When you close your eyes and envision paradise, what do you see? Sapphire waters lapping against powdery white beaches? Lush stretches of verdant tropical vegetation stretching to the horizon? Endless warm sunshine giving way to stained-glass sunsets that paint the night sky with brilliant hues? These images aren’t just a dream here. They’re a way of life in the British Virgin Islands — a pristine archipelago of more than 50 discrete isles, comprising a cradle of Caribbean culture that’s unique in all the world. Drop anchor here and experience the magic.
Uncommonly breathtaking, filled with wonder, and yours to discover — the isles that comprise the British Virgin Islands archipelago are the Caribbean’s most treasured jewels. Each is a verdant piece of paradise dotted with endlessly charming points of interest, surrounded by immaculate white beaches and sapphire-toned waters. As you make your way from dock to dock, the unique character of each landing will delight and surprise you while compelling you to explore. Here are some of the most famous isles:
As the archipelago’s largest island, the Capital isle of Tortola is the most likely starting point for your British Virgin Islands adventure. Ancient ruins of historic settlements past coexist side-by-side with oceanside luxury resorts and modern townships here. Some of the most stunning white-sand beaches in the world line the shores of Tortola, inviting romantic strolls and cool dips in the shade of gently swaying palms. Elsewhere, the landscape is characterized by lush mountains, hidden harbors, and sweeping plains. Pay a visit to the 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum, Fort Burt, Mount Healthy Windmill, Callwood's Rum Distillery, J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens, Old Government House Museum and VI Folk Museum to learn about Tortola’s rich past.
Anegada is one of the archipelago’s most unique islands, given its nearly level coral and limestone topography (in contrast to the volcanic origin of most of the region’s other islands). In fact, Anegada only rises 28 feet above sea level at its highest point! The island is also surrounded by striking reefs, underwater caves, tunnel formations and age-old shipwrecks, making it a popular spot for snorkelers and SCUBA divers.
Virgin Gorda is BVI’s third-largest island and was so named by Christopher Columbus — being as he found its shape reminiscent of a reclining woman. The island is regarded as one of the area’s most beautiful, which is high praise given how utterly stunning the archipelago’s isles are in general. Visitors to Virgin Gorda will discover vegetation-lined walking trails, several nature sanctuaries, and a truly awe-inspiring view from Gorda Point.
Although it’s one of BVI’s smallest islands, Jost Van Dyke (named for a Dutch privateer) still encapsulates an abundance of charm and history. Archaeological evidence suggests that Jost Van Dyke was visited by civilizations as diverse as the Arawak tribe, Caribs, Africans, the British, and — naturally — the Dutch. Despite its diminutive stature, Jost Van Dyke’s rich melting-pot history has fostered some of the Caribbean’s best dining, with barbecue, Indian and seafood dominating the menus at the isle’s various beachside eateries. When here, don’t skip visiting Bubbly Pool, a naturally occurring “hot tub”-style swimming hole on the northeast shore.
