Choose from 419 Fun Things to Do in Caribbean
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Fort Charlotte
High atop a hillside overlooking the harbor of Nassau is the British-colonial Fort Charlotte—the largest fort in Nassau. Constructed in the late 18th century for a battle that never took place, this historic site offers picturesque views, hidden underground passages, a waterless mote, remote dungeons and even authentic canons. Guides are available to help travelers navigate through subterranean halls far below the fort, but well-place signage and plenty of light means visitors can just as easily explore the grounds on their own.
Practical Info
The fort is an easy walk from Bay Street and Arawak Cay. Entry is less than $2 per person. Tours take place Monday through Sunday at 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Address: Fort Charlotte, Nassau, Bahamas
Admission: $2
From $ 34
Arecibo Observatory
The Arecibo Observatory has earned a reputation as the largest and most sensitive radio telescope in the world. It features the William E. Gordon telescope as well as a visitor and public outreach center and scientific research community. As more than 1,000 feet in size, it is the world’s biggest single aperture telescope. It is known also as the National Astronomy and Ionosphere Center (NAIC) and is run largely by the National Science Foundation. It was constructed in the mid-1960s in the space left in the ground from a karst sinkhole.
With three radar transmitters, it has the largest electromagnetic-wave-gathering capacity in the world, within a forty-degree cone of visibility. Many breakthroughs and discoveries have been found by scientists from around the world in the facilities here, including the rotation rate of Mercury and evidence that neuron stars exist. The observatory was listed on the American National Register of Historic Places in 2008.
Practical Info
Visitors can learn more about the radio telescope and atmospheric science at the Observatory’s Ángel Ramos Foundation Visitor Center, open Wednesday to Sunday. Admission costs are $10 for adults and $6 for seniors and students. Don’t miss the amazing view from the Observation Deck. Drive there from San Jeuan in just over an hour.
Address: PR-625, Arecibo 00612, Puerto Rico
Admission: Adults: $10; Students: $6
From $ 111
Arikok National Park
With deserted beaches and rocky coves, dusty plains dotted with cacti, and ancient limestone caves, Arikok National Park feels worlds away from the luxurious resorts of Aruba’s north coast. Covering almost 20 percent of the island, the park, one of the best reasons to venture south, offers a spectacular backdrop for outdoor adventures.
The Basics
The most popular way to explore Arikok National Park is on an ATV or UTV excursion. A half-day tour is enough to take in the highlights, including the Aruba Natural Pool, and active types can choose from a variety of different hiking trails, swim or snorkel along the coast, or tour the bushlands on horseback. Alternatively, visit Arikok as part of an Aruba sightseeing tour and zip around the island in an open-air jeep, stopping at sights like Arashi Beach, Baby Beach, Alto Vista Chapel, and California Lighthouse.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Arikok’s entrance fee goes toward conservation efforts.
- There are several parking areas, but access to most of the trails is by 4WD only and there’s a speed limit of 12 mph (20 kph) throughout.
- Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking.
How to Get There
Arikok National Park is located along the southeast coast of Aruba and is only accessible by 4WD. Most visitors visit with a guided tour or hire their own transport.
When to Get There
You can visit Arikok National Park year round, but popular attractions can get crowded during peak season (January to March). The park’s typical opening hours are 8am to 4pm, and it’s best to get an early start to avoid both the crowds and the midday heat.
Things to do in Arikok National Park
In addition to the Aruba Natural Pool, the park’s top attraction, other highlights include Arikok and Jamanota hilltop, which offer incredible views of the island and Caribbean Sea; the sandy beaches of Dos Playa and Boca Prins, which are famous for the sea turtles that nest onshore; and Quadirikiri and Fontein caves, which are known for their Arawak tribe rock art.
