Boasting unmatched tropical tranquillity and glistening oceanic bliss, the British Virgin Islands comprises its own dreamy Caribbean kingdom of unblemished utopia.
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
The boundlessly beautiful British Virgin Islands (BVI) has long been the premier destination of choice for the most active and adventurous travellers.
Alongside this, the BVI simultaneously caters perfectly to the curious and cultured, foodies, fun-seekers, and families.
The endless variety of experiences on offer is nothing short of lifechanging. From spectacular panoramic views high above seaside villages, to flawless white-sand beaches that stretch for miles, to the deep diversity of sea life that exists just below the calm, turquoise waters, the term “something for everyone” seems as if it was coined specifically for this magical archipelago.
Home to a deep range of luxury resorts, spacious villas, spectacular campgrounds, world-class dining and shopping, and cultural events, the BVI is primed and ready to accommodate all.
Since the spirit of the ocean itself is alive in every facet of the location, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy the water – the BVI remains undefeated for the best kiteboarding, surfing, and sailing in the world.
Meanwhile, the bountiful beaches of the BVI are globally legendary for their powder-white sand, jewel-toned waters, and rich diversity of ocean life bustling beneath the surface.
Bask in the sun beneath old-growth palms, take a cool dip in the calm Caribbean Sea, or venture beneath the waves to discover one of the world’s most robust marine ecosystems throughout seemingly endless stunning shoreline.
This picturesque corner of the world has long been renowned for its oceanic tapestry of visual delights.
Whether you’re looking for trophies or tasty meals, dropping your hook here can yield Blackfin and Yellowfin Tuna, Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Mahi-mahi, Sailfish, Wahoo, and a wide array of other enviable catches.
The broader archipelago comprises nearly 60 square miles of landmass crisscrossed with vegetation-lined footpaths. Heading out for a hike here will yield incomparable birdwatching and breathtaking island views.
With countless ways to enjoy the islands just awaiting your discovery, there’s simply no excuse not to take the plunge and dive right into all the BVI has to offer.
Q&A WITH CLIVE MCCOY, DIRECTOR OF TOURISM, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS TOURIST BOARD
We catch up with Clive McCoy, Director of Tourism at the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board, who highlights the BVI’s unapologetic authenticity, underrated culinary scene, and investment in the arts.
Can you talk us through what the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board has been up to since we last spoke in 2024?
Clive McCoy, Director of Tourism (CM): Since 2024, we’ve been extremely busy at the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board (BVITB). As you may know, the BVI government has established a Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development. For the first time, the BVI is drafting legislation and policies dedicated to servicing the tourism industry.
We’ve been working closely with the ministry on a new tourism policy, which is expected to be approved in the coming months, as well as a comprehensive tourism strategy for the territory. These steps demonstrate how vital tourism is to the economy.
We’ve also begun a major rebranding campaign; it has been a long time since the brand was refreshed, and we are now deep into that process. Q3 or Q4 2026, we expect to unveil a full rebrand and a more robust marketing presence.
Alongside those major initiatives, we are continuing our global marketing efforts, participating in key trade shows, and developing new products.
By the end of March or early April, we will open the first virtual reality (VR) museum in the BVI, offering cultural and underwater experiences, as well as hiking tours. We plan to expand this activation so cruise passengers visiting just for the day can virtually explore all the islands.
We have also added an artificial intelligence (AI) assistant to our website, making us one of the first tourism boards in the world to do so. Additionally, last year we held our first film festival, which was very successful, and we plan to host it again this year in Q4.
What is your organisation’s most recent set of priorities and goals that you are aiming to achieve?
CM: One of our primary goals is to return to pre‑COVID-19 pandemic levels of overnight visitor arrivals. Although we’ve seen a strong rebound, we haven’t fully reached those numbers yet for several reasons.
During the last few years, we were still recovering from hurricane damage and didn’t have all our major properties reopened. However, many are now returning, including Peter Island Resort.
Another goal is to ensure hospitality in the BVI is amongst the best in the world. Our team has been working diligently on training throughout the sector so visitors feel genuinely welcomed. People in the BVI are naturally friendly, but we want to reinforce the importance of giving guests the best possible experience.
We are also adjusting internally as the newly formed Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development takes responsibility for product development, whilst the BVITB transitions to focusing solely on marketing. Strengthening our marketing capabilities to meet the territory’s needs is therefore a major priority.
