The British Virgin Islands feature over 60 islands to choose from, many that are secluded and uninhabited. There is much to explore when you are equipped with your passport. There are many unique landscapes that cannot be seen anywhere else. One of the most popular BVI destinations is The Baths on Virgin Gorda. Please note that customs fees will apply for any trip to the BVI. See our FAQs for more information.
VIRGIN GORDA
The third largest island in the BVIs, Virgin Gorda means “Fat or Pregnant Virgin,” so named by Columbus for its shape as seen on the sea’s horizon. Of volcanic origin, Virgin Gorda has a mountainous center, the location of Gorda Peak National Park, that connects three very different worlds: the waterworld North Sound, its secluded Beach Coast and the boulder-strewn plains of The Baths and the Valley–Virgin Gorda’s main habitation. Spanish Town is the largest city on the island. The North Sound features Saba Rock Resort and the Bitter End Yacht Club: both destination resorts with all the amenities. The Baths are one of the Caribbean’s natural wonders, great for snorkeling and hiking. There is even a snack bar with food and drink. Virgin Gorda is a 1.25 to 1.5 hour trip each way from Cruz Bay, St. John depending on sea conditions.
TORTOLA
Tortola is the largest and most densely populated of the British Virgin Islands. Local tradition recounts Christopher Colombus naming the island Tortola meaning “Land of the Turtle Dove.” The Dutch later settled the island and called it Ter Tholen, after an island off the west coast of the Netherlands. When the British took over, they altered the name to its present-day Tortola. Tortola is very mountainous and is 13.5 miles long and 3 miles wide. The largest town in the BVIs, Road Town, is located on the south side of Tortola as is Nanny Cay, the largest marina. The north shore is lined with beautiful beaches and coves that offer easy access for boaters and snorkelers. Several marinas (Nanny Cay, Marina Cay, Road Harbor) also call Tortola home.
NORMAN ISLAND
Norman island is said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel Treasure Island. The island has no permanent inhabitants but there is a restaurant and bar named Pirates Bar and Grill in addition to the old barge named William Thornton (popularly known as Willie T’s), which is a bar and a restaurant. Both are located in “The Bight.” The Indians and The Caves (for snorkeling) are also located at Norman Island.
COOPER ISLAND
A tropical island out of a Hollywood script, mostly uninhabited Cooper Island is surrounded by coral reefs and dive sites. The vegetation on Cooper Island includes coconut palms, bougainvilla, frangipani, lime trees, hibiscus, oleander, tamarind, yucca, orchids and cactus. The Cooper Island Beach Club offers cottages, a boutique, and restaurant in a beautiful setting. Open for lunch during the season from 11:30am-2:30pm.
