General Information:

The second largest island in the BVI, Virgin Gorda means "Fat or Pregnant Virgin," so named by Columbus for its shape as seen on the sea's horizon. Of volcanic origin, Virgin Gorda has a mountainous center, the location of Gorda Peak National Park, that connects three very different worlds: the waterworld North Sound, its secluded Beach Coast and the boulder-strewn plains of The Baths and The Valley, Virgin Gorda's main habitation.

Rockefeller's affection for this area and his previous experience with the building the prestigious Caneel Bay on the small island of St. John, in the US Virgin Islands, led to his development of the Little Dix Bay Resort on Virgin Gorda. Prior to Rockefeller's investment (in the early 1950s), the island had no phones, no power supply, no doctors, no paved roads and no adequate schooling or jobs for the several hundred people who resided on the island.

Virgin Gorda was mined for gold during the 17th century; but, since the gold ran out, not much has happened. Yachtsmen have long known the beaches as soft and white as talcum powder but it took the vision and money of Laurence Rockefeller and his team to breathe new life into Virgin Gorda.

Today there are only around 2000 inhabitants on Virgin Gorda and visitors will find the people friendly and engaging. Visitors will, also, find roads, generators, an airport, a yacht Harbor and a few shops.

The overall feeling on the island, however, remains one of blissfully casual and uncomplicated. Imagine a small, quiet island where primitive roads are shared by cars and cows. Quaint, small, white chapels dot the landscape and little girls in white dresses and gloves wear smiles and eyes of innocence in this place of unforgettable peace.

Beach-blessed Virgin Gorda is, in many eyes, the jewel in the crown of the BVI. A haven of quiet coves and safe anchorages for even novice bareboaters, this island's austere landscape may not fit your vision of a tropical hideaway.

The island is extremely rich with natural treasures.  There is nothing quite like a snorkel among the boulders at The Baths, then a short climb up the bluff to a low-key bar for a piña colada, where you can watch the sails silhouetted against the sunset - and keep an eye out for the elusive green flash (many in the VI claim to see this green flash of light when the setting sun meets the horizon). Relaxed yachtsmen bob peacefully on their boats in the harbor or anchored in the bay just beyond The Baths.

You won't find crowded beaches, large (or even medium sized) resorts, cruise ship day-trippers, shopping centers or crowds of tourists. This is because the people of Virgin Gorda have taken great care to keep things as they have always been - slow. There are no direct flights and a limited number of hotel rooms.

What are these "Baths" being mentioned? Simply, The Baths are the main draw to Virgin Gorda for visitors from around the world. They are massive granite boulders, grottoes, secret passages and hidden saltwater pools illuminated by shafts of light. That helps explain why this stretch of beach at the southern tip of Virgin Gorda is the most memorable mooring in the Virgin Islands. Often referred to as one of the world's most incredible natural wonders, the baths offer a chance to experience something completely different from anything you'll find on other islands. There are numerous "rooms" found within the boulders. Some are easily accessible by simply walking through, while others require a climb (in some cases, there are ropes and primitive planks built to assist) or even an underwater swim through a short passage. It really is something out of Robinson Crusoe. Children absolutely love this natural playground and can spend an entire day "discovering" the secret rooms and climbing around. You'll have top see for yourself to believe it. It's hard to describe.

Some 20 sandy beaches line the island, but the stretch of shore at the southern end, including The Baths, is in a class of its own. One drawback is its popularity; go early or late to avoid the crowds of day-tripping charter boat passengers from neighboring BVI and USVI islands, or make your way north through the bus-size boulders to Spring Bay and The Crawl, where the small sheltered pools are perfect for young snorkelers.

Luxury villa options are surprisingly fabulous and abundant. Some of the best villas in the VI are found here and the lack of resort growth affords villa travelers many beachfront or close to beachfront options on the most magnificent bays.

The currency of the B.V.I. is the U.S. dollar. Major credit cards and traveler's checks are widely accepted as well. Please note that there is a 10 Cent stamp duty on all checks and traveler's checks. The island offers one ATM in Spanish Town

The British Virgin Islands, including Virgin Gorda, enjoys a stable government with both the United Party and the Virgin Islands Party dedicated to a democratic government. The British Virgin Islands are a Dependent Territory (formerly referred to as a colony) of Britain with self-governing status. The government gives firm respect to the beaches and protection of the environment.

Weather:

The islands have a sub-tropical climate with high humidity, although temperatures are moderated by trade winds. Temperatures in summer average from 79 to 88° F (26 to 31°C) and between 72 and 82° F (22 and 28°C) in winter. Rainfall is erratic with occasional droughts.

