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Overview
Flanked by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea on the other, Tortola is the largest of the British Virgin Islands. It's also home to the capital city, Road Town. A verdant, mountainous island that boasts a tropical climate year-round, balmy breezes and crystal clear waters, Tortola has plenty to offer, whether you're arriving by air or sea. Air travelers arrive via Tortola's Beef Island Airport, and yachters can tie in at any number of the marinas that line the island, including marinas at Nanny Cay and Village Cay. The sand, surf and vast array of underwater treasures are the main draw of this beautiful Caribbean location. The beaches of Apple Bay, Cane Garden Bay and Long Bay summon visitors with their powdery sand, clear waters and underwater reefs. Snorkeling and scuba diving equipment rentals are available throughout the island. Divers can't resist the HMS Rhone Wreck, along with a number of other area wrecks that coddle exotic sea life and harbor unique plant life. Island cafes, open-air dining spots and upscale restaurants serve a mix of International, West Indian and Caribbean cuisine. Mrs. Scatliffe's serves up from-scratch eats to a limited capacity crowd, while Brandywine Bay offers a unique blend of Caribbean and Italian cuisine in a casually upscale setting. After a day of sunbathing and scuba diving, guests looking for a good time can visit Bomba's Surfside Shack, a ramshackle structure that's known as one of the best party spots on the island, especially during their monthly Full Moon Parties. Quito's Gazebo (owned by famous local reggae artist Rhymer Quito) and Pusser's Pub are also good options for after-hours relaxation. Hotel options range from basic to luxury, from rental villas to individual rooms, with a variety of décor and service offerings. The Long Bay Beach Resort and Villas in Road Town is a sprawling resort set on a lovely 52-acre hillside estate, while the Sugar Mill Hotel is a charming boutique hotel that pampers guests and provides a quiet piece of personal paradise. Located on the town's picturesque Main Street, Crafts Alive is the capital city's open-air shopping bazaar. It's a collection of island bungalows filled to capacity with everything from souvenirs to hats and dolls. High-end jewelers, island clothing stores and the Pusser's Company Store, selling their trademark rum, round out the shopping pleasures on this sensuous island.
