Things To Do
in Road Town
Road Town is the capital of the British Virgin Islands, located on Tortola, the largest island in the territory. It serves as a bustling port and commercial center, featuring a picturesque harbor surrounded by lush hills. With its blend of colonial architecture and modern amenities, Road Town offers a vibrant atmosphere for both locals and tourists.
The town is also known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and attractions such as shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.
- "Good morning" - Good morning
- "How are you?" - How are you?
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Please" - Please
- "Excuse me" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk around Road Town, enjoying the local shops and cafes. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a local diner.
Visit the Tortola Museum to learn about the island's history and culture. Afterward, relax at the picturesque Cane Garden Bay.
Wind down with dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to soak in the vibrant nightlife.
Pack your beach gear and head to the famous Cane Garden Bay. Spend the morning sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Grab lunch from one of the beach shacks and try some local dishes. Continue your beach day with beach volleyball or paddleboarding.
As the sun sets, catch a live music performance at a nearby beach bar. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail and mingle with locals and visitors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Caribbean location with stunning beaches and clear waters.
- Rich history and culture with a mix of British and Caribbean influences.
- A popular cruise ship destination, providing access to diverse tourist amenities.
- Lively local markets and shops offering unique crafts and goods.
- Warm and pleasant climate year-round.
- High cost of living and expensive goods and services.
- Limited job opportunities outside of tourism-related industries.
- Natural disasters such as hurricanes can pose significant risks.
- Infrastructure challenges due to the island's small size.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue in the busy tourist season.
Best Activities in Road Town
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant underwater ecosystem around the Virgin Islands with numerous snorkeling spots near Road Town.
Discover the scenic trails in nearby national parks and hills offering breathtaking views of the islands.
Paddle through the calm waters surrounding Road Town, perfect for both beginners and experienced kayakers.
Enjoy the sun and sand at nearby beaches such as Cane Garden Bay or Little Apple Bay, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Take a day trip on a boat to explore the surrounding cays and secluded beaches, including famous spots like The Baths on Virgin Gorda.
Engage in deep-sea fishing or enjoy a peaceful day of fishing from the shore or a boat.
Visit nearby islands through ferry services or charters to experience more of the beautiful British Virgin Islands.
Tours
Uncover the best of Road Town with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Road Town
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic overlook that provides breathtaking views of Road Town and the surrounding waters, perfect for panoramic photography.
The highest point in the British Virgin Islands, offering hiking trails with stunning vistas and great spots for capturing nature and landscape photos.
Located on nearby Virgin Gorda, this natural rock formation and beach provides incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The harbor area is vibrant with boats and waterfront activities, making it ideal for capturing shots of local life and maritime scenes.
A beautiful beach known for its picturesque views and crystal-clear waters, ideal for beach photography and sunset shots.
This historic site not only offers a glimpse into the local distillation process but also provides a unique backdrop for photos blending culture and nature.
A tranquil location with stunning beach views that are great for capturing serene landscapes and nature scenes.
A lesser-known vantage point offering secluded views of Road Town and the surrounding waterways, perfect for capturing the essence of the area.
Food in Road Town
Road Town Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish in Virgin Islands cuisine, fungi is made from cornmeal and served with fried fish, often seasoned with herbs and spices. You can try this dish at local eateries such as 'Dirt Oven' for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
A thick, creamy soup made from callaloo greens, coconut milk, and spices. It is often enjoyed as a starter. Visit 'Pusser's Landing' for a local rendition of this traditional dish.
A popular street food consisting of a flat Indian-style bread filled with curried meats or vegetables. For the best roti, stop by 'Roti Palace' in Road Town.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Road Town better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market that showcases fresh local produce, spices, and seafood. It’s a great place to sample local fruits and pick up ingredients to take home.
Throughout Main Street, you'll find several street food vendors selling everything from fried plantains to grilled fish, perfect for a quick and tasty bite while exploring the town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting is important in Road Town. Use 'Hello' or 'Good morning/afternoon' when meeting people, and a handshake is often appropriate, especially in formal settings.
Casual dress is widely acceptable, but it's best to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or formal establishments. Swimwear is only appropriate at the beach, not in town.
Show respect for local customs and traditions. Engage with locals in a friendly manner, listen to their stories, and avoid making negative comments about the local way of life.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Road Town with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Road Town
Ensure a smooth experience
In Road Town, it is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. A standard tip ranges from 10% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service received. It's also common for service charges to be added to restaurant bills, so patrons should check their receipts before tipping.
Payment in Road Town is typically accepted in the local currency, the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). Most establishments also accept credit and debit cards, though it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets. Travelers should be aware of potential foreign transaction fees when using credit cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Road Town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is peak tourist season with pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. Expect vibrant holiday festivities and crowded attractions.
Spring offers warm temperatures and fewer crowds than winter. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the local culture. Rainfall begins to increase slightly.
Summer is characterized by warmer temperatures and increased humidity. This is the off-peak season, so expect lower prices and fewer tourists. However, it is also the start of hurricane season.
Fall sees warm weather with higher chances of rain and storms as it continues into hurricane season. This period is less crowded, and travelers can find great deals, but caution is advised due to weather unpredictability.
Road Town at Night
Hiking in Road Town
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque trail that offers stunning views of Brewers Bay and the surrounding landscape. The trail is suitable for all skill levels and features a mix of shaded paths and open vistas.
An easy to moderate hike that takes you through beautiful coastal vegetation. The trail culminates in views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a great spot for birdwatching.
The highest point in the British Virgin Islands, this park features several hiking trails through lush tropical forests. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding islands and a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Located on Virgin Gorda, this challenging hike leads to the highest point on the island. Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and islands from the peak.
While known for its unique rock formations and beaches, there are several short hiking paths that can lead to beautiful viewpoints and swimming areas. A great spot for a leisurely hike combined with beach time.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Road Town through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Road Town by plane.
The main airport serving the British Virgin Islands, located on Beef Island, near Road Town.
Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, it serves as a major hub for international flights to and from the Caribbean.
Located in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, it is a key airport serving the U.S. Virgin Islands and nearby Caribbean islands.
The main international airport in Antigua and Barbuda, offering flights to multiple destinations in the Caribbean and beyond.
Located in Barbados, this airport is a major gateway for international flights to the Caribbean.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Road Town, primarily of Caribbean descent.
Includes individuals of European descent and expatriates from various countries.
Includes individuals from Spanish-speaking countries, primarily from the Caribbean and Latin America.
A smaller demographic group, including individuals from East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Individuals of mixed heritage, reflecting the multicultural nature of the community.
The Soul of Road Town
Discover the essence of Road Town through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sailing is a predominant sport in Road Town, given its favorable weather and conditions for both recreational and competitive sailing year-round.
Cricket is a popular sport in the British Virgin Islands, including Road Town, with local leagues and community participation.
Football has a significant following in Road Town, with various local teams and youth programs fostering the sport.
Basketball is widely played in Road Town, with courts available and local tournaments held frequently.
Rugby is growing in popularity in the British Virgin Islands, with Road Town hosting events and teams that compete in regional leagues.
Given its location, water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and paddleboarding are incredibly popular among residents and tourists alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Road Town.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several restaurants, including The Dove and Quito's Gazebo, offer vegetarian-friendly dishes made with local vegetables and legumes.
While less common, some establishments like CocoMaya offer clearly marked vegan dishes, including salads and grain bowls.
Many restaurants in Road Town can accommodate gluten-free diets. Be sure to inquire about substitutions, especially with seafood dishes that often feature rice or vegetables.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Road Town with these cultural adventures.
