With their crystal clear waters, stunning beaches, and lush green peaks, the British Virgin Islands are the ideal tropical destination. This gorgeous Caribbean paradise boasts a spectacular array of resorts perfect for luxurious yet laidback island getaways. This guide covers some of the premier resorts to book for your dream vacation in the BVI.
The British Virgin Islands consist of around 60 islands and cays located east of Puerto Rico. Tortola is the largest and busiest island, while Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada are less developed with more secluded resorts. You’ll also find top BVI resorts on Peter, Norman, and Cooper Island.
Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina
Situated on its own private island, this resort offers stunning ocean views, luxury accommodations, and fantastic amenities. The scenic rooms, suites, and villas feature whitewashed walls and vibrant décor. Onsite activities range from world-class diving to the renowned Ixora Spa. With two silky beaches, infinity pool, and great dining, Scrub Island Resort pampers guests in paradise.
Website: www.scrubisland.com
Guana Island Resort
Surrounded by orchids and towering palm trees, this exclusive all-inclusive resort spans an entire private island. The 20 individual cottages with wrap-around terraces provide an intimate feel. Spend sunny days snorkeling vibrant reefs or lazing on the pristine white sand beach. Guana Island’s exceptional dining and attentive service create a luxury escape unlike any other.
Website: www.guana.com
Rosewood Little Dix Bay
Stunning Little Dix Bay offers laidback luxury on Virgin Gorda. Nestled on the beachfront, Rosewood’s pavilions and villas feature British Colonial décor and private pools. The acclaimed Sense spa, watersports, tennis courts, and palm-lined trails make Rosewood Little Dix Bay a sublime Caribbean refuge. The resort’s five restaurants serve delectable farm-to-table cuisine.
Website: www.rosewoodhotels.com
Mango Bay Resort
Mango Bay Resort sits oceanfront along the best beach in the heart of Tortola. This family-owned boutique resort exudes barefoot elegance with its whitewashed cottages and plantation-style suites. Guests laud Mango Bay’s tranquility and charm. Onsite amenities include the waterfront restaurant, infinity pool, free kayaks, and gear rentals.
Website: www.mangobayresort.com
The Heritage Inn
Historic buildings become charming lodgings at this small seaside inn on Tortola. Nestled on the white sands of Pasea Estate, each room has unique décor like hardwood floors, four-poster mahogany beds, and artisan tilework. Guests enjoy complimentary use of kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear along with free Wi-Fi.
Website: heritageinn.net
Bitter End Yacht Club
This all-inclusive resort on Virgin Gorda offers a premier sailing and watersports mecca. Stay in tropical hillside cottages or luxury villas. Dine at four restaurants, lounge on three beaches, and enjoy a full-service marina. With top-notch instruction and equipment, Bitter End Yacht Club enthralls sailors, divers, and adventurers.
Website: beyc.com
Sebastian’s on the Beach
Fun and affordable, Sebastian’s on Tortola’s Apple Bay Beach has Creole-style cottages with modern conveniences. Guests highlight the tasty West Indian cuisine at the beachfront restaurant. Sebastian’s convenient location and family hospitality make this a perfect launching point to explore Tortola’s beaches and culture.
The options span intimate inns, full-service luxury resorts, all-inclusive properties, and exclusive private island getaways. Identify your priorities like amenities, ambiance, cost, location or room style to pick the best BVI resort for your Caribbean escape. By booking a stay at one of these highly-rated properties, you’ll enjoy sunshine, sea views, and island bliss.
Website: sebastiansbvi.com
When to Visit the BVI
The British Virgin Islands enjoy beautiful weather year-round though some months are better than others:
- December to April is the peak season with more visitors but ideal dry weather and temperatures in the 80s. Rates are higher.
- May to November sees fewer tourists, lower hotel prices, and slightly increased rain chances. Hurricanes are rare late summer into fall.
- Traveling in shoulder seasons of spring and fall provides a balance of good weather and smaller crowds.