About rain: the VI islands (both BVI and USVI) usually get a brief shower at least once a day, typically in very early morning hours while most people are still sleeping. Rain showers usually last only a few minutes at a time and can be a welcome respite to a hot, sunny day. Watching weather forecasts in anticipation of your trip is probably more frustrating than useful. Weather reports tend to show rain for every day of the week. This causes most travelers to panic with thoughts of a washed out vacation. You need to realize that the rain being forecasted is the 5 minute passing shower variety and you BVI vacation is very likely to be filled with warm, sunny days.

During the months of September and October, you should pay attention to weather reports in case of hurricane advisories. Hurricanes are usually predicted well in advance. Due to the chance that a hurricane could ruin your vacation during hurricane season, we recommend purchasing travel insurance if you will be traveling to the BVI during this time of year. If a hurricane strikes during your villa vacation, you will usually not be allowed to stay in your villa and are likely to be on your own in terms of determining where to take shelter or how to evacuate the island. For this reason, we recommend that you take the time to research shelter options in advance of your arrival if you plan to travel during hurricane season.

Getting There/Airports/Visas:

Airline Arrival:

Although there is no way of flying directly into the British Virgin Islands (thankfully) on major North American carriers, airport landing strips do exist on the islands; combined with Tortola and Virgin Gorda ferry services, it is not difficult to get around.

To get to Virgin Gorda, most travelers from North America and Europe connect via Puerto Rico or St. Thomas, US Virgin Island. From there, small island-hopper planes run by Air St. Thomas, Air Sunshine, American Eagle, Cape Air, and others, will take you to either directly to the small terminal on Virgin Gorda, or more often to the larger airport on Tortola (Beef Island Airport).

From Tortola to Virgin Gorda, ferry connections are frequent and efficient. The North Sound Express operates daily Virgin Gorda ferry services between Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda and Beef Island/Tortola, and with loops up the northern coast of Virgin Gorda, ferry arrivals/departures at North Sound are practical as well. Virgin Gorda ferry services are also offered by Speedy's Ferries, which runs between Road Town, Tortola and Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda daily, with Virgin Gorda ferry connections to St. Thomas on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

You should always call to confirm ferry operation and times, as changes are sometimes unexpected and are not always well publicized. To get to the island of Jost Van Dyke from Virgin Gorda, ferry connections must be made through Tortola first, from which the Jost Van Dyke Ferry Service and New Horizon Ferry Service depart several times per day.

For more information about Virgin Gorda ferry operations, contact:

North Sound Express:
Phone: 284.495.2271
Operates between Beef Island and the North Sound on Virgin Gorda. Current daily afternoon departure times are: 1:45pm, 4:15pm, 6pm, & 8pm.

Smith's Ferry Service:
Phone: 284.495.4495
Operates between Virgin Gorda and Tortola (Road Town) and, also, from Road Town and the West End to downtown St. Thomas.

Speedy's Fantasy/Speedy's Delight:
Phone: 284.495.5240 or 5235
Operates between Virgin Gorda and Tortola (Road Town).

Private water taxi service is an option to consider - check with Glenn at Cane Garden Bay Water Sports on the BVI Island of Tortola.

Entry requirements

Americans: US passport holders require a valid passport or a birth certificate together with an official photo ID. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: UK passport holders need a passport, but no visa is necessary for a stay of up to three months.

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian passport holders require a valid passport or a birth certificate together with an official photo ID. No visa is required for stays of up to three months.

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian passport holders need a passport, but no visa is necessary for a stay of up to three months.

Entry requirements for South Africans: South Africans need a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to 14 days.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals require a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to three months.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish nationals need a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to 14 days.

Passport/Visa Note: Travelers need a return or onward ticket and all the documents required for their next destination, as well as sufficient funds.
Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travelers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

Local Customs:

It is considered impolite to take photographs of the local people without asking their permission beforehand. Every conversation should begin with the greeting "good day" or "good morning" or  "good afternoon" or "good night" (as opposed to good evening, which isn't typically used) and a friendly smile. Conversations are slow and relaxed. Due to the islands conservative British heritage, there is a dress code of conservative clothing. Light cotton dresses and light jackets and ties for formal wear and typical tropical wear during the day.

Transportation:

Renting a car is a good way of exploring Virgin Gorda for a day or for maintaining your own easy schedule for the duration of your visit to the island. . Though taxi service on Virgin Gorda is generally reliable, it is an impractical way of seeing the island if you plan on making frequent sightseeing or beach stops. With an abundance of secluded coves and peaceful beaches flanking the main Virgin Gorda route to entice you, the draw of these stops may make you wish you had rented a car, if you didn't. Renting a car on Virgin Gorda, despite its small road system, will allow you to discover all of the island's hidden jewels at your own leisurely pace without the worry of depleting your budget with taxi service fees. And, since you are planning to rent a villa and "live like a local", you should seriously consider continuing this theme with car rental. Go for it!

