Things To Do
in Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a group of islands in the Caribbean known for their stunning natural beauty, including white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The territory consists of about 60 islands and islets, with Tortola being the largest and most populated. The BVI has a thriving tourism industry, attracting visitors for sailing, diving, and water sports, as well as its vibrant local culture.
Governed as a British Overseas Territory, the BVI enjoys a high degree of internal self-government while the UK remains responsible for its defense and international affairs.
- "Wah Gwaan" - What's going on
- "Big up" - Respect or acknowledgement
- "Yea Man" - Yes, man
- "Nah, I good" - No, I'm fine
- "Lemme know" - Let me know
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $400
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $60
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $75 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café. Afterward, enjoy some sunbathing at Cane Garden Bay.
Explore the nearby coral reefs with a snorkeling tour. Experience the vibrant marine life and beautiful underwater scenery.
Relax at a beachside bar with a cocktail as you watch the sunset. Enjoy the serene atmosphere with live music.
Begin with a hearty brunch at a popular restaurant with ocean views. Follow this with a hike on the scenic trails of Sage Mountain.
Visit the local markets to buy handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with friendly vendors and learn about local culture.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood. Unwind under the stars while enjoying the cool breezes of the Caribbean.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with pristine beaches and clear waters.
- No sales tax and low income tax rates, making it attractive for residents and businesses.
- A warm tropical climate year-round, suitable for outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse community.
- Vibrant tourism industry offering numerous recreational activities and amenities.
- High cost of living, including housing and imported goods.
- Limited job opportunities outside the tourism sector.
- Vulnerability to hurricanes and tropical storms.
- Healthcare facilities may be less advanced compared to mainland options.
- Transport and logistics can be challenging due to remote location.
Best Activities in Virgin Islands
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of the Virgin Islands through snorkeling and diving excursions.
Discover scenic trails offering stunning views of the landscape and coastline, such as the trails in Virgin Islands National Park.
Paddle through serene waters, exploring mangroves and secluded beaches in a kayak.
Enjoy a day on the water with sailing tours that take you to remote islands and beautiful beaches.
Experience the calm waters while navigating on a paddleboard, perfect for all skill levels.
Relax or engage in various activities such as beach volleyball, swimming, and sunbathing at the beautiful beaches.
Join deep-sea fishing charters or try your luck at shore fishing in the abundant waters around the islands.
Observe local wildlife, including sea turtles and tropical birds, in their natural habitats.
Visit nearby islands such as Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda, each offering unique attractions and activities.
Engage in guided tours that explore the history, culture, and local cuisine of the Virgin Islands.
Tours
Uncover the best of Virgin Islands with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Virgin Islands
Visit one of these nice places.
The highest point in the British Virgin Islands offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and sea, making it a prime spot for photography.
Famous for its unique rock formations and crystal clear waters, The Baths provide stunning views and numerous photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
This picturesque beach boasts beautiful sunsets, vibrant beach life, and a scenic backdrop of green hills, perfect for capturing idyllic moments.
A stunning bay known for its arts scene and incredible sunset views, Trellis Bay is ideal for photography, especially during the Full Moon Party.
Hiking to the summit of Virgin Gorda Peak rewards you with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding islands and the Caribbean Sea, a must-see for photographers.
This coral island is known for its pristine beaches and unique landscapes, including flamingo populations and kite surfing scenes, making it perfect for nature photographers.
Renowned for its beaches and lively atmosphere, this island offers beautiful beach views, vibrant nightlife, and opportunities to photograph wildlife.
Driving along Ridge Road presents breathtaking views of the coastline, lush greenery, and the chance to capture the essence of the islands in one frame.
Food in Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Deep-fried fritters made from conch meat mixed with spices. A must-try for seafood lovers, often served with a tangy dipping sauce. Best found at local beach bars like Cooper Island Beach Club.
Must-Try!
A delicious flatbread filled with curried meat or vegetables. Roti is a popular Caribbean dish, often served with a side of mango chutney. You can find excellent roti at the Road Town Cafe.
A traditional BVI dish made of steamed fish served with fungi, a blend of cornmeal and okra. It’s a staple that highlights the local fishing culture and can be tried at The Bitter End Yacht Club.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Virgin Islands better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant local market in Road Town where you can find fresh produce, spices, and Caribbean delicacies. A great spot for picking up local ingredients and trying street food snacks.
Along the beach, you’ll find various food vendors offering grilled seafood, fresh fruit, and local beverages, providing a casual and immersive dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to be aware of and respect the local customs and traditions of the British Virgin Islands. Engaging with local culture, such as festivals and community events, demonstrates appreciation and helps to foster good relationships with residents.
