Things to do
THINGS TO DO IN TOBAGO
Top Ten Activities
No Man’s Land is a secluded, pristine beach in Tobago, accessible only by boat. This unspoiled paradise offers crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, perfect for a day of relaxation, swimming, and picnicking. The beach is also an excellent spot for snorkeling, with vibrant marine life just beneath the surface.
Experience the thrill of horseback riding along the beach and into the shallow waters of the Caribbean Sea in Tobago. This unique adventure allows you to bond with your horse while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery. It’s a perfect activity for both novice and experienced riders looking for an unforgettable experience.
Set sail on a luxurious catamaran and explore Tobago’s underwater world. These tours often include stops at popular snorkeling sites, where you can swim among colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine creatures. The tour usually includes refreshments and the chance to relax on the deck, soaking up the sun and sea breeze.
The Main Ridge Forest Reserve is the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere. It offers numerous hiking trails that wind through lush tropical vegetation, leading to stunning viewpoints and waterfalls. Along the way, you might spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and exotic plants.
Join renowned local birdwatcher Newton George for a guided birdwatching tour in Tobago. The island is home to over 200 species of birds, and Newton’s expertise will help you spot and identify many of them. This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture the island’s avian beauty.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) offers a fun and active way to explore Tobago’s coastal waters. For an unforgettable experience, join a bioluminescence tour at night. As you paddle, you’ll witness the magical glow of bioluminescent plankton lighting up the water with every stroke, creating an otherworldly ambiance.
Argyle Waterfall, Tobago’s highest waterfall, is a must-visit natural attraction. A short hike through the rainforest leads you to this stunning three-tiered cascade, where you can swim in the refreshing pools at the base. The surrounding area is rich in flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature photography.
Tobago is renowned for its world-class diving sites. Whether you dive at Crown Point or Speyside, you’ll encounter spectacular coral reefs, underwater caves, and a diverse array of marine life, including turtles, rays, and tropical fish. Many dive operators offer guided dives for all skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Tobago’s rich marine environment makes it a prime destination for sport fishing. Charter a fishing boat and try your luck at catching big game fish like marlin, sailfish, tuna, and mahi-mahi. The island’s experienced guides will help you navigate the best fishing spots and provide all the necessary equipment.
The Nylon Pool is a shallow, crystal-clear lagoon located in the middle of the sea, accessible only by boat. This natural wonder is known for its soft, white sand and turquoise waters. Legend has it that a dip in the Nylon Pool will make you look ten years younger. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the sun.
THINGS TO DO IN TOBAGO
Festivals in Tobago
Tobago’s Carnival is an explosion of color, music, and dance, showcasing the island’s vibrant culture. Held annually in October, this festival features lively parades, elaborate costumes, and rhythmic calypso and soca music.
Revelers can enjoy street parties, steel pan performances, and the crowning of the Carnival King and Queen. The Carnival is a celebration of Tobago’s rich history and a must-see for anyone visiting the island during this festive season.
The Carib Great Race is a thrilling powerboat racing event held annually in August. Starting in Trinidad and finishing in Scarborough, Tobago, this high-speed race attracts participants from around the world.
Spectators can enjoy the excitement from various vantage points along the coast, with the finish line in Tobago being a prime spot to witness the exhilarating conclusion. The event also features parties and celebrations, making it a fun-filled day for attendees.
Unique to Tobago, the Buccoo Goat and Crab Race Festival is held annually on Easter Tuesday. This quirky event sees jockeys running alongside goats, racing them to the finish line. The festival also includes crab races, cultural performances, and local cuisine. It’s a fun and family-friendly event that showcases Tobago’s playful spirit and offers a glimpse into local traditions.
The Tobago Jazz Festival, held every April, is a week-long celebration of music featuring performances by local and international artists. Set against the backdrop of Tobago’s stunning beaches and lush landscapes, the festival offers a diverse lineup of genres, from jazz and R&B to reggae and soca. Concerts are held at various scenic locations, providing an unforgettable musical experience for attendees.
