Salt Island, British Virgin Islands Travel Guide
Discover Salt Island in the British Virgin Islands: An enchanting mix of history, nature, and underwater adventures perfect for divers, hikers, and beach lovers.
Nestled in the heart of the British Virgin Islands, Salt Island is a small but enchanting destination that promises a unique blend of natural beauty and historical allure. The island is named for its once-thriving salt ponds, which were a major source of salt for the British Navy in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, these salt ponds remain a symbol of the island’s rich history and are a fascinating sight for visitors. Beyond its historical significance, Salt Island is renowned for its stunning marine life and pristine beaches. The island’s waters are home to the famous RMS Rhone shipwreck, a must-see for diving enthusiasts. This underwater treasure trove offers a glimpse into maritime history while being surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine species. For those who prefer to stay on land, the island’s secluded beaches provide a peaceful retreat, perfect for sunbathing or enjoying a picnic with a view. Salt Island is also a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The island's trails offer spectacular views of the surrounding sea and neighboring islands, making it an ideal spot for photography and wildlife watching. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply in need of a tranquil escape, Salt Island has something to offer every traveler.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Salt Island.
- Bring your own supplies, as there are no shops or restaurants on the island.
- Visit the salt ponds during the dry season to see the salt crystals forming.
- The best time for diving at the RMS Rhone shipwreck is during the calm seas of spring and fall.
- Hiking trails can be rocky; wear sturdy shoes to navigate the terrain safely.
- Arrange for boat transportation in advance, as there are no regular ferry services to the island.
Explore Salt Island: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Salt Island
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White Bay
Discover White Bay, Jost Van Dyke: where white sands, turquoise waters, and legendary beach bars create the ultimate Caribbean escape.
Cane Garden Bay
Discover Cane Garden Bay, Tortola: a perfect blend of serene beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant Caribbean culture. Your island escape awaits!
St Thomas
Discover St. Thomas: Stunning beaches, rich history, duty-free shopping, and vibrant culture in the heart of the US Virgin Islands.
Willy T
Experience the legendary Willy T: a floating bar and restaurant in the BVI, offering a unique blend of seafaring charm and Caribbean revelry.
Best landmarks in Salt Island
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Drake's Seat
Discover breathtaking views of the Virgin Islands at Drake's Seat, a must-visit viewpoint in St. Thomas for unforgettable memories.
Devil's Bay National Park
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene waters of Devil's Bay National Park, a must-visit destination in the British Virgin Islands.
Gorda Peak National Park
Discover the breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems of Gorda Peak National Park, a natural gem in the British Virgin Islands offering unforgettable hiking experiences.
Callwood Rum Distillery
Experience the rich heritage of rum-making at Callwood Rum Distillery, an iconic destination in Cane Garden Bay, British Virgin Islands.
Best restaurants in Salt Island
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Pirates Bight
Experience culinary delights amidst breathtaking views at Pirates Bight on Norman Island - your ultimate Caribbean dining destination.
CocoMaya Restaurant
Discover CocoMaya Restaurant on Virgin Gorda for an unforgettable Asian fusion dining experience amidst breathtaking Caribbean views.
Cooper Island Beach Club
Experience unparalleled tranquility at Cooper Island Beach Club - a stunning hotel and restaurant nestled in the heart of British Virgin Islands' natural beauty.
Capriccio di Mare
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Capriccio di Mare, where stunning waterfront views meet delectable flavors in Road Town.
Best bars in Salt Island
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Soggy Dollar Bar
Discover the iconic Soggy Dollar Bar in Jost Van Dyke, the Caribbean's ultimate beach bar known for its laid-back vibe and delicious cocktails.
Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
Experience the vibrant island spirit at Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke's iconic bar, serving up tropical cocktails and unforgettable views in the heart of the Caribbean.
Willy T
Experience the vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and breathtaking views at Willy T, the iconic floating bar in the British Virgin Islands.
Cooper Island Beach Club
Discover the ultimate Caribbean escape at Cooper Island Beach Club, where relaxation meets adventure in a tropical paradise.
Best nightclubs in Salt Island
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Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
Discover the vibrant nightlife and stunning views at Foxy's in Jost Van Dyke, where the Caribbean spirit comes alive.
