Cooper Island: A Tranquil Caribbean Escape

Cooper Island, a hidden gem in the British Virgin Islands, is a tranquil escape characterized by its natural beauty and commitment to sustainability. This small, hilly island, part of the Little Sisters group, is located on the south side of the Sir Francis Drake Channel, approximately 8 miles (13 km) from Road Town, Tortola. Cooper Island is a popular destination for those seeking a serene retreat, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure. Originally inhabited by Arawak and Carib indigenous peoples, the island's history includes European exploration and colonization, with the British establishing sugar plantations in the colonial era. As the sugar industry declined, the island shifted towards livestock farming. Today, remnants of this past can be seen in plantation ruins. The island was once known as Bergen Island until 1905. There are two theories as to how the island got its current name: either after a Dutch family named Koop, who were the first settlers, or after the coopers who collected white cedar for making rum barrels. Cooper Island is easily accessible by boat, with mooring buoys available in Manchioneel Bay. The island features the Cooper Island Beach Club, an eco-friendly resort with a restaurant, rum bar, and a solar-powered microbrewery. The island is known for its excellent snorkeling, particularly around Cistern Point and Little Carvel Rock, where diverse marine life can be observed. Divers can explore Wreck Alley, where several ships were deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef. The island has no paved roads and very few cars, preserving its peaceful atmosphere. Cooper Island Beach Club is known for its commitment to sustainability, with solar panels providing a large percentage of the property's electricity. The resort also employs water conservation methods.