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Experience St Kitts and Nevis Island
Overview
The lesser-known but breathtaking twin-island nation of St Kitts and Nevis (ofter referred to as sister islands) encompass everything travelers have come to expect from the Caribbean, except, that is, for crowds.
Somehow, this vibrant island state has remained under the radar of mass tourism, carving out a niche as an alternative destination for those looking to avoid more mainstream Caribbean islands. Travelers come here to enjoy the mix of resort relaxation and lush landscapes, including rainforests, and a cultural heritage from 18th-century sugar plantation economies. St Kitts is the larger and more visited of the two islands, with the widest selection of restaurants, bars and hotels. Smaller and lush Nevis is the low-key getaway showcasing the splendor that has become what this region is famous for. It is better known for its beaches, including the famous Pinney’s and clear water snorkeling at Oualie.
Things to See and Do
Seclusion may be one of the top draws to the twin island nation, but there are many other appeals. St Kitts and Nevis has something for everyone, from adrenaline adventures and nature to luxury hot-spots and fabulous food.
One of the most preserved historical fortifications, Brimstone Hill Fortress, is located on a very steeply sloping hill situated close to the sea on the Western, Caribbean coast of St Kitts. The fortress is a striking example of colonial era military construction. Today, it’s tagged by UNESCO and offers a glimpse at the formidable engineering projects undertaken by colonial powers using African slaves in the Caribbean. Look out over the cannons on the ramparts at the sweeping views of the ocean and neighboring islands.
Take a hike at Mount Liamuiga, the highest peak on the island of St Kitts with an elevation of 3,792 ft above the Caribbean Sea. Hikes to the top and back typically take an entire day, and the trek can be a little bit difficult as there are huge rocks and boulders but once you reach the top, the sweeping views are breathtaking.
St. Kitts Scenic Railway encircles the entire island of St. Kitts, from Conaree Village in the south to Dieppe Bay Town on the north coast and Brimstone Hill on the west side.This scenic railway was once the principle means of transporting sugarcane down from the plantations to the docks for trade (1912 to 1926). Nowadays, calypso bands serenade passengers on-board, while the views are breathtaking, taking in the Black Rocks, the beaches and the remnants of countless mill houses and colonial factories.
Golfers will love Irie Fields, the new 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Ian Woosnam at Belle Mont Farm. The course was built and is maintained without the use of pesticides and fertilizers and it’s the only edible and fully organic golf course in the world. You can also tee off by the sea at Royal St Kitts Golf Club, one of the highest-rated courses in the entire British West Indies.
Go horseback riding through the Kittian countryside enjoying the old sugar mills and shady perimeters of the rainforest. An early morning ride through the surf on the beach is a perfect way to start the day.
Explore pretty Basseterre! The energetic little Basseterre is the laidback capital city and former colonial outpost renowned for its historical monuments, vibrant markets and lively beach life. This is where the cruise ships dock, and where many visitors enter the islands. It has the same elegant mansions and arcades as New Orleans, and comes punctuated with straight-laced Georgian homes to boot.
The area of Frigate Bay straddles the two sides of St. Kitts. Offering laid-back, rustic beach shacks and bars that line the shore, parties take place throughout the week as fun reggae beats and rum punches flow. The swimming is great on both sides, but expect some big waves on the north side and warmer, shallower Carib waters (not to mention bigger crowds) on the south. This is the perfect place to meet the friendly locals.
Discover Nevis, St Kitt's little sister island, is just 2.5 miles away by boat. The island has its own volcano, lush vegetation and stunning white sandy beaches.
Beaches
St Kitts and Nevis Islands offer some of the best beaches in the world, each with their own distinct character. They vary from black sand in the island’s north, to gray or white sand in the south. You’ll find lively beaches in South Frigate and South Friars Bay that offer up watersports, beach bars and an energetic Caribbean vibe. Friar's Bay Beach is a favorite for families thanks to its calm waters and food stands. Dieppe Bay and the secluded stretch of Sandy Bank Bay are perfect for tranquility and relaxation in St. Kitts. With its reef-protected waters, ideal for both swimming and snorkeling, Pinney's Beach on Nevis is one of the grandest in the Caribbean. And soak up one of the island’s spectacular sunsets at any one of the stunning beaches, as the sun dips below the horizon and slowly turns the ocean gold, orange and red.
Eating and Drinking
St Kitts and Nevis have an excellent reputation for cuisine. The islands serve up Creole and West Indian fare, they also specialize in Chinese, Western and Indian dishes. Whether it’s seafood with West Indian curry or goat water (goat stew with vegetables and dumplings), we highly recommend eating island style to take in the local flavors. Local cooking is simple, spicy and makes use of the plentiful fresh fish, vegetables and fruit.
Charlestown’s restaurants cater more for Nevisians than visitors and on both islands many of the most sophisticated restaurants are associated with hotels or resorts. Check out Rawlins Plantation Inn on St Kitts for West Indian fare with amazing views, or The Golden Lemon for local specialties.
A wide range of imported drinks are available, not to mention a potent liquor known as CSR - a spirit made with sugar cane. Rum is made on the island at the Brinley Gold distillery and Rum Punch is served in all the restaurants and bars on the island. Each establishment is serving up their own unique recipes.
Shopping
Shopping malls on St Kitts include TDC Mall and Pelican Mall. For something more authentic check out the Anima Craft Market, which showcases the handiwork of local artisans. Friday and Saturday are the busy market days, located near the Basseterre and Charlestown ferry dock. This lively, colorful market is the perfect place to experience the atmosphere of the local life on the island and take in the fragrant foods.
Souvenirs to bring home include carvings, batik, wall hangings and leather products. Nevis’ hot pepper sauce, ranked among the Caribbean’s best, is a good take-home item and can be found in local markets and stores.
Duty free shopping is centered on the Port Zante docks and The Circus in downtown Basseterre, which is within walking distance of the capital’s cruise port.
Shopping hours: Monday - Saturday 8:30am - 12:00pm and 1:00pm - 4:00pm; some shops close early on Thursday.
Nightlife
The top nightspot on St Kitts is The Strip at Frigate Bay. After the sun goes down, stick around and watch as The Strip transforms into an energetic hot-spot that offers up something for everyone. Here you’ll find everything from open-air dance floors to fine dining, each with its own mix of music, dance, food and drinks. The Dock, situated at the eastern end, is the newest hot spot on Sunday evenings, this bar is a part of the Timothy Beach resort. Close by from the Dock is one of the most well-known establishments, Mr. X’s Shiggidy Shack. Visitors and locals alike come here to enjoy live bands, DJ music, a bonfire, karaoke, or even a fire-eating show, depending on the evening. This is also the perfect place to enjoy some Kittian cuisine in a true traditional island setting. Other top spots along The Strip include Sunshine's Beach Bar, Lime Beach Bar and Double Deuce, which sits on Pinney's Beach. Many local inns and hotels also offer entertainment.
Festivals
St Kitts Music Festival, held annually in June, attracts some international stars and the island rocks to the beat of soca, reggae, soul, salsa, jazz, R and B and gospel at the Warner Park Stadium. In October the island hosts a Latin Festival and in July, the annual food and restaurant festival takes place.
Sugar Mas, St Kitts-Nevis National Carnival, takes place around Christmas and New year when islanders dress in extravagant carnival costumes for a dance-off to calypso rhythms and soca. Sugar Mas is a time for music, parades and parties.