With over 60 islands and cays in the British Virgin Islands, deciding where to stay in BVI can be a challenge. For most villa renters, the choice of where to stay in BVI will come down to Tortola vs Virgin Gorda. In a nutshell, Tortola offers a more modern, convenient experience, with great shopping and dining. It also makes for a great hub to explore the rest of BVI. On the other hand, Virgin Gorda is a nature lover’s dream, with plenty of unique landscapes, sights, and pristine beaches. Let’s take a deeper dive into both.
The Beach House – Oil Nut Bay, BVI
Staying in Tortola
Tortola is the largest of the British Virgin Islands and is its beating heart. It’s home to BVI’s capital, Road Town, which is filled with charming colonial buildings, plenty of great shopping and dining, and vibrant nightlife.
Tortola is also the sailing capital of the Caribbean. As a result, it makes for a great hub from which to go sailing or enjoy water sports thanks to its harbours and charters.
Lastly, Tortola is home to some stunning beaches, from the iconic Cane Garden Bay to the secluded, serene Smuggler’s Cove.
Pros of Staying Tortola
- Easily accessible
- Great shopping and dining
- Lots of sailing and watersports
- Vibrant nightlife
Cons of Staying in Tortola
- Can be crowded during peak season
- More touristy
- More developed
Tortola is Perfect For:
- Families with young children
- Multigenerational groups
- Groups wanting to enjoy nightlife and dining
Where to Stay in Tortola
The West End
Located along the island’s beautiful western coast, the West End is perfect for those who want to experience pristine beaches and supreme relaxation while still enjoying the conveniences of Tortola. It’s about a half hour from Road Town by car, though, so be advised if you were hoping to spend more time in BVI’s capital.
Tortola Villa Pick:
3 bedrooms, sleeps 7
3+ 1 bath
$640-$1,110/night
Overlooking shimmering azure views, Alfresco is a perfect villa for a group of couples or a small family looking to enjoy Tortola’s serene West End. It’s located on a private hillside by Long Bay Beach along two pavilions separated by a solar-powered infinity pool, ensuring maximum guest privacy. It evokes classic West-Indian vibes throughout, including inside with its choice of materials and décor, and outside thanks to its rich tropical landscaping.
Alfresco – Long Bay, BVI
Staying in Virgin Gorda
If Tortola is BVI’s beating heart, then Virgin Gorda is its soothing spirit. This is where you’ll find some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Caribbean, including the world-famous Baths – a labyrinth of colossal granite boulders forming enchanting grottos and pools.
Virgin Gorda is also home to some truly serene beaches, including the secluded Spring Bay and the tranquil Savannah Bay.
Plus, Virgin Gorda makes a great launch point for boat charters thanks to its yacht harbour. There are also abundant snorkelling opportunities nearby, including at the Baths, Devil’s Bay, and the aforementioned Spring Bay.
Pros of Staying in Virgin Gorda
- Stunning landscapes
- More privacy
- Secluded beaches
- A holistic, nature-focused atmosphere
Cons of Staying in Virgin Gorda
- Less nightlife
- Limited entertainment
- Can be pricier
Virgin Gorda is Perfect For:
- Families with older children
- Couples
- Nature lovers
Where to Stay in Virgin Gorda
Nail Bay
Located on the western coast of Virgin Gorda, Nail Bay is centrally located to all of the island’s main attractions while maintaining its own secluded charm. This neighbourhood is known for its lush, pristine beauty, with plenty of quiet beaches to enjoy the best of the sea. That, plus its authentic atmosphere, stunning vistas, and mesmerizing trails make it a favourite of Virgin Gorda veterans and nature lovers of all kinds.
Virgin Gorda Villa Pick
6 bedrooms, sleeps 16
6 + 1 bath
$3,929 – $13,500 / night
With an intoxicating mix of Caribbean, Indonesian, Indian, and Chinese design elements, Baraka Point offers a hypnotic haven spread out over several pavilions. With 2 acres of tropical gardens, a variety of bedroom configurations, and a privileged beachfront location, it makes a perfect choice for a destination wedding or any other special event.
Baraka Point – Nail Bay, BVI
What About BVI Private Islands?
BVI is also home to plenty of private islands with villas for rent. Many of these are located near Tortola or Virgin Gorda and can be accessed directly from either of these two islands. These villas tend to be bigger, catering to larger groups or events that want the ultimate in privacy.
Examples here include Necker Island, Richard Branson’s private island off the coast of Virgin Gorda, and Buck Island, off the coast of Tortola.
Both offer unprecedented privacy and luxury, as well as a full staff that’s there to take care of any need you may have. Of course, being a private island, there are fewer services than you’d find elsewhere – but that’s part of the appeal.
Pros of Staying on a BVI Private Island
- Unmatched atmosphere
- Supreme privacy
- 5-star service
- Absolute serenity
Cons of Staying on a BVI Private Island
- Fewer services
- Pricier
- Larger groups recommended
BVI Private Islands are Perfect For:
- Large groups
- Privacy seekers
- Special events
BVI Private Island Pick:
Buck Island
17 bedrooms, sleeps 32
17 + 4 bath
$65,800-$75,800 / night
With the best views of BVI, the Aerial aims to deliver what it calls Purpose Luxury. It’s a chance to recentre yourself and connect to nature and spirit. Set out over the Francis Drake Channel, the Aerial has everything you and 30 plus guests need to do just that over 5 separate residents. Staying here is a transformative, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Aerial – Buck Island, BVI
Still Not Sure Where to Stay in BVI?
There’s plenty of support on both sides when it comes to the Tortola vs Virgin Gorda debate. Usually, frequent BVI travellers develop a preference over time based on very personal and specific factors. Still, I hope this post gave you a rough guide of what you can expect from the two islands (as well as their neighbouring private islands).
If you’re still not sure where to stay in BVI, Rental Escapes can help. Just let one of our villa specialists know what you and your fellow travellers are looking for, and they’ll be happy to recommend great places to stay in Tortola, Virgin Gorda, or anywhere else in the BVI or Caribbean.
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