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The British Virgin Islands (BVIs) feel a bit elusive, but once you arrive you realize that you’ve discovered a super laid-back destination that offers just enough adventure to keep you coming back for more. Everywhere you look, you see another island beckoning you to visit, sparking an adventurous spirit.
The BVIs are known for their turquoise waters, quiet beaches, and lush lanscapes. There are four main islands—Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada—and many smaller cays to explore. A boat charter is the classic way to experience the BVIs for easy access to the hard to reach coves, but inter-island ferries make island hopping a great option too.
Each island has its own unqiue vibe. Tortola, the largest of the BVIS, is the hub, home to the international airport and the departure point for most charters, and a popular stop for yachters. Virgin Gorda is known for the iconic Baths; Jost Van Dyke for its legendary beach bars; and Anegada (a coral island) for its flat landscape, stunning beach, and incredible snorkeling. And we haven’t even scratched the surface to explore the smaller islands and private resorts.
The BVIs offer a mix of laid-back luxury and natural beauty. Unlike more bustling islands, the BVIs are all about uncrowded beaches, intimate boutique hotels, and exploring by boat. These islands are ideal for families looking to escape the crowds and embrace the slower pace of beach days, snorkeling, and simple outdoor adventures.
My first trip to the BVIs was a solo trip – and I encourage every mom to take one. I spent two days in a tiny boutique hotel on Jost Van Dyke, and it was one of the most comfortable rooms I ever stayed in, steps from one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen. A little bit of extra travel was 100% worth the journey.
My next BVI trip was to Guana Island, a magical private island resort that any traveler who likes a blend of luxury and an edge of rustic adventure should experience at least once. One thing that blew me away about this island chain was just how easy it felt to get around – on paper, island hopping the BVIs appears quite the challenge, but now that I’ve done it, I realize just how accessible it could be with kids. I’m itching to go back.
– Lee, Founder of Mango Tree Travel
The BVIs are famous for island-hopping on charter boats, secluded coves, and laid-back beaches, offering a quiet retreat with beautiful natural attractions like Virgin Gorda’s Baths.
English is the official language, making it easy for families to communicate and navigate across the islands.
The U.S. dollar is widely accepted, adding convenience for American travelers.
There are four main islands in the BVIS with a combined population of around 30,000 – Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, and Anegeda. But there are about 60 islands total, including private island resorts and lots of small islands with character. Overall, the BVIs offer a tranquil, luxurious atmosphere, where outdoor activities and natural beauty take center stage.
Ferries make island-hopping easy – though navigating the ferry schedules and departure/entry points is worth bringing in an expert. Renting a car on larger islands like Tortola or Virgin Gorda is recommended for flexibility. Boats are popular for reaching smaller islands and coves.
From luxury private island resorts to boutique hotels, there’s an island and hotel for every traveler in the BVIs. It’s definitely worth considering staying on a catamaran if your kids are strong ocean swimmers to really explore the islands; and villas are a good option too.
Peak Season: December to April offers the best weather, with warm temperatures and little rain. This is the busiest season, especially during winter holidays, so expect higher prices and make reservations in advance for popular spots.
Shoulder Season: May to mid-August is a great time to visit, with fewer crowds and more affordable rates. The weather is still pleasant, and the beaches are less busy, allowing families to enjoy a quieter experience in the BVIs before the peak and hurricane seasons.
No Go: Fall is the island’s rainy season and things really slow down and close.
Reach the BVIs with direct flights to Tortola’s Beef Island Airport (EIS) from Puerto Rico or Miami, or take a ferry over from St. Thomas / St John in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The British Virgin Islands are a boundlessly beautiful haven for families with an adventurous spirit who love the Caribbean. While I rarely suggest it as a first-time island destination—thanks to the laid-back vibe and unrushed ferry schedules—the BVIs are hard to beat once you’re ready.
You could spend dozens of hours researching your trip. Or you could have a family travel expert curate your personalized itinerary. What’s stopping you?
*Please note that some of the suggested actives are affiliate links. We only recommend activities that we know and trust.
* Please note that some of these product links are affiliate links, but we only recommend products we would use on our own travels.
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