St. Kitts and Nevis: The Complete Guide to Volcanoes, Crater Lakes, Mountains, and More!

St. Kitts and Nevis is a two-island country in the Caribbean that offers visitors the perfect combination of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. As the smallest sovereign state in the Western Hemisphere, it has an intimate, welcoming and charming atmosphere. Surrounded by stunning turquoise waters, the islands offer ample opportunities for water sports enthusiasts, as well as idyllic beaches for sunbathing and relaxing.

In St. Kitts, the capital Basseterre is characterized by an exciting combination of colonial architecture and modern facilities. For example, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sulphur Hill Fortress offers a glimpse into the islands’ past as strategic military sites. The smaller of the two islands, Nevis is home to the charming town of Charlestown, where visitors can explore Alexander Hamilton’s birthplace and delve into Nevis’ history at the Nevis History and Conservation Society. Nature lovers, on the other hand, are fascinated by Nevis Peak, a dormant volcano that offers breathtaking views and hiking trails for adventurous travelers.

This article lists the best things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis, as well as helpful tips for those planning an unforgettable experience on these islands considered the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets.

St. Kitts and Nevis Attractions

There’s a reason why this tropical paradise is a famous tourist destination, and at the top of the list are the island’s attractions. Here are the top attractions in St. Kitts and Nevis.

1 Visit Sulphur Mountain Fort National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sulphur Mountain Fort National Park is a well-preserved 17th-century military fortification located on the island of St. Kitts. Built by the British, this fort stands on top of a steep hill with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the Caribbean Sea.

Visitors can explore the park’s various buildings, including Fort George Castle, barracks, and ammunition depots, while learning about the island’s rich history. Guided tours are available to give you a deeper understanding of the importance of the fortress.

• Address: Island Main Road, Sandy Point Town, St. Kitts and Nevis
• Opening Hours: 9:30am – 5:30pm (Daily)
• Cost: Adult:$15; Child:$7.50

2 Relax at Pinny Beach

Pinney’s Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand and calm waters on Nevis: it’s actually the longest beach on the island. Visitors can relax in the shade of swaying palm trees or rent beach chairs and umbrellas for added comfort.

There are also several bars and restaurants on the beach, such as the famous Sunshine’s Beach Bar, where visitors can indulge in refreshing cocktails and local cuisine. For those seeking adventure, water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are available here.

• Address: Pinney’s Beach, Charlestown, Nevis
• Duration:24 hours (daily)
• Cost: Free; Additional costs for rent and meals

3 Hike Mount Liamuga

Mount Liamuga is an extinct volcano on the island of St. Kitts, and the hike can be challenging to climb, allowing hikers to enjoy panoramic views of the island and neighboring Caribbean islands.

Surrounded by lush rainforest, the trail takes visitors through different ecosystems and offers the opportunity to see native wildlife. Guided tours are recommended for those unfamiliar with the terrain, as hiking can be strenuous and requires proper navigation skills.

• Opening hours: It is recommended to open during the day
• Cost: Tours start from $100

4 Snorkeling in Shitten Bay

A secluded bay on the southern coast of St. Kitts, Hithen’s Bay is a hidden gem for snorkeling enthusiasts. The crystal clear waters are home to vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life for an unforgettable underwater experience.

Visitors can only go by boat, can join guided snorkeling trips or rent equipment from nearby operators. The bay’s calm waters and abundant marine life make it the perfect place for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. Companies such as Kantours offer snorkeling adventures at this destination.

5 Take a stroll through the Nevis Botanical Gardens

Located on the slopes of Mount Nevis, the Nevis Botanical Garden offers a tranquil hideaway for nature lovers. The garden covers seven acres and features a variety of tropical plants, flowers and trees from around the world.

Visitors can stroll through the scenic grounds and explore themed areas such as orchid terraces, rainforest greenhouses, and butterfly gardens. In addition, there is a restaurant and gift shop where visitors can enjoy a meal or buy souvenirs to commemorate their visit.

• Address: Montpelier Estate, Charlestown, Nevis
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday:10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (closed on Sundays)
• Cost: Adult:$17, Child (6-12 years):$8; Children (5 years and under): Free of charge

6 Explore the black sand beach

St. Kitts and Nevis has several unique black sand beaches formed by the volcanic origin of the island. One of these beaches is Pump Bay, located on the southwest coast, which offers visitors a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

Visitors can relax on the soft dark sand or take a dip in the calm waters. Another popular black sand beach is Dieppe Bay, known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities, where visitors can admire the vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs.

7 Discover the history of Romney Manor

Romney Manor, a 17th-century sugar cane plantation, is an important historical site on St. Kitts Island. Once belonging to Thomas Jefferson’s great-grandfather, the estate is now home to the Caribelle Batik factory, where visitors can visit the traditional batik-making process and shop for unique handmade souvenirs.

The surrounding gardens feature lush tropical plants and ancient trees, providing a tranquil setting to explore the estate’s rich history.

• Address: Old Road, Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday:9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (closed on Sundays)
• Cost: Adult:$3; Child (0-11 years): Free of charge

8 Go diving at Monkey Beach

Monkey Shoal is an underwater reef system located off the coast of St. Kitts that offers divers the opportunity to explore a thriving marine ecosystem teeming with colorful fish, turtles and a variety of coral formations.

Several dive operators in the area offer guided dives for beginners and experienced divers alike, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.