Popular Activities at BVI Resorts
Resorts offer fantastic amenities for enjoying the islands’ natural beauty:
- Snorkeling and scuba diving – Explore colorful coral reefs and wrecks with onsite dive shops.
- Boating and yachting – Resorts have sailboats, catamarans, kayaks, and paddleboards available.
- Fishing – Deep sea fishing charters catch mahi-mahi, wahoo, marlin, and tuna.
- Hiking – Follow scenic nature trails through the islands’ peaks and coasts. Guided hikes are available.
- Spas – Luxury resorts like Scrub Island and Little Dix Bay have renowned spas for pampering.
- Duty-free shopping – Find deals on jewelry, liquor, cigars, clothing, and souvenirs.
Tips for Booking BVI Resorts
Use these tips when researching and booking a resort vacation:
- Book 4-6 months in advance for peak times around the holidays.
- Look for all-inclusive packages for simplicity. Note variations in offerings at each resort.
- Consider rental car needs for exploring beyond your hotel’s beach.
- Read recent reviews and know cancellation/change policies before booking.
- Check whether meal plans or water sports are included or add-on costs.
Getting to the British Virgin Islands
There are a few options for getting to the BVI:
- Many resorts offer ferry service or private boat transfers from nearby hubs like St. Thomas or San Juan.
- Small regional airlines offer flights to the main airports – Terrance B. Lettsome Airport on Tortola or Virgin Gorda Airport.
- Larger carriers fly into St. Thomas, Puerto Rico or Antigua where you can then catch a ferry.
- Private charter planes and helicopters are available as the ultimate luxury arrival.
Family-Friendly BVI Resorts
Many resorts cater nicely to families traveling with children:
- Peter Island Resort & Spa – Kid’s camp, family rooms with bunk beds, children’s menus
- Sugar Mill Hotel – Family suites, kids pool, onsite babysitting services
- Scrub Island Resort – Shallow kids pool, indoor game room, teen spa treatments
- Guana Island – Cottages accommodate families, kid-friendly activities
Look for kids clubs, playgrounds, childcare, shallow pools, family rooms, and organized activities when booking with kids.
Resort Dining Experiences
Resorts offer superb dining showcasing fresh seafood, tropical fruits and local specialties:
- Scrub Island Resort – Prime steakhouse, oceanfront sushi, Caribbean restaurant
- Rosewood Little Dix Bay – Farm-to-table fine dining, beachfront seafood grill
- Sebastian’s on the Beach – Casual open-air restaurant right on the sand
- Biras Creek – Hilltop restaurant with panoramic views and open-air dining
Romantic BVI Resorts
For a romantic island getaway, consider:
- Bitter End Yacht Club – Couples massages, candlelit dinners on the beach
- Sandcastle Hotel – Quiet boutique resort, sunset sailing trips
- Little Thatch Island – Secluded overwater bungalows with glass floors
Conclusion
With swaying palms, glowing sunsets, and glittering sands, the British Virgin Islands create the ideal backdrop for an island getaway. This Caribbean paradise is home to world-class resorts ranging from boutique inns to lavish all-inclusive properties. Whether you seek luxury amenities, seclusion, water sports, or family fun, the BVI offers many excellent accommodations sure to make your vacation dreams come true. Just pick an island vibe and beach scene that suits you and start relaxing in paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most luxurious resorts in the BVI?
Some of the top luxury options are Rosewood Little Dix Bay, Biras Creek Resort, Bitter End Yacht Club, and Oil Nut Bay Resort.
Which BVI resorts are best for families?
Great family options include Scrub Island Resort, Sugar Mill Hotel, Guana Island, and Peter Island Resort & Spa.
What is the difference in high vs. low season in the BVI?
High season from December to April has ideal weather but higher rates and more crowds. Low season has fewer tourists, lower prices, and some increased rain.
What activities are popular at BVI resorts? Snorkeling, sailing, hiking, spa treatments, sport fishing, and diving are all popular activities.
What is the easiest way to get to the British Virgin Islands?
Many resorts offer ferry service from nearby islands. You can also fly into the BVI airports or take a ferry from larger hubs.