A variety of rental options are available on Virgin Gorda, including compact cars, four wheel drives and open-air jeeps. Check with your villa agent to see if they have negotiated discounts with rental agencies. Upon arrival on Virgin Gorda, your local rental representative will usually meet you at the ferry dock or landing strip and can then take you to the rental car agent before escorting you, in you rental car, to your villa.

There are several car rental agencies on Virgin Gorda, including L&S Jeep Rental and Mahogany Rentals and Taxi Service, both in Spanish Town.

Valid BVI driving licenses are required by all those seeking to drive in The BVI for a fee of $10.00 US.
A temporary BVI driving license can be obtained from the Traffic Licensing Office or Car Rental Agencies provided a valid Driver's License from another country can be produced. If a person cannot produce a valid driver's license he/she must apply to take the driving tests, practical and written, which may take some weeks to be scheduled. Persons eighteen and over may drive a private car, after passing the driver's tests, and they should be covered by the appropriate insurance.

A driver's license can be obtained for three years for $35, and for one year for $15. Drivers over the age of seventy must provide the completed health certificate, signed by a medical practitioner, before their driving license is renewed, each year.

If a person cannot produce a valid driver's license he/she must apply to take the driving tests, practical and written, which may take some weeks to be scheduled. Persons eighteen and over may drive a private car, after passing the driver's tests. They should be covered by the appropriate insurance.

A driver's license can be obtained for three years for $35, and for one year for $15. Drivers over the age of seventy must provide the completed health certificate, signed by a medical practitioner, before their driving license is renewed, each year.

Remember, you must be at least 25 years old to rent a car and driving is on the left side of the road in The BVI.

Taxis are also readily available and are a good way to get a tour of the island and make friends with a local, your driver. Local taxis drivers are one of the best resources for island information and activity information. Your taxi driver can also make arrangements for activities, usually done by simply calling his/her relative. In the BVI, it feels like one big, happy family! Taxi services are available, and there are set fares. Drivers are required to display, in a conspicuous place in their vehicles, a copy of the schedule of fares. There are taxi associations which operate a dispatch system, which the hirer is requested to abide by, but in some cases the hirer may ask for a specific driver or vehicle, at a specific time.

Typical Villa Arrangements:

Virgin Gorda is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the paces of their normal lives and give their souls a chance to breathe. Families will adore this destination for the experience it gives their children with The Baths, snorkeling, boating, frolicking in the sand and spending uninterrupted time with their much relaxed parents.

Virgin Gorda luxury villas are magnificently appointed, especially for being in such a remote location. Comfort abounds and the conveniences of home are easy to find in these luxury homes, available in 2 to 6 bedroom configurations. Garden showers (outdoor - shown above) are popular and are a favorite of villa guests. Some of the VI's most exclusive villas are found on Virgin Gorda, making it a villa traveler's paradise. Because of the popularity of villas on this island, local stores are likely to carry items most villa owners will desire, including prepared meals and gourmet cooking items.

Virgin Gorda villas are not fully staffed and are usually only services by limited maid service once or several times per week. Gardeners and pool service teams may make an appearance at some point during your visit, but they'll announce their arrival prior to entering the property and will make haste so as not to interfere in your enjoyment of your luxury villa.  If you are interested in augmenting the staff with a chef, driver or other staff member, consult your villa agent for suggestions or visit our villa forums for suggestions from other travelers or locals. Also see our section on Virgin Gorda provisioning, catering and private chefs for ideas.

Villa rentals in the BVI are subject to a 7% Government Hotel Tax.

Villa Agents/Property Managers:

Luxury villas on Virgin Gorda  may be rented by more than one rental agent. In some cases, rentals are handled directly by the owner. We are delighted with the number of luxury properties and professional rental agents representing them on Virgin Gorda. Please visit our Villa Agent review section for reviews on services offered by Virgin Gorda agents or those representing Virgin Gorda properties. Also visit our forum to have your questions answered by travelers who have gone before you.

Private Chefs/Catering/Provisioning:

We strongly urge you to check with your agent if you are interested in hiring a private chef for your villa. Most of the more popular private chefs in the BVI are on the larger island of Tortola. They may be willing to come to Virgin Gorda.

Restaurants:

Restaurants on Virgin Gorda range from simple to elegant. Hotels that are accessible only by boat will arrange transport in advance upon request for nonguests who wish to dine at their restaurants. It's wise to make dinner reservations almost everywhere except really casual spots. Though outdoor dining is a lovely way to enjoy an evening, remember to consider the mosquitos and spray yourself with repellant before leaving your villa. Also, don't wear perfume if you'll be dining al fresco.

