought I would’ve made that kind of impact on people with my photography.”

The rising star began

exploring the photography world 13 years ago with an iPhone and a DSLR, taking shots of his family and friends as a hobby. As Winter began to fall in love with the art form, he started doing his research and upgrading his equipment. This labour of love later birthed his professional photography business, Michael Winter Jr. Photography, which he has been building for six years.

His very first professional gig was a wedding — an ambitious undertaking for a new photographer — but it must have been his time because the bride reached out after discovering her first choice of photographer wasn’t available. But what sealed the deal, according to the bride, was Winter’s sunset work. Her wedding took place during golden hour, and she knew he could capture the magical moments of her love story along with the majestic skyscape.

It was no surprise that when the photo album was sent to the bride after the wedding, she was amazed. To this day, Winter

still favours sunset photography above all others. “Not every sunset is the same,” he shares.

The young photographer’s skills have developed even further since then. His favourite tool is the drone, because he says, “It’s a unique angle that the average person won’t see from a phone or camera because we’re on land,” allowing him to reach “the places that we don’t have regular access to.”

“As I continue shooting, I fall in love [with photography] even more… meeting new people and

learning what else I could do with a camera.”

Working with local businesses like Long Bay Resort, Nanny Cay, Nyammin’, and Trèfle, Winter says he especially loves that he gets to display the Virgin Islands to the world and “show people how beautiful my home really is.”

For aspiring photographers, Winter offers this advice: “There might be times when the creativity doesn’t flow. Take a walk along the beach or the roadside. Look at the fine details. You don’t need fancy gear. Use what you have, practice, develop the eye for your light, composition, and storytelling. Just try to create your own art.”

So, what’s next for this rising star? “To just keep shooting — the sky’s the limit.”

Keep up with Winter’s work by visiting his website at www.mwjrphotography.com, and perhaps someday we’ll see an album of his dream photo shoot: the Eiffel Tower — at sunset, of course!

Events and dates are subject to change. Please confirm all details in advance.

SIGNATURE EVENTS

From regattas and food festivals to music nights and cultural pageants, the BVI’s year-round calendar brims with excitement.

2025

NOVEMBER

• Virgin Islands’ Culture & Tourism Month

• BVI Literary Arts Festival, Nov 6–9

• BVI Ideas Festival, Nov 11–12

DECEMBER

• VISAR’s Winter Wonderland, Nov 28–Dec 31

• Lighting of the Christmas Tree at Sir Olva Georges Plaza

• Christmas in the City, Dec 5–6

• Lighting of the Christmas Tree in Virgin Gorda, Dec 6

• Christmas in Spanish Town, Dec 12–13

• Golden Hind Chandlery Commodore’s Race, Dec 20

• Foxy’s Old Year’s Night, Dec 31

• Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park New Year’s Eve Party, Dec 31

• Trellis Bay New Year’s Eve Party, Dec 31

MAY

• BVI Dinghy Championships

• Leverick Bay Poker Run, May 24

JANUARY

• Latitude 18 Halyard Challenge

• 2026 Painkiller Cup SUP Race, Jan 17

• Manhattan Yacht Club Trophy, Jan 31

FEBRUARY

• 46th Sweethearts of the Caribbean Regatta and 42nd Classic Yacht Regatta

MARCH

• Dark and Stormy Regatta

• Taste of Virgin Gorda

• 52nd BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival, Mar 23–29

APRIL

• Virgin Gorda Easter Festival, Apr 4–6

• Governor’s Cup

• 48th Annual Foxy’s Wooden Boat Regatta

• BVI Music Festival, May 22–24

JUNE

• BVI Wreck Week, Jun 21–27

• Taste of Tortola

• One VI Poker Run

• Lowell Wheatley Anegada Pursuit Race & Rally

• BVI Olympic Day Festival

JULY

• 3rd Annual Virgin Islands Icon Awards Show, Jul 5

• Virgin Islands Day, Jul 6

• Annual Christmas in July in Virgin Gorda

• Prince and Princess Pageant

• Summer Sizzle Fashion Show

• Miss BVI Pageant

AUGUST

• Emancipation Month

• Gospel Fest

• August Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Aug 3–5

• Carrot Bay Cultural Fiesta

SEPTEMBER

• Back to School Regatta & ILCA Masters Championship

• The Moorings Interline Regatta

OCTOBER

• Royal BVI Yacht Club Willy T Race and Virgin’s Cup

• Annual Foxy’s Catfight Regatta & Halloween Masquerade Party

NOVEMBER

• Virgin Islands’ Culture & Tourism Month

• BVI Literary Arts Festival

• BVI Charter Yacht Show

• Foxy’s Catfight Regatta & Masquerade Ball

• Necker Cup Pro Am Tennis Tournament

• Nanny Cay Round Tortola Race

• Ogier Deloitte BVI Half Marathon 2026

The Premier BVI Paddle Board Race

Get ready for the Caribbean’s favourite SUP showdown. The annual Painkiller Cup returns on January 17, 2026. Racers can choose between the 14-mile downwind team race with $4,000 prize money from Trellis Bay (Beef Island) and the 2.5-mile Mini-Painkiller Cup solo race

from Sandy Cay — both finishing at Hendo’s Hideout on beautiful White Bay (Jost Van Dyke), where you can enjoy lunch and chill out for the afternoon. For date announcements and registration, follow @painkillercupbvi on Instagram and visit www.painkillercupbvi.com.

BEACH BLISS

Claim your spot in paradise! The BVI offers a veritable buffet of postcard-perfect beaches, where powdery white sands spill into crystal-clear waters that shimmer in every shade of blue.

By Carol M. Bareuther, RD

With more than 60 idyllic islands and cays to choose from, the BVI offers an irresistible mosaic of world-class beaches.

Whether you’re in search of watersports adventures, a vibrant cocktail-fuelled beach bar scene, or simply sun, sand, and solitude, this archipelago is home to the perfect spot to suit each mood and moment. From boulderframed bays with secret coves to secluded sands only reachable by boat, each destination is like a postcard come to life. This curated island-by-island guide will lead you to your ultimate BVI sandy place in paradise.

ANEGADA

Anegada is home to some of the BVI’s most eye candy–worthy beaches. Here, vast empty stretches of powdery white sand and peaceful shallow waters create a serene escape marvellous for swimming, snorkelling, and solitude.

BEACHES

LOBLOLLY BAY

The island’s north shore is home to the breathtaking beach of Loblolly Bay, where pale coral sand meets sparkling shallow waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Just offshore, a vibrant coral reef abounds with a multitude of colourful fish, offering easy access for exciting underwater exploration. Despite its beauty, the sandy strip still remains uncrowded and peaceful. Visitors can enjoy shaded spots, local restaurants serving fresh seafood, and basic amenities, all whilst soaking in the island’s relaxed, untouched atmosphere.

COW WRECK BEACH

This peaceful stretch of silken beige shoreline and sea glass–blue seas is as memorable as its name — Cow Wreck Beach, named after a 19th-century shipwreck that spilt cow bones along the shore. Today, it’s a tranquil escape known for calm waters, fresh seafood, and warm island hospitality. Whether you’re snorkelling, sipping a cocktail, or watching the sunset, this beach is a prime spot to unwind far from the crowds.

GOOD TO KNOW

Despite its beauty, the sandy strip still remains uncrowded and peaceful. 

This archipelago is home to the perfect spot to suit each mood and moment.

TORTOLA

As the largest island of the BVI, Tortola is known for the quantity and quality of its beautiful beach-bleached sands, transparent waters, and breathtaking coastal views.

CANE GARDEN BAY

A favourite amongst both locals and visitors, the Cane Garden Bay shoreline is prized for the gentle ebb and flow of its waters and its unique crescent shape, ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. It strikes an exceptional balance between lively and laid-back, making it a go-to spot for “liming” — the Caribbean way of relaxing and enjoying life. Beach bars and restaurants, including the popular Myett’s Garden Grill, line the shore with island flavours and cocktails. Jimmy Buffett even gave this beautiful place a nod in his song “Mañana”!

At sunset, the sky erupts in a vibrant array of colours. Just four miles from Road Town, this beach is easily reached via a scenic 1,000-foot climb complete with 180-degree views.

BREWER’S BAY

Tucked away on Tortola’s northern coast, this secluded stretch of sand offers a peaceful escape from the island’s more popular spots. With calm cerulean seas and vibrant coral reefs, Brewer’s Bay is a superb spot for snorkelling, swimming, and unwinding in nature. Families especially will appreciate the gentle surf. Marine life is abundant here, including parrotfish, triggerfish, and sea turtles, while pelicans often dive just offshore. Minimal development gives the area a rustic, untouched feel, and nearby ruins of a historic distillery and windmill add a unique touch. It’s a quiet slice of the BVI that feels truly undiscovered.

APPLE BAY

A hot spot for surfers, this lively north shore coastline is best known for its consistent winter swells and laid-back atmosphere. Popular from November through March, it draws wave riders from around the world whilst maintaining a friendly, local vibe. Beach bars and casual eateries line the shore, offering cool drinks and great views of the action while you unwind. While the waves make it less than ideal for swimming, Apple Bay shines when it comes to sunbathing, people-watching, and catching a stunning Caribbean sunset. Just a short stroll away, Sebastian’s on the Beach in Little Apple Bay is a favourite spot for a relaxed meal with front-row views of surfers carving through the waves.

GOOD TO KNOW

Beach bars and restaurants line the shore with island flavours and cocktails.

SMUGGLER’S COVE

Tucked away on Tortola’s West End,this quiet surf line is a true hidden gem. Accessible only by a trek through a bumpy dirt road, visitors are rewarded with powdery sand, ocean-blue waters, and a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere. Perfectly suited for snorkelling, the nearby reef is home to abundant colourful fish and marine life. With minimal facilities and just a few casual seaside shacks, the setting in Smuggler’s Cove feels refreshingly untouched. Its very name hints at a storied past, adding a touch of mystery to this serene coastal escape.

BEEF ISLAND

Long Bay on Beef Island is a hidden gem just moments from the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, offering an easy yet peaceful escape. This wide unspoilt beach boasts sands like diamond dust and crystalclear waters, making it a wonderful option for swimming, snorkelling, or simply soaking up the sun. A rare dune system and nearby salt pond support nesting sea turtles and native bird species, adding to their ecological significance. While the western end remains quiet and undeveloped, the eastern side offers a few casual amenities — such as beach bars, snacks, and chair rentals — creating a perfect blend of natural beauty and relaxed island convenience.

BEACHES

VIRGIN GORDA

From The Baths’ towering boulders and grottos to the salty waters of Savannah and Spring Bays, this island’s beaches offer iconic secluded beauty.

THE BATHS

Massive granite boulders form natural tunnels, tidal pools, and grottos shaped by ancient volcanic activity at this most iconic beachfront in the BVI. Here, visitors can swim, snorkel, and hike a one-way trail through this magnificent maze that leads to Devil’s Bay. Now part of a national park, The Baths combines dramatic beauty with unique geology and a focus on preservation.

DEVIL’S BAY

While The Baths and Devil’s Bay share the same drop-dead gorgeous waters and dramatic scenery, each offers its own distinct experience. For a quieter escape, hike 15 minutes from The Baths’ parking area to Devil’s Bay — a secluded beach with sparkling sands and clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and unwinding. Nearby, the famous boulder maze offers a more rugged adventure, and one unique geological feature worth admiring is the striking Cathedral Room, shaped by ancient volcanic forces. Complete the loop by taking the longer trail to the east, which includes exciting opportunities for climbing and scrambling. Lastly, before heading back, refuel with a burger and a cold Bushwacker at the beach bar.

SAVANNAH BAY

Tucked away on Virgin Gorda’s north coast, Savannah Bay is home to a mile of untouched powder-white shoreline and tranquil crystalclear water. Sheltered by a coral reef, this beach offers quiet swims and easy snorkelling. With few visitors, gentle breezes, and wide-open views, it’s a serene escape where nature speaks softly and the crowds feel far away.

SPRING BAY

Just north of the iconic boulders, Spring Bay National Park offers a quieter but equally enticing escape. This hidden gem features the same massive granite formations as The Baths but with far fewer crowds. A short grassy trail leads to soft sands, dramatic rocks, and the Crawl — a natural pool protected by boulders — making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling, even when the sea is rough. Sea grape trees provide natural shade, while picnic tables, grills, and a small playground make for a relaxed seaside day. As part of the national park system, Spring Bay is a serene blend of stunning scenery, tranquillity, and underwater beauty. For visitors seeking a more tranquil beach experience, this is one of Virgin Gorda’s most rewarding spots.

Spring Bay

JOST VAN DYKE

Life’s a beach bar on this small island, which only got electricity as well as its first paved road in the 1990s!

WHITE BAY

Consistently ranked amongst the world’s top beaches, White Bay earns its acclaim through its silky sands and inviting aquamarine waters perfect for beachgoers looking for a leisurely swim. Drop anchor just offshore and wade your way to paradise! The famed Soggy Dollar Bar awaits, where the Painkiller — a tropical mix of rum, citrus, coconut cream, and just a dash of nutmeg — has become an island icon. For more island indulgence, swing by Hendo’s Hideout and try the cheekily named Delirious Donkey, a refreshing blend of citrus vodka, lime, and ginger beer. With vibrant beach bars, serene seas, and a carefree atmosphere, White Bay is where the good life kicks off its shoes.

GREAT HARBOUR

When it’s time to dine or sip something spirited, make your way to Great Harbour. Lining the

DID YOU KNOW?

White Bay earns its acclaim through its silky sands and inviting aquamarine waters perfect for beachgoers looking for a leisurely swim.

quarter-mile sandy beachfront “Main Street” are seven open-air restaurants and bars, each with its own distinct island charm. The standout for many visitors is Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, where local legend and seventh-generation Jost Van Dyker Foxy Callwood entertains with calypso tunes that drift to where water meets sand and beyond. After dark, the vibe picks up, especially on Old Year’s Night, when the beach becomes the best seat in the house for the island’s dazzling midnight fireworks show.

SANDY SPIT

Sandy Spit, a tiny uninhabited cay off Jost Van Dyke, offers a pristine escape surrounded by aquamarine waters and a gleaming white shoreline. At its centre, palm trees and low shrubs provide a splash of greenery and a refreshing bit of shade. Coral reefs near the shore teem with marine life, creating a lively hot spot for snorkelling. With no structures or crowds, visitors can enjoy uninterrupted tranquillity and a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Caribbean Sea! Accessible only by boat, Sandy Spit is a peaceful picture-perfect stop for swimmers, sailors, and beach lovers alike.

OTHER ISLANDS

PETER ISLAND

Peter Island’s sun-drenched shorelines are as distinctive as they are beautiful, each offering a different kind of escape. On the northeast coast, Deadman’s Bay stretches wide with ivory-hued sands and serene seas, suited for leisurely swims and shaded lounging beneath palms. In contrast, the south-facing White Bay Beach is quiet and intimate, offering a relaxing spot set against rugged terrain ideal for snorkelling or enjoying peaceful solitude. Though the exclusive Peter Island Resort has recently reopened, the beaches remain open to the public.

COOPER ISLAND

Two main beaches on this island, Manchioneel Bay and Haulover Bay, each showcase soft sands and glasslike water excellent for swimming and snorkelling. Manchioneel Bay, the heart of the island, is perfect for sunbathing and beachside dining, while Haulover Bay offers a more secluded rustic charm. From the hillside at Quart-A-Nancy Point, sweeping views reveal the island’s verdant blue bays and surrounding cays. The Cooper Island Beach Club further enhances the experience with ecoconscious comforts, including a solarpowered rum bar, a microbrewery, and waterfront dining, all steps from the shore.

NORMAN ISLAND

Often called the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, this uninhabited isle pairs rich pirate lore with swashbuckling beach beauty. The white-sand shore at Bight Bay invites relaxation, complete with tranquil turquoise waters, a dock for easy access, and a lively floating bar and restaurant nearby. Adventurers looking for breathtaking sights can hike scenic trails across the island or snorkel in legendary spots, such as the caves and nearby rock formations bursting with marine life.

WATER, WIND & WONDER

From sailing and snorkelling to paddleboarding, kiteboarding, and reef dives, the BVI is your endless blue playground with calm seas, short hops, and big thrills.

By Jane Bakewell

Situated in a tropical archipelago, the British Virgin Islands comprises a stunning array of islands and cays that draws visitors from around the world, but it appears the siren call beckons the loudest for watersports enthusiasts hopeful for the sea adventure of a lifetime.

With the azure-blue Caribbean Sea to the south and the lively Atlantic Ocean to the north, swimmers, divers, sailors, board enthusiasts, and even the determined sportfisherman can all arrive happily anticipating their dive into the blue.

EXTREME FUN

There are many names for a sport that involves solo stand-up sailing, and each has subtle differences between them. Windsurfing requires a custom board with a rig — a removable sail and a boom where you put your hands — and is popular on both Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Some of the best windsurfing runs include island-to-island routes often used in local race venues.

The channel outside of Trellis Bay off Tortola’s north coast (Beef Island) is considered a great challenge, complete with high-velocity waves and steady winds. Only a ferry ride away to Virgin Gorda, windsurfing

at the popular Eustacia Sound is another hot spot with windsurfing rentals available at watersports shops at Leverick Bay and the North Sound.

Meanwhile, Anegada draws the “extreme sports” crowd who prefer the challenges of kitesailing. Kitesailing requires a board with a separate nylon kite and a harness with two lines to control. Once airborne with their back to the sea, kitesailors can surf the flat waters at great speeds thanks to their powerful sail. Keel Point on the north shore of Anegada offers near-perfect steady wind conditions (from December to July) blowing northeast from the sea, protected by a long reef. Lastly, kiteboarding differs in that it requires a shorter twotipped “snowboard” and often a foil sail. These are the sky acrobats one might see flipping through the

air and coming down with ease!

The pristine beach at Keel Point is a great spot to watch the colourful sail action, and for the airborne hopefuls, rental boards and lessons are available at the Anegada Beach Club watersports shop.

PADDLES UP

Nature lovers who want to go at a slower pace and enjoy a quiet, self-propelled cruise above the water have many opportunities aboard kayaks and stand-up paddle boards (SUP). The mangroves

around Beef Island’s lagoons reveal a clear view of conches, starfish, and, if you’re fortunate, possibly even a sea turtle sighting or a glimpse at other fascinating marine life. Trellis Bay is a great spot to rent a one- or two-person kayak or paddle board and glide around the large tranquil bay at your own leisure.

Tour companies such as Magic Mangrove Paddle offer guided group tours, allowing you to weave through the mangroves with fascinating marine commentary. You can also rent kayaks and SUPs on Tortola’s West End, in North Sound on Virgin Gorda, or in Great Harbour on Jost Van Dyke — all with beautiful bays to explore.

OVER OR UNDER THE WATER

During the winter and spring months, “Surf’s up!” is the call on many of Tortola’s legendary Continued on page 54

ON THE WATER

Dive into Paradise

By Jeff McNutt, COO of Dive BVI

From shallow reefs to legendary wrecks, the BVI offers dive sites for every skill level. Whether you’re just starting out or ready for advanced adventures, these waters invite you to explore a world of beauty beneath the surface.

THE BVI OFFERS some of the most diverse and vibrant dive sites in the Caribbean. With calm waters, rich marine life, and a variety of underwater landscapes — from coral gardens to sunken ships — the BVI is a diver’s paradise for all skill levels. Whether you’re a firsttime diver, an advancing enthusiast, or a seasoned expert, the BVI has something to match your comfort and experience. Here’s a breakdown of top dive sites categorised by skill level to help you

plan your underwater adventure.

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY DIVE SITES

The Indians (Norman Island)

Arguably the most famous beginner dive site in the BVI, The Indians are a group of jagged rock pinnacles rising from the sea, surrounded by shallow coral reefs. The site ranges from 15 to 50 feet in depth and offers excellent visibility, minimal currents, and colourful

that builds confidence and excitement in new divers.

INTERMEDIATE DIVE SITES

The RMS Rhone (Salt Island)

One of the most iconic dives in the Caribbean, the RMS Rhone sank in 1867 and now rests in pieces from 30 to 80 feet deep. This historic wreck offers an amazing combination of marine biology and cultural heritage. Intermediate divers can explore the intact bow section and engine room, weaving through coral-encrusted corridors. Stronger currents and the deeper portions of the wreck demand some experience, making it a thrilling next step for advancing divers.

marine life. Expect to see parrotfish, sergeant majors, and the occasional sea turtle. The easy access and sheltered conditions make it ideal for first timers and snorkellers alike.

Rainbow Canyons

(Pelican Island)

Located near Norman Island, Rainbow Canyons is perfect for divers looking to explore vibrant coral formations at manageable depths (30–50 feet). The “canyons” are natural corridors filled with sponges, soft corals, and small reef fish. It’s a calm, colourful site

Blonde Rock (Between Dead Chest and Salt Island)

This seamount starts at about 15 feet and drops to around 65 feet, offering a mix of shallow and deep diving. The rock is home to a variety of marine life including lobsters, eels, and barracuda. The site can have moderate current, so it’s best suited for divers who are comfortable with navigation and buoyancy control.

Ginger Steps (Ginger

Island)

This site features a series of natural underwater terraces that gradually step down from 20 to 80 feet. With little current and a mix of hard and soft corals,

it provides a relaxing dive with plenty to see. The depth variation makes it a great training ground for beginners and experienced divers alike to build navigation and buoyancy skills. Its location on the south side of Ginger Island means that surface conditions can be a little bumpy and surface currents can be present.

Painted Walls (Dead Chest Island)

Named for its brightly coloured spongecovered walls, this site offers a labyrinth of canyons and swimthroughs ranging from 30 to 60 feet. It’s ideal for divers looking to improve their underwater manoeuvring skills whilst enjoying stunning visual diversity.

ADVANCED DIVE SITES

Alice in Wonderland (South of Ginger Island)

This deeper site (40–100 feet) features massive mushroom-like coral formations and extensive reef structures. The current and depth make it suitable for advanced divers with good air management and comfort in deeper waters. The site is a favourite for underwater photographers and those looking to see larger pelagic species.

Carrot Shoal (Off Peter Island)

Carrot Shoal is an advanced site due to its exposed location and strong, unpredictable currents. The reef system features overhangs, ledges, and drop-offs teeming with life — sharks, eagle rays, and large

grouper are common sightings. It’s a rewarding dive for experienced adventurers who can handle challenging conditions.

Angelfish Reef (Norman Island) Although partially accessible to intermediate divers, Angelfish Reef’s deeper walls and canyons make it an exciting challenge for advanced divers. The site lives up to its name with an abundance of angelfish, as well as schools of jacks and the occasional nurse shark. There can be strong currents on the outside edges, so divers must pay particular attention to that and have surface support available in case they are not able to swim back to the mooring.

The BVI offers an exceptional range of dive sites tailored to every level of experience. Whether you’re just starting your diving journey or are looking to push your limits, these waters provide the perfect balance of beauty, biodiversity, and adventure. Always dive within your limits, check local conditions, and consider diving with a certified local dive company to make the most of your underwater exploration.

A premier dive and watersports operator, Dive BVI celebrates 50 years in 2025. Whether you’re visiting the BVI for the first time or returning for another round of reef therapy, Dive BVI welcomes you to celebrate their legacy and create new memories beneath the surface.