Address: Santa Cruz, Aruba
Admission: Varies
From $ 47
Creole Rock
From Grand Case Bay you can enjoy easy access to one of the best snorkeling destinations on the island. Creole Rock is a small rocky outcropping just offshore, at the north end of the bay, where you can slip into the 30-feet deep water to explore the reef and fish life that are protected here as part of a marine preserve. As you swim near the edge of the rock, you’ll be engulfed by schools of sergeant majors and yellow snapper, and it’s common to spot sea turtles grazing among the rocks. Creole Rock is also loaded with wildlife above the water because it’s a bird rookery where pelicans and brown boobies come to lay their eggs.
Practical Info
Creole Rock is a popular stop for many of St. Martin diving and snorkeling boats, even ones coming from Marigot or elsewhere in St. Martin. However, it’s easiest to reach the rock from Grand Case Bay, where you can join a small boat trip or rent a kayak and paddle across.
Address: St. Martin, St Maarten
From $ 60
Fort Fincastle
Overlooking the city of Nassau from its vantage point atop Bennett’s Hill, Fort Fincastle was built in 1793 to protect the island of New Providence from outside invaders. Much of the imposing building remains intact today. Visitors come to explore the fortifications and enjoy the view from the highest point in Nassau.
The Basics
Lord Dunmore, serving as governor of the British West Indies, built the paddle steamer–shaped Fort Fincastle as a deterrent for invading troops. It is named after Dunmore’s secondary title, Viscount Fincastle. The limestone walls, 126 feet (38 meters) high and topped with replica cannons, are an impressive sight and take visitors back to the days of pirates and huge navy ships on the high seas.
Walking tours and historical sightseeing tours of Nassau often make the trek up the adjacent 66 steps of the Queen’s Staircase to visit the fort and enjoy the panoramic views over Paradise Island. After the fort was decommissioned, it served as both a lighthouse and signal station before being opened to the public.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the fort is via paid ticket.
- The site is equipped with restrooms.
- The fort was built with the same limestone excavated to make the nearby Queen’s Staircase.
- The water tower adjacent to the fort was built in 1928 to help maintain water pressure on the island.
How to Get There
Fort Fincastle is located at the top of Bennett’s Hill in Nassau, Bahamas. It is walking distance from points in Downtown Nassau. Most people access the fort on foot—either self-guided or as part of a tour—by walking up Queen’s Staircase. It is also possible to drive here (there is parking on-site) or take a taxi.
When to Get There
Fort Fincastle is open seven days a week from 8am–4pm. It is closed on public holidays. There tends to be fewer visitors during the early part of the week.
Enjoy the Lively Scene at Junkanoo Beach
With golden sand and turquoise water, Junkanoo Beach is a classic Caribbean stretch of sand and one of the most popular beaches on the island of New Providence for fun in the sun. Close to downtown and the cruise port terminal, it’s lined with busy beach bars and is consistently popular with vacationing visitors to the island.
Address: Nassau, Bahamas
Admission: Free
From $ 34
Cueva Ventana
Most caves aren’t the types of places that also come with a view; by their very nature, caves are dark, musty holes full of rocks, stalactites and bats. But at Cueva Ventana, about an hour outside of San Juan, the dark cave opens to up to Puerto Rico’s best view.
Ensconced in cliffs towering high above the Rio Grande Arecibo, Cueva Ventana is where subterranean suddenly meets surreal. Though there was once a time when it was free to visit, the area today is privately administered to protect against damage and decay. The downside, of course, is the added cost, but the upside is the fact that the ticket price now includes a local guide. Here you’ll hear history of native Taino who left their marks on the cave, and be presented with flashlights for navigating the depths of the dark, guano-filled room.
Scrambling down rocks, tree roots and mud while weaving through dripping stalactites, the adventure is backed by a soundtrack of bats all squeaking in unison above. Thankfully the cave—since it’s open on both ends—doesn’t have much of a smell, and right when the enveloping darkness begins to feel a bit claustrophobic, light filters through the massive window to reveal a framed, panoramic view of the Arecibo Valley below.
