Choose from 419 Fun Things to Do in Caribbean
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Bermuda Railway Trail
The Bermuda Railway Trail is a series of trails for walkers and cyclists that follows along the path of the short-lived Bermuda Railway, which was finished being built in 1931 and ceased operation by 1948 due to it falling into massive disrepair. The Bermuda Railway Trail differs in terms of difficulty level and has sections ideal for beginner or advanced cyclists and hikers. The Bermuda Railway Trail stretches from one end of Bermuda to the other and covers 18 miles. For those wanting to experience the trail by bike, you don’t need to worry about how to pack a bicycle on a plane as there are many bike rental shops in Bermuda.
Parts of the trail are paved while other sections are still dirt. Regardless of the floor of the trail, the Bermuda Railway Trail is surrounded by the beauty of Bermuda and leads you along the coast, through inland forests and past historical sites like lighthouses and old forts. Nature reserves such as the 59-acre Spittal Pond Nature Reserve are also located along the Bermuda Railway Trail and make for a great diversion from cycling or as an added spot to hike through.
Practical Info
A common place to start the Bermuda Railway Trail is in Sandys Parrish, where you can do a scenic four mile walk or head farther into the island via bicycle. A bike rental will run you about $40 to $50 per day.
Address: Bermuda
From $ 80
Grand Turk Wall
Known as one of the best diving sites in the Caribbean, the Wall is a diving spot just outside of Grace Bay on Grand Turk. Where the island’s outer reef ends, the Wall plunges over 6000 feet into the deep blue Atlantic. Here you’ll find an overabundance of sea-life, coral reef, and yes – great dive sites. Each dive guide has their own favorites, but expect to see miles of vertical coral reef drop-offs, numerous thermal formations, and a complete spectrum of corals and sea life.
Great pelagic swimmers like groupers, tuna, barracuda, reef shark, hammerhead, manta rays, eagle rays, and more live here and visit this reef often. Other wildlife viewings include migratory North Atlantic humpback whale, stingray, and sea turtles.
One of the great things about visiting The Wall is that this abundant sea life is close to the surface, so divers aren’t the only ones that get to enjoy it – snorkelers and free divers play in the water as well. This is truly some of the best underwater exploring in the world, and many divers make trips out to this little stretch in the Caribbean for just this purpose – are you one of them?
Great pelagic swimmers like groupers, tuna, barracuda, reef shark, hammerhead, manta rays, eagle rays, and more live here and visit this reef often. Other wildlife viewings include migratory North Atlantic humpback whale, stingray, and sea turtles.
One of the great things about visiting The Wall is that this abundant sea life is close to the surface, so divers aren’t the only ones that get to enjoy it – snorkelers and free divers play in the water as well. This is truly some of the best underwater exploring in the world, and many divers make trips out to this little stretch in the Caribbean for just this purpose – are you one of them?
Address: Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos
From $ 69
Great Bay Beach
Straddling the entire length of Philipsburg, Great Bay Beach is one of St. Maarten’s longest and widest beaches. Along its 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) stretch are lively beach bars, rum shacks, and street carts serving ice-cold beers and some of the capital’s best spots for dining and duty-free shopping.
The Basics
Catch the cosmopolitan feel of this Dutch Caribbean city along the beach’s boardwalk, where tourists and locals stroll or zip by on bikes or Segways. Travelers may explore Great Bay Beach as part of a sightseeing tour. Island tours typically stop at St. Maarten’s most beautiful spots, including Maho Beach where planes fly at a low overhead, and some may include water-based fun such as Jet Skiing and snorkeling.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With long stretches of sand, beach bars, fine dining, and plenty of shopping, Great Bay Beach has something to appeal to most any traveler.
- Tours may include roundtrip hotel transfers, food and drinks, and Jet Ski rental. Check tours for specific details.
- Don’t forget to pack sun protection, swimwear, and water.
- Beach loungers and chairs are available for rent.
How to Get There
While in Philipsburg, Great Bay Beach is impossible to miss—just walk south for one or two blocks at the most. From Princess Juliana International Airport, the drive is about 15 minutes, and from the cruise ship dock, about five minutes.
When to Get There
The sunbathing crowds are largest in early morning. Weather is pleasant year-round, but warmest in summer. Spring and fall in St. Martin/St. Maarten mean cheaper rates and less chance of rain. A bonus of traveling in February through June: it’s when humpback whales are often seen.