Blue Water Divers, located at Nanny Cay Marina on Tortola, offers scuba and snorkelling equipment rentals, certification courses, and diving packages for you to explore reefs, wrecks, and so much more.

surfing beaches. Josiah’s Bay on Tortola’s northeast side not only has legendary waves but has a surf school for lessons and boards to rent. Another great spot for surfing is Apple Bay on Tortola’s northwestern shore. Just a few months ago, film actor Matthew McConaughey was spotted surfing at this popular spot and later dining at a nearby shoreside restaurant. Cane Garden Bay is another unique location where the waves break off Cannon Point, ensuring a thrilling ride.

The best swimming beaches are those shielded from large waves or riptides. Long Bay on Beef Island perfectly fits the bill, as does the more remote Smuggler’s Cove on Tortola’s West End and the more developed Cane Garden Bay. Here, you will also find restaurants and bars to help replenish your energy after your swim and lounge chairs to rent for sunbathing.

Calm days at The Baths on Virgin Gorda are delightful for exploring rock tunnels and crevices formed by the boulders near the shore, while Jost Van Dyke offers the stunning White Bay — a sailor’s favourite, so you might have to share with some partygoers! Visitors can also plan a fun day trip to Anegada with aqua ocean vistas and calm swimming at Cow Wreck Beach or Loblolly Bay, both protected by reefs.

Snorkelling is a real thrill in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands, as they offer visibility of up to 60 feet on sunny days. Cooper Island has wonderful shallow coral reefs with many schools of fish at Manchioneel Bay off the northwest coast. This is also a highly favourable spot to see hawksbill turtles, known for their pointed beaks, who prefer shallow waters. These creatures glide their large amber-hued shells through the waters with gentle ease, looking for sponges in the crevices of coral structures to feast on.

ON THE WATER

Both Devil’s Bay and Spring Bay at The Baths on Virgin Gorda yield many colourful fish sightings as well, with sea life nestled between the still pools and crevices of the huge boulder formations. Visits to snorkelling sites around the islands can also be arranged through a day charter sail.

Diving spots are usually in much deeper waters, accessed by a day sail or motor charter tour fashioned to visit one or more dive sites around the islands on a day or half-day trip. Divers are often drawn to explore the famous wreck of the RMS Rhone off Salt Island, the historical legend featured in many books.

Blue Water Divers, located at Nanny Cay Marina on the west end of Tortola, has the distinction of having attracted many repeat divers throughout their 40-year history. A staff of experienced guides are ready to take you to a range of diverse reef sites, with

the added bonus of offering PADI and SSI diving certification courses in advance if needed.

Another great choice for any diving adventure is Dive BVI, which has locations on Virgin Gorda as well as Scrub Island. Their policy of taking small dive groups, with an emphasis on safety and environmental conservation, has made them a popular dive operation since 1975. Their diving programmes notably

include a Resort Course, which will have you proficient in no time to allow for a 40- to 60-foot dive.

BOOK A SEA ADVENTURE

The BVI has earned its reputation as the “Sailing Capital of the Caribbean” with its steady trade winds and some 60 islands and small cays. Circumnavigating these green volcanic-sloped islands is a dream in reach for many! Yacht charter companies on Tortola offer

many options, ranging from bareboat charters (without a crew) to high-end all-inclusive crewed yacht vacations where dining is a gourmet three-meal-a-day experience. Yacht choices include both sailing and power vessels, offering options for both monohulls and multihulls. This type of vacation is often called the “floating hotel experience,” where each day you wake up to a new view and an exciting new adventure.

VOYAGE Charters, located at Soper’s Hole Marina on the West End of Tortola, offers fully crewed charters — and the opportunity to be the captain of your own sailing adventure! There are a variety of custom VOYAGE Charters yachts to choose from, as well as a “captain only” choice that allows guests some experience crewing without all the responsibilities.

Midnight Sun Boat Charters operates in both the U.S. and

British Virgin Islands with four luxury outboard-powered vessels ranging from 37 to 43 feet. Visitors have a range of charter packages to choose from, including bareboat, crewed, or overnight charters. They also offer snorkelling trips, unique custom itineraries, and more.

Day sails are also a popular option, with lunch and drinks included as well as a chance to visit several island sites in a day. Generally, snorkelling equipment is provided on these trips and, in some cases, a snorkelling guide as well. Aristocat Daysails has two large catamarans offering day sail package trips to the islands surrounding Tortola as well as customised charters. Visitors can also book a day outing on their RIB (rigid inflatable boat), called Lickety Split , for a funfilled island bar-hopping trip that includes Norman Island and Jost Van Dyke.

REEL THRILLS

Sportfishing is an increasingly popular sport in the BVI, where the North Drop has become known as the best place to land a big blue marlin. If you can plan your trip around a full moon, fishing lore has it that a few days before and after the full moon is a peak time for fishing. Charter fishing boats depart from three locations — Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Scrub Island — for full-day trips to “the Drop.”

Conservation laws on the islands require that you catch, photograph, and release any billfish caught alone. But not to worry — you can catch, keep, and eat all the tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi caught on your half- or full-day charter adventure!

Bonefish enthusiasts may want to call ahead to book a guided flatboat light-tackle fishing excursion for tarpon or bonefish in the shallow flats off Anegada.

Swimmers, divers, sailors, board enthusiasts, and even sportfishermen can all arrive happily

their dive into the blue.

Almost 50 years in the British Virgin Islands, Dive BVI has issued over 10,000 certifications. Our instructors are ready to help you achieve your dive certification, whether you are in a full course with us or just needing to complete the Open Water dive requirements.

Sail the Sound

By Caitlin Nichols, Charter Yacht Society Member Yacht Port to Vino

The BVI is home to numerous islands filled with equal parts bustling activity and tranquil havens. No matter what you’re looking to discover amongst Nature’s Little Secrets, rest assured there’s a perfect island destination for you.

Exploring by water is, without question, the best way to experience the BVI. For years, the remoteness of these tucked-away islands helped preserve their beauty; now, with more flights into Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, you can be at your charter base — just five minutes from the runway — almost as soon as you land.

To begin your journey, Trellis Bay is

just a short walk away; and a brief dinghy ride delivers you to your boat, where bareboat charters and crewed yachts can await your arrival whilst secured to a mooring ball.

As you depart Trellis Bay in the afternoon, you can sit back and relax during a convenient overnight sail to Long Bay, Virgin Gorda. Once anchored safely, there’s plenty to explore both on land and under the sea. Slip into the beautiful turquoise waters to catch a glimpse of brightly coloured fish whilst snorkelling, swim to the nearby deserted beach to hunt for shells, or hike the 99 Steps for views not often seen by sailing visitors. When the sun sets, enjoy the excellent views of the stars above as well as playful tarpon under the boat.

In the morning, beat the crowds and head to The Baths before breakfast. Here, you can pick up a National Parks Trust mooring ball (day use only) and swim to the beach. Coloured flags on the beach represent the sea conditions and the viability of using the mooring field. Alternatively, secure a slip at the nearby Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour and taxi to the boulders instead. No trip to the BVI is truly complete without exploring the

natural wonder of The Baths. Plan for plenty of time to explore the caves to your heart’s content and relax at Devil’s Bay. From there, it’s a quick motor to North Sound, where there is plenty to explore. Pick up a mooring ball for an overnight stay and dinghy ashore to Saba Rock. Adventurous visitors can try their hand at eFoil lessons whilst the rest enjoy a relaxing massage. Afterwards, gather for sundowners at the upstairs bar or visit the renowned Bitter End Yacht Club to enjoy a cigar at the Quarterdeck

Club, with the dancing lights in the anchorage offering an evening performance.

Next up, Anegada is calling. Set sail early to make the most of your time on the “drowned island.” Once ashore, rent a Mini Moke or hop into an open-air taxi to explore an isle that still exudes old-school Caribbean hospitality. For farther-flung sights, hire a local guide to visit the historic Conch Shell Mounds. This island is also known for its rustic lobster dinners, so don’t miss out!

A relaxing downwind

GOOD TO KNOW

This itinerary mainly applies to crewed yachts or bareboats with a captain; other boats can start at their respective bases and use the same stops in a different order. For more information on crewed yachts, visit www.bvicrewedyachts.com.

sail will land you at Jost Van Dyke just in time for lunch. Spend your afternoon at White Bay and explore some of the beach bars that line the beautiful white-sand beach. The bay can be accessed by a quick taxi trip over the hill or a dinghy ride around the corner. Finally, finish the

day with a stop at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar. The lucky ones will catch a glimpse of Foxy himself, serenading guests and spinning yarns.

Then it’s time to sail around the western end of Tortola and head south to Norman Island. Between The Caves, The Indians, and Privateer Bay, there is plenty to explore under the water. For those looking for scenic views and an opportunity to stretch your legs, head ashore for a hike up to the ridgeline behind the restaurant at Pirate’s Bight. Indulging in the tales

Once anchored safely, there’s plenty to explore both on land and under the sea.

encrusted in coral and support fish life that is positively stunning. After your diving adventure, spend the afternoon and even a night at Peter Island by either booking a berth at the recently reopened Peter Island Resort and Spa or choosing a mooring in Great Harbour.

a quaint eco-resort and includes a rum bar, a coffee and gelato shop, a restaurant, and a boutique.

of Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson will inspire snorkellers to look out for silver and gold hidden in The Caves. For even more excitement, stop for a drink at the Willy T, a bar situated within a floating pirate ship.

As the week winds down, one must-see is the famous wreck of the RMS Rhone. This site is a diver’s playground, although it is also possible to snorkel a portion of the ship which was deposited in shallower waters. Sunk during a hurricane in 1867, the ship’s remains are

Leave bright and early on your last full day and head to Cooper Island, as you’ll want to pick up a mooring ball in the morning ahead of the lunch crowds. Turtles and fish abound at this location, especially around Cistern Point. Cooper Island boasts

Next, plan on a final sail to Marina Cay and spend the afternoon paddleboarding or kayaking in the protected waters inside the barrier reef, then head ashore for a cocktail and toast to an epic trip.

Marina Cay is also perfectly situated for a quick run over to Trellis Bay on departure day. Savour one final snorkel at Diamond Reef off Great Camanoe,

where more vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters are guaranteed. And the wet bathing suit you’ll have to stow in your suitcase? Well, that can be the final reminder of all the fantastic places you’ve been.

Back in Trellis Bay — within walking distance of the airport — there’s just one thing left to do: Check your calendar and plan your return. Nature’s Little Secrets await.

Raise a Glass, Toast 30 Years, Join the Legacy

THIS YEAR VOYAGE CHARTERS celebrates a milestone that few can match: 30 years of charting unforgettable journeys in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). For three decades, guests have joined us where island breezes carry the scent of the sea, sunsets glow across turquoise horizons, and every day offers a new adventure. More than a vacation, it’s a celebration of discovery, connection, and life on the water.

30 Years of VOYAGE in the BVI

The BVI is a sailor’s paradise, with over 60 islands and cays scattered like jewels across crystal-clear waters. Since our very first voyage, VOYAGE Charters has been at the heart of this destination, blending the breathtaking beauty of the islands with the luxury of world-class catamarans. This anniversary isn’t just about looking back; it’s an invitation to raise a glass to the future and join the legacy of adventure that defines VOYAGE.

More Than Yachts: A Tradition of Celebration

From the moment you step aboard, you’re welcomed into more than a yacht; you’re stepping into a tradition. For 30 years, every VOYAGE catamaran has been designed with thoughtful detail: spacious interiors, refined finishes, advanced systems, and modern comforts that allow the natural beauty of the BVI to shine. Every journey is crafted to be seamless, effortless, and above all, unforgettable.

Whether you choose the indulgence of a crewed charter or the independence of a bareboat, VOYAGE offers the perfect fit. Our award-winning VOYAGE 590 remains a guest favourite, celebrated for performance and comfort. And now, we toast the arrival of the VOYAGE 510 — a sleek, innovative catamaran

carrying our legacy into the next decade.

Why Guests Choose VOYAGE

With so many ways to explore the BVI, why do guests return to VOYAGE again and again? The answer lies in our unwavering commitment. For 30 years, we’ve been familyowned, proudly pioneering luxury chartering in the BVI. Our heritage is built on excellence, innovation, and heartfelt service that transforms every charter into something extraordinary.

Our fleet is constantly renewed and maintained to the highest standards of safety and comfort. But it’s our people who make the difference. The VOYAGE team brings passion, joy, and personal care to every trip — whether it’s designing itineraries, preparing gourmet meals, or revealing

secret anchorages. For three decades, our greatest tradition has been celebrating with our guests.

Join the Celebration

The spirit of the BVI is timeless, and there’s no better time to experience it than now. Whether you’re setting sail for the first time or returning to familiar waters, every voyage with VOYAGE Charters is part of a 30-year story of freedom, luxury, and adventure. Guests describe their time with us as life-changing, and many return year after year, drawn back by the blend of community, comfort, and connection. So, raise a glass, toast 30 years, and join the legacy. Step aboard a VOYAGE catamaran and discover the BVI like never before. Book your next adventure today and be part of the celebration that continues to define three decades of excellence on the sea. For more information, visit www.voyagecharters.com or connect with our team to plan your dream vacation. The BVI is calling, and VOYAGE Charters is ready to welcome you aboard for the next 30 years of adventure.

Responsible Reef Awareness

Here’s how you can do your part.

THE BVI HAS A REPUTATION for some of the healthiest, most visually stunning coral reefs in the entire Caribbean. This is not by accident but through careful stewardship of a very fragile underwater ecosystem. Education and regulations through the work of National Parks Trust have helped to foster a keen awareness in both the residents and visitors to the islands. Educated reef awareness is a must in these waters.

8 ReefReady Tips

These simple tips will help safely guide your underwater interactions, ensuring your success in keeping BVI reefs safe and flourishing.

What to Do:

• Swim or snorkel safely above the reefs to avoid brushing against the coral. Be aware that your fins are not stirring up sand that could cover the coral formations.

• Keep your vessel and dive platform well away from shallow reef areas.

• Look, but don’t touch — these are living organisms, and a light touch can cause significant damage.

• Use reef-safe sunscreens that use mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide. Traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm the reefs.

• If accidentally stung by fire coral, swab the area with vinegar or isopropyl alcohol, let it dry naturally, and do not cover.

What Not to Do:

• “Fire coral” is called that for a reason! It

has a light brownishred colour, and if your skin comes in contact with it, you will experience a painful burning reaction. Stay aware of your surroundings to avoid getting stung.

• Do not drop your vessel’s anchor over or around coral.

Dragging anchors can rip up coral formations, and it can take years for them to reform.

• Snorkel single file or in small groups over reefs. Too many bodies in close proximity increases the chance for accidents.

Jost

Anegada

Deals

SEA THRILLS ON THE GO

Search for watersports and on-the-water experiences on the go! Scan the QR code above to download the VISIT BVI app and learn more about our exciting offerings.

ON THE WATER GUIDE

ARISTOCAT DAYSAILS

Hannah Bay Marina

Tel/WhatsApp: 499-1249

U.S. Toll-Free: 954-488-2938

www.aristocatdaysails.com

Touring the British Virgin Islands by boat allows you a unique opportunity to enjoy the enchantment and beauty of the Caribbean. A day out with Aristocat includes sailing, snorkelling, paddleboarding, lunch (catamarans), and a variety of icecold drinks — a full day of fun in the sun and sea! Check availability and book online.

BLUE WATER DIVERS

Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola Tel: 494-2847

www.bluewaterdiversbvi.com

Blue Water Divers has an outstanding team of dive professionals who will ensure that you enjoy a safe and fun diving experience. It offers a variety of services to help make your diving holiday as easy and enjoyable as possible. Contact Blue Water Divers for scuba and snorkelling equipment rentals, PADI scuba diving certification courses, or diving packages; and visit the Nanny Cay location to browse amongst a wide variety of diving merchandise, clothing, and accessories.

DIVE BVI

Tel/WhatsApp: 541-9818

Email: info@divebvi.com www.divebvi.com

Located at Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour Marina and Scrub Island Marina, Dive BVI offers rendezvous diving, scuba and snorkelling equipment rentals, air fills, nitrox fills, and courses, private charters, scuba instruction, day trips, and retail selections. Package discounts on diving and rentals are available.

MIDNIGHT SUN BOAT CHARTERS

Tel: 340-998-7682

www.midnightsunboatcharters.com

Your search is over. You’ve found the ultimate day charter company in the Virgin Islands in Midnight Sun Boat Charters. The company strives to stand out with its commitment to providing an unforgettable experience for its customers, aboard a wide range of well-maintained vessels, with top-notch service from captains passionate about showcasing the best of the Caribbean’s stunning scenery, beaches, and people! At Midnight Sun Boat Charters, you’ll have the option of selecting from a variety of different charter packages aboard one of its vessels. Each charter is designed to cater to your specific needs and preferences, and Midnight Sun’s friendly and knowledgeable team will work with you to ensure your trip is customised to your liking. Whether you’re looking to explore secluded coves and beaches, enjoy bar-hopping at some of the Caribbean’s nicest resorts, go snorkelling in crystalclear waters with sea turtles and

rays, or just relax and soak up the sun on the deck of your private boat, Midnight Sun Boat Charters is the perfect choice for an unforgettable adventure in the Caribbean.

SALTY SOUL YACHT CHARTERS

Tel: 832-888-8413

www.saltysoulyachtcharters.com

Salty Soul curates personalised yacht charters to match your soul’s desire for turquoise waters. Pairing you with the perfect yacht, experienced crew, and custom itinerary, Salty Soul Yacht Charters makes your dream vacation a reality.

VOYAGE CHARTERS

Tel: 888-869-2436 / 443-569-7007

www.voyagecharters.com

Embark on an unforgettable journey with VOYAGE Charters, where you will experience the absolute best in the industry. Delight in the toprated charter company in the British Virgin Islands, exclusively offering the award-winning VOYAGE 590. You can trust this family-owned and -operated business to provide you with personalised service, ensuring an exceptional VOYAGE.

ISLAND HOPPING

From ferry rides to day sails, discover the BVI one isle at a time — with morning reef dives, calm passages, postcard stops at every turn, and pink-sky sundowners by dusk.

By Jane Bakewell

The British Virgin Islands is home to striking vistas of sun and sea that dance off the beaches of the four major islands.

Here, visitors will discover a lovely strand of possibilities at every turn — clear, turquoise waters and steady trade winds for sailing, snorkelling, and SUP; trails, overlooks, and strolls ashore — the perfect combination for both watersports and land adventures awaiting the eager traveller. End your days of beach hopping with some warm Caribbean hospitality, an exotic rum-based cocktail, and mouthwatering barbecue accompanied by live music under the stars. This is island hopping, BVI-style — an effortless path to your dream escape.

Tortola: Full Moon Fun

Tortola is the largest and most populous of the island chain as well as the seat of the government’s capital and business district. But it’s not all about business on Tortola; this is an island that knows how to enjoy a great party! From the reggae beats heard at seaside restaurants at Cane Garden Bay on the west end to lively full moon parties at Trellis Bay on the eastern tip, one might think this is the island that never sleeps.

After landing on Beef Island, you’ll likely swap trainers for breezy flip-flops right away. Tortola runs about 12 miles east to west. However, with some steep curving roads, driving the length of the island might make it seem a bit longer. Beginning in Road Town and ascending the mountain, the Ridge Road winds through small communities where history-themed murals painted by local artists cover white retaining walls. Look for some openings in the brush to pause for sweeping photo ops. Prefer the shoreline? The coastal road along the southern shore stays mostly flat until a few slopes and steep turns land you in the heart of the west end.

GETTING THERE

Direct flights are available from San Juan (PR) or through American Airlines from Miami, FL (MIA), to Beef Island Airport (EIS). Alternatively, visitors can take a ferry from St. Thomas, VI, using Road Town Fast Ferry, Smith’s Ferry, or Native Son. Tortola’s West End can be reached from St. John, VI, through Inter Island Ferry.

Cane Garden Bay offers a fantastic panoramic view ideal for those looking for a classic “chill” island afternoon. Beach chairs are available for rent to ensure maximum comfort, and many restaurants dot the shore with enticing Caribbean dishes on offer. One popular choice is Myett’s Garden Grill, where the spicy chicken dishes and fruity island drinks pack a punch. Don’t miss their local pumpkin soup, a favourite of many.

The historic Callwood Rum Distillery, located at the end of the bay, is one of the oldest continuously operating pot distilleries in the Caribbean. Here, you can take a tour to see how Arundel cane rum is crafted, then grab a bottle (or two) of their many fine rums on your way out — some sport playful, or even “scandalous,” names.

The north shore is dotted by other small bays, including Apple Bay, a mecca for surfers with consistent waves that break into a rocky shoreline. From Apple Bay, a short drive with a few hilly turns will lead you to Long Bay, the photo subject of many travel magazines due to its vast walking beach capped at the end with a volcanic mound. Just past the Long Bay Resort, a small road leads to Smuggler’s Cove,

Experience Relaxed Luxury at Our BVI Resort.

At Long Bay Beach Resort, enjoy a blend of space and relaxation. Choose from Hillside Suites, Beachfront Villas, Ocean View Suites, or the private Beach House, all designed for a luxurious, laid-back experience by the sea.

a lovely hideaway worth a day trip with a packed lunch. A few vendors are set up here, offering beer and mixed drinks.

All island roads eventually lead to Road Town, the business and financial hub of the BVI. Well worth a visit is the Old Government House Museum, the historic home of commissioners and governors showcasing furniture and art from the early 1900s. The Prison Museum on Old Main Steet gives a bit of a darker look at island history, while Crafts Alive Village — a collection of colourful Caribbean-style cottages — is the place to purchase local crafts, island wear, and much-needed sun hats.

The Tortola Pier Park is the place for name-brand bargain hunters, complete with over 70 retail outlets offering island fashions, unique gifts, and deluxe jewellery. House of Luxury offers amazing deals on quality gems, necklaces, and watches; and a variety of coffee shops and local eateries offer a cool, quick respite from shopping.

For an opportunity to explore the island at your own pace, car rental agencies, including Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty, are at your service. Although U.S.made cars are the norm, the British road system is followed in the Territory; and you will be reminded to “Stay Left” with a prominent sign placed on your windshield. This is important to remember when entering roundabouts and intersections.

Once you get a taste of the romantic essence of the islands, you may

EXPLORING

start dreaming about celebrating your own special occasions here, such as weddings and anniversaries. Thankfully, wedding licences are quickly facilitated here in 24 hours through the BVI Registrar’s office. Although many choose one of the incredible beaches for their ceremonies, another unique option is choosing to have a wedding officiated at sea, making for a memorable celebration.

Tortola is the island for adventure seekers and sports enthusiasts. Sage Mountain National Park, towering at 1,700 feet, offers semitropical trails for the eager hiker, while Original Virgin Canopy Tours provides exciting

ziplining opportunities over the forested hills, allowing you to see amazing vistas of the surrounding islands from the highest point.

Watersports of every type are popular here, and equipment can easily be found at numerous shops, including surfboards, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards (SUPs). For the excited angler, fishing permits can also be obtained along with equipment and bait, as well as the option to book half- or full-day deep-sea fishing charters.

