Maria’s By the Sea Hotel

Maria's By the Sea is a small hotel on the Road Town waterfront at Wickhams Cay, near the ferry terminal and the harbor's restaurants. It offers simple, comfortable rooms with air conditioning and a friendlier, more personal feel than the large marina hotels, which makes it a favorite with repeat visitors and independent travelers who like to eat and explore locally.

The location puts you in the center of Road Town's practical life. You can walk to the ferry docks for trips to Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke and the US Virgin Islands, to charter bases where sailing days begin, and to Main Street for shops, cafes and local cooking. The BVI Tourist Board lists a Maria's By the Sea restaurant as well, so there is a place to eat close by. It is also near the cruise port, which is handy if you are combining a ship stop with a few nights on land.

Rooms are simple rather than lavish. Expect air conditioning, comfortable beds and a sea or harbor outlook in some categories, but not the full facilities of a resort, so check what your room includes when you book. The hotel suits couples, solo travelers and friends who plan to spend their days on boats or beaches and want a clean, central base with some local character. If a pool, spa and private beach matter, look at Nanny Cay or a resort on Virgin Gorda.

High season begins now and runs through spring, so reserve early for December, and ask about room location if you are a light sleeper, as harbor activity starts early. Confirm the details of your room, including bed type, view and whether breakfast is available, before you travel, and let the hotel know your arrival time if you land late.