The Boardwalk and Front Street
Just opposite the beach is the boardwalk, which abuts Front Street, the main street of Philipsburg. No visit to Great Bay is complete without spending time at both. Make a day of it by shopping for jewelry in the duty-free shops, enjoying a meal at one of the capital’s best restaurants, or trying your luck at one of the casinos.
Address: Philipsburg, St Maarten
From $ 65
Capilla del Cristo Chapel
The Capilla del Cristo Chapel is a small 18th-century sanctuary tucked away at the end of a pedestrian street in a corner of the old walled city of San Juan. It was built here to commemorate what believers say was a miracle of divine intervention.
The legend of the Capilla del Cristo Chapel is based on a story of a rider who lost control of his horse along Calle del Cristo during a fiesta. Plunging off the top of the stone wall and into the cliffs below, the rider was said to have miraculously survived. Over the years, faithful Puerto Ricans have flocked to the chapel to pray for miracle cures and leave tiny silver ornaments (representing parts of the miracle rider’s body) at its altar.
Today, the chapel is a well-known yet humble historical landmark. Its gold and silver altar can be seen through the glass doors of the old building, but most visitors have to settle for a view from outside, as the chapel is only open to the public once a week. As it is located within Old San Juan, the historic colonial section of the city, there are numerous ways to explore the area, including half-day sightseeing tours, walking tours, and even segway tours.
Insider’s Tip: You can visit the chapel at any time, but the iron fence across the front only opens on Tuesday afternoons and on religious holidays.
Practical Info
The Calle del Cristo Chapel is located next to Parque de las Palomas by the old city wall.
Address: Calle del Cristo, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Hours: Open Tues afternoons and religious holidays
From $ 40
Grand Turk Cruise Center
It looks and feels like the Caribbean, but Grand Turk is actually washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. You might be sailing here from the Bahamas, only 48km (30 miles) away, and will soon realize you’ve landed in one of the most tranquil, undiscovered locations on the planet. The shiny new cruise center facilities include restaurants and a shopping mall, and white-sand beaches are just a short walk away.
How to Get to Cockburn Town
The port is on Grand Turk’s southwestern tip, and you’ll find plenty of tour and island information in the sparkling modern cruise center. Taxis line up to take you to downtown Cockburn Town, in the center of the island. You could also hire a go-anywhere jeep for the day, rent a bicycle or join an organized shore excursion.
One Day on Grand Turk
The big buzz on Grand Turk is the wonderful diving, so make the most of your shore visit by joining a snorkeling adventure cruise or diving operator excursion. The best diving is off the island’s western coast, where coral walls and stunning tropical fish are protected by marine national parks. There’s also wreck diving, scuba courses, one of the Caribbean’s largest swimming pools, resort relaxation and beach horse-back riding.
If you’d rather stay dry, take a wander around colonial-era Cockburn Town, with some lovely old churches and buildings, the National Museum’s shipwreck displays, and craft shops selling locally made souvenirs. In whale-watching season, February/March, head out to the island’s historic lighthouse to glimpse humpbacks swimming past. And no further away than the cruise center, space-lovers can spend time examining the NASA exhibit detailing the 1962 John Glenn splashdown and Mercury space program.
Port Information
Cruise lines docking at the revamped and enlarged Grand Turk Cruise Port include Carnival, Holland America and Princess. The local currency is the US dollar, and you’ll find a couple of ATMs in downtown Cockburn Town. The language spoken on Grand Turk is English.
How to Get to Cockburn Town
The port is on Grand Turk’s southwestern tip, and you’ll find plenty of tour and island information in the sparkling modern cruise center. Taxis line up to take you to downtown Cockburn Town, in the center of the island. You could also hire a go-anywhere jeep for the day, rent a bicycle or join an organized shore excursion.
One Day on Grand Turk
The big buzz on Grand Turk is the wonderful diving, so make the most of your shore visit by joining a snorkeling adventure cruise or diving operator excursion. The best diving is off the island’s western coast, where coral walls and stunning tropical fish are protected by marine national parks. There’s also wreck diving, scuba courses, one of the Caribbean’s largest swimming pools, resort relaxation and beach horse-back riding.
