Destination attractions things to do in british virgin islands

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

If you are looking for a relaxing getaway, beautiful scenery and serenity, then you should consider the British Virgin Islands (BVIs). This group of islands is just 60 miles east of Puerto Rico and is a short ferry ride from the US Virgin Islands. Most airlines no longer make direct flights to the US Virgin Islands or British Virgin Islands so travelers generally make a connection from Puerto Rico. The BVIs are also accessible from the US Virgin Islands by ferry from Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas and from St. Johns Cruz Bay on a less frequent ferry route.

A major draw of the islands is the constant temperature ranging from 75 to 85 degrees year round. This makes watersports and other active pursuits such as hiking ideal. The BVIs are certainly a favorite among yachtsmen and sailors. On the island of Tortola, yacht and sailboat charters are offered either with no staff, or a skipper, full staff and chef if desired. Sailing is a fabulous way to explore the various islands and to really have time to enjoy what each has to offer.

If you are a water lover, the BVIs have a variety of activities for you. Surfing, snorkeling and sunbathing are among the most popular. These islands are geared towards relaxation and exploration. There are several beaches that are appropriate for self-guided snorkel tours or you can sign up for snorkel day tours of the various islands. Day tours usually come complete with instructions, gear and lunch. The benefit of the snorkel tour is letting someone else handle the details so you can focus on snorkeling and relaxing. You also get to see more of the surrounding beauty of the islands.

Scuba divers have long praised what many feel is the most alluring shipwreck in the Caribbean. If you have time, you might be interested in exploring the RMS Rhone. This ship sank in 1867 and has been inviting divers to discover it since. If you are new to the sport or are certified, you can join one of the dive trips that occur regularly from the British Virgin Islands. As on most other Caribbean islands, you sign up for a half day dive complete with instructors. Lessons are available for those who are not yet certified. The Caribbean is a wonderful place to learn to scuba simply because the water is so clear which makes for great visibility. The water is also quite warm compared to other places around the globe, which always makes for an inviting day at sea.

A large natural draw on Tortola is the Sage Mountain National Park. This gorgeous area has been a favorite of hikers and those looking to enjoy the views of surrounding islands. There is a tourist office which has maps which are helpful in navigating this beautiful area. You can sign up for a horseback ride through this national park and maybe stop to enjoy a picnic lunch. Those interested in horseback riding can also sign up for a beach tour at sunset rather than the national park tour. This beautiful ride is not to be missed.

Obviously, beachgoers love the Caribbean and for those seeking peace and quiet, youll have several beaches to choose from. The more popular beaches on Tortola include Cane Garden Bay, Smugglers Cove and Long Bay Beach. Surfing is popular at Apple Bay; while snorkeling is popular everywhere. For the adventurous, try renting a windsurfer or a sunfish at Cane Garden Bay on Tortola.

The Baths at Virgin Gorda, another BVI, are an immensely popular destination. This area boasts a maze of caves and grottoes filled with saltwater. Visitors can swim, snorkel and explore the caves that were formed by giant boulders which are still visible. If you are interested in hiking, there is a trail that leads from The Baths over to Devils Bay National Park. The walk is about 20 minutes through the woods so be sure to wear good shoes. Some other popular beaches on Virgin Gorda include Spring Bay (near The Baths), and Trunk Bay.

Tortola and Virgin Gorda are the 2 most popular of the islands and are where most of the businesses operate from. There are countless other islands that are open for visiting as well. These include Mosquito Island, Jost Van Dyke, Great Thatch Island and Anegada to name a few. One of the lesser known BVIs, Guana Island, offers visitors nature trails as well as very secluded beaches. If it is nightlife and shopping that you seek, then Tortola and Virgin Gorda are better bets.

There are so many beautiful spots, it may be hard to get everywhere throughout the various islands that you want to see. Day tours of one island, or packages that incorporate several islands, are a wonderful way to experience the beauty and wildlife that the British Virgin Islands have to offer. Warm, funny people add to the charm of this secluded area in the Caribbean. Whatever you choose for your visit, youll be sure to enjoy fabulous weather, relaxation and fun.