Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Katie Snorkeling, Long Bay Beef Island Tortola

Exploring the Best of Tortola: A Guide to the Island’s Top Attractions, Culture, Food, and Activities

Tortola, the largest island in the British Virgin Islands, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to explore a paradise with a rich cultural heritage. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the island’s top attractions and landmarks, explore its unique culture and cuisine, and recommend some must-try activities.

Attractions and Landmarks:

Cane Garden Bay: Cane Garden Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Tortola, known for its turquoise waters, golden sand, and stunning views. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports.
Sage Mountain National Park: Sage Mountain National Park is a protected area that offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s lush vegetation and scenic views. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Road Town: Road Town is the capital of the British Virgin Islands and is known for its colonial architecture, shopping, and local markets. Visitors can explore the city’s historic streets, taste local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs.
Virgin Islands Folk Museum: The Virgin Islands Folk Museum is a cultural landmark that offers visitors a chance to learn about the island’s rich cultural heritage. The museum features exhibits on the island’s history, traditions, and art.

Culture and Food:

Tortola has a unique culture that reflects its colonial past, African heritage, and Caribbean influences. The island’s cuisine is a blend of local and international flavors, featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local spices.

Local Cuisine: Tortola is known for its fresh seafood, including conch, lobster, and fish. Other popular dishes include fungi (a local cornmeal dish), roti (a flatbread stuffed with meat or vegetables), and Johnny cake (a sweet or savory fried bread).
Music and Dance: Music and dance are an important part of Tortola’s culture. The most popular musical styles include reggae, calypso, and soca. The traditional dance styles include the quadrille and the maypole dance.

Beaches, Scuba Diving, and Snorkeling:

Smuggler’s Cove: Smuggler’s Cove is a secluded beach that offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind. The beach is known for its clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views.
The Indians: The Indians is a group of four rocky islands that offer some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the British Virgin Islands. The underwater world is teeming with colorful fish, coral reefs, and marine life.
Brewers Bay: Brewers Bay is a beautiful beach that is popular with locals and visitors alike. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying water sports.

Architecture and Things to Do:

Fort Burt: Fort Burt is a historic landmark that dates back to the 17th century. It is a great spot for exploring the island’s colonial history and taking in breathtaking views of the sea and landscape.
J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens: J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens is a peaceful oasis that features a variety of plants, flowers, and trees from around the world. The gardens offer visitors a chance to relax and enjoy nature.
Callwood Rum Distillery: The Callwood Rum Distillery is a historic landmark that dates back to the 18th century. Visitors can learn about the island’s rum-making tradition and taste some of the best rum in the Caribbean.

Conclusion

Tortola is a hidden gem in the British Virgin Islands that offers visitors a chance to explore a paradise with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and exciting activities. From its stunning landmarks and cultural attractions to its unique cuisine and picturesque beaches, Tortola has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Tortola is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of the Caribbean.

Sights

Top ten sights in Tortola

Cane Garden Bay – This beautiful beach is one of the most popular spots in Tortola, with crystal-clear water, soft sand, and stunning views. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the local restaurants and bars.
Sage Mountain National Park – This protected area covers much of the center of Tortola and is home to the highest point in the British Virgin Islands. Visitors can hike the trails, explore the rainforest, and enjoy the breathtaking views from the mountain’s summit.
The Baths – These unique rock formations are a must-see attraction in the British Virgin Islands. Visitors can explore the winding paths and hidden pools carved out of the granite boulders, and snorkel in the clear waters.
Jost Van Dyke – This small island is a popular destination for boaters, with its pristine beaches, local bars, and laid-back vibe. Visitors can also hike to the island’s highest point for stunning views of the surrounding sea.
Smuggler’s Cove – This secluded beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also explore the nearby ruins of an old sugar plantation.
Mount Healthy National Park – This protected area covers the northeast coast of Tortola and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including sea turtles and exotic birds. Visitors can hike the trails and enjoy the stunning views of the sea.
Road Town – This bustling town is the capital of Tortola and is known for its historic sites, shopping, and dining. Visitors can stroll the streets, visit local museums, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Bomba’s Shack – This iconic beach bar is known for its lively parties and rustic charm. Visitors can enjoy live music, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Virgin Gorda – This neighboring island is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and unique rock formations. Visitors can also explore the island’s historic copper mines and quaint fishing villages.
Anegada – This remote island is a great destination for travelers looking to get off the beaten path. Visitors can enjoy the island’s unspoiled beaches, snorkel in the clear waters, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.

