Tobago

Beach Guide
Let's go!

A Guide to Hidden Coves, Crystal Waters, and Sun-Kissed Shores

Duration: at least one week

Budget: $ 55 per day

There’s something truly magical about Tobago’s beaches that goes beyond the white sand and turquoise waters. Every time I visit, I’m reminded of the island’s untouched beauty and how each beach seems to have its own personality. From secluded coves perfect for a quiet escape to lively shores where locals gather, Tobago’s coastlines offer something for every kind of traveler. In this post, I’m excited to share my personal favorites and the hidden gems I’ve discovered, so you can experience the true essence of this Caribbean paradise.

  • Swimming 100% 100%
  • Beach Vibes & Amenities 95% 95%
  • Snorkeling 95% 95%
  • Diving 100% 100%

Remember, half the fun is in the journey, so embrace those winding roads and breathtaking views. And no matter which beaches you choose to visit, I guarantee you’ll fall in love with this island just like I did. 

Pigeon Point Beach: The Stuff of Postcards

Okay, I know it’s cliché to start with the most famous beach, but trust me, Pigeon Point lives up to the hype. That iconic thatched-roof jetty? Even more stunning in person. I may or may not have spent an embarrassing amount of time trying to get the perfect Instagram shot there (no regrets!).

Pro tip: Head there for sunset. The sky turns into a spectacular light show, and the crowds thin out. It’s pure magic!

How to Get There: It’s a breeze! Just a 10-minute drive from the airport. Hop in a taxi or rent a car. There’s a small entrance fee (worth every penny, trust me), and you’re in paradise!

Best For: Iconic photos, water sports, and that perfect beach day vibe. If you’re after the quintessential Caribbean beach experience, this is your spot!

Tobago Beach: English Man's Cove

Englishman's Bay: My Secret Slice of Heaven

If you’re looking to channel your inner castaway, Englishman’s Bay is your spot. It took me a bit of adventurous driving to find it, but oh boy, was it worth it! I had this crescent-shaped beauty almost all to myself.

The snorkeling here? Incredible. I saw more colorful fish than I could count and even spotted a sea turtle! Just remember to bring your own snacks – the food options are limited, but that’s part of its unspoiled charm.

How to Get There: Adventure time! It’s about an hour’s drive from Scarborough. The road gets a bit windy, but the views are killer. Rent a car or hire a driver if you’re not comfortable with the twists and turns.

Best For: Secluded beach vibes, snorkeling, and feeling like you’ve discovered your own private paradise. Perfect for escaping the crowds!

Most tours will take you to Nylon Pool, a natural, shallow coral pool right in the middle of the sea. It’s like Mother Nature’s very own infinity pool!  Keep your eyes peeled for parrotfish, angelfish, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle or two.

Insider Tip: Book a tour that includes a local guide. They’ll not only show you the best spots but also educate you about the ongoing coral conservation efforts. It’s a great way to enjoy the reef responsibly!

Nylon Pool: Nature's Own Infinity Pool

Ever wanted to stand in the middle of the ocean? Nylon Pool lets you do just that! It’s this amazing shallow sandbar in the middle of the sea. I felt like I was walking on water (cue the messiah jokes).

The boat ride out there is an adventure in itself. Just be sure to slather on the sunscreen – I learned that lesson the hard way!

How to Get There: You’ll need to hop on a boat tour from Store Bay or Pigeon Point. It’s about a 20-minute ride. Book with a reputable tour operator – I went with [local tour company name] and had a blast!

Best For: Unique ocean experiences, boat trips, and that perfect “walking on water” photo op. It’s a must-do Tobago experience!

Nylon Pool Tobago
Independence square downtown Port of Spain

Mt. Irvine Beach: Surf's Up!

Calling all wave riders! Mt. Irvine is your playground. I’m no surfer, but I took a lesson here and managed to stand up on the board for a whole 3 seconds. Personal record!

Even if surfing’s not your thing, the beach vibe here is awesome. I spent hours just watching the pros do their thing. Talk about impressive!

How to Get There: It’s about a 15-minute drive from the airport. Easy to reach by taxi or rental car. Just follow the signs (or the surfers!).

Best For: Surfing (duh!), beach vibes, and watching the pros catch waves. Even if you’re not into surfing, the atmosphere here is unbeatable.

