Things To Do
in Road Town
Road Town is the capital of the British Virgin Islands, located on Tortola, the largest island of the territory. It serves as the main administrative and commercial center, boasting a vibrant harbor that is popular with yacht enthusiasts and tourists. The town is characterized by its colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and a lively waterfront filled with shops, restaurants, and markets.
Additionally, Road Town offers easy access to beautiful beaches and the scenic landscape of Tortola, making it a gateway for exploring the surrounding islands.
- "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 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to Cane Garden Bay. Spend the morning soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
Enjoy a lunch at one of the beachside restaurants serving fresh seafood. Afterward, continue to relax on the beach or engage in water sports like snorkeling.
Watch the sunset from the beach, then head to a nearby bar for some live music and tropical cocktails.
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before heading out for a hike in Sage Mountain National Park. Explore the lush trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the Virgin Islands.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic lookout point after your hike. Spend some time relaxing and taking photos before heading back to town.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring Caribbean cuisine, and don't miss a chance to sample some local rum.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with picturesque landscapes and beaches.
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local community.
- Good opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities.
- Tax benefits and incentives for businesses.
- Central hub for accessing other islands in the Caribbean.
- Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and service sectors.
- Higher cost of living compared to mainland areas.
- Vulnerability to hurricanes and tropical storms.
- Infrastructure challenges, including transportation and internet connectivity.
- Potential for overcrowding during peak tourist seasons.
Best Activities in Road Town
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush trails of Sage Mountain National Park, featuring panoramic views of the surrounding islands and diverse flora and fauna.
Dive into the clear waters of Cane Garden Bay to discover vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine life, perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
Enjoy a relaxing kayaking adventure in Manchioneel Bay, where you can glide over calm waters and take in the scenic coastal beauty.
Take a day trip to Virgin Gorda to explore The Baths, a natural wonder featuring unique boulders and grottoes leading to stunning beaches.
Join a sailing tour to explore nearby islands and cays, enjoy the sun, and experience the beauty of the Caribbean Sea.
Book a fishing charter to experience deep-sea fishing in the bountiful waters surrounding the Virgin Islands, suitable for all skill levels.
Experience local culture by visiting the Tortola Market, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious Caribbean food.
Tours
Uncover the best of Road Town with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Road Town
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular spot offering panoramic views of Road Town and the surrounding islands, perfect for capturing stunning sunsets.
The highest point in the British Virgin Islands, providing breathtaking views of the islands and lush greenery, ideal for nature photography.
A beautiful beach with clear turquoise waters and a backdrop of lush hills, perfect for beach photography and sunset views.
A secluded point with dramatic rocky cliffs and vistas of the Caribbean Sea, great for capturing the natural beauty of Tortola.
Famous for its unique rock formations and clear waters, providing incredible opportunities for photography of natural landscapes.
A marina and resort area with picturesque views of yachts and the harbor, offering both sunset and maritime photography opportunities.
Known for its stunning surf and expansive beach, this location is perfect for capturing waves, sunsets, and beach life.
Food in Road Town
Road Town Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made of sautéed fish and a cornmeal side called fungi, similar to polenta. Try it at the local waterfront restaurants.
Must-Try!
A Caribbean-style wrap filled with curried meat or vegetables. Look for this dish at street food stalls around Road Town.
Deep-fried fritters made from conch meat, seasoned with spices, and served with a dipping sauce. Often available at local beach bars.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Road Town better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Perfect for sampling street food like BBQ chicken and fresh juices.
A popular street food option, offering a range of dishes from tacos to jerk chicken, located near the ferry terminal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Road Town, it's customary to greet with a warm smile and a handshake. Using local greetings such as 'Good Morning' or 'Good Afternoon' shows respect and appreciation for the local culture.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting places of worship or formal events. Although the environment is casual, it's important to avoid overly revealing clothing to respect local customs.
If invited to someone's home for a meal, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as dessert or a drink. Also, wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating, demonstrating respect for the host's hospitality.