Restaurants

Top ten restaurants in Tortola

Pusser’s Landing – Located on the waterfront in Road Town, Pusser’s Landing offers a taste of the Caribbean with classic dishes like conch fritters, jerk chicken, and fresh seafood. Prices range from $10-$30 per dish.
D’Coal Pot – This family-run restaurant in Cane Garden Bay serves up delicious Caribbean fare with a focus on fresh seafood. The menu changes daily based on what’s available at the local markets, but highlights include the coconut shrimp and the grilled lobster. Prices range from $10-$35 per dish.
The Dove – A cozy and intimate restaurant in Road Town, The Dove offers a mix of Caribbean and international cuisine. The menu changes frequently, but favorites include the lamb shank and the lobster pasta. Prices range from $20-$40 per dish.
Brandywine Estate Restaurant – Set on a hilltop overlooking the ocean in the Belmont Estate, Brandywine offers stunning views and upscale dining. The menu features contemporary Caribbean cuisine with dishes like pan-seared scallops and grilled lamb chops. Prices range from $30-$60 per dish.
Quito’s Gazebo – Located in Cane Garden Bay, Quito’s Gazebo is a colorful open-air restaurant known for its live music and Caribbean cuisine. The menu features local specialties like conch stew, curry goat, and grilled lobster. Prices range from $10-$30 per dish.
The Sugar Mill Restaurant – Set in the beautiful grounds of the Sugar Mill Hotel in Apple Bay, this restaurant offers a romantic and elegant dining experience. The menu features contemporary Caribbean cuisine with dishes like seared yellowfin tuna and slow-cooked lamb shank. Prices range from $30-$60 per dish.
BananaKeet Cafe – Perched on a hilltop in Carrot Bay, BananaKeet offers panoramic views of the ocean and a menu of Caribbean and international dishes. Highlights include the lobster bisque and the sesame-crusted tuna. Prices range from $20-$40 per dish.
Jolly Roger – Located on the beach in West End, Jolly Roger is a casual spot serving up classic Caribbean fare like jerk chicken, grilled fish, and conch fritters. Prices range from $10-$20 per dish.
Myett’s Garden and Grille – Set in a lush tropical garden in Cane Garden Bay, Myett’s offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu of Caribbean and international cuisine. Dishes include seafood linguine and pork tenderloin with mango chutney. Prices range from $20-$40 per dish.
Charlie’s – Located in Sea Cows Bay, Charlie’s is a no-frills restaurant serving up delicious local dishes like curried goat, saltfish, and johnny cakes. Prices range from $10-$20 per dish.

Entertainment

Top ten distractions in Tortola

BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival (March/April): This annual event is a week-long sailing festival and race, with parties and live music on the shores of Tortola. Location: Nanny Cay.
BVI Emancipation Festival (July/August): This annual event commemorates the abolition of slavery in the British Virgin Islands, with parades, music, and cultural events. Location: Road Town.
Full Moon Parties (Monthly): These monthly parties take place on the night of the full moon, with live music, drinks, and dancing on the beach. Location: Bomba Shack.
Anegada Lobster Festival (November): This annual festival celebrates the island’s famous lobsters, with lobster-themed dishes, music, and entertainment. Location: Anegada.
Foxy’s Wooden Boat Regatta (May): This annual regatta features traditional wooden boats, with races and festivities on the shores of Jost Van Dyke. Location: Foxy’s Tamarind Bar.
BVI Food Fete (November): This month-long culinary event showcases the best of BVI’s food and drink scene, with tastings, workshops, and events. Location: various locations throughout the islands.
BVI Music Fest (May/June): This annual music festival brings together international and local musicians, with performances on the shores of Tortola. Location: Cane Garden Bay.
Virgin Islands Charteryacht League Culinary Competition (November): This annual competition sees yacht chefs compete to create the best dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Location: Yacht Haven Grande.
Virgin Islands Christmas Boat Parade (December): This annual parade sees boats decorated with Christmas lights and decorations sail through the waters of Tortola. Location: various locations throughout the islands.
Festival Del Mar (April): This annual event celebrates the sea and fishing culture of the British Virgin Islands, with seafood, music, and entertainment. Location: East End.