When you’ve got kids in tow, there’s only one way to see the best of the British Virgin Islands — by boat!
Photo by Adrian Doza
The British Virgin Islands are a white-sand beach paradise for families. Each island has a distinct personality, so island hopping is the name of the game when it comes to experiencing this sunny Caribbean destination. And the best way to make the most of your trip is sailing on your own private yacht, of course. MarineMax Vacations makes island hopping breezier than a rum punch on the beach. With multiple chartering options, you can customize your cruising experience with help from MarineMax’s expert trip planners. We’re talking cruising, crewed yachts (yep, a full crew who handles everything for you), and bareboats for those who want to captain their own vessel.
Once you’ve got your charter set, all that’s left to do is choose some killer hot spots where you can relax, play and give your entire family the trip of a lifetime. Read on for seven kidtastic places in the BVI where you should consider making port.
1/7 Nanny Cay Marina
As the home base of MarineMax Vacations, this marina is a natural place to start or end your trip, but what really makes this destination shine is the abundance of families you’ll find here. With so many local and visiting families posting up in this gorgeous spot, it’s a great place to make friends or ask for insider tips. Bond with fellow parents over a beer and a slice of delicious homemade pizza at the family-friendly Beach Shack after a day of play at the beach bar. Kids will love going full Tarzan on a local climbing tree, complete with rope swings, and swimming both in the ocean and at a local pool. You can also scoop up some groceries and a cup of joe from local shops around town.
2/7 Cane Garden Bay
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Satisfy your thirst for views on views, a refreshing drink from the bar, and a mean plate of chicken tenders at this stunning beach. Plan to stay for sunset, which is particularly stunning over the bay. Tots will love a chance to dig for clams, while older kids can try their hand at surfing. While you can expect gentle waves most of the time, check the swells before diving in as rough weather can make the area unsafe for swimming.
3/7 The Baths
This iconic spot is an absolute must for any MarineMax Vacations charter. Tire kids out at this outdoor paradise. You’ll have to swim in to enjoy the fun and grab a bite on shore, so grab your life jackets or an inner tube before you make the trek. You can expect tons of winding trails, hiking opportunities, and ladders to hidden coves, caves and pools where your kids’ imagination can run wild.
4/7 Norman Island
Photo by Adrian Doza
Spend the day off your MarineMax yacht and enjoy an idyllic, traditional beach day filled with water activities. This section of ocean is great for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Pack a lunch before going ashore to enjoy the beach or (for mom and dad) grab a few cocktails and upscale bites from Pirates Bight.
5/7 Leverick Bay
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Leverick Bay is an ideal overnight stop during your MarineMax Vacations charter. For youngsters hoping to channel their inner Jack Sparrow, don’t miss the Michael Beans Pirate Show at the Leverick Bay Resort. Audience members are encouraged to dress up for the campy sing-along that you might just enjoy as much as your kids. After, grab some grub and go for a swim at the resort’s pool. As long as you purchase food, non-guests are welcome to take a dip.
6/7 Anegeda
Photo by Adrian Doza
If you’re in the mood for something a little more hidden, check out the Anegeda Beach Club. You can rent a number of sporting items, such as bikes, scooters, and kayaks. For the extreme members of your brood, check out the Tommy Gaunt Kitesurfing School. Cow Wreck Beach, while great for playing and swimming, is host to a handful of restaurants and bars. Wrap up the day by chowing down on famous Anegeda lobster, caught fresh daily. Don’t miss out on taking a quick boat ride over to the incredible island made entirely of conch shells just off the coast of Anegeda.
7/7 Cooper Island
Photo by Adrian Doza
Top off your MarineMax Vacations charter and reward yourself with a day of indulgences at Cooper Island. Here you can enjoy a quiet, secluded beach with top notch snorkeling. Hit up the beach club to get your coffee fix, post up at the rum bar, enjoy fresh seafood at a delicious restaurant, or enjoy a pint from the newly opened microbrewery.