The Beaches of Trinidad and Tobago

 

Trinidad and Tobago both offer travelers a variety of beach experiences. You'll find tourist locales where you can swim, sunbathe, and taste the local cuisine. If you're the adventurous type, try surfing, diving, or hiking to a remote coast. Nature-lovers may be lucky enough to see leatherback turtles laying their eggs on a secluded beach.

Trinidad

Although Trinidad isn't known primarily for its beaches, you can still enjoy some sand and surf there. But swimmers should be careful, as riptides and undercurrents abound. Shallow waters can extend quite a distance from shore, so if you don't pay attention, you may suddenly find you've waded too far.

The north coast's calmer waters and natural beauty make its beaches the best for swimming on Trinidad. Changing rooms, bathrooms, and food are available at some of the beaches in this area. Here you'll find Maracas Bay, the most popular beach among locals and tourists alike. But if you want to get away from the crowds, you can find more tranquil places, as well.

Near Port of Spain on the northwest coast, locals frequent several beaches offering swimming, surfing, and kayak rentals. However, you won't find the same picturesque quality here as you will on the north coast. And you may find the waters to be polluted, which could make swimming less appealing.

The island's northeast coast, with its rocky shores and dangerous waters, is best for surfing. Prime surfing season here runs from November to April. Swimming isn't recommended, but if you absolutely must try it, talk to the locals to find the safest spots.

If you yearn for long stretches of unspoiled coastline, take a drive down the east coast. Aside from a few small towns dotting the countryside, you'll find little else here but sand and palm trees. Waters here tend to look muddy, and watch out for those undertows. Trinidad's beaches are a fun supplement to your main activities. But if you plan on making beach excursions the cornerstone of your trip, Tobago offers much more.

Tobago

Picture-perfect beaches are Tobago's major attraction. Coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life make for excellent snorkeling, scuba diving, and underwater photography. Almost any other water sport you could want to try is available on Tobago.

The Caribbean side of the island is the most built-up. Beaches tend to have restrooms and places to change. Bars and/or restaurants can usually be found nearby. And the waters are calmer than on the Atlantic side, so swimming is safe.

Nestled by an old coconut plantation you'll find the crowd favorite Pigeon Point, a breathtaking beach with numerous conveniences. The Great Courland Bay area has several beaches where travelers can go with guides to watch turtles nesting. Farther up the coast, Englishman's Bay remains a lovely spot for a quiet getaway, as long as you don't need any facilities.

On the Atlantic side of Tobago, beaches are generally undeveloped and prone to difficult currents. King's Bay is an exception, with peaceful waters surrounded by lush, dramatic scenery.

While some beaches are owned by hotels, they're all open to the public. However, hotel beaches sometimes restrict amenities to their guests.

Pick Your Beach

Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of cosmopolitan Trinidad or the laid-back life on Tobago, there's a beach for you. Do a little "beach combing" through this guide to find the perfect place for you to relax and have fun. The links listed below will take you to detailed pages about the many beaches of Trinidad and Tobago.

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