Bloody Bay: Don't Let the Name Fool You

Despite its ominous name, Bloody Bay is a slice of paradise. It’s a bit of a trek to get there, but that’s what keeps it so pristine. I packed a picnic and spent a whole day here, alternating between swimming in the crystal-clear water and lounging under the shade of the trees.

Spotted some amazing birds too – turns out I’m a bit of a birdwatcher. Who knew?

How to Get There: It’s a bit of a journey – about a 90-minute drive from Scarborough. The road’s an adventure in itself! Definitely rent a car or hire a driver for this one.

Best For: Unspoiled nature, peace and quiet, and feeling like you’re at the edge of the world. If you’re after true serenity, make the trek to Bloody Bay.

King's Bay: Family Fun in the Sun

King’s Bay is like the Goldilocks of beaches – not too crowded, not too deserted, just right. The calm waters make it perfect for little ones, and there’s plenty of space for beach games.

How to Get There: It’s about a 30-minute drive from Scarborough. The road’s pretty straightforward, so it’s an easy trip by rental car or taxi.

Best For: Family outings, calm swimming waters, and beach picnics. It’s the perfect spot if you’re traveling with kids or just want a relaxed beach day.

Parlatuvier Bay: Fisherman's Delight

If you want to see the real Tobago, head to Parlatuvier Bay. This horseshoe-shaped beauty is postcard-perfect. I spent an entire afternoon chatting with the local fishermen and even scored some fresh catch for dinner.

How to Get There: It’s about an hour’s drive from Scarborough. The road winds along the coast with some breathtaking views. Renting a car is your best bet for flexibility.

Best For: Photography, authentic fishing village experiences, and fresh seafood. If you want to see a slice of real Tobagonian life, don’t miss Parlatuvier.

doubles in Port of Spain, Trinidad

Grange Beach: Turtle Territory

Grange Beach is a must-visit, especially if you’re a wildlife lover like me. I timed my visit with turtle nesting season and guys, it was AMAZING. Watching these gentle giants lay their eggs under the moonlight was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Just remember to follow the guidelines – no flash photography and keep your distance. Let’s keep these beautiful creatures safe!

How to Get There: It’s just a 10-minute drive from Scarborough. Easy to reach by taxi or rental car. Look for signs to the Turtle Beach Hotel.

Best For: Wildlife encounters, turtle watching (in season), and beautiful sunsets. If you’re a nature lover, time your visit for turtle nesting season – you won’t regret it!

Pirate's Bay

If you’re looking for adventure mixed with jaw-dropping beauty, Pirate’s Bay is calling your name. Getting there is half the fun – I’ll never forget the exhilarating hike down the steep trail, the anticipation building with every step. And then, suddenly, the trees part and you’re faced with a view that stops you in your tracks: a perfect horseshoe of white sand embraced by turquoise waters and backed by wild, jungle-covered hills. It feels like you’ve stumbled upon a secret, like you’re the first person to ever set foot on this slice of paradise. I spent hours snorkeling in waters so clear I could count the scales on the fish, and picnicking under the shade of swaying palms. Pirate’s Bay isn’t just a beach – it’s a reminder of how breathtakingly beautiful our world can be when left untouched.

How to get there:

  • Located near Charlotteville, at the northeastern tip of Tobago
  • Approximately 1.5 hours drive from Scarborough
  • Accessible by car to Charlotteville, then a 20-minute hike down a steep trail
  • Alternatively, hire a boat from Charlotteville for easier access

Best for:

  • Secluded beach experience
  • Snorkeling in crystal clear waters
  • Hiking (to reach the beach)
  • Nature photography
  • Picnicking (bring your own supplies)

Castara Bay

Castara Bay is as close to paradise as I’ve ever found. The first time I visited, I was struck by how wonderfully unspoiled it felt. There’s a rhythm to life here that’s set by the tides and the daily catch of the local fishermen. I spent hours just watching their colorful boats bob in the bay, occasionally diving into the crystal-clear water for a refreshing swim. As the sun began to set, painting the sky in impossible shades of orange and pink, I realized that Castara isn’t just a place you visit – it’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

How to get there:

  • Located on the north coast of Tobago
  • Approximately 45 minutes drive from Scarborough
  • Accessible by car or taxi
  • Limited public transportation available; renting a car is recommended

Best for:

  • Swimming in calm waters
  • Snorkeling
  • Fishing village experience
  • Watching local fishermen bring in their catch
  • Relaxing in a less touristy environment
Castara Bay

Buccoo Beach

This lively stretch of sand is where the heart of Tobago truly beats. I remember my first visit like it was yesterday – the soft, golden sand between my toes, the gentle lapping of Caribbean waves, and the infectious rhythm of steel pan in the distance. It’s not just a beach; it’s a slice of Tobagonian life. Whether you’re snorkeling in the vibrant Buccoo Reef, galloping along the shoreline on horseback, or dancing the night away at the famous Sunday School street party, Buccoo has a way of making you feel like you’ve always belonged here. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and worries melt away with the setting sun.