9 Visit the capital Basseterre

Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts and Nevis, is steeped in history and charm. Visitors can stroll through the picturesque streets and admire well-preserved colonial buildings such as St. George’s Anglican Church and the majestic Doge’s Palace.

Once a slave market, the bustling Independence Square now hosts a vibrant market and lively cultural events. Visitors can also visit the National Museum to learn about the island’s rich history and heritage.

10 Enjoy a sightseeing train tour of St. Kitts

The St. Kitts Scenic Railway offers visitors a unique and memorable way to explore the island’s stunning landscapes and historical sites. This 3-hour train journey takes passengers through some of the Caribbean’s most scenic sights, such as lush sugar cane fields, past charming villages, and along stunning coastlines.

The vintage double-decker train features an open-air observation deck on the upper deck with panoramic views of the island’s natural beauty. During the tour, knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the island’s history and culture, while local musicians delight passengers with traditional Caribbean music.

• Address: Needsmust Train Station Basseterre St. Kitts, St. Kitts and Nevis
• Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (reservation required)
• Cost: From $100 for adults

Where to Eat in Saint Kitts and Nevis

From grilled chicken to seafood, all popular Caribbean delicacies can be found in St. Kitts and Nevis. Here are some of the best places to eat in this destination.

Rituals Coffee

• Address: Frigate Bay, St Kitts & Nevis
• Opening hours:7 a.m. to 9 p.m. (daily)
• Meals: omelets, pancakes, burgers, sandwiches, bagels, smoothies

Coconut Grove Cafe

• Address: Island Paradise Zenway Blvd Frigate Bay St Kitts St. Kitts, St Kitts & Nevis
• Opening hours: Sunday to Tuesday, Friday and Saturday:7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday:7 a.m. to 6 p.m
• Meals: Breakfast burritos, eggs benedict, Huevos Rancheros, buttermilk pancakes, burgers

Reggae Beach Bar-Grill

• Address: St Kitts & Nevis
• Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday and Saturday:10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday:10 a.m. to 10 p.m
• Meals: Tiger pster skewers, grilled lobster, chicken Rodi platter, baby back ribs

Serendipity Restaurant

• Address 3 Wigley Ave, St Kitts & Nevis
• Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Saturday:6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. (closed on Sundays)
• Meals: Grilled chicken breast, boneless lamb curry, braised tender oxtail, Kajon black shrimp pasta

Carambola Beach Club

• Address: Frigate Bay, St Kitts & Nevis
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday:9 a.m. to 11 p.m. (closed on Sundays)
• Meals: Caribbean lobster sandwich, grilled chicken burger, grilled chicken roll, shrimp salad
• Cocktails: Love Paradise, Caribbean Cruise, Chilled Juice Rum, Mojito, Rum Punch

St. Kitts and Nevis Transportation

Travelers arriving in St. Kitts and Nevis will land at Robert Bradshaw International Airport in St. Kitts, which has excellent transport links to major cities such as Miami, New York, Charlotte, and San Juan. Travelers from nearby Caribbean islands may also arrive at Vance Emory International Airport on Nevis, which has feeder flights.

Upon arrival at the island, visitors have several options to visit and explore the beautiful landscapes and sights of St. Kitts and Nevis:

Ferry

The most popular way to travel between St. Kitts and the Nevis Islands is by ferry. Seabridge Ferries operate daily between the two islands and the journey time is approximately 45 minutes.

Ferry tickets cost around $10 for adults and $5 for children. The Caribe Queen and MV Mark Twain ferries also offer services between the islands, offering visitors more options.

Taxicab

Taxis are available in St. Kitts and Nevis, providing a convenient way for visitors to travel between attractions or get to accommodation. Taxi fares are regulated by the government to ensure that prices are consistent.

Visitors are advised to confirm the fare with the driver before departure to avoid misunderstandings. In addition, many taxi drivers work as knowledgeable tour guides, providing valuable insights into the island’s history and culture.

Car rental

Renting a car is a popular option for those who like the freedom to explore at their own pace. There are many car rental companies on both islands that offer a variety of vehicles to suit different preferences and budgets.

Remember that in St. Kitts and Nevis, driving on the left side of the road, renting a car requires a valid driver’s license and a temporary local driving permit.

Public buses

A cost-effective way to get around St. Kitts and Nevis is by using the public bus system. Known as minibuses, these buses operate on two islands and follow established routes, stopping at popular destinations.

Fares are affordable, starting at around $1 per ride, depending on the distance traveled. Although there are no strict restrictions on the operating hours of buses, they generally operate more frequently during the day, providing a convenient mode of transportation for tourists.

Bike rental

For more active travelers, renting a bike is a fun way to explore the island. There are many bike rental shops in St. Kitts and Nevis, offering a variety of bikes to suit different terrains and experience levels.

Cycling around the island allows visitors to admire the stunning scenery and discover hidden gems at their leisure. Bike rental prices vary depending on the type of bike and the duration of the rental, so it is advisable to shop around to get the best deal.

Scooter rental

Another option to explore independently is to rent a scooter, which can be found at various rental agencies on both islands. Scooters offer a fun and effective way to explore the winding roads and picturesque scenery of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Similar to car rental, renting a scooter requires a valid driver’s license and a local temporary driving permit. Visitors should also note that helmets are required by law to ride scooters.