The Aerial BVI - A Site Visit

This beautiful private island resort is located a short boat ride away from the main island of Tortola and I was whisked away on their private boat transfer from Hodge's Creek Marina (private boat transfers from the airport are also included for all guests).

The property opened in 2020 and has 16 rooms spread over three main houses and two hillside palapas. Wellness, ethical and sustainable travel are core principals at The Aerial. Much of the resorts produce is grown on site and they also support local farms. All suppliers for other products at the resort are fair trade, b-corp certified. The resort currently actively supports three main charitable initiatives which include ending human trafficking and support for victims of trafficking, man-made and natural disaster response and a heal the heroes veteran’s program. 

Originally for exclusive buy-outs only - The Aerial started their ‘hotel program’ selling individual rooms on a per-night basis in July 2023. Rates start at $1250 per night for two adults on an all-inclusive basis including food/beverage, scheduled activities, water sports equipment and transfers to/from Beef Island airport (Tortola).

Five times a year the Aerial hosts four-day all-inclusive ‘Elevate’ summits - each one with a different focus, including Abundance, Love and Strength. 

They are also perfectly set up for small corporate leadership retreats (from 15-32 guests) and will assist with all aspects of the retreat including the activities, content and speakers. It would also be the perfect venue for an intimate wedding or birthday celebration.  

Rooms: 

Each room is totally unique and individual, all of them have outdoor showers and one has a full outdoor bathroom. Because of the unique nature of each room, guest services work with travel advisors/clients to ensure that guests pick the right room for their needs. 

Rooms have a rustic/luxe boutique vibe with rich tapestries, hanging chairs, carved wood furniture and different textures, including driftwood, macrame and coral. All rooms have a tea/coffee station and mini-bar set up which is replenished daily. Many of the rooms have outdoor spaces like private balconies, a terrace or patio or even a private star-gazing deck.

Dining options:

Meals are nutritionally balanced and wellness focused with a leaning towards plant-based and pescatarian-forward - however dairy and alcohol are available. All meals and drinks are prepared without added refined sugars, preservatives and food colourings. Meals are typically communal but private dining can be requested. 

Activities and facilities: 

Scheduled yoga classes are included in the nightly rates as well as use of all the water sports equipment like Hobie cats, clear bottom kayaks, paddle boards, snorkel equipment and seabobs. Additional yoga classes, water sports instruction and spa treatments are available at an additional cost. 

Their ranch, Redemption Ranch, has rescue horses offering equine therapy and there are a host of horse trails and hiking trails zig-zagging all over the island. There are also rescued zebras on site, peacocks, tortoises and more. 

The property has a salt water infinity pool, spa, cold plunge tubs and a custom wooden outdoor tribal gym. Electric Mokes are available to conveniently transport you round the 43-acre island. 

I would recommend The Aerial for guests really looking for a way to switch off and disconnect in a luxurious natural setting and guests that appreciate a focus on wellness and ethical/sustainable resorts.

This property would be perfect for you if: 

• You want the ‘private island experience’

• You are seeking a super remote and relaxed, smaller and very romantic resort - not mainstream

• Or alternatively you are looking for a exclusive use buy-out for a small (max 32 guests) corporate leadership retreat, a health retreat or wedding celebration.  

• You appreciate an eco resort with a strong emphasis on wellness, ethical and sustainable travel 

• You enjoy fitness and activities including hiking, water sports, yoga and horse riding 

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to British Virgin Islands. In need of further inspiration? Check out Janine Cleveland’s guide, A Sailor's Paradise - The British Virgin Islands.