Best Beach Hotels in British Virgin Islands

Surrounded by shallow coral reefs, white sand beaches and a 55-slip marina, Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina appeals to travelers looking for private accommodations with easy access to prime diving and snorkeling sites. During the day, guests can stake out a chaise lounge chair along the water, charter a boat to explore neighboring islands, or head to the lxora Spa for a relaxing treatment. Previous visitors loved the resort's intimate atmosphere, beautiful scenery and contemporary decor. (And you can't miss the incredible infinity pool, one of the world's most beautiful.) However, some past travelers said a few staff members were not friendly. You'll have your pick of deluxe guest rooms, suites and villas, all of which feature neutral decor with pops of color on accent linens. What's more, every accommodation is outfitted with teak wood furniture, a minifridge, complimentary Wi-Fi access and Elemis toiletries. As its name suggests, this resort dominates most of Scrub Island, which is situated in the middle of the British Virgin Islands. Scrub Island is a member of Marriott's Autograph Collection, meaning guests can earn or redeem Marriott Rewards points by choosing to bed down here.

Peter Island Resort is an ideal hideaway for luxury seekers – here, you're actually staying on your own private island (also named Peter Island) at the southern end of the archipelago (there are regular private launches to shuttle you back and forth from Tortola in the north). The resort's grounds are impressive, featuring an expansive spa, several dining options, five private beaches and legions of wild sea grapes and coconuts. To cut down on costs, recent travelers suggest booking an ocean-view room that faces the northern Deadman's Bay Beach rather than those looking out on Sprat Bay of Peter Island's southern coast. If money is no object, consider staying in one of the three super-swanky villas. Those come with several bedrooms (decked out in blue and green decor), private verandahs, fully stocked kitchens and – in some cases – personal chefs, valets and maids. Note: The resort was impacted by the 2017 hurricanes and is currently undergoing renovations. A reopen date is not available at this time.

With its stone walls, vaulted ceilings and neutral color scheme, Virgin Gorda's Rosewood Little Dix Bay is described by recent guests as one of the loveliest hotels on the island. This Rosewood outpost sits on the northern side of the island, tucked amid Virgin Gorda's rolling hills. Guests have their choice of basic rooms, hexagonal-shaped cottages, suites, beach houses and ocean-front villas, all of which offer Heely toiletries, Rivolta Carmignani Italian linens, Bose CD players and patios. On-site activities include tennis and snorkeling lessons. Yogis and spa-seekers can sign up for lavish spa treatments and wellness classes at the cliff-side Sense, A Rosewood Spa. And you'll be less than a 10-minute car ride from hiking The Baths' grottoes. Recent guests give the resort's spacious grounds and resourceful staff high marks, but note that there are not many entertainment options at night. You'll enjoy more variety with the hotel's culinary offerings: Rosewood Little Dix Bay boasts three eateries, ranging from the casual Beach Grill to the more formal Sugar Mill. (Note: Rosewood Little Dix Bay closed in 2016 for a refurbishment and was hit by the hurricanes in 2017; it's expected to reopen in 2019.) 

It's hard to determine what travelers enjoy more — the gourmet seafood or the first-rate service at this small Tortola hotel. And that's not surprising as this cottage-turned-hotel is owned and operated by renowned food and travel writers Jefferson and Jinx Morgan. The intimate dining room — complete with mood lighting and an innovative menu — wins over many of its patrons. However, there are a few things you should know before you book: Sugar Mill is located over Apple Bay, along the island's northeast coast and children ages 11 and younger are not permitted to stay at Sugar Mill during the peak season (December to April). Also, keep in mind that Sugar Mill is missing some of the accoutrements you'd find at other luxury properties, like spa treatments and TVs in every room. Despite lacking extravagance, these simplistic accommodations do come equipped with a kitchenette and private balcony overlooking the waterfront or tropical garden.