Check with each restaurant regarding credit card acceptance and make dinner reservations prior to 4:00pm.

The Bath and Turtle : American/Casual, Under $8 to $20 Phone: 284/495-5239
You can really sit back and relax at this informal patio tavern with a friendly staff -- although the TV noise can be a bit much. Burgers, well-stuffed sandwiches, homemade pizzas, pasta dishes, and daily specials like conch gumbo round out the casual menu. Live entertainers perform Saturday nights. AE, MC, V.

Biras Creek : Contemporary, Over $30 Phone: 284/494-3555 or 800/223-1108
This hilltop restaurant at the Biras Creek Hotel has stunning views of North Sound. The four-course prix-fixe menu changes daily and includes several choices per course. For starters, there may be a 5-spice duck salad drizzled with an orange onion marmalade and beetroot dressing, or creamy leek and potato soup ribboned with thin strips of smoked salmon. Entrées may include pan-seared salmon wrapped in Parma ham, and the desserts, including a chocolate tart covered with caramelized bananas and warm chocolate sauce, are to-die-for. Dinner ends with Biras Creek's signature offering of Stilton and port. Reservations essential. AE, D, MC, V. No lunch.

Chez Bamboo : Cajun/Creole, $12 to $30 Phone: 284/495-5752
This pleasant little hideaway isn't really that hard to find; look for the building with the purple and green latticework. Candles on the dining room tables and the patio help make this a mellow place where you can enjoy such dishes as conch gumbo, Chez B's specialties are lobster curry and steak New Orleans, and either is a good choice. For dessert, try the chocolate bourbon mint cake or crème brûlée. Monday night the menu goes Caribbean-style. Stop by Friday night for live jazz. AE, MC, V. No lunch.

The Clubhouse : Seafood, $20 to Over $30 Phone: 284/494-2745
The Bitter End Yacht Club's open-air waterfront restaurant is a favorite rendezvous for the sailing set -- busy day and night. You'll find lavish buffets for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as an á la carte menu. Dinner selections include grilled swordfish or tuna, chopped sirloin, scallops, shrimp, and local lobster. Reservations essential. AE, MC, V.

Fat Virgin's Café : American/Casual, $8 to $20 Phone: 284/495-7052
This casual beachfront eatery offers a straight-forward menu of flying fish sandwiches, baby back ribs, chicken roti, vegetable pasta, and fresh fish specials for lunch and dinner. Friday nights feature a special Chinese menu. There's a good selection of Caribbean beer. MC, V.

The Flying Iguana Restaurant and Bar : American/Casual, $12 to $30 Phone: 284/495-5277
Local artwork is displayed in this charming restaurant's comfortable lounge. The open-air dining room looks out over Virgin Gorda's tiny airport to the sea. Enjoy classic eggs and bacon for breakfast; for lunch there are sandwiches and juicy hamburgers. The dinner menu includes fresh seafood, grilled chicken, steaks, and a pasta special. MC, V.

Giorgio's Table : Italian, $20 to Over $30 Phone: 284/495-5684
Gaze out at the stars and the lights of Tortola and listen to the water lap against the shore while dining on homemade ravioli, beef fillet in a brunello wine sauce, truffle duck ragu over pappardelli pasta, or the catch of the day prepared in many styles. House specialties include fresh lobster that you choose from a 5,000-gallon seawater pool. There's also a selection of 120 different wines kept in a temperature-controlled cellar. Lunch is more casual and includes pizzas and sandwiches. AE, D, MC, V.

La Brasserie at Old Yard Village : Contemporary, $12 to $20 Phone: 284/495-5544
Giorgio and Elisabetta Paradisi of Giorgio's Table fame have opened their second restaurant here. Breakfasts feature favorites like omelets and pancakes. Salads, soups, and sandwiches are served at lunch. At dinner, the menu turns bistro-style. There's antipasti, fish tartare, and quiche lorraine for appetizers and entrées such as pasta Mediterranean style, Napolitan pizza, and chicken cotoletta. Specialties include fresh lobster and grilled bistecca. The open-air, informal setting of this poolside restaurant is ripe with tropical ambiance. AE, D, MC, V.

Little Dix Bay Pavillion : Caribbean, $20 to Over $30 Phone: 284/495-5555 Ext. 174
For an elegant evening, you can't do better than this -- the candlelight in the main open-air pavilion is enchanting, the menu sophisticated, the service attentive. The dinner menu changes daily, but there's always a fine selection of superbly prepared seafood, meat, and vegetarian entrées -- flaky mahimahi fillet with grilled pineapple-raisin chutney, a risotto-and-cheese encrusted loin of lamb, and seared red snapper fillet and skewered prawns on a savory black-olive hash. The breakfast and lunch buffets shine. Reservations essential. AE, D, MC, V.

