3 Best Sights in Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

A tall stone shaft silhouetted against the sky, a small stone structure that overlooks the sea, and a deep cistern are part of what was once a copper mine, now in ruins. Established 400 years ago, it was worked first by the Spanish, then by the English until the early 20th century. There's not too much in the way of interpretive signs at the site, but the location is beautiful.

You can easily reach these quaintly named islands by boat, which you can rent in either Tortola or Virgin Gorda; they're also a popular destination for dive and snorkeling charter boats. Fallen Jerusalem and the Dogs are part of the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands, and their seductive beaches and unparalleled snorkeling display the BVI at their hedonistic best. Fallen Jerusalem has two small beaches for a Robinson Crusoe experience. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude; snorkeling.

At the island's north tip, the three beaches on Nail Bay are ideal for snorkeling. Mountain Trunk Bay is perfect for beginners, and Nail Bay and Long Bay beaches have coral caverns just offshore. The Sugarcane Restaurant at the nearby Nail Bay Sports Club serves lunch and dinner. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: snorkeling; swimming.