Know before You Go to the British Virgin Islands

Before you arrive in the BVI, there are a few things to keep in mind to make your trip smooth and stress-free. From transportation tips to how to stay connected, here’s everything you need to know to navigate the islands.

Whether it’s understanding taxi rates, knowing where to find ATMs, or using WhatsApp to stay in touch, this guide will help you settle in and enjoy the best of the BVI.

We Drive on the Left!
If you’re renting a car, keep this in mind—roads are winding and steep, so take it slow and enjoy the views!

Navigation is Tricky
Google Maps and Apple Maps aren’t always reliable, and many roads don’t have signs. Ask locals for directions—they know best!

Taxis Have Set Rates
No need to negotiate—rates are preset by the government. Just hop in and enjoy the ride.

Cash is King!
Many places—like taxis, small ferries, airport landing fees, and baggage fees—only accept cash. ATMs are limited, so bring what you need or plan a stop in Road Town.

ATMs Are Scarce
You'll find ATMs in Road Town, Tortola, and one on Virgin Gorda. If you're heading to the outer islands, withdraw cash in advance.

Tipping is Customary
Some restaurants may add a 15% service charge, but this is often split among staff. If your bartender or server goes above and beyond, show them some extra love with a tip!

The Terrain is Unique
Tortola is mountainous, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke are hilly, and Anegada is flat as a pancake. Plan your footwear accordingly!

WhatsApp is Your Best Friend
The easiest way to stay connected—most locals and businesses use WhatsApp for messaging and calls over Wi-Fi or data.

Facebook is Where Businesses Post Updates
Want to check restaurant hours, specials, or local events? Facebook is the go-to spot for real-time info.

Currency: The US Dollar is the official currency, so no need to exchange!

Provisions & Essentials in the BVI

Provisions in Cane Garden Bay

  • Bobby's Grocery – Located at the bottom of the driveway, turn right.

  • Columbus – Down the driveway, turn left, walk 5 minutes.

Provisions in Road Town

  • Riteway - Pasea – Largest grocery store, also locations near TMM Yacht Charters in Road Reef and Soper’s Hole. Full grocery and liquor store.

  • Steakation Butchers – Located at The Moorings Marina.

  • Grape Expectations – Near TMM Yacht Charters in Road Reef.

  • The French Deli – Specialty European imports, cheeses, bread, pastries, ice creams, wines (The Moorings Marina).

  • Tico’s – Liquor, wine, beer, and mixers (Behind Riteway Pasea in Road Town).

  • Caribbean Cellars – Liquor, wine, beer, and mixers (At The Moorings Marina).

Island Hopping

  • Best of BVI website provides ferry schedules, company listings, and advance ticket purchase where available.

  • Day trips & overnight stays available for Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke.

  • West End Ferry Terminal – 20-minute ride to Jost Van Dyke, St. John (USVI), St. Thomas (USVI) (Check Best of BVI for changes).

  • Road Town Ferry Terminal – 20-minute ride to Virgin Gorda, Anegada, St. Thomas.

  • Norman Island & Cooper Island – Private ferries available; each island has one restaurant and offers beach time, snorkeling, and walking trails.

Shopping in the BVI

  • Arawak – Gifts (Soper’s Hole), Household items (Nanny Cay).

  • Nutmeg – Road Town (Waterfront Road).

  • Latitude 18 – Road Town, Cane Garden Bay.

  • Myett’s Gift Shop – Cane Garden Bay.

  • House – Road Town (near The Moorings Marina).

Renting a Car & Transportation

Car Rentals (Delivery to property available)

  • Jerry’s Car Rental – +1-284-495-4111

  • International Motors – +1-284-494-2517

  • Denzil Clyne Jeep & Car Rental – +1-284-545-4900

Taxi Services

  • Al Smith – +1-284-496-6889

  • Shaka Rhymer – +1-284-496-7349

  • Sandman Rhymer – +1-284-542-1503

  • Lionel Callwood – +1-284-340-8660

  • Buckle – +1-284-443-4664

Bike & Scooter Rentals

  • Esme Car & Scooter Rentals – +1-284-442-1755

  • Aaron Rentals – +1-284-494-8917

Water Activities

  • Anne Bonny Charters – Small group sail trips (+1-284-345-9988 or check Facebook).

  • Aristocat Daysails – +1-284-499-1249 or check Facebook.

  • Jet Skis & Banana Boat Rides – Available in Cane Garden Bay on weekends and holidays.

  • Scuba Diving – Dive BVI, Blue Water Divers, and Sunchaser Scuba (Check Facebook for details).

  • Surfing – Josiah Bay, Apple Bay, and various surf spots.

  • Private Boat Charters – Tender Too, Island Time BVI, Double D Charters, and Day Trips BVI (Check Facebook for contact details).

Historic & Local Highlights

  • Callwood's Rum Distillery – Located in Cane Garden Bay.

  • Botanical Gardens – Road Town.

  • H.M. Prison Museum – Main Street, Road Town.

  • Mount Sage National Park – Features 12 scenic walking trails.

  • Gumption’s Learning Adventures – Necker Island animal conservation park tour (Check Facebook for details).