Mad Dog's : American/Casual, Under $8 to $12 Phone: 284/495-5830
Piña coladas are the thing at this breezy bar just outside the entrance to The Baths. The menu includes great triple-decker sandwiches, hot dogs, and burgers. No credit cards. No dinner.

The Mine Shaft Café : American/Casual, $8 to $20 Phone: 284/495-5260
Near the Copper Mine Ruins and perched on a hilltop that offers a 360-degree view of spectacular sunsets, this restaurant serves simple yet well-prepared food, including grilled fish, chicken, steaks, and baby back ribs. Tuesday nights feature an all-you-can-eat Caribbean-style barbecue. The bar, as well as the monthly full moon parties, draw a big local crowd. AE, MC, V.

The Restaurant at Leverick Bay : American/Casual, $12 to $30 Phone: 284/495-7154
This bi-level restaurant at the Leverick Bay Hotel looks out over North Sound. The upstairs is slightly less casual and more expensive, with a menu that includes steaks, pork chops, chicken, and fresh fish. There's a prime rib special on Saturday nights. Below, the bar offers light fare all day -- starting with breakfast and moving on to hamburgers, salads, and pizzas until well into the evening. A children's menu is available. MC, V

The Rock Café : Italian, $12 to Over $30 Phone: 284/495-5482
Surprisingly good Italian cuisine is served open-air among the waterfalls and giant boulders that form the famous Baths. It's particularly good given the remote location. For dinner, feast on appetizers like Caesar salad and fried calamari, entrées such as spaghetti with lobster sauce, and shrimp with garlic, oregano, and tomato over rice pilaf; try a hot fudge sundae for dessert. At lunchtime, there's casual fare: pizza, burgers, and sandwiches. AE, D, MC, V.

Top of the Baths : American/Casual, $12 to Over $30 Phone: 284/495-5497
At the entrance to The Baths, this popular restaurant starts serving at 8 AM. Tables are outside on a terrace or in an open-air pavilion; all have stunning views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Hamburgers, sandwiches, and fish-and-chips are offered at lunch. Conch fritters and pumpkin soup are among the dinner appetizers. Entrées include fillet of yellowtail snapper, shrimp creole, and jerk chicken. For dessert, the mango kiwi tart is excellent. The Sunday barbecue, with live music, is served from noon until 3 PM and is an island event. AE, D, MC, V.

Drinking Water:

Virgin Gorda, like most other Caribbean islands, uses a cistern system to collect rain water at each home. Water is then filtered or chlorinated via the home's private purification system and dispersed throughout the home's taps. It is often said that a home's water is only as good as the maintenance on the filtration system. As such, we always recommend using bottled water for drinking. We believe BVI systems to be adequate for ice making (drinking in restaurants) and produce washing. If you drink bottled water in the BVI, you are taking fair precaution and should be fine.

Communications/Tech Infrastructure:

ISPs include Cable & Wireless (website: www.candw.vg) and Caribsurf (website: www.caribsurf.com). It is best to check with your rental agent for the most up to date information on this area of interest, as the tech infrastructure is ever-changing.  If internet access is important to you, ask your agent for a list of villas with DSL access. There is no broadband (cable) access in the BVI.

Cell Phones:

Your cell phone may work on Virgin Gorda. It is best to speak with your agent regarding the latest in cellular news. Also, speak with your cellular provider about roaming fees (international).

May be arranged through CCT Boat Phone by calling them directly at (284) 494-3825.
To arrange for temporary internet access from the villas, please contact Ray at Cable & Wireless at (284) 495-5444.
 
For dial-up internet access in villas without DSL, you will need to sign up with Cable and Wireless on arrival.  Please speak with your villa agent for more details on how to arrange for this. A credit card imprint is required.
The Cable and Wireless internet charges are as follows:
10hrs $12.95
20hrs $21.95
30hrs $29.95
50hrs $44.50

TV & VCR Rentals:

At this time there is no cable TV service available in the Mahoe Bay area, so if the villa you are renting does not specify that it has Satellite TV, then it only has a TV set and VCR. TV's & VCR units are available for rental and the costs generally run approximately US $18-$23 per day plus service charge and 15% VAT.

Shopping:

The British Virgin Islands aren't really a shopper's delight, but there are many shops showcasing original items -- from jams and spices to resort wear to excellent artwork. Don't be put off by an informal shop entrance; some of the best finds in the BVI lie behind the least impressive doors.
Shopping is also available on Tortola.

