The Complete Guide to a Serene Virgin Gorda Honeymoon

The third largest of the British Virgin Islands, a Virgin Gorda honeymoon is ideal for those seeking a placid and romantic setting. Lush vegetation, pristine beaches, lots of seclusion and none of those tourist hordes you'll see in other Caribbean destinations—that's exactly what you can expect here. The only downside to reaching this gorgeous island setting is it requires work.

Getting to Virgin Gorda can be a bit of a process. While you might be able to take a simple one-way flight to other Caribbean destinations such as Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda requires a few extra steps. If you're flying in, you'll need to stop on a separate island first, before transferring. (Popular options include St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands or San Juan, Puerto Rico.) You can also fly to a neighboring island and take the ferry to Virgin Gorda from St. Thomas or Tortola. Upon your arrival, you'll be well-rewarded for your efforts. Here's everything you need to know about honeymooning on Virgin Gorda, so you can decide if the island is ideal for you and your partner.

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Is Virgin Gorda Good for a Honeymoon?

The Pros of a Virgin Gorda Honeymoon

Virgin Gorda is a preferred pick for honeymooners who want serenity without sacrificing luxury. "Still considered a hidden gem of the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda would be an incredible destination for a honeymoon," says Tamara Lidbom, of Anytime Travel Agency. "This island has incredible natural beauty [and is] considered the most beautiful of the BVIs. The island is quieter than, say, Tortola, but the resort options here are definitely luxurious and these hotels have some of the best restaurants and cuisine."

The Cons of a Virgin Gorda Honeymoon

As mentioned, Virgin Gorda is somewhat difficult to reach. Additionally, because the island isn't as popular as some of its neighbors, you might find you're missing some of the amenities and the wealth of activities that others might offer. So, if you're hoping for a Caribbean honeymoon and you aren't picky, you might want to opt for one of the more popular Caribbean honeymoon destinations. Likewise, if you're hoping for a packed itinerary including nightlife, tours, shopping, waterparks and such, consider a honeymoon package elsewhere.

The Best Times of Year to Go on a Virgin Gorda Honeymoon for Good Weather

Virgin Gorda offers wonderful honeymoon weather for most of the year, with moderate temperature conditions and frequent sunshine. However, during the summer months, temperatures can climb, as does the humidity, so take this into account as you're planning. Additionally, hurricane season runs June through November. To be on the safe side, if you book your honeymoon during these summer or fall months, invest in trip insurance.

Things to Do During a Virgin Gorda Honeymoon

Take in the Natural Beauty at Gorda National Park

The abundant, beautiful nature across Virgin Gorda is a huge draw for many travelers, so be sure to soak it all up to the fullest. "If you love the outdoors, the hiking and mountain biking is incredible," says Lidbom. "There are nature sanctuaries and Gorda National Park to explore … Explore the many secluded, pristine beaches. Since you are on your honeymoon, you should check out Honeymoon Beach."

Visit the Baths

One of the most popular outdoor attractions on the island is the Baths, a beach area filled with boulders that create small coves for wading. "From the wild coastline to the lush vegetation, Virgin Gorda exudes romance. It's regarded as one of the BVI's most beautiful islands and is home to luxury eco-friendly resorts, several nature sanctuaries, white sand beaches and one of our top attractions, the Baths," comments Brad Simmons, director of sales and marketing at the island's Rosewood Little Dix Bay. "The Baths are a labyrinth of beachside boulders forming a series of secret pools and seawater-flooded grottoes that many couples visiting the island are keen to explore."

Charter a Boat to Neighboring Islands

Of course, you don't want to just enjoy the Caribbean waters from the beaches and The Baths. As Lidbom said, "Yacht clubs and marinas open the door to sailing, private charters and fishing …You may be on one island but take a charter [or] tour to explore another island. The diving in the British Virgin Islands is also incredible, with over 300 sites."

Go Snorkeling and Sailing

"We are known as a sailing capital of the world," says Inge Judd, owner and innkeeper at The Inn at Cornucopia. "Take a day charter or charter a boat to explore all of our beautiful islands. Our waters are crystal-clear for fabulous snorkeling or scuba diving to well-known wreck sites."

Best Hotels and Resorts on Virgin Gorda for a Honeymoon

Rosewood Little Dix Bay

This five-star resort sits on 500 acres of beachfront and offers a little something for every couple. Book a couples spa treatment inspired by island healing rituals. Enjoy an intimate garden-set dinner featuring the restaurants' delicious menus filled with locally sourced ingredients. Experience guided snorkel safaris or private sailing adventures.

Rosewood Little Dix Bay

Necker Island

Looking to seriously splurge during your honeymoon? Consider booking Necker Island, a private island owned by Sir Richard Branson. The exclusive, 74-acre island offers luxury accommodations suitable for up to 48 adults, so it might even be a feasible consideration if you're planning a destination wedding (in which case, you'll need to check out the marriage requirements for the British Virgin Islands). Just because the island can fit up to nearly 50 people, though, that doesn't mean you'll need to book out the entire thing. Throughout certain times of the year, you can book accommodations for you and your sweetheart only.

Saba Rock

Saba Rock is likewise a private island, but it's much more of a traditional resort setting. While staying on the island, you'll enjoy luxury at every turn, including great dining options, a spa and outdoor adventure activities such as island tours, diving and kiteboarding. Even if you don't book a stay at Saba Rock, if you're still interested in the amenities, you might want to visit on a day trip, during which you can take advantage of many of the same perks that guests enjoy.

Bitter End Yacht Club

Only recently reopened after rebuilding post-Hurricane Irma, the Bitter End Yacht Club is both laid-back and upscale, with a rustic, vintage vibe that's entirely magical. Book a marina loft to stay in the only over-the-water bungalows in the entire British Virgin Islands. In addition to enjoying gorgeous views right from bed, you'll also love being able to climb directly from your room and into the water.

What to Pack for a Virgin Gorda Honeymoon

As you would when traveling to any warm island destination, pack all your necessary beach wear and gear. The checklist should include multiple swimsuits, cover-ups, sunscreen, sun hats, linens, button-downs and more. If you're specifically planning to visit the Baths during your Virgin Gorda honeymoon, pack swim shoes, as scrambling over the boulders and through the coves can be uncomfortable otherwise. For a more complete list, check out our full guide to what to pack for a tropical honeymoon.