How to get there:

  • Located in the village of Buccoo, on the leeward (Caribbean) coast of Tobago
  • Approximately 15 minutes drive from Scarborough, the capital of Tobago
  • Accessible by car or taxi
  • Public transportation (buses) available from Scarborough

Best for:

  • Snorkeling (Buccoo Reef is nearby)
  • Sunbathing
  • Swimming
  • Horse riding on the beach
  • Watching the famous “Sunday School” street party

Turtle Beach

Turtle Beach is a nature lover’s dream come true. I’ll never forget the night I spent here, waiting in hushed anticipation as a massive leatherback turtle lumbered up the beach to lay her eggs. It was a humbling, almost spiritual experience.

During the day, the long stretch of golden sand is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a spot of sunbathing. The gentle slope into the sea makes it ideal for swimming, and I often found myself floating peacefully, watching frigatebirds wheel overhead.

With the verdant hills of the Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve as a backdrop, Turtle Beach feels wild and untamed, yet welcoming.

How to get there:

  • Located in Plymouth, on the Caribbean coast of Tobago
  • Approximately 15 minutes drive from Scarborough
  • Easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transportation

Best for:

  • Turtle watching (during nesting season from March to August)
  • Swimming
  • Long beach walks
  • Birdwatching
  • Water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding)
leatherback turtles on Grand Anse beach in ST. Lucia
Pigeon Point beach Tobago

Store Bay

Store Bay might be small, but it packs a mighty punch! This pocket-sized beach is a hive of activity, and I love the energy here. The first time I visited, I was drawn in by the aroma of curry crab and dumplings wafting from the food stalls. After a refreshing swim in the calm, clear waters, I treated myself to this local delicacy – it was love at first bite! The beach is a great launch point for boat trips to Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool, and I highly recommend taking one of these tours. As the sun sets, there’s nothing better than sipping a cold drink at one of the beachside bars, watching the fishing boats return with their daily catch.

How to get there:

  • Located in Crown Point, southwestern Tobago
  • Very close to A.N.R. Robinson International Airport
  • Easily accessible by foot from many nearby hotels, or by a short taxi ride

Best for:

  • Swimming in calm waters
  • Snorkeling
  • Boat trips to Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool
  • Sampling local cuisine from beach vendors
  • People-watching and soaking up the lively atmosphere

Stonehaven Bay

Stonehaven Bay is where I go when I need to recharge my batteries. This long, sweeping bay feels spacious and free, with plenty of room to find your own private spot. I love coming here early in the morning when the beach is practically deserted, save for the occasional jogger or early-bird swimmer. The waves here can be a bit stronger than at other beaches, which makes for great bodysurfing. But my favorite thing to do is simply sit under the shade of a palm tree, lose myself in a good book, and occasionally glance up to watch the pelicans dive-bombing for fish. It’s a simple pleasure, but on Stonehaven Bay, it feels like pure luxury.

How to get there:

  • Located on the Caribbean coast, between Buccoo and Pleasant Prospect
  • About 20 minutes drive from Scarborough
  • Accessible by car or taxi

Best for:

  • Surfing and bodysurfing (especially during the winter months)
  • Long, quiet beach walks
  • Birdwatching
  • Beachcombing
  • Watching stunning sunsets

Man-O-War Bay

Man-O-War Bay is where I go when I want to feel the raw power of nature. This expansive bay, with Charlotteville nestled at one end, offers a striking combination of natural beauty and local charm. I love starting my day here with a brisk swim, followed by a wander through the fishing village, watching the colorful pirogues bob in the water. The bay got its name from the frigatebirds (also known as Man-O-War birds) that soar overhead, and watching their aerial acrobatics never gets old. As evening approaches, I like to find a quiet spot on the beach to watch the sun sink into the sea, painting the sky in a riot of colors that reflect off the calm waters of the bay.

