Discover Tortola: Beaches, Sailing and Island Culture
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Description
Caressed by steady breezes and turquoise waters, Road Town is often referred to as the sailing capital of the Caribbean. The British Virgin Islands, with the major isles being Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke and Anegada, make for some spectacular island hopping even if you are not here to set your sail. Initially settled by the Arawak, the islands were re-explored and given their modern name by Christopher Columbus. What we call British and U.S. Virgin Islands today were then the subject of numerous claims by different European powers including the English, the Danish and the Dutch. By the 17th century, the English had taken control of islands like Tortola, Anegada and Virgin Gorda, and introduced sugar cane and with it slavery in the area. In the 1960s, the British Virgin Islands became an autonomous British Overseas Territory and began turning their head away from agriculture and towards tourism, with busy Road Town in Tortola as the centre of it all. After its recovery from Hurricane Irma in 2017, Road Town continues to be not only a haven for charter boats but also a stepping stone to exploring the plenty of cays and coves of the archipelago.
Useful information
31,122 (British Virgin Islands, 2021)
US dollar $1 = 100 cents
911 or 311
Business hours usually start between 8 am and 9 am, and end between 5 pm and 6 pm Monday through Saturday.
Do & See
Restaurants
Shopping
Tourist Information
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit Tortola is between December and April, when the weather is pleasantly warm and dry. This period is considered the high season, with plenty of sunshine and ideal conditions for beach activities and sailing. Travelers should be aware that this is also the busiest time, so booking accommodations and activities in advance is recommended.
A stay of 3 to 5 days is ideal to explore Tortola. This allows you to enjoy its beautiful beaches, such as Cane Garden Bay and Smuggler's Cove, explore the capital, Road Town, and take day trips to nearby islands. With this timeframe, you can also indulge in water sports, hiking, and local dining experiences.
Tortola offers several must-see attractions including: - Sage Mountain National Park: A great spot for hiking with panoramic views. - The Callwood Rum Distillery: One of the Caribbean's oldest distilleries. - Smuggler's Cove: A secluded beach perfect for relaxing and snorkeling. - Road Town: The island's capital, where you can explore local shops and restaurants.
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Tortola, as it allows you flexibility to visit various beaches and attractions at your own pace. Alternatively, taxis are available, but they can be expensive. For short distances, consider using the local safari buses, which are an affordable option for getting around the island.
While in Tortola, don't miss trying local dishes such as: - Fish and Fungi: A traditional dish made with cornmeal and okra. - Roti: A Caribbean flatbread filled with curried meats or vegetables. - Johnny Cakes: Fried dough often served as a side. - Fresh seafood: Enjoy the catch of the day at local eateries.
One of the most vibrant events in Tortola is the BVI Emancipation Festival, held in late July to early August. This festival celebrates the island's liberation from slavery with parades, music, dancing, and cultural performances. Another event is the BVI Spring Regatta, a major sailing event held in March or April, attracting sailors from around the world.
From Tortola, consider these day trips: - Jost Van Dyke: Known for its beautiful beaches and lively beach bars. - Virgin Gorda: Famous for The Baths, a stunning natural attraction with giant granite boulders. - Anegada: Offers pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities. - Norman Island: Believed to be the inspiration for 'Treasure Island,' great for snorkeling and exploring sea caves.
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