Practical Info
Cueva Ventana is open Monday-Friday from 10am-6pm, and from 8:30am-6:30pm on weekends. Travelers can access the site from the trail near Puma gas station, next to PR-10 on kilometer 75. Entry to the cave, which is located on private land, costs $20 per person. Early mornings are the best time to visit, while those who come on weekends should expect crowds. Evening tours are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Address: Hato Viejo, Arecibo 00612, Puerto Rico
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-6:30pm
Admission: $20
From $ 69
Daniel's Head Park
Daniel’s Head Park is situated on some of the most gorgeous coastline in Bermuda. Located on the southeastern coast of the island, Daniel’s Head Park covers 17 acres. Making up part of this land are two glorious beaches that are a big part of the draw of Daniel’s Head Park. The water framing the beaches is shallow in most parts, making it an ideal place for families to go swimming. Snorkelers will also love donning some goggles and seeing what lies underneath the surface of the sea. Thanks to clear, calm water, you can usually see the underwater sea life well.
Tropical fish isn’t all you can see in this area snorkeling; you can take a boat from the Daniel’s Head coast to the snorkeling hot spot of the shipwreck MVS Vixen, which still has part of its hull sticking out of the water making it very easy to snorkel around. Daniel’s Head Park has other water activities, too, including kayaking and stand up paddle boarding. There is also a restaurant, picnic tables and bathrooms located in Daniel’s Head Park.
Practical Info
Daniel’s Head Park is located about nine miles from Sandys Parish. If you don’t have a scooter or car rented, you’ll need to arrange a taxi or other form of transportation to take you. Be sure to arrange a pickup time as this is off the beaten path of most public transportation so you’ll want to make sure you have a way to get back to your hotel or cruise ship.
Address: Daniel's Head Road, Somerset Village, Bermuda
From $ 85
Curacao (Willemstad) Cruise Port
Located off the coast of Venezuela, Curacao is a tiny island nestled in crystal-blue waters. Once the center of Caribbean commerce, today Curacao still retains influences from its of French, Dutch, and Portuguese colonial past, as seen in its food, architecture, and culture.
The Basics
Curacao shore excursions often explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad. Join a half-day motorcoach tour to visit the Curacao Museum, Hato Caves, Queen Emma Bridge, Queen Juliana Bridge, Rif Fort, and Chobolobo (where the famous blue Curacao liqueur is made). Meanwhile, water sports–based shore excursions include jet ski rentals or boat tours that offer the chance to snorkel or dive in the coral reefs in the surrounding Caribbean Sea. Nature lovers will enjoy a sightseeing tour through Shete Boka National Park and the Curacao Ostrich Farm.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It’s best to book organized shore excursions—especially those with multiple stops or components—in advance.
- The historic district of Punda, located near the cruise port, is great to see if you’re short on time.
- Shore excursions to Klein Curacao, a tiny uninhabited island 15 miles (24 kilometers) off Curacao’s coast, are full-day excursions. The water tends to be rough, so you may want to bring motion-sickness medication if you’re particularly sensitive.
How to Get Downtown from the Curacao Cruise Port
Most cruise ships visiting Curacao dock in Willemstad, the island’s cosmopolitan capital city. The area is divided into two districts connected by a floating pedestrian bridge, and the tourist-friendly city is full of storefronts and cafes that are easily accessible on foot or by taxi from the cruise port.
Port Information
Although the Netherlands Antillean Florin is the official currency of Curacao, most shops and cafes near port accept US dollars (USD). ATMs and money-exchange offices are easy to find, and English, Dutch, and Spanish are widely spoken on the island.
Address: Willemstad, Curaçao, Curacao
From $ 54
Fort James
One of the best places to go on the island if you want fantastic views of the shimmering Caribbean waters, Fort James sits in an ideal position overlooking St John's Harbor. Built by the British in 1706 to protect the harbor, the fort was intended to prevent the French from invading the island.
