Tortola offers a charming mash-up of traditional West Indian culture, with a British politeness, and plenty of life to it, all against the backdrop of Caribbean island perfection. And it's much loved by sailors! Capital of the British Virgin Islands, and home to 80% of the population, Tortola is very much more than a holiday island, and the best places to stay on Tortola range from bougainvillaea clad guesthouses in the hills, to traditional beachside hotels and private island resorts.

As well as being a great base for exploring the tiny, uninhabited blips of the British Virgin Island Group, Tortola is also great for divers - there's a number of shipwrecks just off the coast, and great for hikers - the landscape is lush and peaky.

It also offers some interesting conditions for surfers, who're gradually colonising some of the undeveloped gems of beaches on the island's north coast.

Road Town, Tortola's capital, is home to the island's government buildings and sailing businesses; this is where you'll find the largest marinas and boatyards. There are some relatively basic hotels to be found around the docks, but also some quite decent ones - possibly for the offshore finance clients.

Don't forget that the best places to stay in Tortola get quickly booked up, especially during the peak holiday seasons. So be sure to book well ahead to avoid disappointment.

Best places to stay in Tortola

For a traditional feel

• Sugar Mill is a small resort just minutes from the beach. Traditional, and rather charming, this resort is done in colourful fabrics, and has lush gardens, a superb restaurant and two beachside bars. Most rooms have both kitchen and living space.

For beachfront luxury

• The Long Bay Beach Club is a beachfront hotel with plenty of charm. Rooms have wood-beamed ceilings, kitchens and large bathrooms, and there are amenities galore, from a cocktail bar on the beach, to a gym and tennis courts.

For a holiday home or villa

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• The temperature stays a balmy 25-28°C year-round, though be warned that hurricane season lasts from June to November (with August and September being the most likely months to experience a hurricane).
• Mid-December to mid-April is the the peak tourist season, so expect to pay more for accommodation and for there to be larger crowds.
• Fly into Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, aka Beef Island Airport, before taking a taxi or a bus to your final destination.
• Alternatively hire a car with Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay on Tortola.
• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in the British Virgin Islands.
• Or the best places to stay in the Caribbean.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.