### Tortola, BVI

9/2007
Posted by Adam Taylor

Tortola is an amazing spot in the British Virgin Islands. With lush green jungles, epic mountaintop views, warm water and WAVES...this island is a full-on paradise. Island locals are very chill, and there's plenty of good food, sightseeing, snorkelling etc. when the waves go flat.

### The 411

Cane Garden Bay is probably the best known surf spot in Tortola. It's a right handed point break, and it peels as far as 300 yards or so...long waves! It's a reef and sand bottom, and the shoreline is rocky. There are a whole slew of other coves and bays along the north and west coast of the island, some more accessible than others, but each with a slightly different angle. There are a number of beach breaks, better for the novice, but watch for sharp coral all over the island. Tortola is notoriously unpredictable when it comes to swell, but when swell does hit, Cane Garden is a world class wave.

Expect 1-3' surf regularly, with plenty of fun, loggable surf around the island. Cane Garden starts working at around 3' plus. The best swell hit mid winter, when you can expect Cane Garden to reach 8' and slightly smaller at neighboring beach breaks.

Neighboring islands offer plenty to do as well... there are ferries to island hop to the Baths at Virgin Gorda, sailing, fishing, diving, and secluded beaches.

### Be Aware:

- Swell - unpredictable, inconsistent swell
- Urchins, Shallow Reefs - like most tropical surf breaks
- Lock It Up - or spend the cash to stay in an upscale place

### Look Forward To:

- Tropical Conditions - water temps mid winter are in the upper 70's
- Beautiful Island - mountainous and picturesque
- Great Eats - amazing local food
- Chill Vibe - very friendly locals

### More about Tortola:

- Private, exclusive (not inexpensive) accomodations GO »