Diving in particular is a big sport in the islands, and Blue Water Divers at Nanny Cay Marina offers an exciting underwater adventure that includes

INSIDER TIPS

1. For a unique lunch experience, drive up the mountain road to Irie Ites Ital, a Rastafarian restaurant with a killer view serving up tasty vegetarian cuisine.

2. Book a guided kayak tour through the mangroves at the Beef Island lagoon and enjoy peering through the still waters at starfish, conches, and schools of juvenile fish.

exploring a historic sunken wreck. Sailing memories are just waiting to be made with Aristocat Daysails, where aqua-blue bays with colourful reef fish await you. For an extended exploration of the islands, try VOYAGE Charters.

The magical world of Trellis Bay is just a short hop over the East End Bridge to Beef Island. Here, visitors will find an artist enclave filled with craft shops and many fine eateries, and this is the go-to place for the famous “Full Moon Parties.”

Trellis Bay Market is one of several lively hubs of activity along the beach, marked by live music and the enticing smell of Caribbean barbecue.

3. Take an early morning trek on the trails at Sage Mountain Park, followed by a refreshing fruit smoothie at the Mountain View Restaurant.

4. Tour the historic Callwood Rum Distillery in Cane Garden Bay and purchase some tasty local rum to spike your piña coladas with back home.

5. Here for the full moon? Head over to Trellis Bay on Beef Island for a night of exciting entertainment, including the Moko Jumbies (stilt walkers), reggae bands, and sculpted flaming fireballs set in the sea!

Norman Island: Pirate Playground

Norman Island, which lies southwest of Tortola, holds some fascinating pirate history. It was supposedly named after a pirate who bought it sometime in the 18th century and leased it out. Although this story is still debated, pirate booty found there over the years has been confirmed by BVI government officials and residents alike; and these finds led to the island being eulogised in the classic novel Treasure Island

The hilly landscape stretches 2.5 acres in length and is privately owned but open to sailors with a large bay called The Bight, considered one of the most protected anchorages in the area. Although there are no overnight accommodations here, the beachside welcome mat is set out for day-trippers looking for a tasty meal, a swim, and maybe a hike.

Treasure Point, also known as The Caves, contains three water caves on the western edge of the island. Here, snorkellers can see

INSIDER TIP

orange sponge coral lining the cave walls whilst friendly reef fish dart about the cauliflower-shaped coral formations, creating a visual wonderland beneath the surface.

GETTING THERE

Hannah’s Bay, west of Road Town on Tortola, offers a daily ferry to the island. Departures are set for 10 a.m. and return at 3 p.m. Alternatively, a private boat charter from Tortola offers a more customised experience.

Today, the most prominent boat permanently anchored in The Bight is the infamous Willy T schooner, a lively floating bar and restaurant where the sailing crowd gathers to party late into the night. A fun activity for thrill seekers is the leap from the upper deck to the sea below accompanied by the cheers of onlookers, which serves as a rite of passage.

Stunning views make it worth the effort to tackle the island’s two hiking trails, which wind through scenic landscapes and lead to a panoramic vista of the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Meanwhile, for those looking to relax, the shoreline offers shaded chaises perfect for lounging whilst sipping exotic cocktails.

Well worth a bit of huffing and puffing, try the two-mile hike up to Spy Glass Hill. Start from the trail behind Pirate’s Bight restaurant and head left at the first prominent fork in the trail. Be sure to bring water and a sun hat for the trek, and don’t forget your camera for those killer views at the top!

Marina Cay: Splendour in Small

This charming eight-acre cay is just a short ferry ride from Trellis Bay. It has a fascinating history due to an intrepid American couple in the 1930s named the Whites, who made this small rock island their home. Their adventures were later immortalised in the book Two on the Isle. Fastforward in time, and it soon caught the attention of filmmakers: In 1958, it became the set for the classic film Virgin Island, starring Sidney Poitier. Today, it is home to a delightful waterside eatery called Marina Cay Bar & Grill.

INSIDER TIP

The Marina Cay Bar & Grill is the island’s main attraction, offering covered openair dining by the sea. Lunches include anything from big-bowl salads to mouthwatering burgers and icy tropical drinks. Other delicious options include grilled fish, jerk chicken, curry pasta, and kebab. Open for dinner as well, this is a charming location for a delicious meal out.

GETTING THERE

From Trellis Bay on Beef Island, there is an outdoor phone by the dock to contact Scrub Island Resort to arrange a free shuttle ferry to Marina Cay. Scheduled shuttles go back and forth daily, even in the evenings.

Virgin Gorda: Relaxation & Reverie

As an island that exudes a refined atmosphere, with highend resorts hidden behind artfully manicured foliage, Virgin Gorda is the perfect retreat for a special spa weekend or an anniversary dinner. It is the honeymooners’ hideaway, the travellers’ chance to explore her many bays and shores at a quieter pace. This is an island that holds hidden charms for those willing to look.

One of the most popular natural sites on Virgin Gorda is The Baths National Park, where huge volcanic boulder formations are interspersed with shady grotto pools. The fun trail leading from Spring Bay to Devil’s Bay will have you squeezing between granite boulders and wading through shallow ocean pools, and it only takes about 15 minutes, depending how long you stop for photos. A short hike up the trail to the Top of the Baths features a few restaurants with tasty menu options, a gift shop, and a side bonus of an amazing panoramic view.

Although a private tour of the island can certainly be arranged, many visitors opt to explore on their own by renting a car in Spanish Town from reliable brands like Hertz, Dollar, or Thrifty Rentals. From the central port, travel north along the coast to reach Savannah Bay, where a long, beautiful stretch of a white-sand beach awaits.

Moving ahead on the North Sound Road, look for a sign for Gorda Peak National Park. The midway trail here is a good option and a less challenging way to reach the 1,370foot summit of Gorda Peak. At the very top, the tower offers a great platform view of the North Sound. However, if a hike is not on your agenda, just a short car ride down the road is Hog Heaven Bar. Known for its mouthwatering barbecue, the large wraparound deck features a photo-worthy view of the North Sound while you dine.

The old Copper Mine, a well-known historical site, is also worth pulling over for a quick look. Here lies the stone remains of a 19th-century British copper mine abandoned in 1862. Situated high on a windy hill amidst the cobbled ruins of the old engine house and chimney, large openframed doorways and windows provide a spectacular backdrop for photo ops framed with nature’s vivid blue sky above and sea below.

INSIDER TIPS

1. Stop for a cold brew and some barbecue at Hog Heaven, an outdoor-deck eatery with a panoramic view of the North Sound.

2. Leverick Bay Marina: Rent an outboard boat and watersports equipment to explore hidden bays for snorkelling or SUP fun.

GETTING THERE

Virgin Gorda Transport Speedy’s has daily service from Road Town to Spanish Town, with rental cars and taxi tours available at the ferry dock, and private water taxis can be arranged for custom destinations. There is also an auto barge service by Global Ocean Transport between Trellis Bay and the Virgin Gorda ferry dock, enabling you to take your car over for the day.

The road finally ends as you wind down to Leverick Bay, just about halfway across the length of the island. A popular destination for sailors, there are several restaurants here for either daytime or casual evening dining, including some night-time entertainment in a Hollywood set pirate ship’s bow by the water.

But your adventure doesn’t have to end here! Merely change your mode of transportation from a rental car to a rental boat and you can venture on. North Sound destinations may include the Bitter End Yacht Club, a yachtie’s delight with a boat hull bar right on the deck, and nearby Saba Rock Resort, boasting a viewing platform over an underwater nautical museum that includes a centuries-old anchor, coins, and other artefacts. Have a drink at the bar on a rope-swinging seat or stay for dinner, but note that reservations are required.

Ready for a real adventure? Book a glass-bottom boat tour with See It Clear Tours and local legend Captain Gumption, or opt for a nature escape on Richard Branson’s Necker Island. There, an open-air sanctuary awaits — home to slow-moving giant tortoises, bright pink flamingos, and treehopping lemurs.

3. The Baths National Park is often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Here, visitors can hike through giant boulders and sunlit shallow pools between two beaches.

4. The Copper Mine: Stone ruins of an abandoned 19th-century copper mine nestled on a hill offer a taste of history with a great photo backdrop.

5. Take up the Gorda Peak challenge: The 1,370-feet ascent, with trails from both the base and midway, yields a dramatic North Sound view.

Cooper Island: Eco-Friendly Escape

This small eco-conscious island, sandwiched between Ginger Island and Salt Island, is popularly known due to its proximity to the famous wreck of the RMS Rhone dive site. Sustainability is a key concept on this island, where solar power, recycling, and sourcing locally grown foods are guiding mantras for the guest cottages and restaurant at the Cooper Island Beach Club.

Supposedly named after the barrel makers, or “coopers,” of the 1700s who used the island’s white cedarwood to store and transport goods, the name has stuck — although the use of barrels is long gone. The Cooper Island Beach Club is the life force of the

island, featuring a 10-room guesthouse nestled on a sloping hill. The key priority is providing guests with a quiet, comfortable getaway whilst maintaining environmentally conscious sustainability. Impressively, the resort generates 85 percent of its electricity through solar power, underscoring its commitment to an ecofriendly environment. Take advantage of the nearby historic wreck by booking a dive tour, or enjoy snorkelling at Cistern Reef in Manchioneel Bay right off Cooper Island. Here, you’ll find colourful schools of reef fish, along with green sea turtles that often make an appearance. Kayaks and stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) are also available, offering the chance for a blissful paddle through the captivating waters of the bay.

INSIDER

TIP

Spend a half day diving the historic wreck of the RMS Rhone, then relax in the afternoon with a nourishing lunch at the Beach Club

Restaurant and, later, some libation tastings at either The Rum Bar or the microbrewery. Note that the restaurant closes for the season, so be sure to check for opening dates.

GETTING THERE

There is no regular ferry service to the island. Overnight visitors are offered pickups from Tortola at Road Harbour or Hodges Creek Marina on the east end. Visitors may also consider chartering a boat.

INSIDER TIPS

1. Head over to the Bubbly Pool in Diamond Point for some wavesplashing fun at nature’s homemade jet-stream pool.

2. Make some time to indulge in a massage in the floating houseboat at Ocean Spa BVI in White Bay. The rhythm of the calming waves will ease your tensions away!

3. Join the revellers at Foxy’s Bar at sunset. Happy hour is usually a great time to catch guitarstrumming Foxy with his politically humorous tunes.

4. Pick up some fun Foxy merch at the Foxhole (next to Foxy’s), such as stylish island wear, fun T-shirts, and sea-themed jewellery.

5. Catch the ongoing party at the Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay, where the famous Painkiller drink leaves few standing for long.

GETTING THERE

Take the New Horizon Ferry, which has five daily departures from Tortola’s West End temporary terminal to Great Harbour. Purchase tickets at the dockside booth and keep them handy, as they will be collected onboard during your journey.

Jost Van Dyke: Laid-Back & Low-Key

Jost Van Dyke is a small island paradise — a legendary anchorage for sailors and pirates of the past with a legendary Painkiller drink at the Soggy Dollar Bar to match. Just a short ferry ride from Tortola’s West End, this laid-back island seems like a step back in time. Small West Indian homes cosy up to small bars and restaurants lining the main harbour, and the “chill factor” is woven into how things are done here: slow and easy. Casual is the island theme, so beachwear is about as gussied up as you’ll need to be.

Great Harbour will be your destination point after departing Tortola’s West End ferry dock. You will likely meet a floating community of anchored sailboats when you arrive whose crews are already enjoying the island’s many roads to adventure. From here, you have the option to either take a taxi van over the hill to White Bay or enjoy a leisurely stroll along Great Harbour, featuring many small local restaurants with menus displayed outdoors enticing you to stop and have a bite. At the end of the bay is the iconic Foxy’s Tamarind Bar. “Troubadour Foxy” is often present, delighting the crowd with his humorous tunes. This large open-air restaurant serves up grilled burgers, fresh fish, and refreshing drinks. Right next door, the Foxhole shop is worth a stop to stock up on essentials like swimsuits, caps, sundresses, and island-themed T-shirts.

For a beautiful sunning and swimming beach with endto-end bars to keep your thirst quenched, take that main road hike or a taxi over the hill from Great Harbour to White Bay. Day charter boats pack the bay, filled with happy sailors mid-deep in the shallow waters offshore with their fruity bar concoctions in hand. The Soggy Dollar Bar is legendary for its original Painkiller recipe, and Hendo’s Hideout is another popular spot for Caribbean barbecue or even a romantic weekend in one of its upscale guest cottages. For those seeking therapeutic relaxation, floating in the bay on a platoon platform is a small massage centre that houses Ocean Spa BVI. Expert massages performed on gently rocking waters adds to the sublime experience.

A short taxi ride to Diamond Point on the opposite side of the island is well worth the trip. Here, you can visit the renowned Bubbly Pool, where large boulders create a natural ocean pool with waves splashing through the crevices. Booking a private day charter will allow you to explore the smaller surrounding islands, like Little Jost Van Dyke and Sandy Spit. Snorkelling around these islands is a thrilling experience, as the sea is teeming with colourful reef fish. And don’t miss the chance for an iconic photo on Sandy Spit: the tiny, circular islet crowned by a single palm tree, made famous as the stunning backdrop in countless international magazine spreads.

Anegada: Nature’s

Nook

Anegada — or “sunken island,” as its name originally implied — is a coral atoll rising just 28 feet above sea level about 15 miles north of Virgin Gorda. Set in a palette of exquisite shades of blue in the surrounding seas, it is also the least populated island in the chain. This island retreat puts nature first, as it is an eco-habitat for large prehistoriclooking iguanas and strikingly pink flamingos, both protected species. It is also a magnet for watersports enthusiasts, offering some of the best sites for kitesurfing in the islands whilst also drawing in bonefishing enthusiasts angling for that special catch off the shallow flats.

Government conservation initiatives have successfully reintroduced pink flamingos back to Anegada’s centrally located large salt ponds where they once historically thrived. Now, they can be often spotted at a bridge point near the salt ponds. Young rock iguanas are also protected and cared for at the Headstart Facility until they are mature enough to be released into the wild, as

the cat population on the island at one time threatened their existence.

Once you arrive by ferry to the Government Dock at Setting Point, there are several options to begin your island adventure. Rental cars can be arranged by calling ahead for reservations so that your vehicle will be at the dock awaiting you. There’s no need for GPS here, as the main road circles around most of the island with small off-road areas leading to beach spots. Another option just a short walk down the road is a motorcycle rental, or you can also head to the Anegada Reef Hotel to catch a shared taxi van that

shuttles guests to Loblolly Bay, a popular beach and snorkelling destination on the north coast.

Loblolly Bay Beach is a stunning sandy crescent with shoreside waters protected by an offshore reef, making it an ideal snorkelling spot. The Big Bamboo is the restaurant that will greet you here, serving up tropical drinks, Caribbean barbecue, and the island’s famous spiny lobster, known for its meaty tail and lack of pincers.

One could easily spend a full day sunbathing and snorkelling in this idyllic setting. However, the more adventurous may want to head over to the northwest

shore — the go-to spot for exciting watersports or a relaxed sunset horseback ride along the beach.

Cow Wreck Beach is a great next stop on the north shore. Named historically for a barge full of cows that literally wrecked off the reef, an iconic cow skull marker sign will lead you to a stunning stretch of white sand and aqua waters.

The Anegada Beach Club is just a few miles down the road, offering guest suites in tropicalstyle thatched palapas right along the beach complete with a small dipping pool and a breezy open-air restaurant.

GETTING THERE

Road Town Fast Ferry offers service from Road Town Harbour and Virgin Gorda twice a day on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Chartered flights can also be arranged from Tortola and Virgin Gorda to the Auguste George Airport (NGD).

Anegada is also a destination spot for that ardent club of bonefishing enthusiasts determined to land that elusive tarpon. Full- and halfday charters with seasoned guides can be easily arranged through the Anegada Reef Hotel. The hotel is also a popular dining spot with a charming boutique next door full of locally made souvenirs.

INSIDER TIPS

1. Book an early morning or sunset beach ride along the north shore atop one of the friendly horses from the Francis Family Farm.

2. With your snorkel gear and a large sun hat in hand, head to Loblolly Bay for a reef adventure or an opportunity to just soak in the sun.

3. If you’ve ever thought about it, now is the time to take up the challenge! Try a kiteboarding lesson or an Eco Mangrove Paddleboard Trip booked through the Anegada Reef Hotel.

4. Make sure to pause for a photo op by the salt ponds for a glimpse of the pink flamingos, who cluster close to the edge of the mangroves.

5. Ready for an unusual manmade sight?

Tour the Conch Shell Mounds, a shell burial ground that fishermen have added to for centuries.

By Vanessa Molina Santamaria

From Sandcastles to Sailing

The BVI is a dream destination for families, offering a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation that appeals across generations.

WITH SUN-SOAKED BEACHES, fascinating wildlife, and a wide range of kid-friendly activities, the BVI invites families to connect, explore, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether your children are budding sailors, curious naturalists, or creative artists, there’s something in these islands just for them.

ADVENTURES ON THE WATER

The Baths on Virgin Gorda serve as the ultimate natural playground. With their maze of massive granite boulders, hidden rock pools, and secret passageways, kids can climb, crawl, and splash their way

through this unforgettable setting. The winding trails between the boulders provide both a sense of exploration and a chance for family bonding amidst one of the most iconic spots in the BVI.

For younger water lovers, snuba offers the perfect middle ground between snorkelling and scuba diving. Connected to a surface air supply, adventurers ages 8 and up can dive a bit deeper into the reef without the need for heavy gear. It’s an ideal way to introduce children to the wonders of the ocean whilst staying close to parents or instructors.

The BVI’s reputation as a sailing haven also makes it an excellent place to pass on your

Roast Van Dyke

Wherever you go in the BVI, adventure and learning go hand in hand.

love of the sea. Calm waters, short distances between islands, and exciting stops like pirate-themed hideaways or vibrant reef snorkel spots make sailing here especially accessible for families

with kids. Anchor near The Baths, drop in at Saba Rock, or create your own nautical treasure hunt.

SeaTrek BVI’s “Summer Camp at Sea” brings together education and adven-

ture in a way few experiences can. Aimed at middle school through college-aged kids, the programme offers immersive learning in marine science, sailing, and diving. Students can earn academic credit

or community service hours whilst exploring coral reefs, practising water safety, and working as a team. Voyages last from 11 days to 8 weeks, encouraging independence, curiosity, and a lifelong respect for the ocean.

KATS (Kids and the Sea) is another stellar programme that teaches kids vital boating and marine safety skills. Through fun, hands-on activities like rowing and sailing, young participants build confidence whilst learning responsibility and teamwork. It’s a great introduction to life on the water, especially for kids who live near or frequently visit the coast.

In addition to its structured lessons, KATS offers summer camps that emphasise the importance of ocean conservation and community involvement. These experiences not only provide useful knowledge but also nurture a deep connection with the sea — one that encourages children to protect it for generations to come.

GOING INLAND

There’s plenty to explore away from the water as well. Families visiting Tortola can take a leisurely stroll through the J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens in Road Town. Kids can hunt for unique plants and spot local wildlife like tortoises

and lizards whilst learning about tropical ecosystems in a hands-on setting. Nearby, Sage Mountain National Park offers another nature-based escape, with hiking trails winding through the island’s highest peaks and offering stunning views of the surrounding islands.

Looking for a break from the sun? The Save the Seed Energy Centre is a fantastic indoor option. With a variety of activities including bowling, basketball, volleyball, and a dedicated play area for younger kids, it’s a relaxed and air-conditioned retreat where the whole family can unwind and recharge.

Families interested in a cultural encounter won’t want to miss the North Shore Shell Museum. Founded by local legend Egbert Donovan, this small but captivating museum features a dazzling collection of shells, artefacts, and handwritten notes that bring the island’s past to life. Donovan himself is often around to share tales that give kids and parents alike a deeper appreciation for BVI heritage.

For creative families, The Pottery Garden in Josiah’s Bay is a mustvisit. This hands-on art space offers pottery classes for kids ages 6 and up, as well as adults, where everyone can learn hand-building

techniques and design their own one-of-a-kind piece. It’s a great way to tap into your child’s artistic side whilst engaging with the local arts scene.

Food-loving kids can also take part in The Brick Oven’s Kids Summer Cooking Camp. Designed for fun and learning, the camp teaches basic culinary skills, kitchen safety, and traditional island recipes. With outdoor games and hands-on cooking sessions, it’s a delicious way for children to get creative and learn new skills.

THE BEAUTY OF ANEGADA

A trip to Anegada delivers a whole new perspective on island

life. Unlike the lush, mountainous terrain of other islands, Anegada’s flat landscape is home to striking natural features. Flamingo Pond, for example, gives families the chance to witness a flamboyance of wild flamingos — a vibrant, otherworldly spectacle that’s particularly thrilling for young bird-watchers and animal lovers.

Just as intriguing are the towering Conch Shell Mounds. These ancient piles, some reaching 12 feet high, were built by centuries of local fishermen and date back as far as the 13th century. Walking amongst them offers kids a unique look into

the island’s past and the sustainable practices of earlier generations.

ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES

With its mix of waterbased thrills, cultural treasures, and immersive educational opportunities, the BVI is a perfect setting for family travel. Whether you’re snorkelling through coral reefs, hiking rainforests, crafting pottery, or listening to the stories of island elders, each day brings something new. Wherever you go in the BVI, adventure and learning go hand in hand — and the memories you make will stay with your family for years to come.

PEAKS AND PANORAMAS

From coastal paths to scenic mountain ridges, the BVI delivers big views and bigger thrills for outdoor enthusiasts — think thrilling nature trails, scenic cycling routes, and photo stops you’ll never forget.

By Dean Greenaway and Anika M. Christopher

The

British Virgin Islands

isn’t just a pretty shoreline — it’s a full-on invitation to explore.

Yes, the beaches are legendary, with glassy blues and soft, sugar-white sand, but the islands’ beauty stretches far beyond the surf.

Venture inland and a different side of the BVI comes into focus: lush footpaths, breathtaking lookouts, and adrenaline-tinged fun. Whether you’re wandering verdant trails, tracing historic routes, or soaring on a zip line, there’s a land-based adventure here that brings you closer to the islands’ wild, unforgettable terrain.

TREETOP THRILLS

Perched on Johnson’s Ghut above Road Town, the Original Virgin Canopy Tour sends you gliding across seven forest-spanning lines. Discover spectacular views of Tortola’s emerald hills, neighbouring isles, and on crystal-clear days, even a distant St. Croix. Each zip line offers picture-perfect panoramas, but the highest platform frames Road Harbour for can’t-miss photos.

Open to adults and kids alike, the course blends excitement with big-sky scenery. Clip in, soar over the canopy, and leave with memories (and snapshots) you’ll revisit long after you’re back at sea level.

SADDLES & SEA BREEZES

On Anegada, trade footprints for hoofprints with a coastal ride from Francis Family Farm. The threemile route from Walk Over Set Bay to Cow Wreck Beach glides past unspoilt coastline and crystal-clear water, turning a simple trail into a postcard-worthy experience.

Beyond Anegada, Tortola offers family-friendly equine adventures at Diamond Estate Farm. Think easy-going trail rides for all ages and safe, enclosed pony rides for younger riders — an inviting way for the whole family to explore the islands’ greener side together.