Willy T
Experience the ultimate floating bar at Willy T in the British Virgin Islands, where vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning ocean views await.
Cooper Island Beach Club
Discover the tranquil beauty of Cooper Island Beach Club, a stunning hotel and restaurant in the British Virgin Islands, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Stoutt's Lookout Bar
Experience the charm of Stoutt's Lookout Bar in the British Virgin Islands, where relaxation meets stunning views and delightful drinks.
Best shops in Salt Island
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Havensight Mall
Explore the vibrant Havensight Mall in St. Thomas for an unforgettable shopping experience filled with local crafts, souvenirs, and luxury goods.
Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina
Discover the charm of Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina, where shopping, dining, and adventure meet in the breathtaking British Virgin Islands.
OneMart Superstore
Explore OneMart Superstore in Road Town for a diverse selection of groceries and local products, perfect for every visitor's needs.
Clarence Thomas Ltd. Home Center
Your ultimate destination for home improvement and local crafts in the British Virgin Islands, Clarence Thomas Ltd. offers quality products and expert service.
Explore Salt Island on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Salt Island, mapped for you.
Salt Island Essentials
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Salt Island is part of the British Virgin Islands and can be accessed by boat. The island is located approximately 4 miles south-east of Road Town on Tortola. Visitors can arrange for private charters or take a ferry service from Tortola. For those traveling internationally, the nearest airport is Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island. From there, you can take a taxi to Trellis Bay or Road Town and then catch a boat to Salt Island.
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Salt Island is a small and relatively uninhabited island, so transportation options are limited. Most visitors explore the island on foot. If you arrive by private boat, you can anchor at one of the designated mooring spots. There are no public transportation services on the island, so be prepared to walk and bring appropriate footwear for rugged terrain.
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The official currency of the British Virgin Islands is the US Dollar (USD). Given the limited facilities on Salt Island, it is essential to carry cash. Credit card facilities are virtually non-existent on the island, and there are no ATMs available. Ensure you have sufficient cash for your needs before departing from Tortola.
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Salt Island is generally safe for visitors, but as always, it’s important to take standard precautions. The island is largely uninhabited, so crime rates are very low. However, always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid isolated areas if you are alone. There are no high-crime areas targeting tourists specifically, but it is always best to stay vigilant.
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In case of an emergency, it is crucial to have a means of communication, such as a satellite phone, as mobile phone coverage can be unreliable. For medical emergencies, the nearest facilities are on Tortola. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical evacuations. If you need urgent assistance, contact the Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) or use marine VHF radio to call for help.
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Fashion: Do wear comfortable and practical clothing suitable for hiking and exploring. Avoid wearing high heels or dress shoes. Religion: Do be respectful of any local customs or heritage sites. Public Transport: There is no public transport on Salt Island. Plan your movements accordingly. Greetings: Do greet fellow visitors and any locals you might encounter with a friendly 'hello.' Eating & Drinking: Do bring your own food and water as there are no dining facilities on the island. Don't leave trash behind; always carry out what you bring in.
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To experience Salt Island like a local, take the time to explore the island’s salt ponds, which were historically significant for salt production. Visit the graves of the RMS Rhone shipwreck victims and learn about the island's maritime history. Snorkeling around the wreck of the RMS Rhone offers an incredible underwater experience. Always respect the natural environment by sticking to marked trails and not disturbing local wildlife.
When is the best time to visit Salt Island?
Useful Local Phrases for Salt Island
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Salt Island. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHello
[Heh-loh] - GoodbyeGoodbye
[Good-bye] - YesYes
[Yes] - NoNo
[No] - Please/You're welcomePlease/You’re welcome
[Pleez/You’re welcome] - Thank youThank you
[Thank you] - Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
[Ex-kyoos me/Saw-ree] - How are you?How you doing?
[How yuh doin'?] - Fine. And you?I good. And you?
[I good. An' yuh?] - Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
[Yuh speek In-glish?] - I don't understandI nah understand
[I nah un-der-stan']
- HelloHello
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
[Can I see de menu, pleez?] - I don't eat meatI don’t eat meat
[I don' eat meat] - Cheers!Cheers!
[Cheers!] - I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
[I would like to pay, pleez]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
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- Help!Help!
[Help!] - Go away!Go way!
[Go way!] - Call the Police!Call di Police!
