This Caribbean Island Has a Lush National Park, Pristine White-sand Beaches, and a 400-year-old Distillery

"If you're interested in exploring the British Virgin Islands, Tortola is one of the best places to start your journey. The largest and most populated of the archipelago's four main islands, it's the perfect jumping-off point for further Caribbean pursuits to Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke, among the 60 smaller islands that make up the BVI. "Tortola offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle," says Cassandra Quirk, the former director of marketing and public relations at Long Bay Beach Resort. "It's a destination where you can reconnect with yourself and nature and just experience the meaning of true island living.""

"A few other things to note: Road Town, the capital of the BVI, is located in the center of Tortola's south coast, and makes a good stop for boat chartering, shopping, and admiring the arriving cruise ships. Since Tortola is a British Overseas Territory, cars are driven on the left side of the road. And while U.S. citizens need a passport to enter, the island's main currency is the U.S. dollar."

" Best Hotels & Resorts Long Bay Beach Resort "The best accommodation depends on your budget," says Karl Burnett, a Tortola-based guide for ToursByLocals, who notes that Long Bay Beach Resort is a "lovely option." Located on a mile-long white-sand beach, the resort is the epitome of island paradise. Its airy rooms, suites, and spacious Beach House-set on a gorgeous private stretch of sand-are outfitted with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and locally made bath products."

Tortola is the largest and most populated island in the British Virgin Islands and serves as a central jumping-off point to Anegada, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and about 60 smaller islands. The island features diverse activities including hiking, snorkeling, rum tasting, and visiting the BVI's first national park. Road Town on the south coast functions as the capital and a hub for boat charters, shopping, and cruise-ship viewing. Vehicles drive on the left, U.S. citizens require a passport to enter, and the U.S. dollar is the primary currency. Long Bay Beach Resort offers mile-long white-sand beachfront accommodations with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and locally made bath products.

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