ON TWO WHEELS

Cycling has real momentum in the BVI, with the BVI Cycling Federation rolling out a year-round calendar — everything from relaxed community spins to spirited races that draw riders from across the Caribbean.

Getting wheels is easy if you’re looking to hit the trails. On Tortola, rent bikes (including e-bikes at Tortola Pier Park) for a leisurely ride around Road Town. Local shops are generous with route tips, so

GOOD TO KNOW

The three-mile route from Walk Over Set Bay to Cow Wreck Beach glides past unspoilt coastline and crystal-clear water.

you can chase the best views without missing a turn.

For scenery, it’s hard to beat the Sir Francis Drake Highway, a 10.9-mile coastal cruise from mid-island to Soper’s Hole on the west end. Want a workout? Tackle Ridge Road, a winding route that traces the island’s spine, presenting quite a challenge. Though it requires good stamina, the climbs are worth it for the sweeping lookouts and the exhilarating descent towards the east end.

Island-hop for variety: Virgin Gorda’s central Valley serves up smooth terrain, and a stop at The Baths National Park rewards riders with a swim amongst giant boulders that line the coastline. Flat and freewheeling Anegada offers long straightaways, but it’s worth noting that the pavement turns to sand near the shore, providing an intriguing twist. You’ll also find motorcycle rentals near the ferry terminal if you prefer a throttle to pedals.

By Dean Greenaway

Sprint Sensation

From bucket races to the World Athletics U20 Championship, Adaejah Hodge is breaking new ground as one of the most decorated young athletes from the BVI.

AT THE RATE SHE’S GOING, Adaejah Hodge will need a much bigger trophy case to accommodate her growing list of track-and-field awards.

Since winning the Carrot Bay Cultural Fiesta bucket race as a four-year-old in 2010, Hodge has gone on to become an Olympic Games semifinalist and the first British Virgin Islands athlete to strike gold in a World Athletics Championships Series event, an achievement secured when she won the World U20 Girls 200m gold in 2024, in Lima, Peru.

After beginning her training with Coach Ericca Frederick at Enid Scatliffe Pre-Primary School and continuing at Althea Scatliffe Primary School, Hodge started turning heads when she competed for her school, both in the BVI Athletics Association competitions and InterPrimary Schools Championships. Her tenacity and fierce drive to win made her stand out amongst her peers early on, and she often beat girls she challenged in older age groups.

After moving to Atlanta, Georgia, with her family at the age of nine, she joined the Legacy Track Club and began to blossom under Coach Kenneth Jones, whom she worked with for eight years. Hodge wasn’t just sprinting — in addition to the 100m and 200m, her repertoire included the 400m, the long jump, and the triple jump. From middle school through high school and Junior Olympic competitions, Hodge’s performances stood out as she established both meet and BVI youth and junior records.

In 2022, Hodge announced her presence to the world as an athlete to watch during the 49th CARIFTA Games, a competition for U17 and

Her tenacity and fierce drive to win made her stand out amongst her peers early on.

U20 athletes in Kingston, Jamaica. After winning the U17 Girls 100m in 11.29 seconds — missing the meet record by just .02 second — she turned her attention to the long jump pit after advancing to the 200m semis.

She earned second place in the long jump with a 5.84 metre (19'2") leap, and officials then delayed the start of the 200m semis as Hodge changed her spikes. She went on to run the dash in 24.19 seconds

to advance, and then Hodge returned to the pit and had a wind-aided leap of 6.20 metres (20'4") in her final attempt to snatch a second gold medal.

The young athlete ended the competition with 200m gold in 23.42 seconds, and even more impressive, she was also granted the Austin Sealy Award recognising the athlete with the single most impressive performance in the competition. Hodge’s remarkable skill made the BVI the 11th country to have an athlete win the award since it was introduced in 1978.

In 2024, despite a season where she was out of competition and in a cast, Hodge returned to action with limited races and won a BVI National Championships sprint double. She then debuted in the Paris Olympic Games and advanced to the 200m semifinals, a feat only Tahesia Harrigan-Scott has accomplished in the 100m as a female sprinter.

Afterwards, Hodge sprinted to the Word Athletics U20 Championships 200m gold in Lima, Peru, in 22.74 seconds, making her the first BVI athlete to claim a global title at any level of a World Athletics Series competition. This notable feat came after she won 100m silver — a historic sprint first.

“It means the world to me, since last season was so challenging, to end it on a good note knowing that God had a plan for me,” Hodge said. “In the 100m, the main goal was to attack from the beginning and just stay composed; but in the 200, it becomes a little more technical. I knew I had to have a really good curve and continue to accelerate through the relay zone, and it brought me the gold.”

Up until 2024, Kyron McMaster was the only U20 medallist after winning 400m hurdles bronze in 2016. Hodge’s medals — coupled with McMaster’s 2023 World Championships sil-

Hodge sprinted to the Word Athletics U20 Championships 200m gold in Lima, Peru, in 22.74 seconds, making her the first BVI athlete to claim a global title at any level of a World Athletics Series competition.

ver, Harrigan-Scott’s 2008 World Indoor Championships 60m bronze, and the 2013 World Youth Championships silver-medal medley relay team of Taylor Hill, Nelda Huggins, Jonel Lacey, and Tarika Moses — completed the BVI’s feat becoming one of the few Caribbean countries with a medal in the four World Athletics Series events.

Entering the championships, Hodge said her primary objective was to come out, give it her best effort, and just have fun. “In the early part of the season, my goal was to go out there and win double gold medals; but after such a long season, I was doubting the process and doubting my abilities to do so,” she explained. “But my coach quickly reminded me just to go out there and be myself, so the goal for the whole championship was to go out there and be Adaejah Hodge and have fun with it.”

Continued from page 77

COURTS & COASTLINES

The BVI is a playground for sport lovers, with options to match every pace. Tennis and pickleball are popular pastimes. Various resorts offer excellent facilities, though there are currently no pickleball courts on Tortola. The Tortola Sports Club welcomes tennis players to enjoy its well-kept tennis courts, while Long Bay Resort offers a lively pickleball scene for those who prefer paddles to rackets.

Over on Virgin Gorda, the Nail Bay Sports Club is a one-stop hub with tennis, squash, a gym, and a pool. Beach volleyball is another island staple, with nets set up on many of the islands’ beautiful shores; and Cane Garden Bay is known for its lively ambience and spontaneous, sunsoaked matches. Seasonal favourites across the Territory include softball, volleyball, basketball, and track and field.

LAND ADVENTURES

From the panoramic lookout at Gorda Peak to the storybook trails of Norman Island and Jost Van Dyke — and from beachside courts to the canopy glide in Road Town — the BVI has an activity for every mood. Go at your own pace and savour the scenery. Bring a map, sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and a healthy dose of curiosity — your island adventure starts here.

By Dean Greenaway and Anika M. Christopher

Trade your flip-flops for hiking shoes and discover the BVI’s best views from a new perspective — on foot.

Hike to Heights

LACE UP FOR RIDGE WALKS, trails that wind through dense forests, and awe-inspiring viewpoints — each path reveals a new angle on the BVI’s striking blue-and-green panorama.

Sage Mountain National Park on Tortola invites those with a penchant for exploration with its scenic trails and unique flora. As you hike to the highest peak in the Virgin Islands, you’ll encounter exotic birds and stunning vistas that showcase the channel’s beauty. Near Brewer’s Bay just a short drive away, there’s also Shark Bay National Park, which is home to the Bat Cave, a picturesque granite formation. To the right of the cave are breathtaking boulders of the Atlantic waves crashing onto the Shark Bay shoreline, and to the west lies a stunning trail with thriving vegetation and vistas of St. John and Jost Van Dyke.

On Beef Island, Mount Alma, rising to just 728 feet, offers a winding, heart-pumping 2.1-mile trail hike that meanders through lush plant life and offers a deceptive incline. Once you finally reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view of the Sir Francis Drake Channel and all the islands from

Virgin Gorda to eastern St. John. The breezy view of the salt pond below stretches across the water to Long Look, and other stunning vistas include the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, Guana Island, Great and Little Camanoe, Scrub Island, and all the way back to Virgin Gorda. Further adventures await on Norman Island, where trails lead to breathtaking scenery. One example is the shorter hike to Spyglass Lookout, steeped in pirate lore. For those seeking a challenge, however, the trek from The Bight to Money Bay offers hikers spectacular views paired with opportunities for a refreshing snorkel afterwards.

On Virgin Gorda, the path to the highest peak, coming in at an elevation of 1,370 feet, winds through the dry forest of the Caribbean — one of the last remaining examples of this specific biome. This area is also home to the Virgin Gorda gecko, one of the world’s smallest lizards.

On Jost Van Dyke, the trail to the Bubbly Pool promises a delightful finish. This easy hike leads to a shallow pool where the surf creates a natural jacuzzi, providing a splashy reward for your efforts.

Tours and hikes to Salt Island are also available, taking visitors to see firsthand how the salt pond churns out rich salt via a natural filtration process. A pound of this very salt was sent to Queen Elizabeth II in 2018 as a gift from the descendants of the island. Breathtaking views of St. John east of the pond, as well as Tortola, make a wonderful source of motivation for reaching the spiny mountaintop.

By Jane Bakewell

Creating a Buzz

From golden honey to fresh island produce, Virgin Gorda’s own Jahnai Caul is turning his passion for farming and beekeeping into a thriving agribusiness that’s as sweet as it is sustainable.

YOU WILL NOTICE young Virgin Gorda native Jahnai Caul by his welcoming smile, shaded under a self-styled eco-hat or obscured beneath the head screen of his bee suit. His enthusiasm and energy are contagious — especially if you get him talking about his mission to educate local youth about the possibilities for agribusiness in the BVI.

Over the last three years, Caul has helped to lay the groundwork for a booming industry through his own company, Caul Green Agribusiness, which grows and markets various fruits such as mangoes, guavas, and papayas as well as local vegetables from his farm on Virgin Gorda. Once a month, he joins the farmers market at Rosewood Little Dix Bay Resort, adding another important staple to his farm goods: ohso-sweet honey, harvested from the hives in his own local apiary.

It may come as a surprise that beekeeping was one of the economic drivers in the Caribbean for 200 years. Now, with people like Caul at the forefront, bees could become big business in the territory once again. Once a year, apiarists (beekeepers) from all over the Eastern Caribbean gather for the annual St. Lucia Honey Show, with some brands even finding their products on the global stage as a result with open doors to U.S. markets. Branded as Humble Buzz Honey Works, Caul’s second agribusiness venture has received much acclaim, earning him several awards at the Caribbean-wide competition.

As a dedicated eco-warrior, his contributions don’t stop there. He also coordinates beach clean-ups, and during his time as an environmental officer for the BVI Tourist Board, he coordinated a programme called “Seeds of

Love,” which focused on replanting and restoring vegetation ravaged by the BVI’s most devastating hurricane in 2017. The programme’s most valuable outcome of all was that it gave local youth a renewed appreciation for their environment.

Caul has brought his green entrepreneurial efforts to other initiatives as well. One called Green Sprouts Eco Club is an environmental programme that aims to educate local youth about sustainable practices and environmental accountability. Another project involves an online forum called Green Thumbs, which gives newbie farmers a dedicated place to ask questions and get inspired with their own agribusiness projects.

For now, Caul is focused on further entrepreneurial efforts, including opening his farm and

beekeeping business as an agribusiness-tourism spot, with tours and tastings in the works. Group tours for up to 15 guests will be offered at his apiary, with bee suits provided.

Recently, he hosted a local hikers club as a test group to rave reviews. “I feel I have been blessed with the ability to influence and inspire others,” Caul explained, “and I want to use those talents to serve my community.”

Soon, local farm and beekeeping tours will be something to add to your to-do list when visiting the British Virgin Islands!

PEDAL, SIP & SEE

One of the BVI’s newest experiences, Party Cycle is already carving a niche in the local landscape as it takes visitors from business to business via historical, food, and bar-hopping tours between the capital of Road Town and its environs.

Imagine hopping from bar to bar led by a local guide, sampling the best local and Caribbean rums and beers. This lively bar-hopping tour lasts about four hours and can accommodate 14 to 16 guests.

But the Party Cycle does more than just go to bars — there’s also a two-hour historical tour of Road Town available for locals and tourists who aren’t big on drinking, with mocktails served along the way.

Tours start from the 1780 Sugar Works historic site near the old Althea Scatliffe Primary School. Visitors will learn the significance of the tamarind tree in front of the police station and pass the AO Shirley Recreation Grounds before a tour of the J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens. Afterwards comes a visit to the historic Sunday Morning Well, where the Emancipation Proclamation was read on August 1, 1834.

From there, the group travels to a historic cholera burial site, the “Fireproof” building, the Prison Museum, the Old Post Office and Administration Building, and Sir Olva Georges Plaza, all along Main Street. The tour includes intriguing photos from the 1940s to the present, demonstrating the evolution of Wickham’s Cay, before a stop at the original Market

Square and the Old Government House. This tour also includes the impressive military forts that protected the BVI — Fort Burt, Fort George, and Fort Charlotte — which together created an untouchable defence for the Road Town area.

A delicious taste of local cuisine is also on offer on the Party Cycle. Sample the BVI’s national dish of fish and fungi, mouthwatering jerk chicken, a variety of pate, roti, and a sweet ending with some local ice cream.

DID YOU KNOW?

Cycling has real momentum in the BVI, with the BVI Cycling Federation rolling out a year-round calendar.

British Virgin Islands

Jost Van Dyke

Jost Van Dyke

FLAVOURFUL FINDS

Whether you’re craving freshly caught seafood seasoned with island flair, local dishes at cosy beach bars, or upscale restaurants featuring international cuisine, the BVI has all the flavours to please your palate.

By Carol M. Bareuther, RD

Discover the BVI’s diverse dining scene, where just-caught seafood, garden-fresh produce, and fragrant herbs meet a worldly culinary touch.

Here, time-honoured island recipes mingle with global influences, serving flavours shaped by centuries of tradition and cultural exchange.

Alongside beloved island favourites, you’ll find everything from American burgers and Asian stir-fries to Italian pastas and inventive fusion plates — many crafted by award-winning chefs who represent the Territory on the BVI Culinary Team, sourcing straight from local farms and fishermen. Vegetarian and vegan diners are well catered to, while classic afternoon tea nods to the islands’ British roots. Whether you’re dining toes-in-the-sand or high above emerald hills with sweeping views, every meal is a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Visiting foodies won’t want to miss exciting seasonal culinary events like the BVI Food Fête. This typically month-long celebration, focused on feasting throughout the islands, has expanded to year-round as of 2025. The fun kicks off with Jost Lime & Dine (from mid-February to mid-March), followed by Taste of the BVI in Virgin Gorda (mid-March), BVI Restaurant Week (late June to early July), and the Anegada Lobster Festival (last weekend in November).

From December through May, the islands get lively; so booking your dinner spot ahead of time is smart, especially at popular places. Dress comfortably, but neatly — casual attire like shirts, shorts, or skirts work well, while swimwear is best saved for the shore. Most restaurants take credit cards, but having some cash on hand is handy for quick bites at beachside shacks, food trucks, and local markets.

D’Coal

DINING IN TORTOLA

KICK OFF YOUR FOOD ADVENTURE in the island’s largest town, Road Town, where dining options are varied and vibrant. Start at the Main Street Restaurant, a cosy 1920s house-turned-eatery serving up Caribbean fusion favourites at lunch and dinner. On their menu, you’ll find delectable choices like Guavaberry Chicken Wings, Seafood Pasta Jambalaya, AdoboRubbed Pork Belly, and Sesame Jerk Ribs. Be sure to take a selfie at the quirky royal-blue post box at the entrance, an homage to the island’s British ties.

Self-catering at a villa or provisioning a charter?

Steakation Artisan Butchery

in Wickham’s Cay II is your premium stop. This butcher and market features precision-cut beef, pork, lamb, and poultry, plus house-made sausages, smoked and cured selections, and biltong — a South African favourite of soft, salty dried meat.

Craving tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or nachos? Seek out Tradewinds Mexican Grill, nestled in a hidden alcove in Kingston. Their fresh, housemade tortillas and Mexican favourites with a Caribbean twist are sure to hit the spot.

Omar’s Coffee House in Tortola’s West End at the Soper’s Hole Marina is the place for breakfast and brunch surrounded by a slice of paradise. Freshly baked bread, in-house roasted coffee, and locally sourced ingredients are at the heart of every dish. Start with the eatery’s

famous cinnamon rolls, smoothie bowls, or home-baked bagels or indulge in a hearty English breakfast or Eggs Benedict. Pair it all with a perfect cup of joe, mimosas, or a Bloody Mary; and on the way

out, don’t forget to grab a bag of their specialty Roast Van Dyke coffee beans.

Located along scenic Long Bay Road, Tropical Fusion Beach Bar & Grill showcases the culinary

the British Virgin Islands

Deals

Messages

Fruit Mousse or Chef Molyneaux’s signature RumSoaked Carrot Cake — all served just steps from the sand with a side of ocean breeze. Tortola

EAT SMART ON THE GO

Search for dining options on the go! Scan the QR code above to download the VISIT BVI app and learn more about our dining and nightlife offerings.

Whether you’re dining toes-in-the-sand or high above emerald hills with sweeping views, every meal is a feast for the eyes and the palate.

talent of award-winning chef Kenneth Molyneaux. The menu blends bold island flavours with refined techniques, with standouts including the Coconut Curry Shrimp, Tamarind-Glazed Chicken, and a rich Breadfruit Pie. For dessert, try the decadent Passion

East on Apple Bay, Sebastian’s on the Beach is a welcoming family-friendly spot known for its breezy seaside charm and legendary rum punch. The menu features island-style comfort food like Coconut Crusted MahiMahi, Jerk Chicken Wraps, and Fried Plantain Bowls; and guests love the weekend brunch specials, fresh seafood platters, and lively evenings filled with karaoke, trivia nights, and the occasional steel pan performance.

By Anika M. Christopher

With The Brick Oven in Carrot Bay, Shyril Smith celebrates the BVI’s culinary heritage by sharing old-school recipes and preserving traditions that pay homage to the elders of the community.

Keeping Traditions Alive

IMAGINE STEPPING into an island village and travelling back in time, the air scented with the sweet, smoky scent of a wood-fired brick oven. That is the world created by Shyril Smith, owner of The Brick Oven in Carrot Bay’s cultural village. From coconut bread to conch fritters, every bite tells a story of Virgin Islands history and heritage. In a home that doubles as a living classroom, you’re invited not only to learn but to roll up your sleeves for hands-on demonstrations — and bake the BVI way.

Smith’s journey into preserving Virgin Islands culinary traditions started long before she opened The Brick Oven. Growing up in a big family, she was often tasked with helping with meals and other household tasks; and through this responsibility, she learned the importance of resourcefulness and self-sufficiency from an early age. “Growing up in a very large family and being responsible gave me the experience and the knowledge,” she fondly recalls. She knows firsthand how vital these skills are, especially after unexpected events such as Hurricane Irma, when communities had to rely on traditional methods to get by. It was this, coupled with her extensive experience in the food industry and 29 years

One of the crowd favourites on the menu is the Everything but Tart, where guests can select from delectable fillings like guava, coconut, pineapple, or guavaberry. Seafood lovers won’t want to miss out on the Fries of the Isles: perfectly crisp bite-sized spheres of seasoned fish with a melt-in-your-mouth centre. And of course, no baking tour would be complete without trying the iconic johnnycakes. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these fried treats are a staple of Virgin Islands cuisine.

teaching home economics, that inspired the creation of The Brick Oven. Today, this home turned cultural centre is far more than a baking lesson; it’s an invitation to savour the traditional Virgin Islands way of life.

When you visit The Brick Oven, tradition and taste meet the moment you step inside. Ingredients — coconut, flour, and more — are measured and set out in advance so guests can follow Smith’s guidance and actively participate in the process. “Everything is ready; it’s simply a matter of putting it together with my instructions,” she says. On arrival you’ll be welcomed with a complimentary guavaberry shot, and you can opt for refreshing fruit mimosas made from passion fruit or mangoes — all ingredients sourced directly from her garden.

Beyond the oven, Smith’s property is a living showcase of island life. A lush garden overflows with soursop, mangoes, bananas, and guavaberries, all folded into her culinary experiences. Two culturally significant trees take pride of place: the lime-berry — a favourite snack in the old days and naturally rich in vitamin C — and the fishingrod tree, traditionally used on the islands as a Christmas tree. Outside, she keeps the grounds in the old-town style, with a neat lawn and a wash area where guests can try their hand at traditional laundering methods.

From the moment you step onto her property, it’s clear to see that Smith is dedicated to ensuring that the rich cultural and culinary traditions of the Virgin Islands continue to thrive for years to come. The Brick Oven isn’t just a place to bake; it’s a living museum that connects visitors to the island’s unique history, food, and way of life. For more information, call 543-1161 or visit www.thebrickovenbvi.com.

Tucked into the shoreline of Carrot Bay, D’Coal Pot Restaurant offers a cosy open-air setting and a menu full of bold island flavours. Highlights include the GingerGlazed Salmon, Tamarind BBQ Chicken, Creamy Callaloo Pasta, and Slow-Roasted Pork with caramelised plantains. Don’t miss out on their Spinach and Lobster Stuffed Dumplings — a local favourite. When you’re pleasantly stuffed, head upstairs to the Sunset Bar for

tropical cocktails and panoramic sea views.

Cane Garden Bay — famously mentioned in Jimmy Buffett’s “Mañana” — is a lively, beachfront stretch where good vibes meet great eats. At Myett’s Garden Grill, settle in for seafood, poultry, or steaks with crave-worthy sides, plus plenty of vegetarian-friendly picks. Sip on a signature Myett’s Rum Punch during sunset happy hour, often paired with live reggae or steel pan music.

By Carol M. Bareuther, RD

Eat like a Local

Sample eight signature staples and sips that capture the spirit of the BVI’s lively culture.

STEEPED IN HERITAGE and bursting with islandgrown richness, the cuisine of the British Virgin Islands is a delicious reflection of Caribbean culture. Influenced by African, European, and indigenous traditions, local dishes spotlight freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, hearty vegetables, and fragrant garden herbs. At the heart of it all is the national favourite: fish and fungi. This comforting classic features pansimmered red snapper served in a rich onionbutter sauce and paired with polenta-style cornmeal with chopped okra, offering a true taste of the islands’ culinary soul. Seek out simple family-run eateries, beachside shacks, and bustling food trucks during your trip to the BVI to find these authentic, bold, homegrown flavours. For a delicious deeper dive, time a visit to overlap with cultural celebrations like Virgin Gorda’s Easter Festival, Tortola’s August Emancipation Festival, or festive winter food fairs. Here, vendors showcase a wide buffet of beloved local bites.

READY TO EAT LIKE A LOCAL? START WITH THESE EIGHT ISLAND CLASSICS!

Anegada Lobster. Native to Anegada’s coral waters, clawless spiny lobsters are a true island treasure and available throughout the BVI. Chefs brush these lobsters with a mixture of butter, garlic, thyme, and fresh herbs, adding just enough Scotch bonnet heat to wake up the senses, then grill them. This delicacy is served fresh with simple sides like herbed rice or sauteed local vegetables.