If you’d rather stay dry, take a wander around colonial-era Cockburn Town, with some lovely old churches and buildings, the National Museum’s shipwreck displays, and craft shops selling locally made souvenirs. In whale-watching season, February/March, head out to the island’s historic lighthouse to glimpse humpbacks swimming past. And no further away than the cruise center, space-lovers can spend time examining the NASA exhibit detailing the 1962 John Glenn splashdown and Mercury space program.
Port Information
Cruise lines docking at the revamped and enlarged Grand Turk Cruise Port include Carnival, Holland America and Princess. The local currency is the US dollar, and you’ll find a couple of ATMs in downtown Cockburn Town. The language spoken on Grand Turk is English.
Address: Turks and Caicos
From $ 20
Capitol Building
This classic capitol in the heart of San Juan is home to the Legislative Assembly, House or Representatives, the Senate and a whole lot of Puerto Rican history. Visitors to this regal site, which officially opened in 1907, will find massive marble columns, ornate stonework and a brightly colored capitol dome, in addition to the Architecture and Construction Archives of the University of Puerto Rico. These include rare ink and cloth sketches, as well as the original 38 blue print plans for the structure. Visitors say this classic building is a major departure from the rest of the old city, but a few hours wandering the halls, learning about Puerto Rican history and politics is a worthy addition to any San Juan visit.
Practical Info
The Capitol is located in the Puerta de Tierra section of San Juan. The address is 1 Democracy Square. Guided tours are available by appointment.
Address: 1 Democracy Square, San Juan, Puerto Rico
From $ 75
Baby Beach
Gentle surf and waist-high waters earned Baby Beach its name and reputation as one of the most popular beaches for kids in the Caribbean. Add in soft, sugar-like sand and waters as warm as a bathtub, and it’s no wonder this sheltered man-made lagoon on the southeastern tip of Aruba is popular among locals and visitors alike.
The Basics
Baby Beach is one of the most sought-after spots in the Caribbean paradise of Aruba. Although it’s easy enough to spend a day relaxing on the sand and snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea with a population of angel fish, blowfish, and eels, taking a guided tour offers the addition of informative commentary and exciting touring options. Travelers can explore Aruba on a Land Rover or Jeep adventure that combines a stop at Baby Beach with attractions such as the Seroe Colorado Natural Bridge, California Lighthouse, Arikok National Park, and Ayo and Casibari rock formations, with the added benefit of learning about the island’s history and culture from a tour guide. Many tours include lunch, use of snorkeling equipment, and round-trip transportation from Aruba hotels. Those arriving by cruise ship can book a shore excursion to ensure perfectly timed travel to Baby Beach and other must-see Aruba attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Baby Beach can get crowded; arrive early to find a good spot for your towel.
- There is no public restroom, so bring cash for bathroom access.
- This beach is popular among families with young kids and those who are new to snorkeling.
- Beach chairs, snorkel gear, and windscreens are available to rent.
- There is a restaurant and refreshment stand at the beach.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit Baby Beach is on a guided tour, which takes you to Baby Beach’s remote location on far end of Aruba and then back to a more central point, or even back to your hotel. Those traveling independently can rent a car for the 45-minute drive from Palm Beach or take a bus from Oranjestad to San Nicolas, and then either walk or find a taxi to the beach.
When to Get There
Arrive early in the day for the best chance of scoring a good spot. Aruba is a year-round destination, with January to March being the most popular months. April to August is equally nice but with fewer crowds.
Lago Colony History
The nearby area of Seroe Colorado was once known as the Lago Colony, a small town of primarily United States citizens living in Aruba. The colony was mainly supported by the Lago Oil and Transport Company, which operated for 60 years before closing in 1985. Some original houses still remain in the area.
Address: Seroe Colorado, Aruba
Hours: Daily
Admission: Free
From $ 37
Emancipation Park
Take a break from the hustle of Kingston with a visit to Emancipation Park, a seven-acre swath of green space in the New Kingston area of the Jamaican capital. It’s a popular spot for local to have lunch or walk the track around the park’s perimeter. Within the park you’ll find fountains and gardens of native and imported plants. Art pieces also dot the scenery, including the “Redemption Song” statue at the park entrance, honoring native son Bob Marley, and there are also African Adinkra symbols incorporated in the scenery, like the Futumfrafo, a two-headed crocodile, on the sides of the benches, and the Wafa Aba, seed of the Wafa Tree, decorating the top of the perimeter fence.