Many shops and boutiques on Tortola are clustered along and just off Road Town's Main Street. You can also shop in Road Town's Wickham's Cay area adjacent to the marina. In West End there's an ever-growing number of art and clothing stores at Soper's Hole.

Most boutiques on Virgin Gorda are within hotel complexes. Two of the best are at Biras Creek and Little Dix Bay. Other properties -- the Bitter End, Leverick Bay, and the Olde Yard Inn -- have small but equally select boutiques, and there's a respectable and diverse scattering of shops in the bustling yacht harbor complex in Spanish Town.

Bitter End Emporium : Phone: 284/494-2745
Bitter End's Emporium is the place for such edible treats as local fruits, cheeses, fresh-baked goods, and gourmet prepared food to take out.

Blue Banana : Phone: 284/495-5957
Blue Banana carries a large selection of name-brand swimsuits plus cover-ups, T-shirts, and accessories

Buck's Food Market : Phone: 284/495-5423
Buck's Food Market is the closest the island offers to a full-service supermarket, and has everything from an in-store bakery and deli to fresh fish and produce departments.

Chef's Pantry : Phone: 284/495-7677
The Chef's Pantry has the fixings for an impromptu party in your villa or boat -- fresh seafood, specialty meats, French cheeses, daily baked breads and pastries, and an impressive wine and spirit selection.

Dive BVI : Phone: 284/495-5513
At Dive BVI, you can find books about the islands as well as snorkeling equipment, sportswear, sunglasses, and beach bags. Some of the best reef and famous wreck diving in the Caribbean is close at hand. Full scale PADI and NAUI certification lessons are available as well as resort courses at the entry level.

Fat Virgin's Treasure : Phone: 284/495-7052
Fat Virgin's Treasure sells cool island-style clothing in bright, tropical prints, a large selection of straw sun hats and unusual gift items like island-made hot sauces, artistic cards and locally fired pottery

Flamboyance Perfume Gift Shop : Phone: 284/494-4099
Flamboyance Perfume Gift Shop has a large line of fragrances, including those that are inspired by the scent of tropical flowers.

Margot's Boutique : Phone: 284/495-5237
Margo's Boutique is the place to buy breezy, bold print, handcrafted sarongs and accessories like jewelry and hats.

Next Wave : Phone: 284/495-5623
Next Wave offers bathing suits, T-shirts, canvas tote bags, and locally made jewelry

Palm Tree Gallery : Phone: 284/495-7479
Palm Tree Gallery sells attractive handcrafted jewelry, paintings, and one-of-a-kind gift items, as well as games and books about the Caribbean

Pavillion Gift Shop : Phone: 284/495-5555
The Pavilion Gift Shop has the latest in resort wear for men and women, as well as jewelry, books, housewares, and expensive T-shirts.

Pusser's Company Store : Phone: 284/495-7369
Pusser's Company Store has a trademark line of sportswear, rum products, and gift items

The Reeftique : Phone: 284/494-2745
The Reeftique carries island crafts and jewelry, clothing, and nautical odds and ends with the Bitter End logo

Thee Artistic Gallery : Phone: 284/495-5104
Thee Artistic Gallery features Caribbean jewelry, 14-karat-gold nautical jewelry, maps, collectible coins, and crystal.

Virgin Gorda Craft Shop : Phone: 284/495-5137
Virgin Gorda Craft Shop sells the work of island artisans, and carries West Indian jewelry and crafts styled from straw, shells, and other local materials. It also stocks clothing and paintings by Caribbean artists.

Wine Cellar and Bakery : Phone: 284/495-5250
The Wine Cellar & Bakery sells bread, rolls, muffins, cookies, sandwiches, and sodas to go.

Nightlife and The Arts:

You'll be surprised at the number of options for nightlife on this small, quiet island. We suspect the relative abundance of opportunities for after-dark activity stems from the fact that Virgin Gorda is a yachtmen's haven and we all know how yachties love land-based nightly entertainment and gatherings after days spent at sea. Check out the following nightlife options and visit our forum for feddback from other travelers and locals:

Bitter End Yacht Club : Phone 284/494-2746 or 800/872-2392
Local bands play at Bitter End Yacht Club nightly during the winter season

Chez Bamboo : Cajun/Creole, $12 to $30 Phone: 284/495-5752
Chez Bamboo is the place on the island for live jazz on Friday nights.

Little Dix Bay Pavillion : Caribbean, $20 to Over $30 Phone: 284/495-5555 Ext. 174
Little Dix Bay presents elegant live entertainment several nights a week in season

The Restaurant at Leverick Bay : American/Casual, $12 to $30 Phone: 284/495-7154
The Restaurant at Leverick Bay hosts live music on Saturday nights in season

The Mine Shaft Café : American/Casual, $8 to $20 Phone: 284/495-5260
The Mine Shaft Café has live bands on Tuesdays and for Ladies Night on Friday from 7 PM to 9 PM.

