Discover. Explore. Experience.
BVI Activities
Land and Sea
In the British Virgin Islands (BVI), land activities include thrilling hikes through lush trails and fascinating visits to historic sites. For sea adventures, visitors can dive into vibrant snorkeling and diving spots, and experience the excitement of sailing among the islands' stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Explore some interesting ideas in the sections below.
Land Activities​
Sage Mountain National Park: Hike through lush tropical rainforest to the highest peak in the Virgin Islands. Gorda Peak National Park: Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding islands and ocean. Little Fort National Park: Visit this wildlife sanctuary and former fort site for a peaceful nature walk. For more ideas check out: https://www.alltrails.com/british-virgin-islands
Events and Festivals
The British Virgin Islands host a variety of vibrant festivals and events that celebrate the rich cultural heritage and lively spirit of the islands. The BVI Emancipation Festival, held annually in late July and early August, commemorates the abolition of slavery with colorful parades, music, traditional dances, and cultural displays, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the islands. Another major event is the BVI Spring Regatta, a premier sailing competition held in March or April, attracting sailors and spectators from around the world with thrilling races, beach parties, and live entertainment. Additionally, events like the Lobster Fest on Anegada and the BVI Food Fête showcase the islands' culinary delights, offering visitors a taste of local flavors and hospitality. These festivals and events provide a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture, traditions, and community spirit of the British Virgin Islands.
Shopping and Dining
Enjoy shopping for local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs in towns like Road Town (Tortola) or Spanish Town (Virgin Gorda), and indulge in delicious Caribbean cuisine at various restaurants and beachside cafes.
Historical and Cultural Exploration
Callwood Rum Distillery: Discover the island’s rum-making history at one of the Caribbean’s oldest distilleries Old Government House Museum: Explore artifacts and learn about the British Virgin Islands' history and colonial past. Her Majesty's Prison Museum: Visit this historic site to understand the island’s past penal system. Copper Mine Point: Tour the remnants of a 19th-century copper mine on Virgin Gorda, with stunning coastal views.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding in the British Virgin Islands offers a unique way to explore the islands' natural beauty. Guided tours take riders along scenic trails, through lush landscapes, and along beautiful beaches, providing an unforgettable experience for both beginners and experienced riders alike.
The islands are home to various seabirds such as pelicans, frigatebirds, and terns, which can be seen soaring above the coastlines and nesting on cliffs. Additionally, the waters surrounding the BVI host an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and occasionally whales. These marine animals often delight visitors with their playful behavior and can be observed during boat trips or while snorkeling along the coral reefs.
Wellness and Relaxation
The British Virgin Islands offer an unparalleled spa and wellness experience, blending stunning natural beauty with luxurious facilities. Surrounded by turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and lush greenery, visitors can indulge in diverse treatments from skilled therapists, including massages, facials, and aromatherapy. The serene atmosphere helps reduce stress and rejuvenate both body and mind, while the use of natural, locally sourced ingredients enhances the authenticity of the experience. Whether you seek a romantic getaway or a group retreat, the BVI's world-class spas and holistic wellness offerings ensure a balanced, enriching, and unforgettable vacation.
4x4 Tours
4x4 tours in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offer adventurous journeys across the islands' rugged terrain, providing an exciting way to explore the natural beauty and culture of the region. These tours typically take you off the beaten path to discover hidden beaches, scenic viewpoints, and historic sites that are inaccessible by regular vehicles. It's a thrilling way to experience the islands' diverse landscapes, from lush tropical forests to coastal vistas, while learning about the local history and culture.
Eco Tours
Eco tours in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offer immersive experiences that highlight the islands' natural beauty and conservation efforts. Visitors can explore pristine environments, such as mangrove forests and protected marine areas, while learning about local ecosystems and efforts to preserve biodiversity. These tours often include guided hikes, snorkeling adventures, and visits to key conservation sites, providing opportunities to appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the BVI in sustainable and educational ways.