Practical Info
Emancipation Park is located in the New Kingston area of the city, near many of the tourist hotels. It sits at the corner of Oxford Rd. and Knutsford Blvd., just across the street from the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel.
Address: Corner of Oxford Rd. and Knutsford Blvd., Kingston, Jamaica
Hours: Mondays through Thursdays, 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Fridays through Sundays 5 a.m. to midnight.
From $ 65
Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo
Fuchsia-pink flamingoes are the highlight at the on-site zoo, but it’s the fish that win all the accolades at Bermuda’s well-regarded Aquarium, one of the territory’s most popular attractions.
Audio guides provide information about the specimens displayed in each tank, which are kitted out to re-create Bermuda’s marine ecosystems.
On show are around 200 species of fish, plus a living coral reef (the first in the world) that’s a must-see if you’re planning on doing any diving while in Bermuda, preparing you for the wonders of the deep that await.
Along with parrot fish, puffers and groupers, there are loggerhead turtles, sharks and green turtles. Seal-feeding time is especially popular, along with interactive tours.
The natural history museum is ideal for families, with hands-on discovery activities and animal storytelling for younger kids. The museum’s exhibits provide a fascinating overview of Bermuda’s plants and animals, with fossils, taxidermied creatures, shells and geological specimens to browse.
Audio guides provide information about the specimens displayed in each tank, which are kitted out to re-create Bermuda’s marine ecosystems.
On show are around 200 species of fish, plus a living coral reef (the first in the world) that’s a must-see if you’re planning on doing any diving while in Bermuda, preparing you for the wonders of the deep that await.
Along with parrot fish, puffers and groupers, there are loggerhead turtles, sharks and green turtles. Seal-feeding time is especially popular, along with interactive tours.
The natural history museum is ideal for families, with hands-on discovery activities and animal storytelling for younger kids. The museum’s exhibits provide a fascinating overview of Bermuda’s plants and animals, with fossils, taxidermied creatures, shells and geological specimens to browse.
Practical Info
The aquarium, museum and zoo are in the center of Bermuda on the southern edge of Harrington Sound, 20 minutes by bus from Hamilton.
Address: 40 North Shore Road, Flatts Village, Bermuda
Admission: Varies
From $ 75
Bacardi Rum Factory
The Bacardi Rum Factory is entwined with the history of the Caribbean itself, and the factory’s new visitor center traces the company’s early roots as a small distillery in Cuba through American Prohibition, the Cuban Revolution, and beyond. Today, Bacardi is a well-known brand with a global presence, and its factory in Puerto Rico is the largest premium rum distillery in the world.
The Basics
Bacardi may evoke memories of late-night parties or mojitos on the beach, but there’s island history and culture too to be explored on a tour too. There are three tour options: the Historical Tour, the Rum Tasting Tour, and the Mixology Tour, and each opens with a welcome cocktail. Combine a visit with a guided tour of Old San Juan for a more holistic look at regional history.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bacardi Factory is open daily with shorter Sunday hours.
- The tour is a must-do for history buffs and those seeking insight into Caribbean culture.
- Bring your photo ID if you plan to drink and are 18 years or older.
- You may be buzzed by the end of the visit—be sure to arrange safe transportation to your next destination.
How to Get There
A ferry ride will get you from Pier 2 in Old San Juan to Cataño, where you can catch a shuttle or taxi to the Bacardi Factory. Driving is not recommended for those doing the tasting tour or mixology tour, but designated drivers can take Highway 1 from Old San Juan to 22 West and then take the exit for Cataño.
When to Get There
The Bacardi Factory is open daily until 4:30pm, making it an easy activity to tack onto your San Juan itinerary. It is most popular in the afternoon and on weekends, so plan to visit earlier in the day (or earlier in the week) if you want a more intimate tour experience.
Viva Cuba Libre
Bacardi claims that the famous mix of rum and Coke with a lime, or Cuba Libre, was invented by American soldiers stationed in Cuba during the Spanish-American war. Regardless of origins, you can enjoy the drink knowing it has withstood the test of time. Pick up a bottle of rum in the gift shop to take the experience home.