Today, come and see the cannons, powder magazine, and foundation of the wall, the remainders of the fort. The true highlight of a visit to Fort James, however, is the unbeatable view of St. John's Harbor. With its bright blue waters, nestled among towering cliffs and the picturesque town of St. John's, the harbor is truly one of the most beautiful sites Antigua and Barbuda has to offer.
Practical Info
Fort James is located on a headland on the northwestern end of Antigua. It is about a 15-minute drive west from the airport.
Address: St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda
Admission: Free
From $ 100
Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
Located in Aruba’s desert interior, the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins are the stone remains of a gold smelter that was established by prospectors in the 19th century. Once considered sacred by the indigenous Arawak people, the site offers a unique look at Aruba’s history and can be explored with a variety of guided tours.
The Basics
During the 19th century, gold was mined on Aruba, leading to the construction of this gold smelter in 1872. Crumbling walls of sandstone and coral are all that’s left of this fortress-like complex, but the views of the Caribbean remain spectacular. Located on the east coast in the area known as Ayo, the Bushiribana ruins are free to visit and explore, and are included in most tours of Aruba, including those by bus, 4WD vehicles, ATVs, and UTVs.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Head to the ruins early to catch excellent views of the sunrise.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to climb the ruins.
- The ruins make an interesting stop for history buffs and photographers.
How to Get There
Located on the east side of Aruba, the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins are about a 20-minute drive from the cruise ship terminal. Follow Route 6 straight across the island, and they’re about a 17-minute drive from Queen Beatrix International Airport in Oranjestad; the drive from the airport takes about the same amount of time via Route 1 north.
When to Get There
Aruba isn’t threatened by tropical storms, and the weather is warm year-round with an average temperature of 82°F (28°C), so there is no wrong time to visit. However, Aruba is most crowded during the winter months. If traveling in the summer months when the sun is at its strongest, visit the ruins early in the day when it’s coolest.
Old Dutch Windmill
Located near Palm Beach (about a 20-minute drive from the ruins), this piece of Aruba's Dutch heritage was built in Holland in 1804, disassembled, shipped to Aruba, and reconstructed in 1960. It’s currently home to a restaurant, but the bold red exterior of the landmark against the Caribbean blue sky makes for a fun photo on its own.
Address: Ayo, Aruba
From $ 40
Arima
Situated on the picturesque banks of the Arima River at the foothills of the Trinidad’s Northern Range, the town of Arima is the jumping off point for exploring northeastern Trinidad. The name Arima is the native Amerindian word for water. The town itself was founded by Spanish Capuchins in the mid-1700s, but today it’s the only town in the country with an indigenous Amerindian community. To learn more about the Amerindian people and buy native crafts, visit the Santa Rosa First Peoples Centre. You can also visit Cleaver Woods Recreation Park, which has a replica Amerindian thatched hut and displays of native items. From Arima, it is well worth heading just out of town to visit the Asa Wright Nature Centre. The 1,500-acre rainforest wildlife preserve offers naturalist-guided walks, birdwatching tours or you can simply visit the lodge for lunch or high tea.
Practical Info
Arima sits along the main highway about 30 minutes east of Port of Spain, or 15 minutes from Piarco International Airport. Along with the town’s unique Amerindian culture, it’s a great jumping off point to explore the countryside of the Northern Range, where secluded valleys conceal mountain creeks and tropical wildlife.
Address: Arima, Trinidad, Trinidad and Tobago
From $ 100
Curacao Liqueur
The island of Curacao may be best known for the alcohol that bears its name. Blue Curacao is a signature—and colorful—liqueur that is steeped in the island’s history, and you can visit the home of the original Blue Curacao at the Curacao Liqueur Distillery. The Triple Sec-style liqueur is made from the peels of the Laraha fruit. Though Laraha evolved from Valencia oranges brought to the island in 1499 by Spanish settlers, this bitter orange is now unique to Curacao because it adapted to the island’s desert like climate, making it inedible when fresh. However, used as a flavoring steeped in the alcohol it releases fragrant oils that create the signature flavor.