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, Virgin Islands, tipping is customary and appreciated. It is generally expected to tip around 10-20% in restaurants, depending on the quality of service. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or adding a few extra dollars is common. Hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, may also receive tips at the discretion of the guests.
Payment methods in Road Town include cash in US dollars, credit and debit cards, which are widely accepted in most establishments. Travelers should be aware that some smaller businesses may prefer cash. ATMs are available throughout the town for withdrawing cash, and currency exchange services may be found in hotels and banks.
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...
Winter is the peak tourist season in Road Town, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. Visitors can expect pleasant weather with average temperatures around 70-80°F (21-27°C). It's an excellent time for outdoor activities like sailing, diving, and beach lounging. However, accommodations and flights tend to be more expensive and crowded.
Spring offers warm temperatures and less crowded beaches. Expect average temperatures of 75-85°F (24-29°C) and lower prices compared to winter. This is a great time for snorkeling, exploring local culture, and enjoying various festivals. Rainfall increases slightly but is still manageable.
Summer is warmer and more humid, with temperatures averaging 80-90°F (27-32°C). This is considered the low season for tourism, meaning better deals on accommodations. However, be prepared for occasional rain and the possibility of hurricanes, especially in August. It's a good time for water sports but expect a more relaxed atmosphere.
Fall is characterized by warmer temperatures and the peak of hurricane season, making it a riskier time to visit. Average temperatures range from 80-85°F (27-29°C). While some tourism may slow down, rates for hotels and airlines are usually at their lowest. Visitors can expect fewer crowds but should monitor weather forecasts closely.
Road Town at Night
Hiking in Road Town
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail leading through lush rainforest, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the Caribbean Sea.
A moderately challenging trail that provides stunning views of Road Town and the northern coastline of Tortola.
A beautiful coastal trail that winds along Josiah's Bay, featuring stunning ocean views and opportunities for birdwatching.
This trail takes you to the ruins of a historic sugar mill, surrounded by beautiful scenery and diverse vegetation.
A short walk on Bellamy Cay that offers a peaceful environment and the chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Road Town through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Road Town by plane.
The primary international airport serving the British Virgin Islands, located on Beef Island, just a short distance from Road Town.
Located on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, this airport is one of the largest in the region and provides international flights.
Situated in San Juan, Puerto Rico, this is a major hub for international flights to and from the Caribbean.
An alternative for regional international flights serving the British Virgin Islands, located on Beef Island.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Road Town identifies as Black or African American, reflecting the historical and cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands.
A significant portion of the population in Road Town identifies as Hispanic or Latino, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape of the area.
This demographic includes individuals of European descent, which is a smaller percentage of the population in Road Town compared to the other groups.
A notable number of residents identify as mixed race, often having a combination of African, European, and Caribbean ancestry.
This category includes individuals who may identify with other racial or ethnic backgrounds, which includes people from various backgrounds including Asian, Middle Eastern, and Indigenous populations.
The Soul of Road Town
Discover the essence of Road Town through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in the British Virgin Islands, with a strong local following. The sport thrives in schools and communities.
Soccer enjoys a growing popularity in Road Town, with various local leagues and teams participating in regional competitions.
Rugby has a solid presence in the Virgin Islands, with clubs and teams promoting the sport through various competitions and events.
Due to the archipelagic nature of the Virgin Islands, sailing is both a recreational activity and a competitive sport, with numerous events throughout the year.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local leagues, making it a popular sport among the youth in Road Town.
Track and field events are popular in local schools, with students competing in various athletic events during sports days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Road Town.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Road Town offer vegetarian dishes, often featuring fresh vegetables and local legumes.
Though less common, some establishments provide vegan options, especially in health-focused eateries, highlighting fresh local produce.
Certain restaurants can cater to gluten-free diets upon request, with fresh seafood, salads, and grilled dishes typically being safe choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Road Town with these cultural adventures.