The Rock Café : Italian, $12 to Over $30 Phone: 284/495-5482
The Rock Café has live bands Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.

Families:

The natural wonders of Virgin Gorda are a delight for families and children of all ages. Children will especially enjoy the opportunity to spend uninterrupted time with their parents, who will surely move at a much slower pace. Close proximity to the beaches and water sports (perhaps even beachfront villas) makes family fun a much more relaxed experience, allowing family members the ability to each enjoy their own activities without the need to separate for long periods. Virgin Gorda has long been regarded as a family beach destination offering a safe environment and friendly, laid back attitude surrounded by powdery white sandy beaches and calm, crystal clear turquoise waters.

Childcare:

Please consult your villa agent for recommendations on child care options in Virgin Gorda and then complete a careful check of the nanny or au par your select. Tropical Nannies is a personalized baby-sitting service catering to your in-home childcare needs on Virgin Gorda and Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. www.tropicalnannies.com.

Golf:

There are no golf courses on the island of Virgin Gorda, or anywhere else in the BVI. That doesn't mean golf fanatics should cross the BVI off their list of dream destinations. Concentrated within a large grouping of Caribbean islands, the BVI is only a short distance from some fabulous golf courses; a quick island-hopper or ferry ride makes a morning or afternoon on the fairways easy.

The most convenient location to golf while staying in the BVI is St. Thomas, whose spectacular Mahogany Run Golf Course could compete with any in the Caribbean. This 18-hole championship course was recently renovated to add to its already superb facilities, which include a large outdoor clubhouse, restaurant, and pro shop. Mahogany Run lies right on the water, and offers breathtaking views of Tortola and the rest of the BVI. St. Thomas can be reached from Tortola by ferry or by flying.

Fishing/Watersports/Sea Excursions:

Beaches:

Virgin Gorda is known for its pristine beaches, which are some of the best in the entire Caribbean. All of the beaches in the B.V.I. are technically public, even if they are part of a private resort complex with limited access. When visiting the beaches resting in front of resorts, you may be asked to refrain from using chairs, hammocks, etc. Of course, it always helps if you purchase food or drinks from the resort. Virgin Gorda has no nude beaches. You should refrain from playing radios on the beach without  using headphones.

Mahoe Bay:
A fabulous blanket of sugary white sand with vivid, clear turquoise water and two live reefs for amazing snorkeling in fairly shallow water.

Savannah Bay:
North of the Yacht Harbor - another beautiful sugary white sandy beach.

Spring Bay:
White sand, crystal clear waters and great snorkeling.

The Baths:
A dramatic collection of gigantic, granite boulders sitting on an amazingly perfect beach. The boulders form a series of hidden rooms, pools and grottos which flood with seawater, creating a dramatic wonder admired by travelers from around the world. You'll also find excellent snorkeling and dramatic scenery for photographs. Go early in the morning before the charters from neighboring islands arrive, or late in the afternoon after they depart.

Trunk Bay:
A wide sandy beach reachable by boat or along a rough path from Spring Bay.

SAILING:

Pick up your boat in neighboring Tortola, home to the Caribbean's largest charter fleet, and sail east for an easy windward crossing to Virgin Gorda. Head straight for North Sound, a protected bay at the northeast end of the island. (Just keep an eye out for the large reef on the right side of the sound.) Once moored there, you'll have your choice of two upscale resorts that cater to yachties.

Even if you don't plan to sail on this upcoming visit, you'll surely be lured by the sight of beautiful sailboats moored in the bay and may be convinced to try sailing on your next BVI visit. If you aren't a sailor, haveno fear. Charters are available in bareboat style (without a captain and crew) and "crewed" (usually including a captain and first mate/chef).

The BVI's many sheltered moorings allow you to explore on a variety of day sails without making any long overnight sails. The area boasts minimal currents and well-marked reefs and shoals, making these placid waters some of the best in the Caribbean.

Powerboat charters are also available and are pretty reasonably priced. Consider renting a powerboat for the day and cruising to the nearly British Islands of Jost Van Dyke, Tortola and Anegada. For those who are looking for even more of a change of pace, consider powerboating to the USVI islands - perhaps some world-class shopping on St. Thomas. 

DIVING: Swim south along the shoreline from The Baths to Devil's Bay; the beach is more secluded there, and the snorkeling is top-notch. If you're on a boat, watch for sea turtles at The Dogs, a tiny group of islets off Virgin Gorda's western "Beach Coast," where the snorkeling and diving are superb.