Practical Info
The Curacao Liqueur Distillery is about 10 minutes’ drive north of Willemstad, and you can stop by for a free factory visit—hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.—and have a cocktail at Chobolobo Café.
Address: Elias R. A. Moreno Boulevard, Saliña Ariba, Willemstad, Curaçao, Curacao
Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
From $ 12
Fort Christian
A historic fortress built in the history-rich St Thomas town of Charlotte Amalie, this Danish-built fortress has been a cultural highlight here since 1672 and so acts as one of the finest treasure troves of ancient artifacts in the small Caribbean island’s long history.
Fort Christian serves as a beautiful example of Dutch-Caribbean architecture, built in the Gothic-Revival style. It once successfully repelled foreign invaders from a bygone era, but today, the fortress stands as a monument to colonialism and exhibits the history of the Caribbean from the Stone Age to the present, while also offering a fine display of Dutch antiques.
Practical Info
Fort Christian is located between Veterans Drive and Emancipation Garden in the St. Thomas town of Charlotte Amalie. The fortress is currently undergoing reconstruction, but is open Monday – Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Address: Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, US Virgin Islands
From $ 40
Crystal and Fantasy Caves
Stalactite chandeliers, delicate crystal soda straws, and mirrored underground pools are only some of the remarkable features of Bermuda’s evocatively named Crystal and Fantasy Caves. The best part about these fairytale-esque attractions is how very real they are as one of Bermuda’s top natural attractions.
The Basics
Crystal Cave and Fantasy Cave are indeed separate and distinct caves, but their neighboring entrances (linked by a landscaped pathway) and equally amazing geology means that they are most often visited together. Join a tour guide—included with your admission ticket—and descend down a series of wooden walkways, staircases, and bridges to explore the underground wonderland. Floodlights highlight the caves’ most spectacular attractions, including a fossilized tree root, while your guide tells the story of their historic discovery and formation. Make the most of your time in the area by combining a tour of Crystal and Fantasy Caves with other nearby attractions such as the beach at Horseshoe Bay, a Hamilton city tour, or a visit to the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Crystal and Fantasy Caves are a must-see for nature lovers.
- Plan to spend roughly 30 minutes in each cave.
- The caves are not accessible to wheelchair users to due the many stairs. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes with rubber soles.
- The caves are suitable for supervised kids.
- An on-site café serves snacks and drinks.
- Cruise ship visitors can look for shore excursions to the caves, as they are a popular tourist attraction.
How to Get There
The Crystal and Fantasy Caves are in Hamilton Parish, north of Harrington Sound in the lagoon-filled north of Bermuda. They are roughly equidistant between the cities of Hamilton and St. George’s, and only a 3-minute drive from Grotto Bay. While most guided tours provide round-trip transportation from Kings Wharf, if you have your own car, you’ll find parking in an on-site lot. You can also take bus number 1, 3, 10, or 11.
When to Get There
Crystal and Fantasy Caves are open daily (except holidays) from 9am to 5pm, with guided tours leaving every 20 minutes until 4:30pm. The area tends to be quiet in the morning, with crowds arriving in the afternoons.
Cave Discovery
Legend has it that two boys discovered Crystal Cave when they lost a ball during a cricket game in 1907—in searching for their ball, they crawled right into the cave entrance!