Johnnycakes. These slightly sweet golden flatbreads are made from a simple mix of cornmeal, flour, milk, butter, and a touch of sugar. Cooked on a griddle or fried until crisp on the outside and soft inside, these are often enjoyed warm. They’re perfect alongside chicken legs, salt fish, stews, or eggs or simply eaten on their own as a satisfying snack.

Roti. To make roti, East Indian–style flatbread is filled with curried meats like chicken, beef, goat, or seafood, all cooked until tender in well-seasoned sauces. Vegetarian versions include chickpeas, spiced potatoes, and mixed vegetables. The soft wrap is then folded to hold the hearty fillings and commonly paired with tamarind sauce, pepper sauce, or mango chutney, adding a perfect balance of heat, tang, or sweetness to the meal.

Curried Goat. Goat meat is marinated with curry powder, garlic, thyme, and other local seasonings, then browned and slow-cooked until tender. It’s simmered with onions, peppers, and sometimes potatoes in a thick curry gravy; and the result is a bold, well-seasoned dish with deep spice and savoury depth. Traditionally served with rice and peas, it’s a popular choice for family gatherings and weekend meals.

Pates. A favourite street food and go-to snack, pates are crispy deep-fried pastries stuffed with zesty fillings like spiced beef, salt fish, chicken, or seasoned vegetables. While similar to empanadas, BVI-style pates are distinctly Caribbean with bold seasonings such as thyme, scallions, and a hint of Scotch bonnet pepper for a spicy kick. This island staple is a handheld treat served hot.

Mauby. Prepared by boiling tree bark with spices like aniseed, cinnamon, and clove, this island beverage has a slightly bitter, herbal character. Often sweetened and served cold, it’s a favourite at family gatherings, festivals, and roadside stands. Loved for its unique profile, it’s also believed to offer natural cooling and health benefits.

Kallaloo. This rich, savoury, soupy-green stew is made with dasheen leaves or spinach, okra, and salted meats like pig’s feet or salt beef. It often also includes fresh seafood, such as conch or lobster; and the broth is seasoned with aromatic spices and fish stock to create a distinctive character. This dish is enjoyed year-round but especially on Old Year’s Night, when eating the stew symbolises good luck and prosperity for the New Year.

Conch — Creole-Style, Fritters & Soups. This marine mollusc is a cherished local ingredient known for its tender texture and sweet, oceanfresh profile. Customarily, it’s slow-cooked Creolestyle with salt pork, peppers, onions, and island spices in a rich gravy, often served with fungi or rice; but another favourite is conch fritters. Minced conch is seasoned with herbs, folded into batter, and deep-fried until golden and crisp, perfect for pairing with a dipping sauce and a cold beer. Conch also features in warming soups and chowders, making it a versatile and flavourful symbol of the BVI’s deep connection to the sea.

DINING IN VIRGIN GORDA

LEGEND HAS IT that Virgin Gorda earned its name from Christopher Columbus, who thought the island’s curvy shape looked like a reclining woman. These days, it’s not the silhouette but the island’s impressive culinary scene that turns heads — especially around Spanish Town, where myriad restaurants are packed into just a few walkable miles, and in and near North Sound, which offers dock-and-dine options.

GOOD TO KNOW

Around Spanish Town, myriad restaurants are packed into just a few walkable miles.

Right off the ferry in St. Thomas Bay, Bath & Turtle Café welcomes early risers with espresso drinks, vanilla chai lattes, and hearty breakfasts like loaded omelettes and pancake stacks. By midday, the vibe shifts to a casual lunch spot with burgers, wraps, and fresh salads. Then, as the sun dips, the adjoining Chez Bamboo transforms into an ambient dinner spot, dishing out its famous Tamarind Ginger Wings for starters with Coconut Curry MahiMahi or Snapper, Penne Alfredo, and Herb-Roasted Chicken under swaying palms and string lights. For even more options, there’s also pizza, sushi, and Asian specials on the menu.

A few minutes down the road, CocoMaya blends beach chic with global flair. Set against the

dramatic boulders of The Baths, this open-air hot spot serves up bold plates like Thai Green Curry, Pad Thai, and its signature CocoMaya Roll — tempura shrimp with avocado, spicy mayo, and a crispy finish.

From the bar, expert mixologists serve creative cocktails like a Lemon Basil Margarita, CocoMoon (coconut rum, cream of coconut, sake, lemongrass, and lime), and Smoken’ Roaster (mezcal, Ancho

Saba Rock

Reyes, smoked bell pepper, and bitters). Condé Nast Traveler named CocoMaya as one of the top beach clubs in the world for 2025.

Leverick Bay Resort & Marina in North Sound offers a relaxed yet lively dining scene with beautiful waterfront views. Here, diners can enjoy fresh seafood, Caribbeaninspired dishes, and grilled favourites at the Leverick Bay Restaurant

or grab casual bites like conch fritters and burgers at the Cove. Don’t miss the famous Friday night beach barbecue with live music, dancing, and performances by fire dancers and stiltwalking Moko Jumbies!

For an upscale escape, head to the secluded northeastern coast and discover the dining gems at Oil Nut Bay. Nova impresses with

From December through May, the islands get lively; so booking your dinner spot ahead of time is smart, especially at popular places.

an elevated-yet-playful vibe and a showstopping Gourmet Sushi Boat — a lavish spread of Spicy Tuna Rolls, Nigiri, Sashimi, Tuna Tataki, and Mahi-Mahi Ceviche — perfect for four to six guests. Share it over sunset cocktails or during the new happy hour (4–5:30 p.m.), when handcrafted drinks and light bites meet serene marina views. At the Beach Club, acclaimed Executive Chef Guillermo Hernandez has joined the team, debuting refreshed menus with seasonal locally inspired dishes. Don’t miss the Anegada Lobster Pizza or Private Beach Dining, a personalised torchlit meal on the sand made for unforgettable celebrations! In 2025, Forbes praised the worldclass cuisine at the Oil Nut Bay Beach Club Restaurant, naming it “the best restaurant in the British Virgin Islands.”

J. Kevin Foltz

By Carol M. Bareuther, RD

Reimagined Island Fare

Saba Rock raises the bar in BVI dining, blending luxe touches with Executive Chef Nicky HullSaldanha’s bold new culinary vision.

SABA ROCK, the iconic islet retreat in Virgin Gorda’s North Sound, is bringing fresh energy to its dining scene with a new

culinary direction helmed by acclaimed Executive Chef Nicky Hull-Saldanha. Known for its breezy island ambience and stunning ocean views,

Saba Rock is now dishing out a revamped menu that blends elevated Caribbean flavours with global techniques and inventive flair — especially when it comes to fresh seafood.

Hull-Saldanha’s culinary philosophy centres on letting pristine ingredients shine, a passion rooted in his lifelong connection to the sea. Highlights of the new menu include a crispy blackened grouper

sandwich, bold flamegrilled Caribbean lobster with burnt lemon garlic butter, and a dynamic rotation of daily specials that celebrate the BVI’s coastal bounty. “We’re keeping it fun and approachable — lots of raw and simply prepared dishes that showcase the quality of our seafood,” the chef explains. “Seaweed, for example, is one of my favourite ways to enhance flavour naturally; and this season we’re also featuring more wagyu and rare cuts of meat.”

Born in Aveiro, Portugal, and raised in the United Kingdom, Hull-Saldanha was immersed in the realm of seafood from a young age as he helped his uncle sell fish at a local market. His early culinary promise was recognised

when he earned North West Young Chef of the Year, a title that launched him into the professional spotlight with a role at St. Pierre Park Hotel in Guernsey. His path then led him back to the U.K. mainland, where he trained under twoMichelin-starred chef Paul Heathcote; before island life lured him to Bermuda and later to The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman.

Over the next 15 years, Hull-Saldanha became a fixture in the Cayman culinary scene, collecting multiple honours and even representing the islands as team leader at the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association’s Taste of the Caribbean competition. In June 2025, he brought his talents to the BVI, embracing his love of

seafood and tropical life at Saba Rock.

The open-air restaurant at the Saba Rock Resort serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, boasting delectable menu standouts in every category. At breakfast, for instance, guests can indulge in dishes like the Lobster Benedict or Grilled Sirloin Benedict, paired with exclusive artisan coffee blends from BVI Coffee Roasters. Lunch and dinner showcase Hull-Saldanha’s flair

Saba Rock is now dishing out a revamped menu that blends elevated Caribbean flavours with global techniques and inventive flair.

for ceviche, with a wide range of options including wahoo, conch, and coconut mango varieties.

The midday menu offers a vibrant mix of burgers, pizzas, and salads, while dinner kicks it up a notch

with hearty entrees such as a 16-ounce Crispy Lobster Tail, Rack of Lamb, or New York Strip Loin. Saba Rock’s beverage menu features an extensive wine list, creative cocktails, local and

imported beers, and a range of nonalcoholic choices as well to ensure the perfect accompaniment to your meal.

Getting to Saba Rock is part of the adventure! Guests can either arrive by private boat, with dockage available for both day and overnight stays, or hop on the resort’s complimentary ferry for a scenic 10-minute ride from Gun Creek on Virgin Gorda.

DINING IN ANEGADA

THIS CORAL-RINGED ISLAND is famed for its bounty of lobster and conch, earning it a reputation as the seafood capital of the region. On the east end, towering mounds of discarded conch shells, some rising over 10 feet high, stand as a visual history of centuries-old harvesting traditions. Naturally, you’ll find conch on the local menus prepared in a variety of mouthwatering ways: crispy fritters with spicy dipping sauce, coconut-cracked conch, tender stewed conch in butter sauce, or tangy ceviche made with lime, onion, and sweet pepper.

Lobster, however, is Anegada’s crown jewel, famously grilled over torchwood flames — a technique made famous by Lowell Wheatley. Today, his children carry on the culinary tradition at Anegada Reef Hotel. At their oceanfront restaurant, guests

Time-honoured island recipes mingle with global influences, serving flavours shaped by centuries of tradition and cultural exchange.

can enjoy a whole or half lobster or choose a surf and turf option. Creative offerings include the Reef’s signature lobster omelette at breakfast, lobster burger and lobster-topped pizza at lunch, and lobster bite appetisers, grilled lobster, and creamy lobster pasta at dinner.

Set beachfront at Loblolly Bay, the Big Bamboo bar and restaurant is famous for its fresh-caught Anegada lobster, grilled right on the beach. The menu also features Caribbean specialities, conch fritters, and ice-cold rum cocktails, perfect for lingering over whilst enjoying the stunning ocean views.

DINING IN JOST VAN DYKE

WHILE THIS ISLAND takes its name from a 17th-century Dutch pirate, the true treasures of this three-square-mile haven are its lively beach bars and unforgettable food. In Great Harbour, a sandy lane lines the bay where more than half a dozen breezy eateries welcome hungry sailors and sun-seekers alike. At the heart of it all is Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, a beloved institution where calypsonian and owner Foxy Callwood — an island legend — still makes the occasional musical appearance.

Kick things off with a Dread Fox, Foxy’s own Firewater Rum over the rocks with lime sour mix and cranberry juice. Crowdpleasing main dishes include Jerk Chicken Wings, Pan Seared Mahi-Mahi with Creole Sauce, and a New York Strip Steak with herb butter. Fridays and Saturdays feature lively barbecue nights with a generous buffet of jerk chicken, ribs, grilled fish, islandstyle sides, fresh salads, and house-made desserts; and perhaps most notably, Foxy’s iconic Old Year’s Night bash remains the island’s biggest celebration of the year.

To the southwest in White Bay, you’ll find a postcard-perfect beach lined with buzzing bars. Hendo’s Hideout stands out

The true treasures of this three-square-mile haven are its lively beach bars and unforgettable food.

for its eco-conscious design and inventive comfort food. For breakfast, try the coconut French toast or the savoury salt fish and johnnycakes served with a boiled egg and avocado. Lunch and dinner favourites include the blackened mahi-mahi tacos, chicken or veggie roti, and a have-ityour-way Hendo’s Burger, with a choice of additions like cheddar or blue cheese, bacon, jalapeños, mushrooms, avocado, and even gluten-free bread.

Make sure you save room for dessert! There’s Key lime pie, passion fruit crème brûlée, and locally made ice cream to end your meal on a sweet note. Lastly, Sunday brunch at Hendo’s is a don’t-miss affair for its mix of build-your-own omelettes, chicken and waffles, and bottomless mimosas.

Ivan’s Stress Free Bar is known for its Stress Free Rum Ribs, local fresh catch, fish tacos, and handmade pizzas. What makes Ivan’s special is the combination of classic, mouthwatering Caribbean comfort food, especially the barbecue on Wednesday nights, and its location directly on the beautiful White Bay Beach.

Lunch & Dinner

OccasionallyEntertainment

(Dinnerisavailableeverynight with reservations made in advance ofclosingtimeat7pm)

DID YOU KNOW?

Foxy’s Tamarind Bar is a beloved institution where calypsonian and owner Foxy Callwood still makes the occasional musical appearance.

DINING & NIGHTLIFE

GUIDE

TORTOLA

D’COAL POT RESTAURANT

Rt. 1, Shore Road

Carrot Bay, West End, Tortola Tel: 545-6510

Come and enjoy an islandstyle ambience with authentic Caribbean spices for your palate’s delight. Delicious rotis, ribs, pork chops, lobster, steak, chicken, pasta, and vegetarian dishes. Sides include homemade coleslaw, garlic mashed potatoes, and fresh, flavourful cooked-toperfection vegetables.

MAIN STREET

RESTAURANT BVI

102 Main Street

Road Town, Tortola Tel: 496-6246

Main Street Restaurant is a culinary gem located in the vibrant Road Town of the British Virgin Islands. Known for its commitment to quality and authenticity, this establishment serves up an array of dishes that celebrate local flavors whilst incorporating international influences. The ambience is casual yet charming, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, or solo travellers seeking a memorable dining experience. The menu features an impressive selection of seafood, meats, and vegetarian options, all crafted with fresh ingredients sourced from local markets whenever possible.

Signature dishes often include succulent grilled fish, hearty Caribbean stews, and delectable desserts that showcase tropical fruits. Main Street Restaurant also offers a selection of beverages including local rums and refreshing cocktails perfect for cooling off after exploring the island’s attractions. Open for lunch and dinner.

MYETT’S GARDEN GRILL

Cane Garden Bay, Tortola Tel: 495-9649

www.myetts.com

Situated on the beach in the breezy best spot of Cane Garden Bay, this family-owned little oasis with tropical gardens and trees is a place not to miss. Experiencing a sunset here is absolutely magical! Celebrating 30 years, Myett’s is open daily and serves delicious food and drinks and has live local entertainment

most days of the week. Enjoy the complimentary beach loungers and umbrellas during the day and quintessential Caribbean dining at night. There are two gift shops on-site, a coffee shop, a boutique hotel, and spa services available upon request.

OMAR’S COFFEE

HOUSE

West End Marina, Soper’s Hole, Tortola Tel: 344-0514

www.omarscoffeehouse.com

Discover the taste of the islands in every sip. Omar’s Coffee House roasts its own signature fair-trade, organic coffee right in-house. Pair it with a hand-rolled bagel, a fresh-baked pastry, or a smoothie made with real fruit. Whether you’re exploring by boat or staying on land, this

coffee shop offers a welcoming experience — the perfect place to recharge, relax, and feel at home with its friendly service. Open daily from 7 a.m.

SEBASTIAN’S SEASIDE GRILLE

Apple Bay, Tortola

Tel: 544-4212

www.sebastiansbvi.com

Sebastian’s is one of the island’s favourite dining spots, offering a wonderful fusion of Mediterranean and Caribbean cuisine. Whether dining in the restaurant or on the lovely covered patio, you are sure to have a wonderful experience.

TRADEWINDS MEXICAN GRILL

Tel: 344-2661

www.tradewindsmexicangrill.com

Tradewinds Mexican Grill is a retrofitted 20-foot container serving freshly made Mexican Caribbean food — such as tacos, burritos, rice bowls, nachos, or elote — on handmade tortillas. Enjoy handcrafted margaritas

or mojitos with local flavours like tamarind, gooseberry, passion fruit, or mango, picked from its mini garden. Nature’s Little Secret is TACOS — try them today!

TRELLIS BAY MARKET

BAR & GRILL

Tel: 540-1421

www.trellisbaymarket.com

Trellis Bay Market Bar & Grill, located in the heart of Trellis Bay, is the home for all your bareboat provisioning needs and No. 1 Full Moon Party whilst visiting the BVI. Nestled between coconut palms and sea grape trees, “The Mini Market” has been serving the BVI since 1990 and has since expanded into a funky island bar: “Trellis Bar & Grill.” Enjoy live music, Karaoke Saturdays, jerk and barbecue, international/ Caribbean cuisine, live sports, and monthly Full Moon Party with them at the bay!

the comfy beach loungers and watch the sun melt into the ocean after your day at The Baths, just a five-minute drive away. CocoMaya is a must-stop when in the BVI. Beach chic.

ANEGADA

BIG BAMBOO RESTAURANT

Loblolly, Anegada Tel: 346-5850 / 499-1680

www.bigbambooanegada.com

TROPICAL FUSION

BEACH BAR & GRILL

Long Bay, Tortola

Tel: 346-3551 / 495-3435

www.tropicalfusionbvi.com

Tropical Fusion strives to maintain the highest standard of customer service. Its talented chefs provide you with world-class cuisines. With breathtaking seaside views and tantalising food, Tropical Fusion also provides top-quality catering services and is a Tripadvisor favourite.

VIRGIN GORDA

COCOMAYA RESTAURANT

Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda Tel: 495-6344

www.cocomayarestaurant.com

At CocoMaya, enjoy AsianLatin fusion cuisine served beachfront in an open-air restaurant that faces west to the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Sip on a carefully crafted cocktail at the bar or recline on

That quiet secluded Caribbean beach you were dreaming about, where the whispers of waves whet your appetite for the fresh lobster being grilled at the restaurant located a few steps away from your beachside cottage. The place being described is called Loblolly Bay. A few steps from the edge of its pearl white sands, the Big Bamboo beach bar and restaurant continues to reinforce its reputation for the sweetest lobster in all the islands. It is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. For guests wishing to make dinner reservations, special arrangements can be made by contacting them. As part of the dinner reservation, there is free transportation to and from the Big Bamboo.

JOST VAN DYKE

FOXY’S TABOO

Diamond Cay, Jost Van Dyke Tel: 340 0703

www.foxysbar.com

Grab a taxi from Great Harbour or sail around to Diamond Cay on Jost Van Dyke’s East End to get to Foxy’s Taboo. It’s a short walk from the famous Bubbly Pool, and you will enjoy scenic seascapes and prevailing sea breezes over dinner, lunch, or happy hour in a unique setting overlooking

Diamond Cay, Little Jost Van Dyke, Sandy Spit, and Tortola.

Foxy’s Taboo has been serving Mediterranean fare with flair since 2004. Call ahead for dinner reservations by 5 p.m. Also featuring occasional live local entertainment in an unforgettable setting.

FOXY’S TAMARIND BAR

Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke

Tel: 442-3074

www.foxysbar.com

Foxy’s is the main attraction in Great Harbour, where the ferry docks. Foxy’s has been serving food and strong rum drinks to sailors and visitors since 1968. Enjoy lunch and dinner daily. On Friday and Saturday nights, Foxy and Tessa host their famous Beach BBQ with live entertainment. Crab races are held every Thursday during happy hour, and there is karaoke on Wednesday evenings. The bar closes when the party stops! The Foxhole Boutique features a wonderful selection of Foxy-branded wearables, gift items, and beachwear where you can find just the right item.

HENDO’S HIDEOUT

White Bay, Jost Van Dyke

Tel: 393-9200

www.hendoshideout.com

Hendo’s beachfront restaurant has been consistently ranked amongst USA Today’s Top 5 Caribbean Beach Restaurants & Bars. Kick back and relax as you sip on one of its signature Painkillers paired with Chef Roger’s Caribbean-inspired lunch and dinner options. The open-air restaurant is situated just steps from the beach and serves lunch daily. Dinner is available from Thursday to Saturday, with a sushi night on Thursday. Sunday Brunch

features bottomless mimosas and the best beach views in the BVI.

IVAN’S STRESS FREE BAR

White Bay, Jost Van Dyke

Tel: 340-513-1095

WhatsApp: 547-3375

www.ivanswhitebay.net

Welcome to Ivan’s culinary spice and splendour, where comfort food meets culinary delight! Indulge in its daytime favourites

such as the Homemade Hand-Cut Fries, Stress Free Wings, Ahi Tuna Salad, killer fish tacos, personal pizzas, mouthwatering burgers, and more that will satisfy your cravings. As the sun sets, treat yourself to its nighttime specialities, including Oven Grilled Local Lobster, Ivan’s “Fall off De Bone” Rum Ribs, Spicy Ahi Tuna, and Anegada Conch in Garlic

Butter Sauce, to name a few. The bar, with its friendly staff and lively live music, is the ideal spot to relax, soak up the sun, and indulge in mouthwatering tropical drinks. Ivan’s is truly customer-obsessed, committed to making your experience on Jost Van Dyke unforgettable. Join them for a relaxing getaway that feels just right!

courtesy

TROPICAL TREASURES

From sparkling stones to stylish staples, the BVI delivers luxe labels, local craftsmanship, and memorable gifts you’ll use long after vacation ends.

By Carol M. Bareuther, RD

From sleek designer boutiques to hidden gems crafted by local artisans, the retail scene in the BVI is anything but ordinary.

The islands offer a distinctive shopping experience where Caribbean charm meets world-class sophistication. Whether you’re on the hunt for fine jewellery, picking up a bottle of locally distilled rum, or discovering one-of-a-kind handmade souvenirs to take home, there are treasures to suit every taste and traveller.

Open-air shopping plazas buzz with energy, offering an inviting mix of shops, cafés, and galleries to peruse, while beachside boutiques and small roadside stands offer a more laid-back way to explore the island’s creative spirit. Most retailers accept major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard, though it’s always wise to keep some cash on hand when purchasing from smaller vendors. The U.S. dollar is the official currency, and ATMs are conveniently located across Tortola and in select areas of Virgin Gorda. However, there are no ATMs or banks on Jost Van Dyke or Anegada. J. Kevin Foltz

Island inspired clothing & apparel

SHOPPING

SHOPPING ON TORTOLA

In Road Town, the capital of Tortola, the vibrant Tortola Pier Park stands as a highlight of the island’s shopping scene. Conveniently located right at the cruise ship dock, this lively colonial-style complex features over 50 stores and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a few hours browsing, relaxing, and taking in the sights.

Luxury brands are well represented here with standout retailers like A.H. Riise’s Rolex Boutique and the House of Luxury, home to fine timepieces from names such as Chopard, Montblanc, and Vacheron Constantin.

Jewellery lovers will enjoy exploring elegant collections comprised of gold and diamonds, including charms inspired by the islands’ landscapes and wildlife. Visitors will also find fashion boutiques, electronics, liquor shops, gift stores, and more nearby, each offering their own piece of island life to take home.

Beyond the cruise pier, Road Town is home to a rich mix of local charm and modern style for those eager to wander at leisure. Stroll along historic Main Street to find a beloved bookstore, a cosy café, and a boutique soap maker crafting island-scented creations.