Address: Route 165, Km 6.2, Cataño 00962, Puerto Rico
Hours: Tours: Mon - Sat 9am - 4:30pm, Sun 10am - 4:30pm
Admission: Tour prices vary.
From $ 13
Berkeley Memorial
The Berkeley Memorial is a historic green structure presiding over Basseterre’s main center in the middle of the Circus. It features a fountain and a clock with four different faces, each of them positioned in the direction of the four streets leading to the Circus. The memorial is in honor of Thomas Berkeley, a president of the General Council in the 1880s.
You can visit the Berkeley Memorial as part of a walking tour through Basseterre, taking in the National Museum, the courthouse and the town’s churches. Visiting the memorial can also be combined with a sightseeing trip to Brimstone Hill Fortress and a visit to the beach. To really appreciate the landscape, history, and culture of St Kitts, join a full- or half-day island panoramic tour.
Insider’s Tip: Though the climate in St Kitts is tropical, you might want to note that Basseterre's rainy season runs from May to November when selecting a walking tour of the city.
Practical Info
The Berkeley Memorial is hard to miss if you’re in Basseterre. It’s located in the center of the Circus (named after London’s Piccadilly Circus).
Address: The ‘Circus’, Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis
From $ 25
Betty's Hope Sugar Plantation
Betty's Hope Sugar Plantation is the historic site of the first large sugar plantation on Antigua, built during the late 1600s by Sir Christopher Codrington who named it after his daughter. All that remains today are the ruins of a stillhouse and two large stone windmills, one of which has been restored, with working gears, crushing rollers and a sail all built to period specifications. The local government is developing the area as an open-air museum, and a small visitor’s center offers information about how sugar cane was processed here, and about the hardships of the African slaves who toiled in its production.
Practical Info
Betty’s Hope Sugar Plantation can be found on the east side of the island, amid rolling hills with panoramic views of Antigua’s east coast and the Atlantic Ocean. To get here from St. John’s is about 25 minutes by car, heading east along Sir Sydney Walling Highway.
Address: Antigua and Barbuda
Hours: Daily 24/7
From $ 110
Great Salt Pond
Those seeking a stimulating day trip on St. Kitts couldn’t do better than the Great Salt Pond located on the southeastern tip of the island. Bordered by both the Atlantic and the Caribbean, brilliant white sands line the beach on both sides. Body surfing is popular in the turbulent Atlantic waters, while snorkeling and swimming are preferable in the Caribbean. An array of birds frequent the shore, and while there may be more secluded beaches on the island, the combination of personality and natural beauty more than make up for what it occasionally lacks in seclusion.
However populated, the Great Salt Pond is far from urbanized. The occasional blight of garbage and pollution that mar many St. Kitts destinations don’t touch this pristine spot. Families casting about for a truly beautiful shore-front free from the clatter of business and entertainment will likely find that this beach fits the bill to perfection.
However populated, the Great Salt Pond is far from urbanized. The occasional blight of garbage and pollution that mar many St. Kitts destinations don’t touch this pristine spot. Families casting about for a truly beautiful shore-front free from the clatter of business and entertainment will likely find that this beach fits the bill to perfection.
Practical Info
There aren’t any resort hotels within the immediate vicinity of the Great Salt Pond, but there is a selection of establishments roughly 4 or 5 miles from the beach. Food and other amenities are closer still, with a handful of options a little more than a mile off.
Address: Southeast Peninsula, St Kitts, St Kitts and Nevis
From $ 34
Guadirikiri Caves
Hidden amongst Aruba’s famous white sand beaches and tropical waters lies the Guadirikiri Cave system of underground tunnels, filled with centuries old rock formations. Stalagmites and stalactites (along with plenty of fruit bats!) sit quietly in the darkness and dampness of the two chambers. Light passes into the cave only through holes in the ceiling, creating a unique effect and feel. There are also Arawak Indian drawings on the cave walls that provide insight into the history and cultural roots of Aruba.
Legend and local folklore has it that the two caves once held a pair of lovers condemned by the girl’s father, an Indian chief, as an unworthy match. It is said that upon their death, their souls vanished to the heavens through the holes in the top of the caves. The main cave chamber stretches nearly 100 feet into the darkness.
