Many of us dream of being a beach bum, lost on a beautiful, deserted island with only fresh coconuts, a thatched hut and endless bottles of rum at our fingertips. At Guana Island, the fantasy gets an upgrade, because you can get lost with those coconuts and a bottle of rum… but it’s brought to you at your lounge chair by an attentive staff member. Guana Island is absolute paradise–so serene the only noise you hear is a chorus of chirping birds, gentle waves, and the sea breeze through swaying palm trees. A privately owned sanctuary with seven deserted, pristine beaches –four of which are accessible only by boat, Guana Island is totally unspoiled and nearly deserted–heaven on earth.
Located in the Northern part of the British Virgin Islands near Tortola, Guana Island is as simple and charming as its history. In the 18th century, Two Quaker families migrated there as part of the “Quaker Experiment” which lasted for 45 years. Along with the rest of the islands under Britain during those times, Guana Island was used for sugarcane cultivation.
In 1934, a young couple from Massachusetts, wanted an island to convert to their “ultimate private club.” They fell in love with Guana’s surreal beauty while sailing through the British Virgin Islands. Green velvety hills, pearly white sand, and a pristine setting made Guana Island the perfect setting for an exclusive resort. With the help of locals, the couple built six stone cottages intended for friends and guests to experience the unforgettable combination of simple but exotic island life.
Another American family bought the island in 1967. The couple developed and improved what their predecessors have started in terms of accepting guests who want experience the simple life. However, they focused more on restoration and conservation of Caribbean wildlife. In fact, there are more species of Caribbean flora and fauna found on the island than any other similar-sized islands in the region, even on Earth.
Peace and quiet is a given in Guana island. It’s like being cut off from the rest of the world. No television, telephone, even restaurants or shops. Most of the food used to prepare gourmet meals is brought in by boat from nearby Tortola.
Getting intimate with nature, whether sun-loving or even just strolling around Guana Island is a once in a lifetime experience, especially if you’re the type who revels in privacy. The island’s only hotel caters to a maximum of 36 guests; divide that into 7 beaches, 3 reefs, and a salt marsh, and you end up with a high probability of having an entire beach to yourselves!
If you love to hike, Guana does not disappoint. Twenty hiking trails lead through different conservation plots in and around the private sanctuary. Marvel at iguanas the size of small dragons, along with fourteen other species of reptiles and amphibians, fifty species of birds including Caribbean flamingo and brown pelicans. There are also several species of plants and vibrant colored flowers like the Virgin Islands euphorbia and Hohenberg’s ground bromeliad.
Guana Island is truly one of the last remaining slices of paradise in the world. Seven heavenly beaches, unspoiled, undeveloped landscape and a true appreciation for privacy and relaxation make Guana Island perfect for the ultimate getaway.
