Did you know Cooper Island is one of the few places in the Caribbean powered almost entirely by solar energy? This small, eco-conscious paradise in the British Virgin Islands offers a unique blend of sustainability and luxury that’s increasingly rare in today’s travel landscape. Just a short sail from Tortola, this hidden gem combines pristine beaches, world-class snorkeling, and a commitment to environmental stewardship that makes it truly special among Caribbean destinations.
Cooper Island at a Glance
Cooper Island sits just south of Tortola in the heart of the British Virgin Islands. This small, lush island spans only about 2 sq km (0.8 sq mi) but packs an impressive array of experiences into its modest footprint. Home to the eco-friendly Cooper Island Beach Club, this destination has become a favorite among sailors, snorkelers, and travelers seeking a more mindful Caribbean experience.
What sets Cooper Island apart is its commitment to sustainability. The island operates almost entirely on solar power, collects and purifies its own rainwater, and maintains a strong focus on conservation. It’s a place where luxury and environmental responsibility coexist beautifully, creating an experience that feels both indulgent and purposeful.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Cooper Island doesn’t have an airport, so all visitors arrive by boat. Most travelers fly into Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, connected to Tortola by bridge. From there, you have several options to reach Cooper Island:
- Water taxi from Road Town, Tortola (approximately 30-45 minutes)
- Private boat charter from Tortola or other nearby islands
- Ferry service from Road Town to nearby islands, then water taxi
- As part of a sailing charter or day trip
Many visitors experience Cooper Island as part of a broader BVI sailing itinerary, either on a bareboat charter or with a crewed yacht. The island’s Manchioneel Bay offers a well-maintained mooring field that’s popular with the sailing community.
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Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Cooper Island, like most of the British Virgin Islands, enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. However, some seasons offer better conditions than others for your visit.
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowd Level | Recommendation |
| Peak Season | December-April | 25-29°C (77-84°F), low rainfall | High | Ideal conditions but book early |
| Shoulder Season | May-June, November | 26-31°C (79-88°F), moderate rainfall | Moderate | Good balance of weather and crowds |
| Hurricane Season | July-October | 27-32°C (81-90°F), higher rainfall | Low | Best avoided; many services limited |
The best time to visit Cooper Island is during the dry season from December through April when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is minimal. This coincides with the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices. For a good balance of favorable weather and fewer crowds, consider the shoulder months of May, June, or November.
Weather Tip: Even during the dry season, brief rain showers can occur. Pack a light rain jacket and plan indoor activities for flexibility. The island’s microbrewery and rum bar make excellent rainy-day refuges!
Getting Around Locally
Cooper Island is small enough to explore entirely on foot. There are no cars, taxis, or public transportation on the island, which adds to its peaceful charm. The main facilities, including the Beach Club, restaurant, and accommodations, are all within easy walking distance of each other.
For water activities, the Beach Club offers kayaks and paddleboards for rent, allowing you to explore the coastline and nearby snorkeling spots. If you’re staying on a boat in the mooring field, the Beach Club provides dinghy docks for easy access to shore.
“The beauty of Cooper Island is its simplicity. Everything you need is within a short walk, and the absence of vehicles creates a tranquility that’s increasingly rare in today’s world.”
Where to Stay
Accommodation options on Cooper Island are limited but exceptional in quality. The Cooper Island Beach Club offers the only land-based lodging on the island, with a collection of eco-friendly beachfront cottages that combine comfort with sustainability.
Cooper Island Beach Club Cottages
The Beach Club features several solar-powered guest cottages, all positioned just steps from the water. Each room offers stunning ocean views, comfortable furnishings made from sustainable materials, and modern amenities despite the eco-friendly focus. The cottages were completely renovated following Hurricane Irma in 2017, offering fresh, contemporary accommodations.
- Ocean-view rooms with private balconies
- Eco-friendly design and solar power
- Comfortable king or queen beds
- En-suite bathrooms with rain showers
- Ceiling fans (no air conditioning, in keeping with eco-principles)
- Wi-Fi access (though connection can be intermittent)
Staying on Your Boat
Many visitors to Cooper Island stay on their own or chartered boats in Manchioneel Bay. The bay offers approximately 30 mooring balls available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early (before noon) is recommended during peak season to secure a spot. The mooring field provides easy access to the Beach Club via dinghy.
Book Your Stay on Cooper Island
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Dining & Local Cuisine
Dining options on Cooper Island are centered around the Beach Club, which houses an excellent restaurant, a coffee shop, a microbrewery, and a rum bar. Despite the limited venues, the quality and variety of food and drink are impressive.
Cooper Island Beach Club Restaurant
The main restaurant offers a diverse menu focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on seafood. The open-air dining area provides stunning views of the bay and passing boats. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner, as the restaurant is popular with day visitors and sailors.
Cooper Island Brewing Company
The island’s solar-powered microbrewery produces a variety of craft beers on-site. The brewery uses rainwater collected and purified on the island, creating truly local brews. Beer enthusiasts can sample different varieties at the restaurant or rum bar.
Rum Bar
Housing one of the largest collections of rum in the British Virgin Islands, the Rum Bar offers over 100 varieties from around the Caribbean and beyond. Rum tastings and specialty cocktails make this a popular spot for afternoon or evening relaxation.