Address: 8 Crystal Cave Road, Hamilton, Bermuda
Hours: Open 9am - 4:30pm
Admission: Adults: Crystal Cave $22, both caves $30
From $ 75
Fort Scaur
Dating back to the 1860s, Fort Scaur is a historic piece of fortification that was built to protect the island and dockyard from attacks by America during a time of unrest between Great Britain and the United States. Fort Scaur is built high atop a hill in Somerset, which at one point was ideal for giving the guards a clear vantage point of approaching enemy ships, and today is a draw for visitors who can use Fort Scaur as a scenic lookout point to get some great photos of Bermuda. From Fort Scaur, there are excellent views of Ely’s Harbour and Great Sound. Fort Scaur was used during World War I and World War II, stationing both British and American troops. Those who love the history of maritime proceedings and war will enjoy touring the fort and learning what each section was for. Those more inclined to visit Fort Scaur due to its surrounding beauty will enjoy walking around the 22 acres of gardens surrounding the fort.
There are also picnic tables, ideal for taking a rest or enjoying a packed lunch.
Practical Info
Fort Scaur is located in Somerset and is an easy visit for travelers arriving to the island via King’s Wharf. There are also public buses that service Fort Scaur from Hamilton. Fort Scaur is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and has free admission.
Address: Somerset, Bermuda
Hours: Daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
From $ 80
Curacao Ostrich Farm
Get a taste of Africa in the Caribbean at the Curacao Ostrich Farm. Originally opened in 1995 as a working farm to supply ostrich products to South America, the farm quickly became a popular spot for visitors, and now it’s home to about 400 ostriches—about half of which are newborn chicks. When you visit you can take a safari tour in a truck to see ostriches of all ages, from eggs to full grown adults. The farm is also home to emus, potbellied pigs and Nile crocodiles. And if you’re looking for a little more adventure, you can join a quad tour to go four-wheeling across Curacao’s desert island landscape before grabbing a meal at the on-site Zambezi Restaurant, which serves ostrich steaks, burgers and omelets.
Practical Info
The Curacao Ostrich Farm is located near the southeast coast of the island, about 20 minutes’ drive from downtown Willemstad. Prices for the safari tour start at $16 for adults, $13 for kids, while the quad tours cost $91 for adults and $63 for teenagers age 16 to 18.
Address: Groot St., Joris West z/n, Curacao
Hours: Only available to view/visit with tours.
Admission: Tours Start At: Youth $13, Adults $16
From $ 64
Fort San Felipe
Built under the orders of King Philip II of Spain, Fort San Felipe has been guarding the waters off Puerto Plata for more than 450 years. It was designed to protect the town from pirates as well as European invaders and later served as a prison. Today visitors come to tour the ruins and to enjoy the sweeping sea views from its ramparts.
The Basics
Fort San Felipe stands on a promontory at the end of the malecón (seawall promenade) overlooking the Atlantic. Its thick stone walls and doorways protected with coral spikes were intended to keep out invaders. In 1800, the fort was the site of a battle against the United States, when US troops defeated a combined French–Spanish force. During its time as a prison, the fort held Juan Pablo Duarte, one of the Dominican Republic’s founding fathers.
The fort is filled with military artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries, including cannons and artillery, and information panels in English and Spanish explain the building’s history.
Fort San Felipe is a popular stop on guided tours of Puerto Plata.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to Fort San Felipe is via paid ticket.
- Audio guides are available for visitors.
- Watching the sunset from the adjacent park is a popular activity.
- The fort is not wheelchair accessible.
- Make time to visit Puerto Plata lighthouse, located next to the fort.
How to Get There
Fort San Felipe is located at Avenida General Gregorio Luperón in Puerto Plata. It can be reached on foot from most places in the city center, by taxi, or as part of guided tour with round-trip transport provided.
When to Get There
Fort San Felipe is open every day except Sunday. Lunchtime through early afternoon is the most popular time to visit, but the fort never feels overcrowded. Plan to spend around 30 minutes here perusing the exhibits and enjoying the view.
The Beaches of Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata means “silver port,” and for many years it was one of the most important silver-trading ports in the Caribbean. In modern times, the city has become famous for its beautiful beaches, with soft sand, crystal clear waters, and attractive resort hotels. Sosúa Beach and Golden Beach (Playa Dorada) are among the most popular with vacationers.
