Why the British Virgin Islands Are the Ultimate Paradise for Island Hopping in the Caribbean

Comprising 60 stunning islands and cays, island hopping in the British Virgin Islands is a breeze. With famously calm waters and favorable trade winds, it’s ideal for everyone from novice sailors to seasoned charter guests. For those without their own boat, many islands are just a short ferry or water taxi ride away. Plus, thanks to a new American Airlines route offering daily nonstop flights from Miami, getting to the BVI has never been easier.

Traveling by boat allows adventurers to discover the wonders of these beautiful islands, including Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke. Whether you crave an exhilarating hike or a peaceful beach day, you can easily hop from dock to dock in pursuit of your perfect getaway (and that famous Painkiller cocktail). Here’s how to maximize your experience in these pristine tropical islands.

Discover the Essence of the BVI on Tortola

Tortola, the capital island, is often the first stop for travelers, providing a wonderful introduction to the culture and natural beauty of the BVI. With prime sailing spots at Soper’s Hole, Brandywine Bay, and Trellis Bay, it’s a perfect starting point. Nanny Cay Marina will be the host for the upcoming BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival from April 1-7, 2024. This prestigious annual racing event attracts 90 yachts from around the globe, known for its thrilling competition and festive atmosphere.

Much of the island’s vibrancy can be found at the famous Cane Garden Bay, celebrated for its clear turquoise waters, perfect for kayaking, surfing, or snorkeling right off the beach. Stay for the lively atmosphere at Quito’s Gazebo, a beachfront restaurant featuring reggae music and mouthwatering cracked conch. Later, delve into Tortola’s history at the family-owned Callwood Rum Distillery, the Caribbean's oldest continuously running pot distillery, established over 400 years ago. Adventurers can also explore the trails of Sage Mountain National Park, home to the highest peak in both the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, or venture offshore to the North and South Drops for exceptional game fishing.

Where to Stay: For those arriving by boat, Nanny Cay Resort & Marina boasts one of the best locations in the BVI. If you’re looking for seclusion, consider the peaceful retreat of Nora Hazel Point, a chic estate situated on the island’s quieter side. Along Tortola’s picturesque northern coast, Long Bay Beach Resort provides beachside massages and has recently unveiled renovated tennis and pickleball courts.

Immerse Yourself in the Stunning Natural Beauty of Virgin Gorda

Regarded as one of the Caribbean's most stunning islands, Virgin Gorda is filled with pristine beaches, nature reserves, and crystal-clear waters. Its crown jewel is undoubtedly The Baths National Park, where massive granite boulders (some towering up to 40 feet) create a labyrinth of rock pools, grottos, and tunnels. Take a short hike down the trail through the Baths to reach the beautiful Devil’s Bay National Park, ideal for swimming and snorkeling on the serene, horseshoe-shaped beach. After a day of exploration, treat yourself to a refreshing Painkiller cocktail at Top of the Baths, a restaurant with sweeping views of the BVI.

Just a quick boat ride from some of the region's most renowned dive spots, including the famous RMS Rhone—a top wreck dive in the Caribbean—Virgin Gorda serves as an ideal base for scuba adventures with leading operators like Dive BVI and Sunchaser Scuba. Dive into more of the BVI’s underwater wonders during BVI Wreck Week from June 16–22, 2024.

Visitors can choose from a variety of resorts on Virgin Gorda and its nearby cays. Experience the sustainable luxury of Rosewood Little Dix Bay, or stay at Saba Rock Resort, located in the heart of the “North Sound Playground” popular with divers, kiteboarders, and sailors. Close by, Bitter End Yacht Club provides a full range of watersports and is home to the North Sound’s oldest bar. For those who prefer air travel, Oil Nut Bay has recently approved a heliport (exclusive to homeowners and guests) facilitating direct flights and day trips to St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, St. Barths, St. Maarten, Anguilla, and more.

Embrace Your Adventurous Side on Anegada

Anegada is renowned for the Anegada Horseshoe Reef, which protects this low-lying coral island, spanning roughly 133 km.

When you’re not diving or snorkeling among shipwrecks and vibrant reef fish, explore the iconic Conch Mounds—towering hills of empty shells created by the Arawak people thousands of years ago. Other exciting activities include learning to kitesurf with Tommy Gaunt, horseback riding with Francis Family Farms, and observing the beautiful flamingos at the Anegada Salt Ponds.

Conclude your day with a sunset walk on Cow Wreck Beach, where you can stroll for miles without encountering another soul. The water is only waist-deep, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing dip and relaxing on the sand. For dinner, indulge in fresh lobster at Sid’s Pomato Point or prepare your own catch; Anegada is known for some of the finest fishing in the BVI. If you’re there from November 24–26, 2023, don’t miss the 11th annual Anegada Lobster Festival.

Experience glamping in the beachfront palapa retreats at Anegada Beach Club, or reserve a stay at Ann’s Guest Houses with views of Cow Wreck Beach. Four Diamonds Park Villas offers luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views and overlooks the saltwater Flamingo Ponds.

Escape to Jost Van Dyke

Though small in size, Jost Van Dyke is rich in experiences across its lush three square miles. You won’t find more picturesque oceanside dining in the BVI, especially on White Bay Beach, a beautiful stretch of soft white sand featuring renowned bars. Notably, White Bay is home to Soggy Dollar, the birthplace of the famous Painkiller cocktail, where visitors often swim from their boats, leaving their dollars soggy when it’s time to pay for drinks.

Afterward, savor a meal of conch fritters or chicken roti at Hendo’s Hideout. Foxy’s, a beloved establishment on Jost Van Dyke famous for its BBQ and annual New Year’s Eve , is the perfect place to enjoy fresh Mahi-Mahi and BBQ ribs before dancing the night away to live music.

Take a moment to sail along the enchanting, rugged coastline of Jost Van Dyke, keeping an eye out for playful bottlenose dolphins and other marine creatures. Before you depart, make sure to visit Sandy Cay, a 14-acre nature reserve previously owned by Laurence S. Rockefeller, which serves as a vital nesting ground for endangered sea turtles and birds like the bridled tern.

Nestled on one of the Caribbean’s finest beaches, The Hideout in White Bay is Jost Van Dyke’s first luxury boutique resort. Groups can book Glass House BVI, an off-the-grid villa accommodating 12 guests. For those eager to continue the festivities, check into the island’s newest lodging, Sandcastle Hotel, located right at the famous Soggy Dollar. Anegada is home to the Anegada Horseshoe Reef, which protects the low-lying coral island, covering approximately 133 km.