Tobago’s Harvest Festivals are community celebrations that occur throughout the year, where villages take turns hosting festivities. These events are centered around giving thanks for the bountiful harvest and feature church services, feasts, and cultural performances. Visitors can enjoy traditional Tobagonian dishes, music, and dance, and experience the island’s strong sense of community and hospitality.
The Tobago Heritage Festival is a month-long celebration held every July and August, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the island’s cultural heritage. The festival includes theatrical performances, traditional music and dance, storytelling, and historical reenactments. Each village presents its unique heritage, offering visitors an in-depth look at Tobago’s rich history and cultural diversity.
THINGS TO DO IN TOBAGO
Historical Sites in Tobago
Fort George, perched on a hill overlooking the capital city of Scarborough, is one of Tobago’s most significant historical landmarks. Built in 1777 by the British, this well-preserved fort offers stunning panoramic views of the harbor and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the old military buildings, cannons, and a small museum that provides insights into Tobago’s colonial past and strategic importance in the Caribbean. Fort George is not only a window into the island’s history but also a great spot for photography and picnics.
The Tobago Cocoa Estate, located in Roxborough, is a must-visit for those interested in the island’s agricultural heritage. This estate produces some of the world’s finest cocoa beans, used in gourmet chocolates. Visitors can take guided tours of the plantation, learning about the cocoa production process from bean to bar. The tour also includes tastings of delicious chocolate products and insights into the history and importance of cocoa farming in Tobago’s economy.
The Courland Monument in Plymouth commemorates the Courland colonists from present-day Latvia who attempted to settle in Tobago during the 17th century. This monument marks the site of the first European colony on the island, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Tobago’s history. The monument is situated in a scenic park, providing a peaceful place to reflect on the island’s complex past.
The Mysterious Tombstone, located in Plymouth, is an intriguing historical site known for its enigmatic inscription. The tombstone, dating back to the 18th century, bears a cryptic message that has puzzled visitors for centuries: “She was a mother without knowing it, and a wife without letting her husband know it, except by her kind indulgences to him.” This peculiar epitaph has led to much speculation and adds an element of mystery to Tobago’s historical narrative. The tombstone is part of the burial ground of the old Plymouth Church, making it a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts
Fort Milford, situated near the Crown Point area, is a small but historically significant fort built by the British in 1777. Although only ruins remain, the site offers a glimpse into Tobago’s colonial military history. Visitors can explore the remnants of the fort, including the cannons and defensive walls, and enjoy the beautiful views of the coastline. The well-maintained grounds and informative plaques provide context to the fort’s role in protecting the island from invaders.
THINGS TO DO IN TOBAGO
Beaches
- In the area there are two beaches in walking distance. One being Pigeon Point and the other Store Bay. The beaches are full of huts that sell local food and also a great place to buy local crafts .
THINGS TO DO IN TOBAGO
Nightlife
- Kia’s Villa is ideally located within walking distance of the Crown Point Strip.
- This is where you could experience the the best nightlife attractions that Tobago has to offer. This ranges from fine dinning to local food stalls, casinos, clubs and bars.
- Every Sunday in Buccoo you can experience Sunday School, a loud, vibrant street party - Nothing religious here at all. It is an ideal way of sampling one aspect of Tobagonian social life.
THINGS TO DO IN TOBAGO
Local Cuisine
- You’ll find a wide range of casual and fine dining restaurants offering international and fusion Caribbean cuisine all over the island. For traditional, creole dishes it is worth visiting the Store Bay Beach Facility, which is within walking distance from Kia’s. Here you'll find stewed pigeon peas, macaroni pie, pelau (a one-pot rice dish), callaloo (dasheen bush, which is similar to spinach, cooked with okra and coconut milk), oxtail, cowheel soup, stewed chicken, pork or beef, and a variety of "provision" – starchy crops such as plantain or cassava.