Tortola & BVI: Private Island Tour with Snorkeling & Local Guide

Summary

Private tour of Tortola’s best beaches plus snorkeling stops

You’ll wander Tortola’s rainforest trails with a local guide, snorkel colorful reefs at Brewer’s Beach and Smuggler’s Cove, relax on soft sand at Cane Garden Bay, and share fresh island snacks along the way. Expect laughter, history, good food—and that feeling you only get when you’re far from home but somehow right where you belong.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever seen water this clear?” That’s what our driver, Marcus, asked as we pulled up to Brewer’s Bay — and honestly, I hadn’t. The morning started with a bumpy ride up into Sage Mountain National Park. It smelled like wet leaves and something sweet I couldn’t place. Our guide pointed out tiny lizards darting across the path and told us how the island changes after hurricane season. I kept stopping just to listen — it was quiet except for birds and the crunch of gravel under our shoes.

After that hike (sweaty but worth it), we wound down narrow roads past painted houses and goats wandering wherever they wanted. At Mount Healthy Windmill, Marcus explained how sugarcane used to run everything here — he even let us taste a bit of raw cane he’d brought along. Sticky fingers, but kind of fun. The ruins felt heavy with history; you could almost hear old stories in the wind if you stood still long enough.

We hit three beaches — Smuggler’s Cove was my favorite. The sand is so fine it squeaks under your feet, and when I tried to say “Smuggler’s Cove” in my worst attempt at patois, Marcus just laughed and shook his head. Snorkeling there was wild — schools of little blue fish everywhere, and the water warm enough that you never want to get out. Lunch at Long Bay was simple grilled fish with plantains (I’m still thinking about that). Cane Garden Bay had music drifting from a bar and kids playing tag in the shallows. We wandered through a shop selling handmade art before heading back.

I didn’t expect to feel so at home on a private Tortola tour — maybe it was all the small moments: sharing fruit on the beach, or just watching clouds roll over the hills together. If you go, don’t rush it. Let yourself get salty and sun-tired; it’s part of the story.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore beaches and nature

• Visit Mount Healthy Windmill
• Snorkel at Brewer's Beach
• Snorkel at Smuggler's Cove Beach
• Lunch and swim at Long Bay
• Hike Sage Mountain National Park
• Relax at Cane Garden Bay

Top questions

Is transportation included in this Tortola private tour?

Yes, private transportation is included for your group throughout the day.

Are snorkeling stops part of this day trip?

Yes, there are guided snorkeling stops at Brewer's Beach and Smuggler's Cove.

Does this tour include lunch or snacks?

The tour includes tropical snacks and cold drinks; there is a lunch stop at Long Bay where you can purchase food.

How many people can join the private jeep tour?

The jeep fits up to four passengers; larger groups use a comfortable seven-seat vehicle.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all necessary snorkeling equipment is included in your day trip.

Are entry fees or taxes extra?

No, all fees and taxes are already included in your booking price.

Can infants or young children join this Tortola tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult's lap during transport.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it's suitable for all physical fitness levels; hikes are gentle.

What’s included

Your day includes private air-conditioned transportation around Tortola with pickup and drop-off at your location, all entry fees for parks or attractions along the way, use of snorkeling equipment for each stop (no need to bring your own), tropical snacks and cold drinks throughout the trip—and plenty of time to swim or relax on each beach before heading back in comfort.