Things To Do
in Road Town
Road Town, the capital of the British Virgin Islands, sits on Tortola’s southern coast and is the region’s ferry, government, and commercial hub. It blends colonial charm with a bustling harbor and easy access to surrounding islands. Colorful storefronts, waterfront eateries, and sailing vessels give the town a vibrant Caribbean character.
From here, you can easily embark on island adventures while enjoying a relaxed, friendly pace of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh tropical fruits and pastries. After breakfast, stroll through the bustling streets of Road Town, taking in the picturesque scenery and local shops. Visit the Tortola Heritage Museum to learn about the rich history of the Virgin Islands.
After lunch, head to the famous Cane Garden Bay for a relaxing afternoon on the beach. Dive into the crystal-clear waters for some snorkeling or simply soak up the sun on the soft sands. Enjoy a casual beachside bar for some delicious Caribbean cocktails as you unwind.
As evening falls, treat yourself to a delightful dinner overlooking the harbor at one of the local restaurants. Embrace the island vibe with live music while enjoying fresh seafood specialties. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, taking in the mesmerizing sunset.
Start your day with an adventurous hike at Sage Mountain National Park, the highest point in the Virgin Islands. Breathe in the fresh air as you explore lush trails and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the island. Make your way to the observation deck for a breathtaking view of the archipelago.
After your hike, visit the nearby Josiah's Bay to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch. The beach is perfect for catching some waves, so consider trying your hand at surfing or simply lounging by the shore. Engage with local artisans selling their crafts and enjoy the vibrant beach atmosphere.
As the sun sets, embark on a sunset cruise around Tortola. Experience the magical transition of day to night while sipping on a refreshing drink and enjoying light snacks on board. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins that might join you as the day winds down.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🧭Grocery for one week | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi start (base fare) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $150-250 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- English is the primary language, easing communication for visitors
- Relaxed, friendly island vibe with easy access to islands around Tortola
- Stunning beaches, clear waters, and excellent sailing opportunities
- Well-developed harbor area with dining and shopping nearby
- Prices can be high for goods and services
- Hurricane season brings weather volatility and potential disruptions
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Please" - Please
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Do you speak English?" - Do you speak English?
- "Where is the bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "How much is this?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Road Town
Visit one of these nice places.
Front-row views of anchored boats, ferries, and the dramatic Caribbean light during sunset; best from the waterfront promenade.
Colorful, weathered facades and shop signs along the pedestrian-friendly street offer classic Caribbean street photography moments.
Historic grounds with colonial architecture and manicured gardens, ideal for architectural and landscape shots.
Long, sandy beach with turquoise water; ideal for sunrise shots, palm silhouettes, and water activities.
Rugged coastlines and open skies provide dramatic seascapes, especially during sunset.
Food in Road Town
Road Town Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fritters made from conch meat and seasoned batter, commonly served with a tangy dipping sauce at waterfront stalls and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Savory fried cornmeal cakes served with saltfish, a comforting staple found in markets and island cafés.
A hearty leafy-green soup enriched with coconut milk and often okra or dumplings; a comforting island favorite.
Freshly caught seafood grilled and finished with a zesty lime-butter glaze, commonly featured at harborfront grills.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Harbor-adjacent market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruit, vegetables, spices, and prepared street foods.
West End market near the harbor with casual vendors offering snacks, baked goods, and island specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a handshake are common; maintain polite conversation and share a smile.
Engage in light, friendly conversation about island life, weather, and sailing; avoid overly sensitive topics with strangers.
Smart casual is typical for restaurants; beachwear is expected only at beaches and casual venues.
Safety
Tipping in Road Town
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 10–15% tip is customary unless a service charge is included. For taxis or small services, rounding up or a small extra is appreciated. Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept major credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent brief showers. Sea breezes help; afternoons can be storm-prone; stay hydrated and use reef-safe sunscreen.
Hurricane season runs June through November; storms can bring heavy rain and winds, but many days are sunny with cooling showers.
Dryer and milder days with pleasant trade winds; peak tourist season, so expect more crowds but excellent visibility for snorkeling.
Warm and comfortable with sunny days; good for hiking and water-based activities before the summer heat returns.
Road Town at Night
Hiking in Road Town
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, moderately challenging hike with sweeping views of Tortola and nearby islands.
Forested uplands offering rewarding hikes and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Airports
How to reach Road Town by plane.
Beef Island airport near Road Town; main gateway for inter-island and international flights.
Located on Virgin Gorda; serves regional flights and charters, useful for quick island hopping.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Afro-Caribbean with strong ties to British and regional Caribbean heritage.
International mix from the US, UK, and other Caribbean nations, contributing to a cosmopolitan island vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Virgin Islands are renowned for sailing culture, regattas, and charter opportunities.
A popular community sport with local leagues and social play.
Widely played by locals and visitors, with casual matches and community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Road Town.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and restaurants; look for callaloo, plantain dishes, roti with vegetables, dumplings, dumplings, and veggie curries. When in doubt, ask for vegetable-based dishes or sides and specify no fish sauce if needed.