Address: Malecon, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
From $ 64
Curacao Sea Aquarium
A fascinating dive into the beautiful underwater world of the Caribbean, the Curacao Sea Aquarium in Willemstad Curacao has much to discover. Set in an old naval vessel, just stepping into the Curacao Sea Aquarium lets you know that you’re embarking on a unique marine adventure.
Once aboard, visitors can take in the sight of sharks, turtles, stingrays, rockfish, flamingoes and other vibrant sea creatures that constitute the local waters and surrounding shores. Other highlights include the legendary seal and dolphin shows, while the opportunity to swim with dolphins is a family favorite. With all this, the Curacao Sea Aquarium is one of the top attractions in this little corner of the lesser Antilles.
Practical Info
The Curacao Sea Aquarium is located in Bapor Kibra in Willemstad, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $21 for adults and $11 for children aged 5-12.
Address: Bapor Kibra, Willemstad, Curacao
Admission: Adults: $21; Children: $11
From $ 21
Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Park
With tropical birds, lemurs, jaguars, iguanas, and more, the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre in Nassau is educational fun for the entire family. The zoo is also home to a marching flamingo show, where the salmon-colored birds show off their marching skills, and popular lory and other animal feedings.
The Basics
Jamaican horticulturist Hedley Edwards developed the Ardastra Gardens in the 1930s, and today they serve as a refuge for more than 130 animals, many of which belong to endangered species. Along with enjoying the animal encounters, you can explore the four acres (1.6 hectares) of jungle gardens filled with tropical plants and flowers designed to be a haven of peace and tranquility.
You can buy an admission ticket upon arrival or in advance to skip the line. Local bike tours of Nassau often stop here.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ardastra Gardens and Zoo is a wonderful stop for families visiting the Bahamas.
- Tickets are discounted for children under 12 and Bahamas residents; children aged 3 and under enter for free.
- The zoo and gardens are accessible to wheelchair users.
- There is an on-site café and gift shop.
- The flamingo show takes place daily at 10:30am, 2:15pm, and 4pm.
- You can hand-feed the lory parrots daily at 11am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm.
How to Get There
Ardastra Gardens is located along Chippingham Road on the edge of downtown Nassau, on New Providence Island. It is accessible by car or taxi, or by public transportation—the #10 bus from Cable Beach stops close by, and any bus heading west from the downtown Hilton hotel stops here on request.
When to Get There
Ardastra is open 9am to 5pm every day excluding Christmas, December 26, and New Year’s Day. Last entrance is at 4pm, though most people enjoy around two hours visiting the animals. Mid-morning tends to be the busiest time here.
Revel in Nassau’s Pirate History
In the 18th century, the city of Nassau was a hotbed for pirates and smugglers who roamed the waves, holding ships to ransom and stealing their precious cargo before storing it in hiding places on the island. This swashbuckling history is brought to life at the Pirates of Nassau Museum via re-created street scenes and performers in period costume. There’s even a replica of a pirate ship (smaller than life size!) that you can explore.
Address: Nassau, Bahamas
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Fort King George
Get a glimpse of Tobago’s colonial history at Fort King George. Built by the British during the 1770s, the fort sits high above the capital of Scarborough, it’s cannon still looking down over the city and out to sea. The fort grounds are an easy, free place to take a walk among the historic walls and buildings, and enjoy the wonderful views of the city and the ocean. While there, you can also visit the Tobago Museum, which is found within the guardhouse. Here you can peruse a small collection of Amerindian artifacts—including an real Amerindian skeleton—maps from the 1600s, watercolor paintings by Sir William Young, military equipment and more.
Practical Info
Fort King George sits in the south of Scarborough, at the end of Fort Street. There’s no fee to visit the fort grounds, and they’re open any time. However, entrance to the Tobago Museum costs about $1.50, and the museum hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Address: 84 Fort Street, Scarborough, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
From $ 110