SNORKELING: To snorkel Virgin Gorda, there are operators that will charter a boat for the day and offer lessons and rent equipment to your group. Day or night trips can be arranged through the Bitter End Yacht Club, based in one of the best places to snorkel Virgin Gorda, the North Sound. Their cost to snorkel, Virgin Gorda and Tortola sites available upon request, vary widely between US$5-60, depending on the length of trip. Other companies will often include, along with the chance to snorkel Virgin Gorda, a trip southwest to the site of the Rhone, a royal steamer sunk in 1867, that offers shallow scuba and snorkel tours of its delightful underwater maze. Don't miss it.

Weddings:

The British Virgin Islands is a perfect romantic setting, not only to exchange your vows in a romantic Caribbean setting, but also to enjoy a secluded honeymoon holiday in one of the Caribbean's most interesting cluster of islands.  If you have never been married before, the only necessary paperwork required is your passports to begin the process. 
 
If either or both of you have been previously married, an original copy of your divorce decree(s) (or spouse's death certificate) is necessary.  If these decrees or certificates are not already in English, a certified translation in English is also required. 

A three (3) business day residency requirement from the time your paperwork is filed is also mandated, which means that if you file your paperwork on a Monday, the earliest you may be married is on that Thursday. 

There are then three easy steps ... They involve visiting three separate government offices.  It is necessary to pay the BVI government marriage tax.  This is done by purchasing $110 in stamps.  They actually have a $100 stamp & $10 stamp specifically for the marriage tax. 

You will need your passports, the other paperwork mentioned above (ie.  divorce decree) and the stamps.  All these items are handed over to the Attorney General to be sent for the Governor's approval, and are returned to you on the day of your wedding (except the tax stamps of course).  In addition, you will need two witnesses to sign at the time you are filling out the proper paperwork in the Attorney General's chambers.   The paperwork takes about 10 minutes and at this time you will need to have decided on a location for your wedding. 

Finally you will fill out a small form and confirm the location, time, and date of your wedding ceremony with the Registrar.  Additionally, you will have to name two "witnesses of record" for your marriage license.  These witnesses may act as your attendants at your wedding and need to be present at the wedding to sign the legal documentation. 
 
The Registrar of Marriages performs all civil ceremonies.  The fee for the Registrar is $100 (plus any expenses) for weddings outside the office and $35 for marriages performed inside the Registrar's Office.  If you are living in the US, Britain, or Canada, the marriage license is enough for proof of marriage. In other areas or in certain legal situations, an "Apostille" license may be required.  It will be necessary to request this upon filling out your paperwork with the Registrar's Office and normally is subject to an additional $45 fee. 

On your wedding day, the Registrar will meet you at your wedding location, perform the civil ceremony and then return all your documentation to you.

* A & A Weddings in Paradise (Tortola)
* Contact Altagracia and Allington Hodge 284-494-2282
* BVI Wedding Planners & Consultants (Tortola) 284-494-5306
* Exquisite Weddings (Virgin Gorda) Contact Sandra Leonard. 284-495-7222
* Fort Recovery Estate Beach Villa Weddings (Tortola - West End / Soper's Hole) 284-495-4354
* In The Islands (Tortola) 284-495-2763
* Island Concierge (Tortola) 284-495-6382
* Janise E. Braithwaite-Edwards (Tortola) 284-494-2487
* Myett's, Cane Garden Bay (Tortola - Cane Garden Bay) 284-495-9649
* New Beginnings (Virgin Gorda) 284-499-4579
* Occasions, Ltd. (Virgin Gorda) 284-495-7313
* Passion In Paradise "The Love Story" (Virgin Gorda) 284-495-5252
* Saba Rock Resort (Virgin Gorda - North Sound) 284-495-9966
* Trinity Collections (Tortola) 284-495-1786

Event Planners:

Whether you are planning a party, destination wedding, seminar or meeting and you require a chef, catering, entertainment or photography, the sheer logistics of a foreign country top the list of reasons for professional event planning services.

Island Concierge (Tortola) 284-495-6382
Full service comprehensive planning company in the British Virgin Islands.

Occasions, Ltd. (Virgin Gorda) 284-495-7313
Offers event planning and coordination services throughout the British Virgin Islands.
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Villas for Special Interests:

Virgin Gorda luxury villas offer an opportunity to connect to the unspoiled environment of the BVI. The close proximity to the beach allows travelers easy access to the sea and sand.

Spa Treatments:

Spa treatments at your private villa are popular in the BVI. Please consult your villa agent for recommendations on private spa services. Popular BVI spa treatments include massage (especially upon arrival after a long journey. Ask your agent or owner if this can be arranged in advance), flower bath, seaweed wrap, body scrub and manicure.