Nearby, just steps from the Road Town Ferry Terminal, shoppers will discover bags made from recycled sailcloth and bespoke furniture crafted from reclaimed island wood — two perfect examples of sustainable Caribbean design. For a taste of

the local culture, the BVI Farmers and Fishermen’s Market in Road Town at Sir Olva Georges Plaza is open on Saturdays, offering fresh produce and seafood straight from the islands.

Over at the Moorings Marina to the east, the island-born

lifestyle brand HIHO offers its signature casual coastal wear. Known for lightweight linen shirts, beach dresses, and ultrasoft tees, HIHO now features new terry sweatshirts, island-embroidered sweaters, and intricately woven dresses for an expanded selection. A second HIHO boutique is conveniently located inside House, making it easy to shop both under one roof.

Tortola’s West End is home to Soper’s Hole Wharf & Marina, a picturesque harbour lined with colourful buildings and an inviting variety of shops. Here, visitors can browse everything from gourmet provisions and stylish resort wear to locally made art and gifts. One standout is the waterfront gallery showcasing vibrant Caribbeaninspired works — think framed island scenes, playful greeting cards, and easy-to-pack souvenirs like coasters and magnets.

GOOD TO KNOW

Open-air shopping plazas buzz with energy, offering an inviting mix of shops, cafés, and galleries to peruse.

Across the island to the east, Trellis Bay on Beef Island offers a more rustic creative atmosphere. A small gift shop near the ferry dock stocks island-themed essentials such as totes, caps, drink koozies, and handcrafted cards; and just steps away, a lively artisan village awaits where local makers shape pottery, weave baskets, and carve wood into unique yet functional pieces. One of the area’s signature finds is the hand-printed T-shirts made on-site. These pieces of wearable art perfectly capture the vibrant energy and colour of the BVI.

SHOPPING ON VIRGIN GORDA

Virgin Gorda offers a laid-back yet varied shopping experience. As the island’s central hub, Spanish Town is home to the largest concentration of shops, especially around the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour.

At Marina Mall, visitors will find everything from beachwear to tropical home accents, artwork, gourmet treats, and locally made spirits, making it a popular stop for those arriving by boat or ferry. Just steps away is a department store stocked with everyday essentials like apparel, accessories, and travel basics; and the supermarket nearby offers a convenient selection of groceries as well.

GOOD TO KNOW

Most retailers accept major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard, though it’s always wise to keep some cash on hand when purchasing from smaller vendors.

Beyond Spanish Town, upscale resorts in the North Sound — including Leverick Bay, the Bitter End Yacht Club, and Saba Rock — feature elegant boutiques with curated island-inspired gifts and apparel. On the island’s eastern end, Oil Nut Bay boasts a refined retail experience ideal for picking up a high-end souvenir to remember your stay.

SHOPPING ON JOST VAN DYKE

Great Harbour, the island’s main village, offers a handful of grocery stores and souvenir shops, each with its own character. Amongst the most iconic, however, is the Foxhole Boutique at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar.

At the Foxhole, visitors are met with branded merchandise celebrating the legendary Foxy himself. From tees to tank tops and hats, these goods capture the island’s carefree spirit. This shop is more than just a boutique; it’s a piece of Jost Van Dyke’s cultural soul, letting you take a bit of Foxy’s fun-loving energy home with you.

SHOPPING ON ANEGADA

Anegada’s shopping scene is as relaxed and unhurried as the island itself. A handful of small shops cater to basic needs for day-trippers and extended stays, offering groceries, toiletries, and daily essentials. But beyond the basics, you’ll discover just a few hidden gems, such as boutiques filled with breezy resort wear, handcrafted keepsakes, and island spices that capture the local flavour. With its intimate scale and personal feel, shopping on Anegada is less about quantity and more about charm.

SHOP ON THE GO

Search for shopping options on the go! Scan the QR code above to download the VISIT BVI app and learn more about our retail offerings.

SHOPPING ON THE OUT ISLANDS

The smaller “Out Islands” of the BVI — Cooper Island, Norman Island, Marina Cay, and the recently reopened Peter Island — offer a more relaxed, low-key shopping experience. While modest in size,

Island Style

At House, you'll find curated home décor, tabletop collections, and chic gifts.

For stylish home décor and unique island-inspired gifts, head to Wickham’s Cay II in Road Town, Tortola, and explore House, a well-loved shop known as the go-to for villa managers, yacht chefs, homeowners, and designconscious visitors. Inside is a thoughtfully curated mix of

the boutiques found here offer a special kind of retail journey — one that is quiet, personal, and infused with the spirit of each island.

These small but thoughtfully curated shops feature locally made goods, stylish beachwear, and mean-

ingful keepsakes. Whether you’re searching for a handmade necklace, a breezy cover-up, or a simple reminder of your island escape, the hidden gems on the Out Islands deliver irresistible charm and authenticity in every corner.

indoor and outdoor furniture, luxury bedding, fragrant home scents, tabletop collections, and distinctive gifts. The ever-evolving selection at House blends time-

less pieces with current design trends, all arranged in a beautifully merchandised space that regulars affectionately call their “happy place.”

By Carol M. Bareuther, RD

Made in the BVI

Celebrate the creativity of the BVI with authentic locally made finds that reflect the islands’ captivating culture and charm.

FROM SEA GLASS

JEWELLERY and handcrafted pottery to island spices, tropical jams, and vibrant artwork, nearly any item you could desire is made right here in the BVI by talented local artisans. Here, you’ll discover island-inspired clothing, accessories, and keepsakes that carry the spirit of the BVI. While duty-free shops offer added variety, it’s the handmade, locally crafted items that truly connect you to the soul of the islands and make for unforgettable souvenirs.

FOOD & DRINK

Rum-making in the British Virgin Islands blends a rich history and heritage with bold island flavour. Arundel Cane Rum, produced at the centuries-old Callwood Rum Distillery in Cane Garden Bay, is still crafted today from

locally grown sugarcane. Visitors can sample white, brown, and aged rums — including the playful Panty Dropper, which comes with a piece of cane in the bottle — during guided tastings.

Pusser’s Rum, known as the original British Navy rum, was reintroduced

by former Tortola resident Charles Tobias in 1980. Though no longer produced locally, the brand remains headquartered in the BVI; and its rum is famously featured in the Painkiller cocktail. Both rums are widely available in shops and bars throughout the Territory.

Meanwhile, coffee aficionados can head to Roast Van Dyke, a local small-batch roaster in Soper’s Hole Wharf & Marina in West End, Tortola. Come for a cup or buy a bag of fair trade, organic, and sustainable beans or grounds to take with you. Light, medium, and dark roasts are available, as well as delicious flavoured coffees.

Sunny Caribbee’s island-made spices, hot sauces, marinades, and teas bring bold Caribbean flavour to every dish. Visitors can find the full range of these BVI-crafted culinary favourites at Nutmeg & Co. in Road Town. Over the mountain in Carrot Bay, condiment lovers will want to pick up one of Shyril’s Herb Vinegar Pepper bottles at The Brick Oven. It’s a true taste of the BVI with a bold kick that will have you planning a return trip to buy more.

CLOTHING & JEWELLERY

HIHO, short for Hook-In-Hold-On, began not as a clothing brand but as a windsurfing race that once drew athletes from across the world to the Virgin Islands. Tortola native Andy Morrell competed and won the race, later bought the event, and eventually turned a souvenir T-shirt into a growing apparel line. What started with just a few printed tees has gradually grown into a complete collection of relaxed, coastal-inspired clothing. The brand, still based in the BVI, now designs four seasonal collections a year and supplies shops throughout the Caribbean and the United States. Despite its wide reach, HIHO has stayed grounded in its roots: island living, clean design, and well-made pieces that feel as comfortable as the lifestyle that inspired them.

In Virgin Gorda, BVI Artistry Boutique creates delightful handcrafted jewellery using sea glass, conch shells, native stones, and other local materials. Each memorable piece, ranging from lionfish spine earrings to coconut husk bracelets, captures the true essence of the island. Personalised pieces are also available for a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

SHOPPING

ARTS & CRAFTS

Set along Road Town’s Waterfront Drive, Crafts Alive Village is a vibrant hub of colourful West Indian–style cottages where local artisans showcase their craft. With over 30 vendors, the village offers an array of handmade locally crafted goods, including embroidered children’s dresses, hand-stitched linens, traditional dolls, sea glass jewellery, and tropical spice blends. Visitors can browse for unique keepsakes, enjoy Caribbean snacks, and connect with the island’s vibrant creative spirit in this warm and welcoming community marketplace.

Three blocks west along the waterfront at the Sir Olva Georges Plaza, local farmers and artisans sell fresh fruits and vegetables, food products, and crafts on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and live music adds even more charm.

A two-mile walk west from Sir Olva Georges Plaza, Nutmeg & Co. is the BVI’s go-to boutique for eco-conscious locally made treasures. Discover sailcloth totes by Annie Macphail, sea glass jewellery, reef-safe soaps, soy candles, seeded cards, Caribbean seasoning blends, and even island-inspired body polish made with Salt Island sea salt. Every item is handcrafted with care, directly sup-

porting local artisans and farmers, and capturing the essence of the BVI in beautiful, sustainable, and meaningful ways.

Situated in Myett’s in Cane Garden Bay, shoppers will find a mix of locally made crafts, Caribbean music, cards, and islandinspired gifts at Olivia’s Corner Market. These unique keepsakes are the perfect pick for a thoughtful memento or a thank-you gift for someone back home.

Pottery lovers can indulge their love of the craft at the Pottery Garden, located eight miles east of Josiah’s Bay. Centred around a traditional wood-fired kiln, this shop offers hand-formed mugs, platters, pendants, and more, as well as the option to join a pottery class and craft your own work of art.

Located on Trellis

Bay just steps from the Beef Island airport, Aragorn’s Studio serves as a vibrant showcase of Caribbean art and culture. Founded by Tortola-born artist Aragorn Dick-Read, the studio is best known for his hand-printed silk screen T-shirts and dramatic fireball sculptures. These eyecatching sculptures consist of large steel spheres etched with island-inspired designs that are filled with firewood and set ablaze during Trellis Bay’s famous Full Moon and Old Year’s Night celebrations. The studio also features locally made pottery, basketry, wood carvings, and a curated selection of work by fellow Caribbean artisans. Visitors can browse, relax by the sea, and soak in the creative energy that makes this space a true cultural landmark.

Fine art lovers will quickly discover that the BVI offers inspiring spots to explore local talent and experience the island’s natural beauty. In Road Town, the Gallery on Main Street features vibrant watercolours and oils of BVI scenes, while the Jenesis Gallery on Ridge Road offers evocative oil paintings that capture daily life in the early 1900s, all set against a panoramic view of Road Town below.

At Soper’s Hole Wharf & Marina on Tortola’s West End, Allamanda Gallery showcases the stunning landscape and seascape photography of Amanda Baker, a U.K.-born artist and long-time resident of the BVI. Her framed prints, cards, and annual calendars allow visitors to bring the essence of the islands back home.

BOOKS

Pick up a local read for the beach at Nook, an online BVI-based bookstore with physical locations at the Island Roots cafés on Main Street and the Moorings. History buffs will want to get their hands on a copy of Vintage Norman Island: True Treasure Tales by Valerie Sims. In contrast, those who want to daydream about life in the BVI during the bygone 1960s might pick up Jill Tattersall’s Memories of the British Virgin Islands, beautifully illustrated with nearly 60 of the late artist’s paintings. Local authors have also written books for children about the islands’ vibrant marine life, and there’s even a Monopoly board game for sale with a BVI theme!

SHOPPING GUIDE

HIHO

Road Town, Tortola

Tel: 494-0337

www.go-hiho.com

Island-inspired apparel design in Tortola. The HIHO brand makes easy-wearing women’s and men’s collections. Perfect for island life, HIHO is best known for great linen, woven dresses, men’s shirts and swimwear, and perfect-weight sweaters. The brand is inspired by the colours of the Caribbean, and these are evident in the brand’s colours and prints. Buy something from the HIHO collection and take a piece of the islands home with you.

HOUSE

Road Town, Tortola

Tel: 494-1920

www.housebvi.com

House is a stylish boutique and interiors store located at Wickham’s Cay II in Road Town, Tortola. For over 20 years, it has stood out as the leading gift and home décor destination in the area, offering thoughtfully curated selections of readyto-wear island fashion, home fragrance, kitchen and tabletop accessories, along with unique gift ideas furniture, rugs, and bedding. What sets House apart is not only its everchanging inventory — ranging from hard-to-find kitchen gadgets to island-inspired décor — but also its friendly atmosphere and attentive customer service. The store also houses the HIHO boutique, featuring comfortable, chic Caribbean-inspired clothing ideal for beach-to-bar living.

Whether you’re furnishing a villa, outfitting a yacht, or simply seeking a little retail therapy, House offers its “happy space” — where visitors and locals alike love to browse.

HOUSE OF LUXURY

Tortola Pier Park

Road Town, Tortola Tel: 443-3030

Email:

sales@houseofluxurybvi.com

As the third generation of this beloved family-run boutique, Sanjay and his wife, Veera, welcome you to the House of Luxury — a place where shopping becomes an experience to treasure. For them, it’s simple: When you look good, you feel good; and that’s the joy they hope to share with every guest who walks through their doors. With timeless brands such as Chopard, FOPE, Longines, Montblanc, Tissot, Hearts on Fire, and Pandora (to name just a few), you’ll find pieces that speak

to your style and spirit. Because at the House of Luxury, they believe everyone deserves life’s little luxuries.

MYETT’S GIFT SHOP

DUTY-FREE SHOPPING

Cane Garden Bay, Tortola

Tel: 495-9649

www.myetts.com

Myett’s Gift Shop offers unique island-inspired local arts and crafts; maps; souvenirs; books and cards; sun and reading glasses; skin care products; T-shirts; men’s, women’s, and children’s tropical wear; Cuban cigars; and much more. Voted No. 1, you’ll be sure to find the perfect gift. Located at Myett’s Hotel and Restaurant.

ROLEX BOUTIQUE

AT A.H. RIISE

A.H. Riise Mall, 37 Main Street St. Thomas, USVI Tel: 340-777-6789 www.rolexboutique-stthomas.com

A.H. Riise is proud to be part of the worldwide network of Official Rolex Retailers allowed to sell and maintain Rolex watches. A.H. Riise is at your service to help you choose the Rolex watch that best suits you, within the wide range of Rolex timepieces. Its store in the U.S. Virgin Islands is recognised as Official Rolex Retailers, as it only sells guaranteed Rolex timepieces.

STEAKATION

Wickham’s Cay II, Road Town, Tortola

Tel: 394-1130

www.bvibutcher.com

The BVI’s first full-service artisan butchery. Offering premium provisioning, edible flowers, fresh fish, and more with convenient delivery — perfect for quality-conscious shoppers. Open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Order online.

FINDING YOUR PARADISE

Dreaming of a home in the BVI? Whether you buy or build, each decision — and each island — offers a unique path to paradise. Here’s how to match your heart and mind to the perfect property.

By Chris Smith

While your eyes are on the prize — a breathtaking island home — the thought of actually acquiring it for yourself can seem like a daunting, arduous process.

Weighing in from one side is your mind, where logic and pragmatism reign, and vying for equal attention on the other side is your heart, where whimsy and joy run free.

Navigating a major investment such as real estate can cause this back-and-forth to become intense. Fortunately, with a little help from the right sources, your heart and mind can indeed meet somewhere in the middle — not in compromise but in contentment.

When it comes to the BVI, there’s a plethora of factors to consider when searching for your sweet spot, and seeking guidance is prudent.

FIRST, WHAT’S YOUR ISLAND STYLE?

Island style? If you’re wondering whether you’ve wandered into an exclusive boutique, you have, but one of a different kind! Real estate shopping on these islands is a unique experience. Despite their proximity, each island boasts its own distinctive look, feel, and character. It’s important, then, to know what you want. Here are your contenders:

Anegada: The BVI’s secret pride and joy. Of the entire archipelago, Anegada is the only island with a coral and limestone topography. Quiet and quite remote, this secluded treasure sits outside of the pathway of mainstream tourists. With its highest elevation reaching only 28 feet above sea level, it’s a favourite amongst the beach-glamping afficionados.

Great Camanoe: The hip hideaway for the cool and eccentric. Completely BYOE-remote (bring-your-own-everything) but conveniently located just minutes by boat from Tortola’s eastern shore and airport, Camanoe is your ideal address if you’re looking for community, solitude, or a balance of both. You will only find lots and stand-alone homes available here.

Jost Van Dyke: The BVI’s party hub, where the tide usually remains low and the vibe always high. As the smallest of the main BVI islands, Jost Van Dyke is marked by rugged mountains and coastline-hugging beaches. Development is limited to the bays along the southern coast, with a few stand-alone homes dotting the hills.

Tortola: The closest you’ll get to “city life” in the BVI. With striking hills that spring up from the flat coastline, the largest of the BVI islands is where you’ll find an international airport and a small but vibrant city centre. Tortola not only offers the convenience of many amenities, from supplies to services, but also features the widest range of real estate options, ranging from condominiums to stand-alone homes to resort-residential living.

Virgin Gorda: The BVI’s uber-exclusive zip code. Only 30 minutes away from Tortola by ferry, Virgin Gorda is practically a suburb of the largest island. Serene, secluded, and relatively untouched, Virgin Gorda offers no end of camera-ready shimmering beaches and mammoth boulders. Choices here are becoming limited, but the lots and real estate here, including condominiums, feature jaw-dropping vistas — a rare facet duly reflected in their price tag.

Despite their proximity, each island boasts its own distinctive look, feel, and character.

WHAT’S YOUR ISLAND LIFESTYLE?

Now that you know the lay of the land, think about the essence and feel of your desired everyday life on your island. Picture your pace. How will you play? How will you spend your days?

Do you want a stand-alone abode or villa where you’re completely on your own and responsible for its maintenance, whether through DIY or by appointing professional property managers? Is this dwelling on or near a beach? If so, you’ll love Belmont Estate and Trunk Bay in Tortola. If not, perhaps this dream home is tucked away in the lush hills, where cooling breezes and expansive views of stunning sunsets and sunrises accompany you on your energising hikes?

Do you see yourself on a “permanent vacation” within a resort, where you have access to the same amenities as the hotel guests, all whilst having someone else worry about your house’s maintenance? If so, then Little Dix, Long Bay, and Sugar Mill Villas are perfect for you.

Do you picture having your small boat situated at your own dock or having your yacht or catamaran just a short walk away? If the answer is yes, add the highly resalable, lock-up-and-leave waterfront townhouses of Nanny Cay

Marina to your list. As a resident of the BVI’s largest working marina, you’ll be able to enjoy all the perks of this dynamic village, complete with a pool, cafés, restaurants, a bodega, a spa, and more. However, if you would prefer a home outside a marina but only a short drive away, we can help you find that, too.

GOING FOR THE BUILD?

So, you want to build your island paradise instead — you must be up for an adventure! Admittedly, this is a challenge no matter where in the world you stick your shovel, but there is also no feeling more rewarding. Even better, you can count on the top local real estate companies to help you pull together your team: From talented architects to skilled engineers and

GOOD TO KNOW

When it comes to the BVI, there’s a plethora of factors to consider when searching for your sweet spot; and seeking guidance is prudent.

experienced contractors, the BVI’s real estate experts are here to help you sift through your options.

You’ll be pleased to discover that there are still plenty of lots available throughout the BVI.

Tortola: Trunk Bay Estate is currently making waves in the BVI’s real estate market. Located on Tortola’s north shore, lots start under a modest acre whilst still offering a generous combination of island, ocean, and vistas. And did we mention the spectacular beach?

Virgin Gorda: If Virgin Gorda is your ideal island, Little Dix Bay Resort is where you want to be. The opportunities to own your own heavenly hammock spot within the estate of this ultra-luxurious iconic resort are limited but still available. Each lot offers simply breathtaking ocean and island views as well as access to the first-class facilities Little Dix Bay has to offer.

Explore the opportunities and discover why many of the world’s outliers have invested in establishing decades-old roots here. Whether you decide to build or buy an existing home, making a piece of the BVI yours will be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make.

Chris Smith is the managing broker at Coldwell Banker Real Estate BVI. As leaders in the BVI real estate market, Coldwell Banker BVI has consistently grown year on year. They can help ensure your dream of buying or renting a home in the islands is smooth sailing all the way. For more information, call 340-3000 or visit www.coldwellbankerbvi.com or www.bvivillarental.com.

REAL ESTATE ON THE GO

COLDWELL BANKER

REAL ESTATE BVI

Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola Tel: 495-3000

With offices in Tortola and Virgin Gorda and representation in Anegada, Coldwell Banker BVI has consistently grown year over year. It introduced the Coldwell Banker name to the British Virgin Islands

in 2005 because, historically, most of the interest in buying vacation homes in the BVI came from U.S. buyers. Exclusive agents for Rosewood Little Dix Bay, Long Bay Resort, and The Sugar Mill Hotel, Coldwell Banker is one of the largest real estate groups in the world, with over 3,000 offices in 49 countries worldwide.

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

123 Main Street, 2nd Floor Road Town, Tortola

Tel: 494-5700 / 340-5555 www.bvisir.com www.luxuryvillabvi.com

BVI Sotheby’s International Realty is the leading local real estate services provider in the BVI that can truly provide unrivalled access to qualified people and distinctive properties around the world. BVI Sotheby’s International Realty has been serving the property needs of the British Virgin Islands since 1991, and it is their extensive local expertise and knowledge combined with its international reach that sets it apart.

Search for real estate options on the go! Scan the QR code above to download the VISIT BVI app and learn more about our property offerings.

UNFORGETTABLE STAYS

No matter where your journey through the BVI takes you, one thing is certain: There’s no shortage of memorable places to stay.

By Vanessa Molina Santamaria

With sun-drenched

shores, impossibly blue waters, and accommodations that range from rustic charm to refined elegance,

the British Virgin Islands welcomes travellers with open arms. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family-friendly retreat, or a solo adventure in paradise, you’ll find the perfect home base here. We’ve rounded up a few suggestions depending on which idyllic island you wish to escape to.

TORTOLA: ISLAND LIVING, YOUR WAY

Perched along Tortola’s north shore, Myett’s Beach Hotel delivers postcardperfect views of Cane Garden Bay. Each of its six well-appointed suites offers lush garden balconies and easy access to both a beach bar and a lively restaurant, making it a top pick for families or groups of friends looking to enjoy the sun by day and great dining by night. Also nestled in Cane Garden Bay is ELM’s Beach Suites, a peaceful retreat shaded by palms and mangroves. With six private condo-style units and a larger apart-hotel, each space comes with a living area, kitchenette, and private balcony — a tropical home away from home where

comfort and serenity come standard. Set on the beach and wrapped in Caribbean charm, Sebastian’s on the Beach is a boutique gem that combines laid-back accommodations with unbeatable views. Whether you’re unwinding with a drink at sunset or heading out for a day of watersports, this tranquil hotel makes it easy to unplug and recharge.

Sailors will feel right at home at Village Cay Resort and Marina, a standout property in the world’s sailing capital. With over 100 slips and a full-service marina, this spot also offers elegant guest rooms and upscale touches — think pools, on-site dining, and waterfront relaxation.

