Cane Garden Bay Beach Hotel - Tortola, BVI

Rhymer's, as it is affectionately known by locals, is as inexpensive as it gets on the island of Tortola. If you want plenty of action and a beachfront room then this is your place. The hotel itself is old, by local standards, and has been updated periodically. People that love to party in a Caribbean atmosphere will love Rhymer's. There is always plenty of rum punch and music abounds.

The rooms are small but come with both a double and single bed. They do have wall kitchenettes, which make them highly desirable for young people without elaborate funds. All rooms open from a long central hall, much like older motels in the states. The walls of the hall are covered with large local paintings done by Jerome Brown in '84. They feature some of the best artwork in the BVI.

Each room faces to the outside with second floor units having a small balcony. There is a larger communal balcony at the end of the hall, on the second floor, that looks directly over Cane Garden Bay and the Caribbean Sea. The floors are linoleum and the bedspreads are chenille. There is a small bath with a shower. The bedroom also has a dresser, is air-conditioned and features ceiling fans, which you may not need since the breezes are great. They also have cable TV, which is a plus on Tortola. There is also daily maid and linen service.

Rhymer's also includes a restaurant and bar, a beauty salon, a general store and commissary, a boutique and gift shop and a laundromat on the premises. Like most of the restaurants on the beach, they feature local food with lots of burgers and fries and fish and chips available. The blender is always going for island drinks.

The best thing about Cane Garden Bay is that there is always plenty to do. The beach is the largest developed beach in Tortola and features every water sport imaginable plus small grocery stores, restaurants, beach bars and nightspots.

Taxis run continuously over the hill into Road Town and to other parts of the island. Cane Garden Bay is also where the cruise ship tourists come so be prepared for a full beach on days when the ships are docked.

The dress is strictly beach wear but be informed that Tortolans are conservative and expect
you to wear a top with sleeves, longer shorts and shoes/sandals when dining or shopping in town. Swimsuits are acceptable ONLY on the beaches.