Take Time in Tortola
The temperatures are in the 60s and sunny in Atlanta this week and last week’s deep freeze seems a distant memory. Nothing like Winter in the South! So for our second romantic rendevous destination, let’s head down to the Caribbean and check out the island of Tortola.
Photo Courtesy Flickr.com/Belzie
The largest of the British Virgin Islands, Tortola is the capital of the island chain. There is a distinct West Indies influence throughout the island, which is particularly noticeable in the cuisine of local restaurants and the decor of the many by owner vacation rentals that dot the island.To me, nothing says “vacation in the Caribbean” like crystal blue water, sandy beaches a a boat drink or two. And Tortola is the perfect destination for all of the above. Tortola is home to several simply stunning beaches virtually untouched by commercialism and ideal for lazing away the day, watching the sun glint off the ocean. There are seven primary beach areas on the island and each has something special to offer. Perfect for discovering one a day during a week away. But if your time is short (or you plan to explore something besides the sand between your toes while in town), then you’ll need to prioritize of course. No taking a vacation from that!
When you’re in the mood for a relaxing, postcard type of beach day, head to Elizabeth Beach. Also known as Lambert Bay, this is the widest beach on the island and the place to be for sun lovers and those who love them. Pack your bikini and don’t forget the sunscreen – the Caribbean sun is strong all year ’round. Elizabeth Beach is a great spot for a picnic as well, so put the kitchen in your rental beach house to good use and whip up something tasty using fresh local ingredients before you head out from the day.
If surfing is more your style you’ll want to head to Apple Bay Beach. It’s the best place on the island for surfing and you’re sure to have plenty of company any day you go. There are a few “hidden” surfing spots around the island, but you’ll have to seek those out on your own. It’s not up to me to let the cat out of the bag!
Adventurous visitors will want to make the trek to Smuggler’s Cove. This hidden spot is located at the western tip of Tortola. The getting there can be a little rough – the road is bumpy to put it mildly and downright treacherous in spots, but the reward is great. The journey ends with a pristine, often deserted beach in a secluded surrounding. A small beach shack serves as a bar where folks can order a frozen drink or a beer to whet their whistle while they lounge on the sand. The snorkeling in Smuggler’s Cove is unmatched and the peaceful, serene atmosphere is seldom shattered by the hoards that can descend on Tortola’s beaches when cruise ships dock. Smuggler’s Cove is truly a little slice of paradise.
The beaches of Tortola provide a beautiful backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling and snuggling with the one you love. Truly one of the most romantic spots to visit in 2011.
For the best vacation rentals in Tortola, visit our Tortola destination page and choose the perfect landing spot for your next Caribbean vacation.
This entry was posted on Tuesday, February 15th, 2011 at 10:55 pm and is filed under Suggestions, Travel Tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
One Response to “Take Time in Tortola”
Troy February 21st, 2011 at 11:45 am
Tortola is on my shortlist of places to visit. It has always sounded like a perfect paradise to me.
