Whatever type of Caribbean vacation you’re planning — relaxed, energized, or adventurous — there’s so much to see in the BVI. With its uniquely diverse selection of land and sea activities, the British Virgin Islands offer something for everyone and has many hidden treasures.
Here are our top five little-known spots and luxurious places to visit for the more discerning traveler:
1. Explore the Baths National Park, Virgin Gorda
One of the most famous landmarks in the BVI and a standout attraction, the Virgin Gorda Baths is idyllic for exploring or snorkeling. This exceptional geological formation features massive granite boulders that create a maze of tunnels, caves, and tidal pools.
The Baths also boast beautiful white sandy beaches, hidden rock pools and a natural cave pool called Cathedral Room. Here, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling and stunning views on this boulder-strewn bay that’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in the BVI. This natural wonder can become busy, so aim to visit before breakfast to have it to yourself.
2. Sail & island hop
The BVI is renowned for its incredible sailing opportunities, so renting a sailboat, catamaran or speedboat and exploring the various islands is popular. Set sail, and you can visit iconic spots like Jost Van Dyke, home to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, as well as Norman Island and its renowned “Willy T” floating bar. The calm waters and steady trade winds make the BVI a sailor’s paradise. St. Bernard’s Hill House on Tortola partners with an elite group of captains who can sail you around this stunning archipelago, and if you’d prefer complete peace and tranquility, our Resident Concierge will pack you a sumptuous picnic to enjoy on a deserted island or Sandy Cay.
3. Snorkeling & diving
The clear, turquoise waters of the BVI offer fantastic opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The diversity of marine ecosystems and the warm, calm, clear seas make snorkeling and diving experiences perfect for underwater enthusiasts and beginners.
Crawl along vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, explore underwater caves, and visit shipwrecks like the RMS Rhone. A UK Royal Mail Ship, the RMS Rhone, was wrecked by a hurricane off the coast of Salt Island in 1867. So, if you’re planning a dive while in the BVI, don’t miss the RMS Rhone.
4. Private plane charter to Anegada
For a truly unforgettable day, charter a private plane and visit Anegada. To see the BVI from above is simply breathtaking. Taking off from Tortola, you’ll view private islands like Necker and Moskito from above and in ten minutes, you’ll land on Anegada. The stunning coral and limestone island of Anegada rises to just 28 feet at its highest point and is a nature lover’s oasis.
Along with rock iguanas, wild orchids, lush tropical vegetation, and colorful exotic birds, including flocks of flamingos, there’s also plenty of human history to discover on Anegada — from ancient Arawak conch mounds in the East End to wreckages of numerous Spanish galleons in the surrounding waters. Why not stop off for a freshly caught, barbecued lobster (Anegada’s signature dish) at one of the beach bars?
5. Hiking & mangrove kayaking tours
What are the best places to visit in the BVI if you enjoy hiking and kayaking? If you’re lucky enough to stay at St. Bernard’s Hill House on Tortola, one of the villa’s chosen partners will collect you and take you to the undiscovered south shore of Beef Island.
Here, you will hike up Mount Alma, which takes about an hour, through lush vegetation and gentle boulders until you reach the summit. At approximately 736 ft above sea level, this hike provides one of the best views in the BVI — a breathtaking 360-degree view of uninterrupted ocean and islands from nearby Marina Cay and Scrub Island to St. John to the west.
Once back down, head off on Kayaks through the mangrove reefs to see baby sharks, rays and a multitude of sea and bird life. This tour is like being on a national geographic documentary — a must for all nature lovers.