Practical Info
Located within Arikok National Park, you can enter the cave through the entrance at the base of a cliff on the outer edge of the park, accessible via a staircase. The caves are open daily from 8 am to 4 pm. Arikiok National Park is situated on Aruba near Butucu, and entrance costs $10 USD.
Address: Arikok National Park, Aruba, Aruba
Admission: $10 USD
From $ 74
Carenage
The Carenage is St. George’s lively waterfront promenade, which winds around Grenada’s inner harbor. Its name is derived from the French word carenage, meaning “safe anchorage.” Lined with colonial-era buildings, the inlet offers shops, seafood restaurants, and cafés, plus it’s near Grenada’s bustling open-air market.
The Basics
This marina is busy with fishing boats, yachts, and barges, as well as the ferry to Carriacou. Whether you visit Grenada with a tour or independently, it’s a pleasure to grab a meal at one of the many seafood restaurants, or rum at a local bar, and snap photos of the quaint Georgian buildings that line the waterfront. Shop here for souvenirs, spices, preserves, local crafts, and more.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Water taxis run from here to the popular beach at Grand Anse.
- Grenada is a big producer of cinnamon, cloves, ginger, bay leaf, turmeric, and nutmeg, so be sure to visit the local spice market.
- English is the official language of Grenada, making it easy to chat with vendors.
How to Get There
From the cruise ship terminal, it’s a short walk (less than 10 minutes) to the Carenage. If you drive, park outside the marina area and walk to the waterfront, because parking is limited and navigating the roads can be tricky. Public minibuses are available around the island; from the central bus station in St. George’s, it’s 15–20minutes’ walk to the Carenage.
When to Get There
Grenada is known as the Spice Island, so a visit to the open-air spice market is a must. Located inland from the Carenage, near the Esplanade Mall, the shopping area is open daily, but Saturday mornings are the busiest because that’s when farmers and vendors from across the island come to sell their produce.
Nearby Fort George
From the Carenage, head up to Fort George to take in picturesque views of the town and harbor. The battery dates back to 1705 and was named in honor of King George III when the British took control of Grenada. The viewing section features plaques indicating important landmarks, along with several canno
Address: Grenada
From $ 191
Guadeloupe Zoo
Spread out on an island in the French Caribbean, the animals at the Guadeloupe Zoo may have the most scenic views of anyone. Also known as the Parc des Mamelles, it uniquely houses more than 85 species native to the area. With everything from birds and reptiles to monkeys and big cats, the park itself lines a tropical rainforest and a visit feels like a walk in the jungle. The animals are mostly from the Caribbean and Guyana, and many are rare and/or endangered.
Some of the most engaging exhibits include the jaguar enclosure and the bridges, slides, and paths that make up the play area for children. Other bridges pass through a dense canopy suspended above the forest floor. The entire area is full of native greenery, including colorful orchids and other tropical flowers.
The insectarium is particularly interesting, with a rhinoceros beetle on display (the largest in the world.) The zoo is a member of preservation societies and takes pride it the high level of care it provides for the animals. Tours include admission to the zoo and often, information on the conversation of the local rainforest ecosystem.
Practical Info
Located at the heart of the island’s national park in Basse-Terre, the zoo is open from 9am-6pm with the last admission at 4:30pm. It’s accessible on the main route passing through Basse-Terre, the Route de la Traversee. There is a small restaurant and a parking lot located at the zoo’s entrance. Audio guides are available to rent for 3€.
Address: D 23 - Route de la Traversee, Bouillante, Guadeloupe
Hours: Daily 9am-6pm
Admission: Adults: 14,90 €; Children: 8,50 €
From $ 17
Gros Piton
Perched along St Lucia’s southwest coast and protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the dramatic twin peaks of Gros Piton and Petit Piton are among the Caribbean island’s most memorable landmarks. Towering 2,619 feet (798 meters) above sea level, the Gros Piton, the larger of the two, is also a popular challenge for avid hikers.
The Basics
Sightseeing tours along St Lucia’s west coast are sure to include a photo stop at the mighty Twin Pitons; for the best views, though, opt for a catamaran cruise along the coast or hike the Tet Paul Nature Trail and gaze out over the jagged peaks. True adventure-seekers will love hiking Gros Piton—follow the scenic Gros Piton Trail and climb right to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view across the island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Hiking the summit of Gros Piton is only possible with an official tour guide and can take up to three hours each way.
