The BVI Bucket List: Top 10 Must Do Activities This Season
The British Virgin Islands is alive with adventure, flavour and unforgettable experiences. From September to December, the islands transform into a playground for travellers seeking both relaxation and excitement. Whether you love the ocean, enjoy cultural festivities or want to explore untouched nature, the BVI offers something for everyone. Here are ten activities that belong on your bucket list this season.
Sunset Sailing Adventures
There is no better way to experience the magic of the British Virgin Islands than on a sunset sail. Picture the sun slowly dipping below the horizon while the sky is painted in shades of orange and pink. The islands are known for calm waters and steady breezes, which make sailing smooth and relaxing. Many charters include music, drinks and small bites, so you can toast to a perfect Caribbean evening with friends or loved ones.
Beach Bar Crawls on Jost Van Dyke
Jost Van Dyke has some of the most famous beach bars in the Caribbean. Spend the day hopping from one iconic spot to the next while enjoying the island’s lively spirit. Stop at Foxy’s for its legendary atmosphere, try the world-famous Painkiller cocktail at the Soggy Dollar Bar and enjoy fresh seafood at Corsairs. A beach bar crawl here is more than just a night out. It is a chance to meet locals and travellers alike while soaking in the music and laid-back energy that makes the island unforgettable.
Diving and Snorkelling Highlights
The BVI is home to some of the best dive and snorkel sites in the Caribbean. For snorkellers, The Indians near Norman Island offer crystal clear water with vibrant coral and colourful fish. For divers, the RMS Rhone shipwreck off Salt Island is one of the most celebrated dive sites in the world. Underwater visibility is exceptional during these months, making it a prime season to explore reefs, caves and wrecks that hold centuries of history and natural wonder.
Thrilling Water Sports
Adventurers will love trying activities such as jetskiing, wakeboarding, night kayaking and the increasingly popular flyboarding. These experiences let you see the islands from a new perspective while getting an adrenaline rush. Flyboarding, in particular, makes you feel like you are hovering above the water as jets of water lift you into the air. Local operators around Tortola and Virgin Gorda offer lessons and rentals, so even beginners can take part in the excitement.
ATV Tours on Jost Van Dyke
For those who prefer land-based adventure, ATV tours on Jost Van Dyke are an absolute thrill. These tours take you off the beaten path, winding through rugged terrain and hills that open up to sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. Along the way, you will pass through hidden beaches, local communities and untouched landscapes. It is a chance to see the island in a way that few visitors get to experience while satisfying your inner explorer.
BVI National Parks Exploration
The British Virgin Islands has a network of national parks that showcase the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region. Visit Sage Mountain National Park on Tortola for hiking trails shaded by mahogany trees and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding islands. On Virgin Gorda, The Baths is a world-famous geological wonder where giant granite boulders form caves, tunnels and tide pools that are perfect for swimming and exploring. Each Park reveals a different side of the BVI, from lush forests to dramatic coastlines.
BVI Culture and Tourism Month in November
Every November, the BVI celebrates its culture and heritage through a month of music, dance, food and community events. This is the perfect opportunity to taste traditional dishes, enjoy performances by local musicians and learn about the history that has shaped the islands. From storytelling to culinary showcases, the festival provides an authentic glimpse into the heart of the Virgin Islands and brings people together in celebration.
The BVI Charter Yacht Show in November
Yachting enthusiasts should not miss the Charter Yacht Show in Tortola. This event brings together some of the most luxurious yachts available for charter in the Caribbean. Visitors can meet industry professionals, tour vessels and learn about the latest marine technology. Even if you are not in the market for a yacht, the show is a spectacle that highlights the BVI’s position as a global sailing destination.
Anegada Lobster Festival in November
Food lovers will be in heaven at the Anegada Lobster Festival, a two-day celebration of the island’s most famous delicacy. Local chefs serve lobster prepared in every way imaginable, from grilled and curried to stuffed and stewed. The festival also features live music, beachside parties and the chance to explore Anegada’s stunning beaches. It is both a culinary adventure and a cultural event that draws visitors from across the Caribbean and beyond.
Island Hopping by Ferry or Charter
The British Virgin Islands is made up of more than sixty islands, each with its own charm. Spend a day island hopping to explore beyond the main hubs of Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Ferry services and private charters make it easy to visit Jost Van Dyke for beach bars, Anegada for lobster and endless beaches, and Norman Island for snorkelling. Island hopping allows you to sample the diversity of the BVI in one trip, offering a balance of relaxation, culture and adventure.