Picture-perfect beaches and laid-back resorts.
It’s no wonder that so many American travelers want to spend their summer vacations relaxing in the Caribbean.
And if you’re hoping to follow the crowds to your own patch of turquoise paradise, then there’s a new hot spot in town.
The British Virgin Islands are exploding in popularity. Visitors to the islands so far this year have already increased by a remarkable 17.2%, according to the British Virgin Islands Tourism Authorities.
Here’s why the British Virgin Islands are booming right now:
Attractive To American Travelers
Small island towns, historic hidden gems, sugar white beaches and secluded coves, a safe and welcoming atmosphere… the reasons to visit the British Virgin Islands are near endless.
But one huge attraction of the islands for American travelers is a little simpler than that: The lack of a language barrier.
The primary language spoken in the BVIs is English which is a national and official language. While Creole and Spanish are also spoken here, you’ll find that the vast majority of people you encounter are native English speakers.
This will make getting to know people as you travel (or, in my case, ordering something delicious in a restaurant) so much easier than in many other Caribbean and overseas destinations.
Easy To Access
One reason the British Virgin Islands are growing in popularity with American travelers is that they are easier to access than ever before.
Last summer, the first non-stop flights from the mainland of the U.S. to the British Virgin Islands were introduced.
American Airlines now offers nonstop flight service from Miami to Beef Island, Tortola, making it much easier for U.S. travelers to visit the destination.
This flight has just a 3-hour flight time. Traveling from September 2 – 10 a round-trip flight would cost $501 per adult passenger (price correct at time of checking).
Alternatively, you could choose a connecting flight, which tends to have longer flight times (ranging from between 5 and 7 hours on average) with prices starting from $440.
Abundant Activities
The British Virgin Islands are best known as a yachting destination, but if you’re not interested in boating, then don’t worry. You’ll find so many other things to do here!
For hiking, biking, or just for immersing yourself in beautiful nature, visit the rainforest-filled Sage Mountain National Park.
For something unique, visit The Baths, a labyrinth of beachside boulders.
The Baths National Park located in Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands is a genuinely spectacular attraction and one not to be missed.
Visitor fees to this National Park cost $3 per adult and $2 per child and opening hours are 9 am to 4 pm.
But this small fee is well worth it to explore the massive granite boulders which are as large as 40 feet in diameter.
These are fringed by white sand beaches and create secret rock pools perfect for bathing (hence the name of the park!).
A Popular Spot For Cruise Passengers
The British Virgin Islands has also soared in popularity with cruise ship passengers in 2024.
The islands saw a 16.2% increase in cruise ship passengers compared to the same period last year.
Cruising is a great option if you want to see several different Caribbean islands in a relatively short period of time.
Most cruise ships calling at the British Virgin Islands will dock at Tortola Dock, and from here, you can walk to Road Town and visit most of its sights on foot.
This is an incredibly easy and convenient option but also fascinating.
Road Town has plenty of choices when it comes to restaurants and souvenir shopping, and you could also pick up a food tour here or pay a visit to the H.M. Prison Museum.
Tortola is the largest of the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean and it boasts several beautiful beaches if you want to travel a little further afield.
Cane Garden Bay is considered the very best beach in Tortola, so if you only have time to visit one, it should be this one!
You’ll find plenty of watersport options and all the amenities you need here.
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