How to get there:

  • Located at the northeastern tip of Tobago, encompassing Charlotteville
  • About 1.5 hours drive from Scarborough
  • Accessible by car or taxi; the drive itself is scenic but winding

Best for:

  • Swimming and snorkeling in clear waters
  • Birdwatching, especially for frigatebirds
  • Experiencing local fishing village life
  • Hiking in nearby forests
  • Enjoying spectacular sunsets

No Man's Land

No Man’s Land is aptly named – it truly feels like the edge of the world. This narrow spit of sand, surrounded by shallow, crystal-clear water, is only accessible by boat, which adds to its sense of adventure. My first trip here felt like a real Robinson Crusoe experience. I spent hours wading through warm, knee-deep water, spotting colorful fish darting around my feet. The peace here is profound – the only sounds are the gentle lapping of waves and the rustle of palm fronds in the breeze. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, and I’ll never forget the time I enjoyed a simple lunch of fresh fruit and local cheese, feeling like I had my own private island paradise.

How to get there:

  • Located off the southwestern tip of Tobago, near Pigeon Point
  • Only accessible by boat
  • Boat tours can be arranged from Pigeon Point or Store Bay

Best for:

  • Wading and swimming in shallow, warm waters
  • Snorkeling in the surrounding coral reefs
  • Picnicking on a secluded beach
  • Photography of pristine, unspoiled landscapes
  • Experiencing a true ‘desert island’ feel

Get ready to travel Trinidad & Tobago

Language: English
Currency: TT Dollar

Public Transport in Trinidad & Tobago

Public transport in Trinidad and is fairly reliable, safe, and easy to use (you just might need time). The main form of public transportation is the maxi taxi or minibus which are basically large vans that can fit between 8-12 people. Taxis are also available for hire from most major cities and airports. TT rideshare is the Trini version of Uber and works great! Loved it!

Tobago is a different story, especially as you venture away from Scarborough. TT Rideshare does not work in Tobago and so you’ll have to rely on taxis, buses (which run quite infrequent) and rides you catch with locals.

Best time to travel Trinidad & Tobago

The best time to visit is between December and May when the weather is dry and somewhat cool. This makes it the perfect time for beach trips and outdoor activities like hiking.

The two islands also have their own unique festivals. In Trinidad, the annual Trinidad Carnival is a must-see event that takes place in February and lasts for several days with parades, music, dancing, and lots of fun.

Trinidad and Tobago are outside of the hurrican belt. Therefore you do not have to fear hurricanes though the rain can get super heavy during the rain season which last from June to October. 

Are Trinidad & Tobago safe?

It is generally safe to travel Trinidad and Tobago and we always felt very well looked out for. While the capital city of Port of Spain has become somewhat more notorious, we could fully enjoy the city with certain precautions taken in any capital in the region.

Internet & Phone

Internet and phone service is available in the major cities and on most of the countryside. You can purchase SIM cards for your cell phone to use with local carriers such as Digicel or Bmobile. The wifi speeds are decent, although they tend to be slower in more rural areas.

Tap water in Trinidad & Tobago

Tap water in Trinidad and Tobago is generally safe to drink, but it may come out of the tap hot or with an unpleasant taste. I still always fell better to use my water filter just to be sure.

Transport between Trinidad and Tobago

The most convenient and fastest way to get between Trinidad and Tobago is the inter-island ferry. It takes around 2 hours and there are several departure times a day. The ferry typically costs around $ US 70 each way, although prices can vary depending on time of year and day of the week. Alternatively, you can fly between the two islands with Caribbean Airlines or a few other smaller regional airlines. 

Biggest challenges for the responsible traveler

Trash. Street food almost always comes wrapped in aluminum foil, and many restaurants serve it in to-go boxes. Luckily enough, a foldable food container will go a long way.

Generally speaking, responsible tourism practices are not (yet) prevalent in Trinidad or Tobago. Therefore, wear eco-friendly sunscreen when visiting waterfalls and the beach.

Sunscreen: Protect Marine life and wear reef-friendly sunscreen!

Sunscreen: Protect Trinidads coast by using reef-friendly sunscreen.

tanzania travel Zanzibar beaches

Packing List Caribbean

Are you getting ready to travel to Trinidad and Tobago? Check out my packing list to come prepared. You’ll find anything from cloths to useful travel gadgets and eco friendly travel products!

Traveling Trinidad and Tobago?

Trinidad & Tobago Itinerary

Places to visit in the Caribbean