Using polite language and greetings is valued in the British Virgin Islands. Simple courtesies, such as saying 'good morning' or 'hello,' can go a long way in establishing rapport with locals. Being respectful in conversations, both in tone and content, is crucial.
While the British Virgin Islands have a relaxed atmosphere, it is important to dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites or formal events. Wearing modest clothing shows respect for local customs and the environment.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Virgin Islands with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Virgin Islands
Ensure a smooth experience
In the British Virgin Islands, tipping is appreciated, though not mandatory. It is common to tip service staff in restaurants, bars, and for taxi services. A tip of 10-20% of the bill is generally considered appropriate, depending on the level of service. Many restaurants add a service charge to the bill, so it's advisable to check before tipping additionally.
Payment in the British Virgin Islands is typically accepted in both the US dollar and the British Virgin Islands dollar. Most establishments accept credit cards and debit cards, making cashless transactions convenient. However, it is still advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors or in more remote areas where card facilities may not be available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Virgin Islands.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the peak tourist season in the British Virgin Islands. Visitors can expect pleasant weather with low humidity and little rainfall. It's ideal for beach activities, sailing, and snorkeling. However, accommodation prices are generally higher, and popular attractions may be crowded.
Spring remains a great time to visit, with warm temperatures and reduced crowds as the peak season winds down. The weather is still dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Prices for accommodations may start to drop, and the scenery is lush and vibrant after the winter rains.
Summer brings warmer temperatures and occasional rain. This is considered the low season for tourism, leading to lower prices for accommodations and fewer tourists. Travelers can expect a more relaxed atmosphere, but they should also be prepared for increased humidity and the possibility of tropical storms.
Fall is also considered the hurricane season, with the highest risk for storms occurring between August and October. This period sees fewer tourists, leading to lower prices and a quieter experience. While the weather is warm and tropical, travelers should monitor weather forecasts and be aware of safety precautions.
Virgin Islands at Night
Hiking in Virgin Islands
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park located on St. John, offering a variety of hiking trails that lead through lush forests and along beautiful coastlines.
A popular hiking trail in Virgin Islands National Park that descends through tropical foliage to reach the impressive Reef Bay, featuring petroglyphs and historical ruins.
A scenic trail that connects Cinnamon Bay with the remnants of an old sugar plantation, providing an opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural history of the area.
A short but rewarding hike on St. John that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding islands.
A less traveled hike that takes you through the remote southern coast of St. John, leading to beautiful beaches and secluded vistas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Virgin Islands through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Virgin Islands by plane.
Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, this airport is the largest in the Caribbean and serves as a major hub for international flights.
Located in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, this airport serves as a key point for international and regional flights to and from the Virgin Islands.
Located on Beef Island, this airport is the main gateway to the British Virgin Islands and operates regional and limited international flights.
Located in Bridgetown, Barbados, this airport is a key hub for international travel in the eastern Caribbean.
Located in St. John's, Antigua, this airport provides international flights to various destinations in the Caribbean and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, primarily descendants of enslaved Africans.
Includes individuals of European descent, particularly those with ties to the United States and Europe.
Refers to individuals from Latin America and other Spanish-speaking regions.
Individuals identifying as mixed race, often a combination of Black, White, or Hispanic heritage.
A smaller demographic group, including individuals from various Asian countries.
Includes individuals from other ethnicities not classified above.
The Soul of Virgin Islands
Discover the essence of Virgin Islands through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is among the most popular sports in the British Virgin Islands, with a rich tradition and local leagues.
With excellent sailing conditions, the British Virgin Islands are famous for sailing, attracting both locals and tourists.
Football enjoys widespread popularity, with a growing number of teams and participation across various age groups.
Rugby is gaining traction in the British Virgin Islands, with local clubs and competitions fostering interest among youth.
Basketball is popular among youth and is played in schools and community centers throughout the islands.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Virgin Islands.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in the BVI offer vegetarian dishes such as vegetable roti, salads, and locally prepared rice and beans. Look for establishments like The Dove for diverse options.
While traditional cuisine may be less focused on veganism, some restaurants cater to dietary restrictions. Consider checking menus at health-conscious places like The Bath and Turtle.
Though gluten-free options may be limited, many restaurants accommodate requests. Always inquire about preparation to ensure your meal meets dietary needs. The Secret Garden Restaurant is known for their accommodating nature.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Virgin Islands with these cultural adventures.