We’re constantly exploring new attraction opportunities as well, particularly within the culinary sector, and we’ll be announcing more about those as the year progresses.
“People in the BVI are naturally friendly, but we want to reinforce the importance of giving guests the best possible experience”
Clive McCoy, Director of Tourism, British Virgin Islands Tourist Board
What helps you keep a fresh perspective when promoting the BVI?
CM: We focus on ensuring our imagery and content remain fresh and showcase the destination in the best possible light. Our marketing team is always exploring new approaches and staying attuned to global trends, especially the increasing desire for authentic cultural experiences.
The BVI is one of the most unapologetically authentic places you can visit, and we work with government and stakeholders to highlight this.
We’re also investing in the arts – including music, dance, and painting – as part of what we call the “orange economy”. In an age when it’s hard to differentiate what’s real online, our commitment is to remain authentically and distinctly BVI.
What are some of the islands’ unique qualities that don’t always get the attention they deserve?
CM: The BVI’s culinary scene is extremely underrated. Everyone knows about our beautiful islands, warm and welcoming people, and world‑class sailing – we’re the sailing capital of the world – but the food here is truly exceptional too.
From street vendors to upscale restaurants, you will not have a bad meal in the BVI; the blend of cultural influences creates unforgettable dishes. We hear other Caribbean countries boast about being culinary capitals, but we quietly know the BVI’s cuisine is second to none.
We promote this through events such as Taste of Virgin Gorda and Jost Lime and Dine, which now allows people staying on Tortola to visit Jost Van Dyke for dinner – something that wasn’t previously possible due to ferry schedules.
Later this year, during Thanksgiving weekend, we’re hosting the Anegada Lobster Festival. If you’ve never had an Anegada lobster, you’ve never really had lobster – it goes straight from the ocean to the grill then onto your plate.
The lobster is incredible, but the official dish of the BVI is fish and fungi – steamed fish served with a cornmeal‑based side that absorbs the juices beautifully. If someone offers you fish and fungi in the BVI, definitely say yes.
“Everyone knows about our beautiful islands, warm and welcoming people, and world‑class sailing – we’re the sailing capital of the world – but the food here is truly exceptional too”
Clive McCoy, Director of Tourism, British Virgin Islands Tourist Board
What challenges is the tourism industry currently facing, and how are you addressing these?
CM: Overtourism is a major concern globally, and we’re very aware of its potential impact here. That’s why we’re developing long‑term policies and a tourism strategy to guide the sector for the next 20 to 30 years; sustainability is essential for us.
We’ve also launched a robust beach policy in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change. It prohibits development too close to the shoreline and addresses issues such as beach capacity to protect both the environment and visitor experience.
Weather pattern changes and climate‑related challenges also pose risks, so we are investing in measures to address issues like sargassum, heat, and hurricanes.
Finally, what are you most proud of in the tourism board’s work?
CM: I’m most proud of how we persevered through the COVID‑19 pandemic. It was an incredibly difficult and demoralising time and, for the first time, we saw what the BVI looked like without visitors.
The emotional and economic impact was profound. Guiding the territory through that period to where we are today, where demand is rising and we’re now discussing the need for more infrastructure, has been remarkable.
We’re deeply grateful to our staff, board of directors, the BVI government, and especially the people of the BVI for standing strong throughout that time.
SAILING IN FOCUS
Whilst the BVI is the perfect place to engage in a wide variety of leisure activities, the archipelago’s lengthy and well-documented tradition of nautical pursuits and sailing culture exists in a class of its own.
The first visitors to the wondrous isles came by sea, and thanks to centuries of warm, consistent trade winds, clear water, and perennial sunshine, the ships have been rolling in to the BVI’s radiant shores ever since.
A culture of sailing is baked into the very DNA of the BVI and the legendary trade winds that made its ports such a vital hub for early global commerce still guide vessels today.
Gentle island breezes make the BVI’s waters easily-navigable throughout the year, and the mild temperatures mean that anytime is a great time to experience the nautical lifestyle.
The island of Tortola is known as the charter yacht capital of the Caribbean and arguably the most famous sailing destination in the world.
Throughout the many islands of the BVI, you’ll discover sheltered harbours, sun-soaked beaches, pirate bars, and jaw-dropping shipwrecks.
