Things to do with kids in the British Virgin Islands
By Banita Sadhra on 16th August, 2023
Get ready to embark on a family adventure to the British Virgin Islands, a world full of excitement, where everyone can explore the wonders of this Caribbean gem. From sandy shores to sea life encounters, the British Virgin Islands offer a treasure trove of activities designed to captivate kids of all ages. In our guide, we want to show you the top things to do with kids in the British Virgin Islands. Let’s delve into some of the top family-friendly things to do in this Caribbean paradise:
Turtle Tagging
This popular attraction of turtle tagging is ideal for any budding marine biologists or conservationists. In British Virgin Island there are many courses offers that allow students and families to tag wild sea turtles, helping to keep track of the sea turtles’ population and gather information.
Visitors will take a boat trip with a specialist marine biologist to capture turtles, tag them and then release them back into the ocean. Families will gain insights into the biological characteristics and behaviors of green and hawksbill turtles.
Explore The Baths
The Baths National Park unveils a captivating network of trails winding through colossal granite boulders and formations, tracing the path along the ivory sands of Devil’s Bay on Virgin Gorda. Traverse through the enchanting terrain, involving short ladder climbs, gentle wading through shallow waters, and discovery of immense granite boulder chambers. Upon emerging from these labyrinthine paths, take a pit stop at the nearby beach or enjoy a paddle in the shallow waters.
Make sure to treat yourself to a bite to eat or a refreshing drink from Top of the Baths, the perfect finale for an unforgettable experience.
Sage Mountain National Park
Travel to Sage Mountain National Park for a day of hiking. The trails offer a beginner-friendly experience and a chance for the whole family to see the beautiful views of the island. The park stands the loftiest peak in the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands, a tourist attraction worth visiting and exploring.
There are 12 trails through the forest with loops creating a circular route. Maps are available at the park entrance.
Bubbly Pool Trail
This family-friendly path is relatively short and mostly flat, making it an easy walk with a big reward.
The trail culminates at a stretch of shoreline where ocean waves are funneled through a cut in a rocky outcropping before spilling fizzy, churned-up waters into the aptly named Bubbly Pool. It’s nature’s Jacuzzi!
Beach Day
The BVI is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean, providing the ideal setting for family beach days. Let the kids build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, or simply splash in the gentle waves.
Long Bay Beach on Tortola and Smuggler’s Cove on Jost Van Dyke are just a couple of the family-friendly beach options. For further recommendations, check out our post on the best beaches in the British Virgin Islands.
Anegada Iguana Conservation Center
The Anegada Iguana Conservation Center is a vital sanctuary for the one of the world’s rarest reptiles – the Anegada iguana. Visitors are invited so they can observe these majestic iguanas up close in their natural habitat, gaining a deeper appreciation for their role in the delicate island ecosystem.
The center’s helps raise public awareness and offers a chance for families to understand the history behind the Anegada iguana.
Mangrove Paddle
Embark on an unforgettable family-friendly adventure as you explore the lush mangrove forests of Beef Island by kayak.
GroundSea Adventures BVI offers an amazing paddle excursion can last up to two hours and paddlers will have a chance to learn about the marine ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled for barracuda, baby sharks, stingrays, and turtles.
Boat trips
Explore the BVI’s turquoise waters on a family sailing adventure. Join a crewed charter or opt for a kid-friendly sailing tour that includes snorkeling stops, beach exploration, and the chance to learn the ropes on board. With the wide range of boat options, families can explore these beautiful islands and enjoy the magnificent views around them.
Whether you’re snorkeling to see the coral reefs, discovering hidden caves, or hopping between the charming islands, each boat trip promises an unforgettable experience, letting the whole family enjoy the balmy waters.
Pottery Workshops
For those keen to try their hand at something creative, The Pottery Garden in Josiah’s Bay hosts beginner pottery classes for children ages 6-12 years old. Kids can learn the basics of hand building pottery techniques, from pinching to coiling to slab building.
Adults can also have fun with a chance to create their own pottery pieces. After your fun workshops, make sure to visit the display gallery on-site where you can see the beautiful handmade crafts with a cold refreshing drink. This amazing experience is great for the whole family and will let you take home your own designs for you to place on your mantle piece.
J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens
Step into a lush paradise of biodiversity and natural beauty with a visit to the J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens in Road Town. This enchanting botanical haven is a sanctuary of serenity and an educational gem, offering visitors of all ages a captivating journey through a world of tropical flora.
It also features displays of exotic species and an extensive array of palm trees. By the tranquil pond, a charming orchid gazebo reveals itself, housing both native and exotic orchids, while lilies gracefully float and tortoises leisurely swim in the water.
The British Virgin Islands offer an array of family-friendly activities that will keep kids engaged, entertained, and educated throughout your vacation. Whether it’s underwater discoveries, pirate escapades, or beachside relaxation, the BVI promises a memorable getaway for the entire family. So get vacation planning to these amazing Caribbean islands.
Make sure to check out our other BVI posts; Guide to Virgin Gorda, Guide to Anegada, Guide to Tortola
Or check out our top 10 Best Restaurants in the British Virgin Islands for fresh conch fritters