For a truly tailored experience on the water, VOYAGE Charters offers luxury catamaran rentals with allinclusive amenities. Whether you prefer the freedom of a bareboat adventure or the ease of a crewed journey, this is a premier way to island-hop in style across the BVI’s sparkling coastline.

ACCOMMODATIONS

JOST VAN DYKE: LAID-BACK LUXURY

Jost Van Dyke may be small in size, but it offers big appeal — especially at The Hideout. Located right on the awardwinning White Bay Beach, this boutique resort features seven one- and two-bedroom private villas, tastefully decorated with

an island feel and each with its own plunge pool and stylish interiors. Whether you’re lounging in a hammock, sipping cocktails on your deck, or wading into the crystal-clear sea, The Hideout is a haven for couples, families, or anyone seeking a peaceful Caribbean escape.

GOOD TO KNOW

ANEGADA: NATURE, SOLITUDE, AND SIMPLICITY

For those seeking a tranquil, off-the-grid escape, Anegada delivers in every way. A stay at the Anegada Reef Hotel promises serenity, with beachfront access, a relaxed island vibe, and sweeping ocean views that set the stage for pure relaxation. Guests can savour fresh-caught lobster and other island specialities for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; sip cocktails whilst overlooking the lush gardens; or step directly from their room onto the soft sand — the kind of simplicity that turns each moment into a memory. Nestled on the beach at Settling Point, this intimate 20-room retreat was first opened in 1976 by Lowell and Vivian Wheatley. Today, their children, Lawrence and Lorraine Wheatley, continue the family tradition, welcoming visitors with warmth and charm.

Anegada Reef Hotel promises serenity, with beachfront access, a relaxed island vibe, and sweeping ocean views.

The Anegada Beach Club offers an unexpected twist on traditional accommodations with its upscale glamping options. Here, thatchedroof Palapa Retreats provide both comfort and novelty, offering a cosy base to enjoy the natural beauty of this untouched island. Guests can settle in and enjoy quality time together after days spent exploring the island’s coral reefs or basking on quiet sands. Across the BVI, a variety of accommodations await — from luxury retreats and private villas to cosy condos and oceanfront hotels. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant culture of Tortola, the tranquillity of Virgin Gorda, the charm of Jost Van Dyke, or the natural beauty of Anegada, one thing is certain: The perfect stay is always within reach. Let the islands be your guide to rest, adventure, and a touch of Caribbean magic.

VIRGIN GORDA: REFINED RETREATS IN NATURE’S EMBRACE

If you’re dreaming of barefoot luxury, look no further than Oil Nut Bay. Only accessible by boat or helicopter, this exclusive community covers 400 pristine acres and offers high-end villas and world-class service in one of the most breathtaking parts of the BVI.

Cornucopia BVI caters to adults craving a relaxed, elegant experience. Its four deluxe rooms and one superior suite are steeped in refined charm, complete with handcrafted furnishings, premium linens, and daily gourmet breakfasts — not to mention sweeping views and attentive concierge service.

Situated on one of the island’s most alluring spots, Leverick Bay Resort offers panoramic North Sound vistas and 14 vibrant hillside rooms and suites. Guests have access to beach activities, a freshwater pool, and on-site dining, while the resort’s staff can arrange everything from day sails to scuba excursions.

Perfect for families and groups, Virgin Gorda Village is a cosy, well-equipped complex located near The Baths. Its one- to four-bedroom condos come with air conditioning, kitchens, and Wi-Fi, while shared perks like a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a full-service spa make Cane Garden Bay

it a well-rounded and comfortable stay.

For those craving total seclusion, Sol y Sombra is a beachfront colonial-style villa offering five suites with luxury finishes and teak furnishings. Guests can enjoy exhilarating

Peloton workouts, chef-prepared meals, and more, followed by peaceful afternoons by the infinity pool or along the quiet beach. Don’t miss the panoramic views from the observation deck.

Set amidst tropical gardens, Virgin Gorda Village Hotel is a charming condominium community with over thirty spacious one, two, three – and four bedroom condominiums, offering nightly guest rentals, short term (up to six months) and long term rentals. Each unit provides the ultimate privacy and is tastefully furnished with all the comforts of a home, including air conditioning, television, and internet access. Guests also enjoy access to all our facilities, offering you freedom and flexibility to relax and explore at your own pace.

Indulge in a refreshing cocktail or a delicious meal at the Olde Yard Village Restaurant, or a relaxed poolside dining option with a classic touch.

Enjoy the convenience of our onsite, fully stocked commissary which offers a wide selection of premium groceries, fresh produce, and pantry staples.

Solitude Day Spa, our on-site day spa which offers a tempting variety of treatments designed to rejuvenate the mind and body.

Centrally located in the Valley of Virgin Gorda, Virgin Gorda Village provides the perfect base to experience all the island’s activities.

Virgin Gorda Village Hotel - Your Escape to Nature’s Little Secrets!

in the Valley, Virgin Gorda, BVI

ACCOMMODATIONS

ACCOMMODATIONS GUIDE

ANEGADA REEF HOTEL

Setting Point, Anegada Tel: 495-8002 or 442-8002 www.anegadareef.com

Discover an intimate and charming beachfront escape on the unspoilt shores of Anegada. Anegada Reef Hotel offers the perfect blend of relaxation and island charm, where every stay is designed to be memorable. Step out onto pristine sands just moments from your room, and in the evening, enjoy a unique dining experience under the stars with your toes in the sand. With warm hospitality, fresh local cuisine, and breathtaking views of the

Caribbean Sea, Anegada Reef Hotel promises a truly unforgettable island getaway.

CORNUCOPIA BVI

Little Trunk Bay, Virgin Gorda Tel: 541-6888

www.cornucopiabvi.com

Cornucopia BVI is in Little Trunk Bay on beautiful Virgin Gorda. This adults-only, pet-friendly Country French–Caribbean villa boasts just five luxurious rooms featuring a classic European gourmet breakfast and all amenities included in the room rate. There is a three-night minimum stay. Cornucopia BVI is service oriented, visually elegant, tranquil, and peaceful — a one-of-akind welcoming destination.

THE HIDEOUT

White Bay, Jost Van Dyke

Tel: 393-9200

www.thehideoutbvi.com

The Hideout’s seven-villa resort is the only luxury resort on Jost Van

Dyke with private plunge pools in every villa. This luxury BVI resort is ideally situated on White Bay Beach, a coveted destination, consistently ranked amongst USA Today’s Top 5 Island Beaches. The Hideout is ideal for family-friendly vacations, romantic getaways, corporate escapes, wellness retreats, and multigenerational reunions.

LEVERICK BAY

RESORT & MARINA

North Sound, Virgin Gorda Tel: 542-4014 / 542-4011

Email: reservations@leverickbay.com www.leverickbay.com

Nestled on the shores of beautiful North Sound in Virgin Gorda, Leverick Bay Resort & Marina is the perfect spot in the BVI to relax and unwind, reconnect, indulge, celebrate life, and dive into adventure. From spacious rooms and suites with majestic sea views to vibrant dining and entertainment, beach bar with daily happy hour, pool, watersports,

IDEAL STAYS ON THE GO

Search for accommodations options on the go! Scan the QR code above to download the VISIT BVI app and learn more about our lodging offerings.

chef’s pantry, retail shops, spa, and full-service marina, the resort is your destination for unique and unforgettable experiences in the Caribbean.

LONG BAY BEACH RESORT

West End Tortola, VG1130, BVI www.longbay.com

At Long Bay Beach Resort, space meets soul. Wake to trade winds in Hillside Suites, step straight onto sand from Beachfront Villas and Ground Floor Suites, drink in horizon blues from Ocean View Suites, or claim our beloved Beach House - your private shoreline perch. Barefoot luxury, thoughtfully designed for unhurried days.

MYETT’S HOTEL

Cane Garden Bay, Tortola Tel: 495-9649 www.myetts.com

Nestled along Cane Garden Bay’s pristine white-sand beach on the island of Tortola, Myett’s Hotel blends harmoniously with

its natural surroundings. Enjoy the beautiful turquoise waters of Cane Garden Bay just a few steps from your private suite and delight in one of the most romantic sunsets. The spacious, air-conditioned suites are modern with all the comforts of home and feature a large open-air design to maximise guests’ comfort and to share with them the uncrowded feel of a typical hotel. The charming suites are nestled amongst picturesque gardens and are adorned with tropical décor. They include a king-size or two queen-size beds, a fridge and wet bar, coffee maker, telephone, and housekeeping service. Coffee shop and restaurant on-site.

OIL NUT BAY

Virgin Gorda Tel: 393-1000 www.oilnutbay.com

On the eastern tip of Virgin Gorda, in the coveted North Sound neighbourhood, lies Oil Nut Bay — a British Virgin Islands resort

where life is spent in perfect harmony with the ocean tides. Where world-class architecture rests against a backdrop of whitesand beaches, rolling hills, and unspoilt terrain. Oil Nut Bay offers freehold property ownership and vacation villa rentals in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Spread across 400 pristine acres and surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, this British Virgin Islands resort is the leading luxury, multigenerational community in the Caribbean. Accessible only by boat or helicopter, it’s an exclusive, protected paradise for those seeking a private island getaway.

SEBASTIAN’S ON THE BEACH HOTEL & RESTAURANT

Apple Bay, Tortola Tel: 544-4212

www.sebastiansbvi.com

This charming 26-room hotel offers the ultimate in breathtaking scenery and total relaxation. Tortola is an ideal location for all types of watersports and activi-

ties — from sailing, diving, and snorkelling to surfing. The hotel is located on one of the popular surfing spots in Tortola. It will also arrange hiking excursions and car rentals.

VIRGIN GORDA VILLAGE HOTEL

North Valley Rd., Virgin Gorda Tel: 495-5544 / 542-5544

Email:

info@virgingordavillage.com

www.virgingordavillage.com

Set amidst tropical gardens around a hillside, Virgin Gorda Village Hotel is a charming condominium community with more than 30 spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom condominiums, all with oversized patios, air conditioning, and access to all facilities.

Enjoy a cocktail or a meal at Olde Yard Village Restaurant, an informal, poolside restaurant. A perfect getaway for families, groups, and couples. Visit them today at Virgin Gorda Village Hotel, “Your piece of Nature’s Little Secrets.”

WELLNESS BY THE WAVES

You may have heard terms like “the blue economy” or “blue spaces,” but have you ever encountered blue health? When we connect with nature, especially water, the world often feels smaller, more intimate. You might have swum through turquoise waves or sat on a hilltop and watched time slow down right before your very eyes. That feeling is a form of health all its own.

Tortola, Driftwood Spa in the west end welcomes walk-ins for a nearly endless variety of rejuvenating options. Think full-body massages in Swedish, deep tissue, or Ayurvedic warm oil styles, paired with Caribbean body scrubs and mineral mud wraps. You can even add reflexology for a head-to-toe lift, easing headaches and tension in the shoulders and neck.

From rejuvenating spa rituals to energizing fitness sessions, staying balanced and well on your BVI getaway is effortless.

By Anika M. Christopher

In the Virgin Islands, this sense of wonder and wellness unfolds at the intersection of sea, land, and living in abundance. Whether you’re seeking quiet restoration or active exploration, the BVI invites you to reset — swim, paddle, hike, breathe — and make a splash whilst sustaining a healthy lifestyle.

SPA SANCTUARIES

Indulging in a little island luxury is another gateway to experiencing wellness during your getaway. On

Over on Virgin Gorda, Rosewood Sense Spa at the world-renowned Little Dix Bay Resort rises above the cliffs, offering understated elegance, a sapphire-tinted pool, and views that feel endless. Here, you’ll find private cabanas to serve as your personal escape as you enjoy the many massages on offer. From deep tissue to hot stone massages, this spa provides tantalising treatments designed to melt away tension, dissolve stress, and reset the nervous system.

Not far away, Leverick Bay Resort also boasts a serene spa haven where internationally trained therapists blend massage, yoga-inspired therapies, and aesthetics to restore weary travellers. For a truly standout experience, Ocean Spa BVI in White Bay, Jost Van Dyke, sits aboard a floating pontoon. Rooms perched over floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to watch the sea as you unwind, while a 60-minute Ocean Bliss massage — melding Swedish, deep tissue, and Thai styles as well as aromatherapy — delivers an unforgettable sense of renewal.

STAY FIT IN PARADISE

On an island vacation, you can tailor your workouts to the shore, the trail, or the water. Start your day by enjoying a sunrise run on Long Bay Beach as you satisfy your senses with the salty breeze and warm light. If you’re into sports, tennis and pickleball are very popular here as well, with courts and rental equipment available at Long Bay Beach Resort.

Another option is to embark on a shaded hike along the trails of Sage Mountain National Park, allowing you to take in the breathtaking panoramic views from the highest point in the Virgin Islands. Tortola also has plenty of gym options, from stand-alone fitness centres to resort facilities with well-equipped workout rooms.

No matter where you’re staying, rest assured you’ll find ways to keep up with your wellness routine and mix in a little sweat with your island time.

BEAUTY, BALANCE & BEYOND

Throughout the Virgin Islands, you’ll find a thoughtful mix of medical spa services, dermatology,

and integrative wellness that complements any vacation. For aesthetic care and cosmetic procedures, Bougainvillea Clinic stands out as a premier private facility, offering comprehensive services alongside a medical spa. If you’re seeking holistic care prioritising a mind-body balance in a clinical setting, the Wellness Centre at Tortola Pier Park provides integrative care that blends behavioural health with physical well-being, making it easy to check in with your health even whilst you’re away.

For skin health and rejuvenation, BrivaDerm offers dermatologist-led treatments and a pharmacy on-site, ensuring you have access to skin care support during your trip. Together, these places offer a wide array of options, ranging from cosmetic therapies to mental health support, so you can design a wellness itinerary that fully supports both your body and mind throughout your stay.

HEALTHY BITES

Keeping up with a healthy, balanced diet whilst on vacation isn’t always easy. Thankfully, the Virgin Islands is rich with fresh, locally grown produce, flavourful seafood, and authentic culinary traditions that make nourishing choices both delicious and doable.

Start with the farmers markets and fruit stands that dot the various islands. On Tortola, you can pick sunwarmed mangoes, papaya, starfruit, and guava right from the stalls in Road Town’s market square. If you’d prefer a drink, grab a custom smoothie from Bazz Smoothies near the ferry terminal in Road Town, offering tasty combos like strawberry, mango, and banana. When dining out, there are several restaurants that offer wholesome garden-to-table menus, featuring grilled fish, light salads, and plant-inspired dishes that celebrate island greens and coastal produce. When you’re ready for your next island escape, the call is clear. From swimming as you greet the sunrise to savouring local flavours that nourish the body, both health and happiness await you in the BVI.

ISLAND VOWS

Barefoot vows, turquoise backdrops, and sunset sails — say “I do” in the British Virgin Islands.

By Andrea Milam

Making Your Wedding TravelFriendly

If friends and family will be joining you in the BVI, these tips can help everyone enjoy the journey as much as the celebration:

• Finalise your guest list and budget early. Smaller weddings are often simpler and more costeffective, while larger events require more planning for accommodation and group activities.

• Give plenty of notice. Send savethe-date cards 6 to 8 months in advance, followed by formal invitations 3 to 5 months before the day.

• Be clear on invitations. Specify whether children and plus-ones are welcome to avoid misunderstandings.

• Create a wedding website. Include the itinerary, travel tips, local activity suggestions, and FAQs to keep everyone informed.

• Consider a local wedding planner. Their on-the-ground knowledge can smooth the process, from legalities to logistics.

• Focus on experiences that feel like “you.” Whether it’s a beach barbecue or a chic villa reception, a personal touch will make the day unforgettable.

Why

the British Virgin Islands are perfect

for I Do”

UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE. The BVI blends luxury with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

VARIETY OF LANDSCAPES. Choose from secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, the famous Baths in Virgin Gorda, or lively yacht harbours.

ACTIVITIES FOR EVERY TASTE. Sailing, snorkelling, spa days, nature walks, and boutique resorts mean your guests will have as much fun as you do.

Your wedding in the British Virgin Islands can be as seamless as it is spectacular. With the right preparation, a touch of island charm, and plenty of love, you’ll create memories as enduring as the view. Here’s to beginning your married life in paradise.

BVI EVER AFTER

ALEXIS & JON

August 2, 2025

Alexis and Jon were set up by mutual friends, and Jon took the first step by reaching out to Alexis on social media. Busy travel schedules delayed their first date, but phone calls revealed the couple had a lot in common.

“When we finally met, the connection was instant,” says Alexis.

Jon loved Alexis's persistence in asking for a second date, and the rest is history. A cancelled trip to Italy and a broken plane led the couple to the British Virgin Islands and Oil Nut Bay. The hospitality of the people, endless places to explore,

and pristine beauty of the BVI inspired them to buy property and build an island home for their family.

“Choosing the BVI for our wedding was easy,” says Alexis. “We wanted to share our favourite places with our loved ones and let them experience everything we love about these islands.”



PHOTOGRAPHY: RACHAEL OSBORN

PHOTOGRAPHY

“Incredible. Her work speaks for itself. She was such a joy to work with — fun, personable, and very organised. Her clear direction made it easy to capture the best moments, and the results are stunning.”

WHITE NIGHT PARTY: COCOMAYA

“Wow! It was truly epic. The food was phenomenal, the service was impeccable, and the ambience felt like a movie set. We finished the night with a dance party in the sand beneath the stars.”

CEREMONY: OIL NUT BAY

“Our ceremony was a picturesque beachside celebration under the palms, with elevated service and a staff invested in making the day happy and seamless for everyone. The menu options were abundant and catered to a range of dietary needs.”

WEDDING PLANNER: QUINTESSENTIAL VG

Alyssa and Ali were absolutely amazing. Alyssa is truly one of the most organised people I’ve ever met, and together they made our four-day itinerary run seamlessly. All of our guests felt attended to at every turn and impressed by their attention to detail and flawless execution. Their expertise and local relationships made it possible to bring our vision to life whilst navigating the logistics of guests spread across various locations and transportation requirements.”

PARADISE, THEN AND NOW

KRISTIE & ZACHARY

July 22, 2015

Kristie and Zachary met in high school, and though it was a love-at-first-sight moment for the couple, they did not pursue a relationship and fell out of touch. A few years later, the two crossed paths again at college house parties.

“Kristie came up with an elaborate reason to put her number in my phone one of those nights, and three months later, we moved in together,” says Zachary. “We’ve been building our life together ever since.”

On July 22, 2015, the couple tied the knot on Jost Van Dyke in a simple, intimate ceremony with about 30 of their closest friends. The bride and her bridesmaids styled their

own hair and makeup, and Kristie wore a Justin Alexandra dress she toted with her on the plane, taxi, and ferry journey to Jost.

“A few of the employees at the Soggy Dollar Bar and Sandcastle Hotel set up a path leading to the water, and we exchanged vows right on the shoreline,” says Kristie. “We went very light on the planning, and it worked out better than it should have. We kept things as simple as possible.”

That laid-back approach was undoubtedly inspired in part by the BVI’s remarkable ability to inspire visitors to slow down, relax, and soak up the surrounding beauty, a tempting trait that brought Zachary, Kristie, and their two sons back for a return visit last year.

“The boys had the best time exploring all of the coral and seashells and loved everyone at Hendo’s Hideout,” says Kristie. “They treated us like family and went above and beyond to make sure the boys’ birthdays and our anniversary were amazing. The kids also developed a love for ring toss and spent many hours at Soggy Dollar competing.”

The couple tied the knot on Jost Van Dyke in a simple, intimate ceremony with about 30 of their closest friends.

WEDDING & HONEYMOON GUIDE

COCOMAYA

Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda Tel: 495-6344

Email: info@ cocomayarestaurant.com www.cocomayavg.com

Just minutes from Virgin Gorda’s iconic Baths, CocoMaya is nestled between giant granite boulders, a white-sand beach, and the shimmering turquoise waters of Sir Francis Drake Channel. CocoMaya is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a slow lazy lunch with a chilled bottle of rosé. Offering chic private beach dinners. Additionally, CocoMaya is the perfect spot for your wedding ceremony and reception, cocktail party, or other special events.

CORNUCOPIA BVI

Little Trunk Bay, Virgin Gorda Tel: 542-4014 www.cornucopiabvi.com

A luxury country French–Caribbean destination with four deluxe rooms and a superior master suite. Attention to detail, fine linens, crafted in-house designed furniture, and exceptionally well-trained staff. Cornucopia’s breakfast is considered one of the best on Virgin Gorda. Whether you are working from home, want to invite family to “just drop in” for a casual visit, or just want to get away for a few days, a week, or a luxurious month in the sun, consider Cornucopia as your next home. Call for availability and rates.

D'COAL POT

Shore Road Carrot Bay, West End, Tortola

Tel: 545-6510

D’Coal Pot in the British Virgin Islands serves up authentic Caribbean flavours in a warm, inviting setting. Known for fresh seafood, flavourful island specialities, and friendly service, it’s a local favourite for casual dining with a taste of tradition, offering guests an unforgettable culinary experience by the sea.

HENDO’S HIDEOUT

Belle Vue, Jost Van Dyke

Tel: 340-0074

Email: info@hendoshideout.com

www.hendoshideout.com

Hendo’s Hideout, perched on the pristine sands of White Bay, Jost Van Dyke, is a lively yet laid-back gem in the British Virgin Islands. Guests enjoy handcrafted cocktails, fresh Caribbean flavours, and unbeatable ocean views. Whether lounging in the sun, dancing to island beats, or savouring a beachside meal, Hendo’s blends relaxation, fun, and warm hospitality into an unforgettable BVI experience.

INDIGO BEACH HOUSE

Cane Garden Bay, Tortola Tel: 343-5503

Email: vishaal7264@yahoo.com

Facebook: Indigo Beach House

Set on the sand in charming Cane Garden Bay, this bar blends tropical relaxation with vibrant local culture. The service and the views here are topnotch. Indigo Beach House’s menu is eclectic, featuring items like mussels and spring rolls, with a focus on Caribbean classics like roti. The bar menu boasts a delicious espresso martini alongside local favourites like Bushwackers and Painkillers.

The laid-back vibes and homey atmosphere are perfect for unwinding over casually elegant foods and elevated cocktails served with a smile.

OCEAN DREAMS

Estate Frydenhoj, St. Thomas

Tel: 340-998-6720

www.oceandreamswatertaxi.com

Travel in comfort, style, and speed to any destination in the USVI or BVI. A family-owned and -operated business since 2007, Ocean Dreams’ captains have more than 50 years of experience between them and are well versed in the fun and rigours of navigating the ocean safely. Whether you’re looking for a private land taxi, water taxi, ferry service, island tour, beach trip, half- or full-day trip, cargo transfer, or want to island-hop, Ocean Dreams has you covered. Simply share your needs or where you want to go and they will take care of all the rest.

QUINTESSENTIAL VACATIONS

Tel: 342-8191

Instagram: @quintessential.vg www.quintessentialvg.com

Your quintessential guides to island life. Looking to plan a trip or event in the British Virgin

Islands? Then look no further! Quintessential will be by your side for each part of this adventure. From getting you and your guests here to helping everyone book their quintessential accommodations to planning, executing, and delivering a quintessential itinerary or event — there is nothing its team can’t do. The company is based on Virgin Gorda in the BVI and has a plethora of accommodation options, activity recommendations, venues, and local knowledge to share with you.