Sea Activities​
Scuba diving and snorkeling in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offer unparalleled opportunities to explore vibrant coral reefs, underwater caves, and diverse marine life. With crystal-clear waters and an abundance of dive sites, including the famous wreck of the RMS Rhone, the BVI is a haven for underwater enthusiasts of all levels. Snorkelers can enjoy shallow reefs teeming with colorful fish, while scuba divers can venture deeper to encounter sea turtles, rays, and even reef sharks amidst the stunning underwater landscapes of the BVI. Click the picture above to learn much more about Scuba diving in BVI.
Kitesurfing and Wingsurfing
Kitesurfing and wingsurfing are exhilarating water sports gaining popularity in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). Kitesurfing involves using a kite to harness the wind's power while riding on a small board, allowing participants to glide across the water and perform jumps and tricks. Wingsurfing, on the other hand, utilizes a handheld inflatable wing and a board, offering a mix of windsurfing and kiteboarding sensations. Both sports take advantage of the BVI's consistent trade winds and shallow, clear waters, making it an ideal destination for enthusiasts of these exciting activities.
Fishing in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offers a diverse and rewarding experience, from deep sea fishing for marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi in renowned spots like North Drop and South Drop, to inshore fishing for bonefish, tarpon, and snook in the shallow flats and mangroves. Additionally, reef fishing is popular, targeting species such as snapper, grouper, and barracuda. Numerous charters provide full-day or half-day trips, equipped with all necessary gear and experienced guides. Gear can also be rented to fish off your own boat charter. Make sure to have the appropriate permits for those fishing as well as the boat. Click the photo above for more detailed fishing information.
SUP and Kayaking
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offer serene ways to explore the pristine coastlines, hidden coves, and tranquil bays of the islands, providing opportunities for both adventure and relaxation amidst the breathtaking Caribbean scenery.
Surfing
Surfing in the British Virgin Islands offers exhilarating waves and stunning tropical scenery, making it a paradise for surf enthusiasts. The best spots include Apple Bay and Josiah's Bay on Tortola, where consistent swells attract surfers of all levels. With warm waters year-round, it's an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced surfers looking for adventure in a tropical setting.
Snuba
SNUBA in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offers a unique underwater experience, combining the ease of snorkeling with the depth of scuba diving. It's a great option for exploring the vibrant marine life and coral reefs that surround the islands. Tour operators in the BVI offer SNUBA excursions suitable for both beginners and experienced participants.
Sailing and Windsurfing
Sailing in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is a quintessential experience, with its calm turquoise waters and steady trade winds making it a sailor's paradise. Windsurfing enthusiasts can also take advantage of the ideal conditions, gliding across the waves and enjoying the thrill of harnessing the wind against the backdrop of the scenic island archipelago.
Beaches
Here are ten great beaches in the British Virgin Islands: 1. White Bay, Jost Van Dyke: Known for its beautiful white sand, turquoise waters, and lively beach bars like the famous Soggy Dollar Bar. 2. The Baths, Virgin Gorda: Famous for its unique granite boulders, hidden grottos, and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and exploration. 3. Smuggler's Cove, Tortola: A serene, secluded beach with calm, clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. 4. Cane Garden Bay, Tortola: Popular for its picturesque setting, gentle surf, and vibrant beach bars and restaurants. 5. Savannah Bay, Virgin Gorda: Known for its long stretch of white sand, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling conditions. 6. Anegada Beaches: Pristine and less crowded, offering excellent kite surfing, windsurfing, and a tranquil atmosphere. 7. Long Bay, Tortola: A stunning mile-long beach with soft sand and good conditions for swimming and sunbathing. 8. Little Dix Bay, Virgin Gorda: A crescent-shaped beach with luxurious resorts, calm waters, and great snorkeling. 9. Apple Bay, Tortola: Famous for its surfing waves, especially during the winter months, and a laid-back vibe. 10. Josiah's Bay, Tortola: A popular spot for surfers with its consistent waves and scenic surroundings. Each of these beaches offers something unique, from lively social scenes to serene natural beauty, catering to a variety of preferences. Not all are accesible to charter boats.