British Virgin Islands
Little Dix Bay
After the daring British adventurer who launched an attack against the Spanish from the islands in
1595. The British Virgin Islands are indeed a special place. The climate is almost perfect. Because
of their position within the trade wind belt, the islands have a balmy, subtropical climate.
Temperatures average about 85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night the temperatures drop about ten degrees.
Because of the difference in rainfall, soil and exposure, our islands have a wide variety of vegetation.
There are lush areas where palms and tropical fruit trees thrive, as well as hills spotted with cactus,
loblolly, frangipani and wild tamarind. In the valleys, there are brilliant tropical blooms, including
hibiscus, bougainvillea and flamboyant. Along the seashores, it is not uncommon to see mangrove and
sea grape trees sculpted by the wind. Protection of the natural beauty of the BVI is a prime concern
to residents as well as visitors. It's an effort that extends below the surface of the sea as well.
The Islands Themselves
Tortola, the chain's main island has a population of 14,000-plus. Mountain peaks covered with
frangipani and sage characterize its southern coast, while its northern shores display white sandy
beaches, groves of bananas and mangoes and clusters of palm trees. Sage Mountain National Park
is, at 1,780 feet, the B.V.I.'s highest point. Filled with lush tropical vegetation, the park exhibits many of
the characteristics of a rain forest.
Road Town, located on the southern shore, is the busy capital of the B.V.I., as well as the central
administrative and business centre of the Territory. Here are the shops, banks, administration buildings,
the hospital and Government House. The beautiful 4-acre J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens feature a lush
array of indigenous and exotic plants.
Famous as a hunting ground during the buccaneering days, Beef Island is the site of the BVI's main
airport and is connected to Tortola by the Queen Elizabeth Bridge. Mangroves line the shores beneath
the bridge, and an excellent beach, Long Bay is on the island's northern shore.
Virgin Gorda, with a population of about 2,500, is a favorite stop-over for both yachtsmen and land
lovers. It is linked to the other islands by a small airport and regular ferry services. The northern half is
mountainous with a peak of 1,370 feet, while the southern half is flat and scattered with giant boulders.
The B.V.I.'s most famous natural attraction, The Baths - giant boulders forming a series of spectacular
pools and grottoes - is located here. Virgin Gorda's 20 or so beaches include the beautiful Devil's Bay
(a National Park), Spring Bay and Trunk Bay. There is also an abandoned Copper Mine on the southeast
tip of the island where 19th century stone buildings can still be observed.
Other Islands. A string of small islands stretches from west to east facing Tortola's south coast. The
body of water between these islands and Tortola and Virgin Gorda is Sir Francis Drake Channel.
Beginning at the west, you find Norman Island, which is the reputed setting for Robert Louis
Stevenson's Treasure Island. It is still known for tales of hidden treasure. Treasure Point has three caves
which are good for snorkeling.
Moving east is Peter Island, location of one of the territory's better-known luxury resorts. The island also
offers peaceful anchorages and quiet beaches. Further east lies Salt Island, where, before the days of
refrigeration, salt was harvested from two large ponds for curing local fish and for sale to passing ships.
This is also the site of the famous Wreck of the Rhone Marine Park. Lying east of Salt Island is
Cooper Island, where there is a good swimming beach. A boat jetty, guest houses and restaurant
are also located there.
Many other smaller islands to visit - Dead Chest, Fallen Jerusalem, Ginger Island, Great Camanoe, and
the Dogs - to mention only a few, can be visited by small boats. All of them have their own special
nature. The British Virgin Islands are not a bustling hive of activity. However, there are sea
and sun waiting for you in abundance. You'll also find interesting ruins to investigate, local restaurants
serving West Indian food, shops in which to browse, beautiful scenic drives on mountain tops, pubs to
crawl, island music and dancing and moonlit nights to relish.
Click here to see a map of the British Virgin Islands.
For more general information about the British Virgin Islands (B.V.I.) see the official web site for the
Briitish Virgin Islands Tourist Board Web Site: http://www.bviwelcome.com
