Peter Island

Arriving at Beef Island airport on Tortola, you are met and escorted by private boat across Sir Francis Drake Strait to the Peter Island paradise - the answer to the question of finding the cream of Caribbean diving and the finest luxury accommodation all in one place.

Located south of Tortola, Peter Island is a large private resort made up of 1,800 pristine acres fringed with endless white sand beaches. There is a variety of accommodation options, with rooms set amongst immaculately tended gardens full of mature palms of all kinds, bougainvillea, frangipani, and other tropical plants. The Beach Suites are set along a long white beach with views over the ocean and neighbouring deserted islands; they have their own terraces, lawns and hammocks, and are so close to the waterfront that the sound of rolling waves gently rocks you to sleep.

The main beach on Peter Island is a nearly mile-long crescent of perfect white powder, dotted with thatched umbrellas. Midway along is the Deadman's Grill, serving open-air lunch, and a watersports centre offering all the usual diversions. At the furthest end of the beach sits the amazing spa - an exceptional facility surrounded by acres of manicured grounds overlooking shallows which are a favourite fishing spot for pelicans.

Next to the private marina is the hub of the resort with its pool, restaurant and bar looking out towards Tortola. The excellent cuisine is an amalgamation of Caribbean, Asian and Italian inspiration. Naturally there is an emphasis on the fresh catch of the day.

The dive centre at Peter Island is just two minutes from any of the rooms and staffed by a small, highly-personable dive team offering an excellent and intimate service. Digital underwater cameras can be hired, and all the sites are within thirty minutes, so no day trips are necessary. The main attraction, HMS Rhone, is even closer ensuring you can be first in the water.