There are so many different locations to explore in the beautiful British Virgin Islands that it’s pretty hard to narrow down what to see and do during a week-long BVI sail. Although we’ve been lucky enough to explore many locations during several sails in the area, we certainly have not completed our entire list. These, however, are just a few interesting BVI hotspots that we think should, at some point, be experienced!
1. A Sunset in Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Cane Garden Bay on the island of Tortola is a pretty, laid back community where we could linger for days.From great music and nightlife to good restaurants, a beautiful beach,a glass studio using recycled glass and a centuries old rum distillery; there is plenty to enjoy. But the one thing you definitely shouldn’t miss is a sunset over the bay – stunning!
2. A Full Moon Party on Tortola or Virgin Gorda
You may have heard of the famous Bomba Shack Full Moon Parties which can be a bit on the wild side, but there are others in the area that are equally as fun and perhaps a bit more family friendly. Trellis Bay on Beef Island has a great celebration, including Mocko Jumbies and sculptures in the water that are set afire, casting a beautiful glow over the water. CocoMaya, an upscale beach front restaurant/bar in Virgin Gorda has begun throwing a full moon party as well.
3. A Shot-Ski and a tattoo at the Willy T, Norman Island
The vibe at the Willy T, a floating restaurant/bar in Pirates Bite on Norman Island can be completely different depending on the time of day you visit. If you‘d like to enjoy a tasty, relaxed lunch and perhaps a jump off the upper level of theboat (not condoned by management), visit during the day. If you’re looking for a party, dinghy over to the Willy T at night to enjoy live music, a Shot-Ski with friends or other revelers and a temporary tattoo – placed by the bartender wherever you feel comfortable. Jumping off the boat at night is frequently done sans clothing.
4. Snorkeling
There are some pretty spectacular snorkeling spots in the BVI and some of our favorite include the Caves at Norman Island, The Indians, the areas around The Dogs and Monkey Point.
5. The Rum Bar at Cooper Island
Although we haven’t enjoyed the food at the Cooper Island Resort yet, we hear it’s fabulous. We have, however, enjoyed some of their rum offerings at the Rum Bar while watching a sunset and we definitely give that a thumbs up!
6. See a Michael Bean show at Leverick Bay
Part musician, part entertainer, pure pirate – Michael Bean entertains guests and sailors alike on Leverick Bay during the BVI high season. Catch one of his shows and enjoy the p”arr”ty!!
7. Explore the Baths
Although this area has been “discovered” and can be quite busy at times, we feel it’s still worth a visit. Huge boulders pepper the beautiful sand creating translucent pools of blue to wade through and explore. Finish the day off with a cold beverage and a view at the Top of the Baths – a bar overlooking Sir Francis Drake Channel.
8. Walk one of the gorgeous beaches on Anegada
Anegada is the northernmost of the British Virgin Islands, located about 15 miles north of Virgin Gorda. The highest point is 28 feet above sea-level. The island is surrounded by reef which makes it tricky to navigate and over the years many boats have been lost in its waters. With its flat topography, Anegada looks completely different than its hilly neighbors, but its beaches are simply phenomenal! Be sure to take the time to walk one of Anegada’s beaches and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you.
9. Relish a lobster dinner on Anegada
After a nice walk on one of its beaches, sit down to enjoy a succulent lobster dinner at one several locations that serves the freshly caught delicacies during lobster season. You will most likely see your dinner arrive on one of the lobster boats as they come to shore to deliver them. Talk about fresh!
10. Do a bar crawl on Jost Van Dyke and be sure to enjoy a Painkiller at the Soggy Dollar
Jost Van Dyke has gotten a reputation as quite the party location! From Foxy’s in Great Harbour to a variety of bars dotting beautiful White Bay, you’ve got a variety of bars – each with its own personality to check out. Be sure to stop at the Soggy Dollar before leaving to try one of their world famous Painkillers!