Dining Tip: The Beach Club Restaurant is open to non-guests, but reservations are essential during peak season. Call ahead or have your charter company arrange a reservation, especially if you’re arriving by boat and want to secure both a mooring and a dinner table.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Snorkeling at Cistern Point
Cistern Point, just a short swim from the beach, offers some of the best snorkeling in the British Virgin Islands. The protected reef teems with tropical fish, coral formations, and occasionally sea turtles. The water is typically clear with excellent visibility, making it perfect for underwater photography.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Explore the coastline of Cooper Island by kayak or paddleboard, available for rent at the Beach Club. The calm waters of Manchioneel Bay are perfect for paddling, and you can reach secluded spots not accessible by foot.
Hiking
While Cooper Island doesn’t have formal hiking trails, the island’s small size makes it easy to explore on foot. A walk to the island’s highest point rewards you with panoramic views of surrounding islands and the Sir Francis Drake Channel.
Beach Relaxation
The white sand beach fronting the Beach Club is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Beach chairs are available for guests, and the gentle slope into the water makes it ideal for wading.
Experience the Best of Cooper Island
Book guided snorkeling tours, sailing excursions, and other activities to make the most of your visit.
Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting
Cooper Island’s central location in the British Virgin Islands makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. Several notable destinations are just a short boat ride away:
Salt Island (1.2 nautical miles)
Home to the famous RMS Rhone shipwreck, one of the Caribbean’s most renowned dive sites. The island also features historic salt ponds that gave it its name.
The Baths, Virgin Gorda (5.5 nautical miles)
A stunning natural formation of giant granite boulders forming grottos, caves, and tidal pools. A must-visit attraction in the BVI.
Peter Island (4.5 nautical miles)
A larger island with beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and excellent snorkeling spots. Deadman’s Bay on Peter Island is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
Explore the British Virgin Islands
Consider a rental car on Tortola for island exploration before or after your Cooper Island visit.
Cooper Island’s Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Cooper Island Beach Club stands out in the Caribbean for its comprehensive commitment to sustainability. The resort has implemented numerous eco-friendly initiatives that minimize its environmental footprint while maintaining a high standard of comfort for guests.
- Solar Power: Over 270 solar panels generate most of the island’s electricity needs, reducing reliance on diesel generators.
- Water Conservation: Rainwater collection systems and a state-of-the-art water purification plant provide fresh water.
- Waste Management: A specialized bio-reactor converts wastewater into irrigation-quality water.
- Sustainable Building: Accommodations use recycled materials and sustainable wood.
- Local Sourcing: The restaurant prioritizes locally grown produce and sustainably caught seafood.
- Plastic Reduction: The resort has eliminated single-use plastics and offers refillable water bottles.
Visitors can learn about these initiatives through informal tours offered by the staff. The island’s commitment to sustainability extends to its microbrewery, which uses solar power and collected rainwater to produce its craft beers.
Practical Travel Tips
What to Pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen (essential for protecting the coral)
- Insect repellent (especially for evenings)
- Light, breathable clothing
- Swimwear and beach cover-ups
- Snorkeling gear (though rentals are available)
- Waterproof phone case or camera
- Cash (USD is accepted; limited card facilities)
- Reusable water bottle
Good to Know
- Cell service can be spotty; Wi-Fi is available but limited
- No ATMs on the island; bring sufficient cash
- The Beach Club accepts major credit cards
- U.S. dollars are the official currency
- Electricity is 110V (same as U.S.)
- Pack any medications you might need
- Reservations are essential during peak season
- Day visitors should arrive early to secure a mooring
Important: Cooper Island has limited medical facilities. For any serious medical concerns, evacuation to Tortola or St. Thomas may be necessary. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is highly recommended.
Visiting Cooper Island on a Cruise
While large cruise ships don’t dock at Cooper Island directly, the island is a popular destination for smaller cruise vessels and private yacht charters in the British Virgin Islands. If you’re planning a Caribbean cruise, there are several ways to include Cooper Island in your itinerary:
- Shore Excursions: Some larger cruise lines docking in Tortola offer day trips to Cooper Island.
- Small Ship Cruises: Boutique cruise operators specializing in the BVI often include Cooper Island in their itineraries.
- Private Yacht Charters: For the ultimate experience, consider a private yacht charter that can customize an itinerary including Cooper Island and other BVI destinations.
Explore Cruise Options
Find cruise itineraries that include the British Virgin Islands and opportunities to visit Cooper Island.
Why Cooper Island Should Be On Your BVI Itinerary
Cooper Island offers a rare combination of natural beauty, eco-conscious luxury, and authentic Caribbean charm that’s increasingly hard to find in today’s travel landscape. Its commitment to sustainability doesn’t come at the expense of comfort, creating an experience that feels both indulgent and responsible.
Whether you’re an avid snorkeler drawn to the vibrant reefs of Cistern Point, a sailing enthusiast looking for a perfect mooring spot, or simply a traveler seeking a more mindful Caribbean experience, Cooper Island delivers. The island’s small size and limited development create an intimate atmosphere where you can truly disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with nature.
As you plan your British Virgin Islands adventure, consider giving Cooper Island more than just a day visit. Staying overnight allows you to experience the island’s special magic after the day visitors depart – when the stars shine brighter, the rum bar conversations grow friendlier, and the true spirit of this eco-paradise reveals itself.
Start Planning Your Cooper Island Adventure
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