- An average-to-good fitness level is recommended for the Gros Piton hike, but no technical hiking or climbing experience is required.
- Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
- Entrance fees are payable at the Interpretive Center in Fond Gens Libre village.
How to Get There
Gros Piton is located just south of Soufrière; the starting point for hikes is the Interpretive Center in Fond Gens Libre village. The most convenient way to get to Soufrière is with your own transport or on a guided tour. Most day tours include free hotel pickup and drop-off.
When to Get There
Although you can climb Gros Piton all year round, the most popular time to visit is from December to March, when you will likely share the trail with a number of other hikers. Get an early start and tackle the ascent before the sun is at its strongest.
Exploring St Lucia
Combine a visit to the Twin Pitons with other island attractions, such as Castries, St Lucia’s capital, Marigot Bay, or the fishing villages of Anse La Raye and Canaries. On a full-day tour from the north of the island, you can also stop at the St Lucia Rum Distillery, take in the views from the Morne viewpoint, or enjoy a natural mud bath in Soufriere.
Address: Soufriere, St Lucia
Admission: Free
From $ 50
Green Grotto Caves
Time and tide have etched the limestone Green Grotto Caves, lined with the green algae that gives them their name. The caverns are home to bats and marine life, and over the centuries they’ve been a hideout for fugitives and runaway slaves.
Hidden away in an inner cavern is the crystal-clear Grotto Lake. Overhead, pockets in the limestone provide filtered light through the caverns’ forest of stalactites and stalagmites.
Practical Info
The Green Grotto Caves are on Jamaica’s north coast at Discovery Bay, west of Ocho Rios. They are 1.5 miles (3 kilometers) from Discovery Bay. To visit, you need to take an organized tour.
Address: A3 Highway, Discovery Bay JMCAN10, Jamaica
Hours: Open daily 9am - 4pm
Admission: Adults: US$20, Children (4-12yrs): US$10
From $ 88
Greenwood Great House
Take a walk through an unique piece of Jamaican and literary history with a tour of the Greenwood Great House, built in the late 1700s by Richard Barrett, a cousin of poet Elizabeth Barrett-Browning, whose family was among Jamaica’s original colonial settlers. Nearby Rose Hall often overshadows Greenwood Great House, but in fact Greenwood is better preserved, with many of the original furnishings still intact, including the library, a collection of Dresden china, and haunting relics from the original owner’s slave holding past, like a 6-foot-long, steel man-trap for catching runaways.
Practical Info
Visitors can stop by Greenwood Great House any day, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. to join a guided tour led by docents dressed in period clothes. These tours offer an intimate look at the house, which was built primarily for entertaining, even cranking up the original polyphones so you can imagine the island’s Victorian-era elites waltzing in the ballroom.
Address: 435 Belgrade Avenue, St James, Jamaica
Hours: Open daily 9am-6pm
Admission: $20
From $ 66
Belmont Estate
If you find yourself watching two people dancing barefoot in a large copper pot, rhythmically moving to the beat of a drum while stomping on piles of cocoa, you know you’re at the Belmont Estate on the northeastern coast of Grenada. Here at this traditional island estate that dates to the late 1600s, “dancing the cocoa” is just one tradition that still lives on to this day. Designed as a way to remove unsightly residue from the exterior of freshly grown cocoa beans, the dance today is a highlight of touring the 400-acre plantation. Though the estate was founded on sugar and coffee, it’s now spices such as nutmeg and cloves that spring from the Caribbean ground. For travelers with a self-professed chocolate addiction, a tour of the neighboring Granada Chocolate Company showcases the process of cocoa beans being transformed to silky rich chocolate. Or, for a taste of authentic Grenada cuisine in a pastoral island setting, the restaurant on site at Belmont Estate is regarded as one of the island’s best for its fine collection of flavors. Families will love the petting zoo and chance to hang with the goats, and this model of island agri-tourism successfully fuses Grenada’s past with its modern, tourism future.
Practical Info
The Belmont Estate is open 8am-4pm on every day except Saturday. The property is located approximately an hour from Grenada’s capital of St. George’s, and remember to bring some insect repellent to combat the area’s mosquitos.
Address: Belmont Estate, Belmont , St Patrick, Grenada, West Indies, Grenada
Hours: Sun-Fri 8am-4pm
From $ 125