Relax and bask in the spectacular scenery, taste the French-Caribbean fusion cuisine, and explore the tiny villages scattered along the shores of the Sir Francis Drake Channel.
Navigating the tranquil tropical waters of the BVI archipelago isn’t just a great way to get from dock to dock during your visit – it’s also a fantastic sightseeing experience certain to create a lifetime of memories for both captain and crew.
OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS
Eat:
FOR LOCAL PRODUCE FUSING DELIGHTFUL FLAVOURS…
FOR THE ULTIMATE DINING EXPERIENCE…
Nestled on the pristine shores of White Bay, Jost Van Dyke, Hendo’s Hideout offers the perfect blend of laid-back island vibes, exceptional dining, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re stopping by for a refreshing cocktail, indulging in fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes, or enjoying special events like Sushi Night and Sunday Brunch, Hendo’s is the ultimate beachfront destination.
Do:
FOR AN ARRAY OF ISLAND TOURS…
One of the best ways to see what the islands have to offer is with a BVI charter.
Embark on an island-hopping adventure through the beautiful waters with Chillout Charters, including the Half-Day Treasure Seeker tour which takes you through a collection of the most stunning spots in the region.
Sleep:
FOR A UNIQUE BOUTIQUE RESORT IN THE HEART OF THE CARIBBEAN…
Cooper Island Beach Club is a family-owned resort on the sandy northwest shore of Cooper Island.
Located within a tranquil setting that offers a peaceful sense of calm and relaxation, the resort is self-sufficient in terms of power and water, priding itself on reducing environmental impact whilst creating a unique, eco-luxe experience for all visitors.
These sustainable tourism practices are incorporated into daily operations without having to sacrifice comfort or modern amenities.
TO SURRENDER TO SECLUSION IN THE HEART OF THE BVI…
Picture-perfect terrain awaits you at the idyllic Peter Island Resort.
The newly renovated and reimagined private-island oasis is truly the height of luxury vacationing, offering the warmth of classic Caribbean hospitality at every turn.
With a vast array of immaculate amenities to experience, guests can spend their precious time soaking up every second of this island paradise.
LANDMARK ATTRACTIONS
The Baths National Park
The Baths National Park is a stunningly beautiful natural rock formation in Virgin Gorda. From large boulders to shallow rock pools, caves, and even a Cathedral Room, there is a wealth of adventure for all ages! Devil’s Bay is just a short hike around the corner and is a great place to relax, swim, or snorkel.
Bubbly Pool
Found on Jost Van Dyke, Bubbly Pool is a naturally occurring tidal pool nestled within the island’s rugged coastline. When the waves from the Atlantic Ocean crash against the rocks, they funnel into the pool, creating a frothy, bubbling effect reminiscent of a natural jacuzzi. This phenomenon is not only visually stunning but also offers a refreshing and exhilarating experience for those who venture into its waters.
Smugglers Cove
The palm-fringed sands of Smugglers Cove are situated on the westernmost end of the largest of the BVI islands, Tortola. At the heart of the Caribbean Sea, the beach looks out onto azure waters and is just 25 minutes from the capital of Road Town. Untouched by humanity, this secluded spot is the very definition of remote relaxation.
GETTING THERE AND AROUND
If you’re arriving by air, numerous connecting airports surrounding the BVI make arrivals and departures an easy part of your travel itinerary and an important part of the experience itself!
However, keep in mind that there are no direct flights from Canada, Europe, or South America to the main airport.
After touching down on Beef Island – which has its own dedicated airport and is the international entrance to the territory – visitors can charter smaller boats or planes to travel to their preferred destination across the BVI.
Encountering the sprawling archipelago by sea makes a breathtaking first impression that’s repeated with every island-hop by ferry, chartered yacht, or sailboat.
As such, if you’re arriving by sea, the key ports of entry are located in Road Town and the West End on Tortola, Great Harbour on Jost Van Dyke, and St. Thomas Bay in Virgin Gorda.
All vessels must clear customs and immigration immediately upon arrival, and a valid passport and boat registration may be required. With the formalities out of the way, you’ll be in great shape to begin charting the incredible seas of the BVI.
Once on land, hiring a car and driving is generally the best way to get around on the larger islands.
On the smaller islands, vehicles are unnecessary as foot trails and goat paths are utilised as the primary mode of transportation.
