Along with its big sister Trinidad, Tobago enjoys a stunning setting in the south of the Caribbean, just a few miles from the South American coastline. Blessed with postcard-worthy beaches, world-class nature reserves and seafront hotels galore, it’s perfect for family breaks and romantic escapes alike - and thanks to the sizzling year-round sunshine, your tropical tan is virtually guaranteed.
Beaches
Over 45 stretches of sand are dotted around Tobago’s shores, with the biggest and best beaches clustered around the west of the island. Located just a few minutes’ drive apart, Castara Beach and Englishman’s Bay dish up sun, sea and sand in spades, with unspoilt, forest-fringed coves offering a picture-perfect setting for relaxation. Towards the northernmost tip, there’s also the super-secluded Pirates’ Bay, one of the settings for Disney’s Swiss Family Robinson. Top tip For a beach off the beaten track, sail away to the gorgeous Cotton Bay. Only accessible by boat, this hideaway cove is famed for its powder-soft sands and aquamarine waters, perfect for sunbathers, swimmers and snorkellers alike. It’s also an amazing spot to mingle with the local marine life, with polka-dot filefish and serene stingrays both likely to join you for a dip.
Food & Drink
A rainbow of fresh fruits take centre-stage in many Tobagan treats, with the mouth-watering ‘chow’ - a refreshing combo of pineapple, lime, garlic and spices - a hugely popular beach treat. Fusion flavours are also a staple on many a menu, from the Creole ‘pelau’, a caramelised chicken dish sure to tantalise your taste-buds, to the Indian ‘pholouri’, deep-fried doughballs teamed with a creamy curry dip. Plus, to wash it all down, there’s plenty of luscious rums to sample - or, for an alcohol-free tipple, tons of street vendors serve up chilled coconut water straight from the shell.
Culture
Like many of its fellow Caribbean islands, Tobago has a lengthy history book, with overseas settlers and swashbuckling pirates laying claim to its shores throughout the centuries. Today, it’s a real melting pot of cultures, with diverse influences from across the continents - and each community celebrates its own slice of history with an annual festival, filled with folk dancing, parades and live music. Plus, the whole country comes together each spring for the spectacular Carnival, which takes over the streets with a medley of music, street performances and marvellously messy mud-baths. NightlifeWith “get up with the sun, go to bed with the sun” a popular saying on the island, Tobago’s nightlife scene is pretty mellow. Most bars and clubs have a laid-back vibe aimed at ‘liming’ - carefree chilling-out with mates over a few drinks. The open-air Sunday School, nestled by a cove in beautiful Buccoo, is a great spot to team island beats with a night out - showcasing steel bands and fresh reggae every (you’ve guessed it) Sunday night. The Crown Point and Bon Accord neighbourhoods are also home to some of the island’s best bars, with the tropical Bago’s Beach Bar a firm local fave.
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