With a grand collection of tropical paradises, the Caribbean’s British Virgin Islands can sometimes be overlooked. Over 60 islands make up this cluster of British territory that lies east of Puerto Rico. The intimate proximity of these islands make travelling via a bareboat charter the best way to get the most out of your vacation. But with so many islands to choose from, which ones should you visit first? 

Virgin Gorda

Apart from an awesome name, Virgin Gorda boasts some of the most heavenly sandy beaches in the BVIs. Although known for its obscurity within the Caribbean, the Baths of Virgin Gorda is one of the most coveted tropical national parks. The granite formed from the gradual cooling of magma has surfaced on the beaches after years of erosion. These smooth giants create all kinds of tunnels for swimmers to lounge in while they enjoy the water in the shade of the rocks. If you’re looking for absolute privacy with similar terrain, you can head north to Spring Bay. 

Jost Van Dyke 

JVD is the smallest and most tranquil of the four main BVIs. This island has just 300 residents, 70% of which are younger than 50 and about half the population is under the age of 35. As you can imagine, it’s tourism that keeps this island above water. Although famous for its yacht parties on Halloween and New Year’s Eve, the island really takes pride in showcasing the biodiversity found in the clear Caribbean water. While you’re visiting, you need to head to the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar, famous for inventing the widely popular cocktail, the Painkiller. 

Photo: Soggy Dollar Bar

Tortola

Tortola is the biggest of the BVIs in terms of surface area (21 square miles) and population (23,908). The northern coast of the island has some of the most popular beaches in the BVIs. The range of beaches and number of residents make for a lively marine activity economy where sailing, surfing, scuba diving, kite boarding, and windsurfing are all offered. Tortola was once home of the infamous Blackbeard and Captain Kidd. These pirates were strong enough to fend off multiple attempts to take the island by the Spanish fleet. 

Anegada

Unlike its sisters, Anegada is a perfectly flat island with no altitude. The island without hills is the second largest island in the BVIs but only has 285 residents. It’s not uncommon for tourists to outnumber residents on this island. Anegada’s major appeal lies in its fly fishing market. If scuba diving is your thing, there are over 300 shipwrecks to explore during your time on the island. Anegada is the northern-most island of the cluster and as so feels like you’re completely isolated from the rest of the BVIs. 

Wikimedia Commons: Walker Mangum

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