The Best Things to Do in and Around Road Town, British Virgin Islands

Sailing is by far the best way to explore the waters around Road Town, the island and beyond. Head over to Scrub Island and climb aboard a plush yacht, ready for Culture Trip’s eight-day sailing adventure around the British Virgin Islands. You’ll get the chance to see The Baths on Virgin Gorda, the Anegada flamingos, and kayak around Peter Island (just opposite Road Town) before returning to Tortola.

Hit the shops at Tortola Pier Park, which sits on the waterfront just a short walk from the Moorings Marina. The open-air colonial-style mall features more than 70 retail outlets offering everything from clothing at Blanc du Nil to local rum at That’s the Spirit. Refuel afterwards on baked chicken and potato wedges at Camdem Gourmet Market.

Climb high into the treetops with the Original Virgin Canopy Tour, just a 15-minute drive from Road Town. You’ll be clipped into a harness and led along a high ropes course through the hilltop canopy; it’s been designed for adventurers of all ages. The tours last about 90 minutes and include a safety talk and equipment fitting. Make sure you pack a camera – a GoPro is best – and closed-toe shoes.

Set your eyes on one of Tortola’s quirkiest attractions: the North Shore Shell Museum. Located about a 20-minute drive from Road Town, this ramshackle museum features thousands of shells and locally made crafts. The owner, Egbert, is friendly and happy to show you around, regaling you with tales as he goes. There is no entrance fee but you can make a donation (or purchase a souvenir to take home).

Escape the confines of your boat’s galley for a spot of fine dining at the Brandywine Estate Restaurant. This acclaimed restaurant, located on the waterfront and just a short drive from Road Town, serves up Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, quaffable wines, and great views. Standout dishes include duck wellington, tuna tartare, as well as a crab, artichoke, and spinach dip served with baked pita bread.

Step back in time and channel your inner pirate with a trip to the Callwood Rum Distillery, which prides itself on being one of the Caribbean’s oldest continuous pot distilleries. The family-run factory, on Cane Garden Bay, still makes rum from pure cane juice, the same way it did 400 years ago. Many of the historic buildings are still standing, with several repurposed as a gift shop, museum, and art gallery.

For green-fingered travelers, a trip to the J.R. O’Neal Botanical Gardens is a must. These gardens serve as a tranquil oasis in the heart of Road Town and they’re the perfect place to seek out shade in the heat of the day. Highlights include an avenue of palm trees leading to a fountain and sections representing different habitats in the BVIs from rainforest to dry forest. The gardens, established in 1979, were named after the BVI’s first conservationist, Joseph Reynold O’Neal, and there is a small fee to enter.

Make sure you line your stomach before a trip to Pusser’s Road Town Pub, which serves up punchy painkiller cocktails in their droves. The creamy concoction features a moreish blend of Pusser’s Rum, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, and orange juice with a grating of nutmeg on top. While the painkillers are one reason to visit Pusser’s Pub, the historic Victorian-era interiors are a wonder to behold. The wood-paneled walls are lined with historic knick-knacks, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Looking for a beach to recuperate? Take a taxi from the marina over to Cane Garden Bay Beach (or anchor offshore). The curved bay makes for a dreamy scene with powdery white sands, aquamarine waters, and a mountainous backdrop. Its location on the north shore of Tortola means it’s sheltered from strong winds. If you’re feeling active, try stand-up paddleboarding before seeking refreshment at the Paradise Club Lounge.