J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens
Botanical Garden Road, Road Town, British Virgin Islands
Although it's one of the British Virgin Islands’ smaller attractions, what J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens lacks in size it makes up for in beautiful, distinctive horticulture, with over 62 unique species of plants and a cacti garden, all engulfed by a palm forest. The garden also sports a variety of animal life and birds that are a treat for any enthusiast.
Established in 1979, the site of J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens spans almost 3 acres (over 1 hectare) of land a short walking distance northeast from Tortola’s Baugher’s Bay. With a pergola walk, lily pond, cacti garden, waterfall, tropical bird life, and a miniature rain forest, it's a leisurely spot for both residents and visitors of all ages.
- The gardens are a must-visit for botany enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- The park’s massive banyan tree offers a good group photo opportunity.
- The garden has a nursery where you can purchase seeds or grown plants (but check customs rules before crossing borders with them).
- Restrooms and Wi-Fi are available on-site.
J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens is about a 15- to 20-minute walk from the ferry terminal and the cruise-ship pier; you can also grab a cab from the pier. Set 0.5 miles from downtown Road Town, off Main Street, it’s about a 15-minute drive from Cane Garden Bay Beach.
With the British Virgin Islands’ year-round climate staying consistent, the gardens are pleasant to visit in any season. You may encounter the biggest crowds here when cruise ships are docked, but overall the gardens are a peaceful retreat away from the majority of tourists as well as the island heat.
Almost directly across the island from J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens, Cane Garden Bay is Tortola’s most popular beach destination, offering water sports as well as swimming, and is ideal for travelers with small kids because of its shallow water and gentle waves. You'll also find plenty of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options there.
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