[Call di Po-leese!] - Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
[Call a doc-tah!] - I'm lostI lost
[I lost] - I'm illI ill
[I ill]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...I would like to buy...
[I would like to buy...] - I'm just lookingI just looking
[I jus' lookin'] - How much is it?How much dat cost?
[How much dat cost?] - That's too expensiveDat too expensive
[Dat too expen-sive] - Can you lower the price?Can yuh lower di price?
[Can yuh lower di price?]
- I'd like to buy...I would like to buy...
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- What time is it?Wha time it is?
[Wha time it is?] - It's one o'clockIt one o'clock
[It one o'clock] - Half past (10)Half past ten
[Half past ten] - MorningMornin'
[Mornin'] - AfternoonAfternoon
[Afternoon] - EveningEvenin'
[Evenin'] - YesterdayYesterday
[Yes-ter-day] - TodayToday
[To-day] - TomorrowTomorrow
[To-mor-row] - 1One
[One] - 2Two
[Two] - 3Three
[Three] - 4Four
[Four] - 5Five
[Five] - 6Six
[Six] - 7Seven
[Seven] - 8Eight
[Eight] - 9Nine
[Nine] - 10Ten
[Ten]
- What time is it?Wha time it is?
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- Where's a/the...?Wha's di...?
[Wha's di...?] - What's the address?Wha di address?
[Wha di ad-dress?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can yuh show me (on di map)?
[Can yuh show me (on di map)?] - When's the next (bus)?When di next (bus)?
[When di next (bus)?] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
[A ticket (to ....)]
- Where's a/the...?Wha's di...?
History of Salt Island
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Long before European contact, Salt Island was home to the indigenous Arawak and Carib peoples. These early inhabitants utilized the island's natural resources, including its salt ponds, for various purposes. Archaeological evidence, such as pottery and tools, points to a rich cultural history that predates the colonial era.
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In the 17th century, British settlers arrived in the Virgin Islands, including Salt Island. The island was named for its naturally occurring salt ponds, which became a valuable resource for the settlers. Salt from these ponds was harvested and traded, contributing to the island's early economy.
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One of the most significant events in Salt Island's history is the wreck of the RMS Rhone in 1867. This Royal Mail Steamer was caught in a hurricane and sank off the coast of Salt Island, resulting in the loss of many lives. The wreck now serves as a popular diving site and a poignant reminder of the island's maritime history.
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For centuries, the salt ponds on Salt Island were a crucial part of the local economy. Salt harvesting was a labor-intensive process that involved raking and drying the salt before it was exported. This industry sustained the island's small population and played a vital role in the broader Virgin Islands' economy.
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Despite its small size, Salt Island has a rich cultural heritage. The island's residents have maintained traditional practices such as boat building and fishing. Annual events, like the commemoration of the RMS Rhone wreck, highlight the community's connection to their history and the sea.
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Today, Salt Island is largely uninhabited, but its historical significance remains. The salt ponds are no longer actively harvested, but they stand as a testament to the island's past. Visitors can explore the remnants of the salt industry and learn about the island's unique history through guided tours and informational displays.
Neighbouring Regions of Salt Island
The closest regions to Salt Island, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of British Virgin Islands
Looking beyond Salt Island? Discover British Virgin Islands for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore British Virgin IslandsSalt Island in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
Salt Island: A Hidden Gem in the British Virgin Islands
Nestled in the heart of the British Virgin Islands, Salt Island is a small but enchanting destination that promises a unique blend of natural beauty and historical allure. The island is named for its once-thriving salt ponds, which were a major source of salt for the British Navy in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, these salt ponds remain a symbol of the island’s rich history and are a fascinating sight for visitors. Beyond its historical significance, Salt Island is renowned for its stunning marine life and pristine beaches. The island’s waters are home to the famous RMS Rhone shipwreck, a must-see for diving enthusiasts. This underwater treasure trove offers a glimpse into maritime history while being surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine species. For those who prefer to stay on land, the island’s secluded beaches provide a peaceful retreat, perfect for sunbathing or enjoying a picnic with a view. Salt Island is also a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The island's trails offer spectacular views of the surrounding sea and neighboring islands, making it an ideal spot for photography and wildlife watching. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply in need of a tranquil escape, Salt Island has something to offer every traveler.