Trinidad and Tobago
The pair of islands that make up the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago are inviting, exciting and super fun to visit!
Trinidad and Tobago travel guide
The Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago are both extremely different and offer a wonderful insight into the quintessential paradise island life experience, with exquisite stretches of white sandy beaches, spectacular natural beauty and a wide range of beach and water experiences including superlative diving offerings.
Trinidad is the larger of the 2 islands, home to 95% of the country’s population, while Tobago is small, laidback and authentic. It’s believed that this magical island was the inspiration for author Daniel Dafoe to write his best-seller, Robinson Crusoe – and when you visit Tobago, 37km from Trinidad, you’ll understand why.
In contrast to Tobago’s unspoilt magic, Trinidad is a party island. The island’s contemporary commercial capital, Port of Spain, hosts a number of famous carnivals every year and also boasts a pulsating nightlife. Just outside the city are spectacular sights to see, including a number of exquisite waterfalls, tropical rainforests, wetlands, endless beaches, some home to leatherback turtles, and a wide variety of colorful birdlife.
Englishman's Bay Beach is a perfect example of the amazing sandy locations on Trinidad and Tobago.
Best time to visit: Between January and March, when the weather is gorgeous and rain is a rarity.
Best Area for Sightseeing: Both islands are a delight to explore. For some great sightseeing inspiration, see Things to do in Trinidad & Tobago below.
Shopping in Trinidad & Tobago: Look out for woven palm hats, wood carvings, shell and bead jewellery, handicrafts and leather sandals. There are a variety of souvenir stores and other shops in Trinidad, but less in Tobago. Don’t forget to purchase some cocoa and coffee, both excellent on the islands.
Food & Restaurants in Trinidad & Tobago: Traditional cuisine and global offerings include a delicious blend of African, Indian, British, French, Spanish and Chinese flavors. The restaurants in Trinidad’s Port of Spain are excellent. Wherever you are on the islands, make sure to savor plenty of fresh seafood, which is superb.
Nightlife: Trinidad, especially Port of Spain, is the party capital, with plenty of bars, clubs and eateries where you can drink or dance the night away. On Tobago, night-time entertainment is available only at hotels and resorts.
Beaches: Trinidad’s beaches are definitely the better choice, as they are more scenic. For swimming on Trinidad, head to the north coast, around Balandra Bay. Maracas Bay is a local hangout and also worth a visit. Then there’s Las Cuevas Bay Beach and Blanchisseuse Beach on the north coast and Mayaro Beach on the south-east coastline. On Tobago, visit charming Pigeon Point Beach, secluded Englishman’s Bay and quaint Great Courtland Bay. On Tobago’s west coast you’ll find Man-O-War Beach that belongs to a little fishing village.
Things to do in Trinidad & Tobago:
- Go snorkelling to encounter giant manta rays.
- Party at one of Tobago’s famous festivals.
- Enjoy hiking or mountain biking in Trinidad’s Northern Mountain Range.
- Have fun paddle boarding and windsurfing in Pigeon Point Heritage Park on Tobago.
- Go birdwatching on Bird of Paradise Island.
Best way to get around: Rent a car to explore at leisure. If you’re not planning to go far, take a taxi.