If you haven’t been considering Virgin Gorda for your destination, take this as your sign!

SPEEDY’S

The Valley, Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda

Tel: 495-5235

Email: info@speedysbvi.com  www.bviferries.com

Speedy’s provides the British Virgin Islands with the greatest ferry services and amazing rental cars as well as open-air safari buses in Virgin Gorda. St. Thomas to Virgin Gorda in 90 minutes, every Saturday! There is no need for reservations. You can buy tickets upon arrival in St. Thomas, and space is always available. Free shuttle to and from Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport.

FAST FACTS

Here are some helpful tips for navigating your way around our islands.

ATTIRE

Bathing suits and other beachwear are only considered appropriate on the beaches, at the pool, or on a boat. Topless bathing and nudity on the beach are frowned upon. In general, day and evening dress is casual.

BANKING

There are several banks in the British Virgin Islands: Banco Popular; CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank; FirstBank; National Bank of the Virgin Islands; Republic Bank (BVI), formerly Scotiabank; and VP Bank (BVI) Ltd. Hours vary, but most are open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Banco Popular opens a teller drivethrough window from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays.

BUSINESS HOURS

Most businesses open at 9 a.m. and close late evenings. Supermarkets open as early as 7 a.m. and close later; most open on weekends and

holidays. It’s best to call or check online a specific business for its hours of operation.

CREDIT CARDS

Many BVI establishments accept credit cards: generally, MasterCard or Visa; some, but not all, take American Express, Apple Pay, PayPal, and ATH Movil. You will find bank ATM machines on Tortola, including Nanny Cay, Clarence Thomas Home Center, as well as in The Valley on Virgin Gorda. There are no banks or ATM machines on Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, or Peter Island.

CURRENCY

The U.S. dollar is the only legal tender in the BVI. Major credit cards are accepted in many, but not all, establishments.

DEPARTURE TAX

After you have checked in at the airport or at any seaport, look for the departure tax window. Every air travel passenger must pay a

$20 departure tax in cash or by Visa or MasterCard (cheques are not accepted). Nonresidents leaving by sea pay $20, while residents pay $15, and anyone under 5 years old is exempt from the departure tax.

DIGITAL RESOURCES

You can view the digital edition of Visit the British Virgin Islands on the BVI Chamber of Commerce (BVICoC) website, www.bvichamber.org; and don’t forget to download the VISIT BVI app, available in the Apple and Google Play store. The BVI Tourist Board’s website (www.bvitourism.com) offers printable online information about each island, helpful schedules, and more. The BVI Government, BVI Welcome magazine, VI Property and Yacht Magazine, VI Life & Style Magazine, Superyacht Services Guide BVI, and two local newspapers, The BVI Beacon and The Island Sun, also provide helpful information.

DRINKING WATER

Tap water on Tortola and Virgin Gorda is generally desalinated and safe for use. Some hotels have their own desalination plants and cisterns. Other islands rely on private supplies from cisterns, but bottled water is available throughout the Islands.

DRUGS

Recreational drugs are strictly forbidden. Their possession, sale, use, or distribution is a criminal offence punishable by law. Conviction can lead to heavy fines and jail time.

ELECTRICITY

Electricity is supplied by the BVI Electricity Corporation. The standard electrical current is 110 volts on all the islands.

EMERGENCIES

Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital is the main general hospital in Road Town, Tortola. On Virgin

Gorda, the main medical facility is the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre.

Ambulance 999 or 911

Fire 999

Police ................................................ 999

Hospital ................................ 852-7500

VISAR (Virgin Islands Search & Rescue) 494-435 or 767 (SOS)

To report a complaint to the Police, call 311.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND TOURISM LEVY

Visitors to the Virgin Islands must pay the Environmental and Tourism Levy of $10 upon arrival at all ports of entry. The levy became effective on September 1, 2017. All visitors arriving to the Territory via air or sea are required to pay the levy.

INTERNET

Several places throughout the Islands offer internet access. Most have free wireless connections and can be found at the following locations: Lambert Beach Resort, Tortola; Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola; Village Cay Marina, Road Town; Myett’s, Cane Garden Bay; Foxy’s, Jost Van Dyke; The Watersports Centre, Jost Van Dyke; Anegada Reef Hotel, Anegada; Trellis Bay Market Bar & Grill, Beef Island.

LANGUAGE

English is the official language, and communication is easy around the Islands. Spanish is also spoken by many members of the growing immigrant population.

MONEY TRANSFERS

Wire transfer service is available at all banks. MoneyGram and Western Union provide services to receive and send money worldwide.

NATURAL HAZARDS

There are no poisonous snakes or other dangerous animals in the BVI. The leaves of the oleander and elephant ears are poisonous. Be careful of the manchineel tree (or poison apple tree), which grows near beaches. Its leaves, fruit, and sap are dangerous to the eyes and poisonous when ingested. Underwater, fire coral can cause a nasty sting and subsequent rash if touched. The spiny black sea urchin is very painful if stepped on or brushed against, and jellyfish and lionfish should be avoided, as both can cause serious injury.

NEWS, NEWSPAPERS, AND MAGAZINES

Several weekly and monthly publications are available in the BVI and by subscription. The Island Sun and The BVI Beacon keep readers updated on events and general news occurring locally and regionally; they’re also available online or have a Facebook presence.

For news at your fingertips, please visit 284Media. com, BVINews.com, VirginIslandsNewsOnline. com, and BVIPlatinum.com. These websites provide daily news updates in the Territory. The BVI Welcome magazine offers information for tourists, and The BVI Marine Guide is a definitive reference that keeps boaters updated annually. Business BVI, a business and investment magazine, is published annually. You can also check out VI Property and Yacht Magazine, VI Life & Style Magazine, and Superyacht Services Guide BVI.

PETS

Pets are allowed into the Territory only after an import permit is obtained from the Department of Agriculture. For regulations concerning animal importation, contact the Department of Agriculture, Paraquita Bay, Tortola; tel. 468-6123 and fax 468-6102.

PHARMACY

Several pharmacies offer prescription and over-the-counter services in Road Town. These include Medicure at Omar Hodge Building, with a location at Pier Park and one on Virgin Gorda; Vanterpool Pharmacy on Wickham’s Cay I; B&F Medical Complex on Nibbs Street (with another in East End); Penn Medical Center & Pharmacy on Waterfront Drive; and Qwomar Trading, Ltd., Blackburne Road.

POST OFFICES

The main post office in Road Town near the roundabout has a philatelic counter. There is also a post office on Virgin Gorda. Virgin Islands stamps are worldwide collectors’ items.

BVI General Post Office Road Town, Tortola Virgin Islands (British) VG1110 Tel: 468-5160 Email: bvipost@gov.vg

2026 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Jan 1 New Year’s Day

Mar 7 Hamilton Lavity Stoutt Day Apr 3 ...................................... Good Friday Apr 6 Easter Monday May 25 Whit Monday June 19 Sovereign’s Birthday July 1 Virgin Islands Day Aug 3–5 ........................................................ ............... August Emancipation Festival Oct 19 Heroes and Forefathers Day

Nov 9 The 1949 Great March and  Restoration Day

Dec 25 Christmas Day Dec 28...................................... Boxing Day

While we take care to research and update holiday dates, some of those listed are provisional and have not yet been officially confirmed.

RADIO AND TELEVISION

Local radio stations, most of which are available online, include ZBVI (780 AM), ZKING (100.9 FM), ZROD (103.7 FM), ZCCR (94.1 FM), TOLA Radio VI (100.5 FM), and LET’S FUZE VI (106.9 FM). CCT, FLOW, and Digicel offer IP TV service with popular international news and entertainment channels.

RELIGION

There are Methodist churches throughout the BVI. Other Christian denominations represented include the Anglicans (Episcopalians), Baptists, Roman Catholics, Seventh-day Adventists, and Pentecostal denominations. Many churches are located in Road Town, but there are churches throughout the Islands. There is also an Islamic Center in Road Town, and the Hindu faith is also represented.

SERVICE ORGANISATIONS

Several service organisations and clubs operate in the BVI. Amongst them are Lions, Toastmasters, and the Rotary Club Family — Interact, Rotaract, the Rotary Club of Tortola, Rotary Club of Central Tortola, and Rotary Sunrise Club and Rotary Club of Road Town. Fellow club members visiting the Territory are always warmly welcomed. Check the organisations’ websites or enquire at your front desk for more information on the clubs and meeting times. To reach the BVI Red Cross, call 494-6349.

SMOKING

Smoking in public places such as restaurants, bars, shopping malls, recreational facilities, offices, public transportation terminals, etc., is illegal in accordance with the Tobacco Products Control Act of the BVI. It’s also illegal to smoke within 50 feet of these public spaces. A person found smoking tobacco in a public place will be

subject to a fine. It’s illegal to sell cigarettes to people under 18 years old.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

The area code in the BVI is 284. FLOW (formerly LIME and Cable & Wireless [West Indies], Ltd.) provides digital, national, and international telecommunications services, fibre, and broadband internet access. Full IDD (international direct dialling), facsimile, and data services, including IDAS (global database access) and private leased circuits, are available. Inbound 800 numbers accessible from the United States, Canada, and the rest of the Caribbean are also available. FLOW also offers competitive wireless services, and you can purchase SIM cards, handsets, and TopUp credits at locations throughout the BVI. Caribbean Cellular Telephone Ltd. (CCT BVI), the first provider of wireless communications in

the BVI, offers 4G wireless broadband internet service throughout the Islands and provides CDMA and GSM roaming services with more than 140 roaming partners worldwide. CCT SIM cards are available from authorised resellers throughout the BVI. CCT now offers Fibre Ultra-High-Speed Internet (FIYAH). Digicel also offers a range of wireless and landline services throughout the BVI. Digicel SIM cards and TopUp credits are available at locations throughout the BVI. All providers offer fibre internet in select areas; please call the provider of your choice for more information.

TIPPING

A 10 percent tax is usually added to your room rate. Additional tipping is optional. It’s customary to include a 15 percent tip when dining out. Most restaurants automatically include this on the bill as a service charge.

TRANSPORTATION

Air: Effective August 2023, American Airlines offers a daily direct flight from Miami, Florida, to the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (TBLIA) at Beef Island, Tortola. Other airlines that fly into the BVI include InterCaribbean Airways, LIAT, Air Sunshine, Cape Air, Winair, and Silver Airways.

The regional airlines connect Beef Island and Virgin Gorda with international hubs such as USVI, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Martin, and Antigua. Charter planes are also available from Beef Island to any regional destination. The TBLIA also accommodates private jets.

Land: The main highways on Tortola are Sir Francis Drake Highway, which runs from West End to Road Town on the south coast, and Blackburne Highway, which runs from East End to Road Town along the southern coast. There is a coastal road that

porary licence must be obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles in Pockwood Pond. The cost is $10. Bring your passport and a valid driver’s licence from your country of origin. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

Ferry Services: The main ferry docks on Tortola are in Road Town and at the west end. Boat services operate daily between Tortola and the USVI and sister islands Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke. Ferry services to Anegada from Road Town are available on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

runs the northside in the west end of Tortola and then traverses across the Ridge Road to the eastern end. Please use low gear when ascending or descending the hilly terrain. The roads in Virgin Gorda and Anegada are paved asphalt and may be unpaved to some beaches.

Buses: Private tours can be arranged by the hotels or speaking directly with a taxi operator and are also available for other large group trips and scenic sightseeing. There is also a bus that runs from Road Town to East End and costs about $3 to $5 and Road Town to West End for the same fare. The bus turns around before reaching Beef Island, but an additional option will offer their service to Beef Island (please ask the bus driver upon entering the vehicle).

Car Rentals: Renting a car is both economical and convenient. Several agencies offer reasonable rates, unlimited mileage, emergency services, and additional insurance. If visiting for more than a month, a tem-

Ferry operators are Ocean Dreams, Road Town Fast Ferry, Smith’s Ferry Services, Native Son, Virgin Gorda Transport Speedy’s, Aquatic Rentals VI, and New Horizon Ferry Service (JVD). Departure and arrival information can be obtained at the front desk of your hotel or online. Ferries charge extra for additional baggage. Check with the ferry operator to see if any fees apply.

Water taxis are a luxury service, and a list of operators can be found on the BVI Tourist Board website for additional information on this convenient service.

If you prefer to take your vehicle to Virgin Gorda, you can depart Beef Island with Global Ocean Transport Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Please call 4956256 for the departure times. Ferry service is also available from Trellis Bay, Beef Island, to Virgin Gorda, Scrub Island, and Marina Cay.

Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport, hotels, ferry terminals, taxi stands, and other venues throughout the Islands. Some hotels have a franchised taxi arrangement for guests or will quickly order a taxi from the front desk. Island tour taxis usually provide commentary on local history and other helpful information. It’s a good idea to check the fare with your driver in advance.

USEFUL INFO ON THE GO

Search for visitor information on the go! Scan the QR code above to download the VISIT BVI app and learn more about our helpful travel tips.

WEATHER

The BVI has a tropical marine climate and enjoys year-round warm temperatures ranging from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C) throughout the year, making it a paradise for sunseekers. The official hurricane season in the BVI runs from June 1 to November 30, but the peak months are usually August and September. The islands benefit from steady trade winds, especially during the winter months (November to March), making it ideal for

sailing and yachting adventures. These winds also help keep the islands cool. The BVI experiences a rainy season from May to November, but showers are usually brief and followed by sunny skies. The wettest months are September and October. The surrounding Caribbean Sea is warm yearround, with sea temperatures ranging from 78°F (26°C) in the winter to 84°F (29°C) in the summer, perfect for swimming and watersports any time of year.

TRAVEL SERVICES GUIDE

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS TOURIST BOARD & FILM COMMISSION

P.O. Box 134

J.R. O’Neal Drive, Port Purcell, Tortola

2nd Floor Cocoplum Building, 13B

Tel: 494-3134

www.bvitourism.com

Located in the northeastern Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands is an archipelago of 60 islands and cays dotted on a pallet of clear aquamarine waters. Renowned worldwide for its sailing and watersports, each island beckons visitors to unique experiences that inspire them to write their own Virgin Islands stories.

ABOUT THE BVICOC

The BVI Chamber of Commerce (BVICoC) is a nongovernmental, not-for-profit organisation that has been the Voice of Business since 1969. It was formerly known as the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA) until August 2023, when it was rebranded. The organisation’s mission is to “Empower, Educate, and Equip” micro-, small-, and medium-size businesses for their growth and success. They support the Virgin Islands’ business community through advocacy for business-friendly policy, regulations and procedures, training and coaching to develop business skills, and organising networking events. For more information about the membership benefits, events, and services, visit their website at www.bvichamber.org or call the office at 345-3513.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Accountants

BDO Limited (BVI)

HLB Trinity (BVI) Ltd.

Integral Professional

Services (BVI) Limited

Kalo (BVI) Ltd.

S.S. Accounting &  Consulting Services Ltd.

Advertising/Promotions

Antilles Promotions

Belle Entertainment

Fresh Mango

Technologies Limited

JTV

MediaOne

Production Company

Architectural

Design & Building

KDL Designs

OBMI

Roger Downing and

Partner Company Ltd.

STO Enterprise Ltd.

TigerQi Architecture

Attorneys

DenJen Law

Lanx Lancis BVI

Samuels Richardson & Co

Tricor Services BVI Limited

Automotive

VI Motors

Banks & Credit Unions

Banco Popular de

Puerto Rico

CIBC FirstCaribbean

International Bank

First Bank of the Virgin Islands

National Bank of the  Virgin Islands Ltd.

Republic Bank (British  Virgin Islands) Ltd.

Beauty Salons/Spas

Body Glam Cosmetics

Crown Galore

Island Girl Esthetics

Krissential Beauty

Product Junkie

T’Jara’s Natural Beauty

Books & Stationery

Island Services (BVI) Ltd.

The Bookshelf

Business &

Professional Services

Caribbean Arbitrators

Hire BVI

Ivy George Global

M&E Business Services

Mosquito Hill Holdings Ltd.

MSC Consultancy

Papillon Enterprises

Timeless Films & Media

VI Customs Brokers &  Logistics

Car Rentals

Burke’s Garage Ltd.

Itgo Car Rental

Carpets & Interiors

Tortola Carpet

Childcare

Little Amaris Daycare

Cleaning Services

Corea’s Business

Services Ltd.

KleenToDiTee

Restore Environmental

Services

Clothing/Shoes

La Bella Rosa

Urban VI Ltd.

Community Organizations

The BVI Charter Yacht Society

Concierge Services

A & A Services

I AM Jet Centre Ltd.

Construction Management

BCQS

JOMA (Properties) Ltd.

Smith & Associates Inc.

Consultants

AIM Consulting

BDO Limited (BVI)

Incline Business Group

Integral Professional

Services (BVI) Limited

L. Potter & Associates

NorthStar Consulting

O’Neal Alexander

Consulting Group Ltd.

RKG Solutions

Consulting Group

Smith & Associates Inc.

The Mercer Group (BVI)

Contractors/ Construction Services

BCQS

General Group Services

Innovative Design &  Solutions

JOMA (Properties) Ltd.

Modern Sanitary Plumbing

& Fire Protection Limited

Parts & Power Ltd.

Skelton

Development Limited

Triple A Trucking J. Kevin Foltz

Counselling

5 Doctors Medical and

Wellness Services

Delivery Services

Flex-ing Holdings Limited

Dental

Premier Dental

Drug & Variety Stores

Medicure Ltd.

Education

H. Lavity Stoutt

Community College

University of the West Indies

Entertainment

FAM Worldwide

Event Planning & Production

AFLAIR Ltd.

Creative Creations

Virgin Islands Productions

Financial & Investment Services

ABM Corporate

Services Ltd.

Aleman, Cordero, Galindo

& Lee Trust (BVI) Ltd.

BVI Finance

Coverdale Trust

Services Ltd.

HLB Trinity (BVI) Ltd.

ILS Fiduciary BVI Ltd.

Overseas Management

Company Trust (BVI) Ltd.

Praxis Trust (BVI) Ltd.

SkyRoMa Consultants Ltd.

Tricor Services BVI Limited

Florists

Bella Blooms

Food & Beverage/ Catering

A.F.T Culinary Services

(Aroma, Flavor & Taste)

Coconut Lounge

Island Flavours

Koncepts Hospitality

Consulting

L’ Amore Gelato

La Dolce Vita Ltd.

ManJack Creamery

Proudly African Ltd.

Relish Gourmet

Food & Wine

The French Deli

Fuel

SOL St. Lucia Limited (BVI)

VI Motors

Gifts & Specialty Items

Imperial Shell Crafters

Island Services (BVI) Ltd.

Graphic Design Golden Apple Multimedia

InsideOut

Jahphix Designs

Grocery Stores A Value Ltd.

Hardware

CaribSupply (Tortola) Ltd.

CTL Home Centre

LJD VI BLOCK

Holistic Health

Everything Organic

Home Furnishings

CTL Home Centre

Hospitals & Clinics

Bougainvillea Clinic Ltd.

BrivaDerm Ltd.

Eureka Medical Clinic

Penn Medical Center

Hotels/Motels

Rosewood Little Dix

Bay Resort

Village Cay Hotel & Marina

Human Resource Services

SILK Academy Ltd.

Insurance

Alphonso Warner

Insurance Agency Ltd.

Caribbean Insurers Ltd.

CG Insurance

Nagico Insurance

The Insurance Store Ltd.

IT/Computer Sales

Fresh Mango

Technologies Limited

ICT Management Services

Infinite Solutions Ltd.

RKG Solutions

Consulting Group

UBIQUITY Ltd.

Jewellery

Be Charmed VI

Infinity Jewelry Enterprises

BVI Limited

Legal Services

Aleman, Cordero, Galindo

& Lee Trust (BVI) Ltd.

Burrows & Co. BVI

BVI International

Arbitration Centre

DenJen Law

Hunte & Co.

Kobre & Kim (BVI) LP

Lanx Lancis BVI

NMGeorges BVI Ltd.

Mail Services/Shipping Aeropost

JLS Brokerage BVI

Khoy’s Mailing and  Delivery Service

Tropical Shipping

(Tortola BVI)

Manufacturing & Production

East Caribbean Salt &  Soap Co.

Marinas

Erin Rentals Ltd.

Manuel Reef Marina Ltd.

Village Cay

Hotel & Marina

Marine Charters, Sales & Service

Adventure Charters BVI

Caribbean Image

Tours Ltd.

Caribbean Technology

Charter Caribe

Doyle Sailmakers BVI Ltd.

Horizon Yacht Charters

Offshore Sailing School,  Ltd., Inc.

Marketing

DHWebMedia

Medical, Dental & Nursing Care

5 Doctors Medical and  Wellness Services

Bougainvillea Clinic Ltd.

Eureka Medical Clinic

Medical Supply

Medicure Ltd.

Mortgage Banking

Banco Popular de  Puerto Rico

CIBC FirstCaribbean

International Bank

First Bank of the  Virgin Islands

Republic Bank (British  Virgin Islands) Ltd.

Office Furniture & Supplies

Fresh Start Office Solutions

Island Services (BVI) Ltd.

Quality Machine

Services Ltd.

Physical Therapy

Therapy Group

International Limited

Press/Publications/ Radio

JTV

MediaOne

Production Company

Printing & Typesetting Services

Caribbean Printing

Company Ltd.

Jahphix Designs

Property Leasing & Management

Erin Rentals Ltd.

JOMA (Properties) Ltd.

Real Estate Services

Caribbean Realty Limited

Mircel Properties Ltd.

Remax Best

Priced Properties

Tropic Aisle Development

Recreation

Kelly’s Land & Sea Tours

Resorts

Eustatia Corporation Ltd.

Hendo’s Hideout

Long Bay Beach Resort

Peter Island Resort

Rosewood Little Dix

Bay Resort

Saba Rock Company

Resort Ltd.

Restaurants

Bamboushay Restaurant

and Lounge

Cedar Cafe

D Coal Pot BVI Restaurant

Hendo’s Hideout

Island Tacos

Jeremy’s Kitchen

Long Bay Beach Resort

Peter Island Resort

Roadtown Wholesale

Trading Ltd.

Rosewood Little Dix

Bay Resort

The Chill Zone

The Village Café

The Watering Hole

Tradewinds Mexican Grill

Village Cay

Hotel & Marina

Restaurants & Specialty Dining

Island Tacos

The Mariner Yacht Club

Hotel Ltd.

Retail

5 Girls Ltd.

Al’s Marine Ltd.

Caribbean Cellars Ltd.

Caribbean Retails

Riteway Food Markets

SNR Variety

Surtani Luxury Ltd

(aka “House of Luxury”)

Security Services

S & D Security &

Alarm Systems

Top Priority

Security Company

Shopping Centres

My Island Hub

Tortola Pier Park Ltd.

Taxi

Bouncers Taxi &

Transport Services

Scatos’s Bus N

Taxi Services

Telecommunications

Cable & Wireless

BVI Limited

CCT

Digicel (BVI) Ltd.

Travel Agencies

Travel Plan

Villas

Bangkirai Group Limited

N.H.P. Limited

The Property Network

Villa Sirenetta

Wholesale

Proudly African Ltd.

Supa Valu Ltd.