The Caribbean island of St Kitts is one of the most popular destination stops for cruise passengers to the region. The dual nation has a significant place in the history of the Caribbean as it is the first country to be colonized by the British in 1623. The island is tranquil and relatively safe with friendly people, which make it one of the best Caribbean islands for families.
Today, St Kitts still remains part of the Commonwealth of Nations with King Charles III serving as the Head of State. In this article, we explore ten amazing activities that you can enjoy in St Kitts to give you a rich appreciation of the culture, history and charm of the island.
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Visit Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park
Island Main Road, Sandy Point Town, St. Kitts & Nevis
Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is one of the notable landmarks in St Kitts, which was also officially designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999. The construction of the park began in 1690 and continued gradually over a period of 100 years to safeguard the island.
This park is open to visitors daily from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm and provides breathtaking views of the island. At the time of publication, the entrance fee was USD $15 per individual with free access for children under the age of ten. There are ramps present at the park which makes it accessible to persons in a wheelchair on the main level. However, there is an elevated area which can only be reached via steps. There are no elevators on the premises and hence individuals in a wheelchair will not enjoy the views in the higher areas.
Island Hop To St Maarten
One major advantage of vacationing in St Kitts is the easy access to neighboring St Maarten. Makana Ferry Services provides seamless transportation from St Kitts to St Maarten.
Furthermore, there are also onward connections to other Dutch Caribbean Islands of Saba and St Eustatius. All prices quoted on the website are in US dollars and bookings must be made in advance. There are also other ferries services that offer transportation assistance to Anguilla and St Barths. Therefore, St Kitts is an ideal destination if you are on a budget and interested in island hopping.
Spend The Day In Nevis
St Kitts is a dual island state with a dependency called Nevis. It is only 36 square miles and can be accessed via ferry services or small aircrafts. There is also a cruise ship terminal in the capital city of Charlestown so it is possible that cruise passengers spend their time in Nevis as opposed to St Kitts.
Pinney’s Beach is the most favored beach in Nevis which is known for its calm waters and is home to the most famous beach bar, Sunshine’s Bar & Grill. The bar is known for serving fresh seafood and delicious jerk chicken.
Nature lovers to the island can enjoy the beauty of the flora, fauna and wildlife at the Botanical Gardens which is a short journey from Charlestown. Nevis Peak which is situated in the center of the island stands at an elevation of 3,232 feet and climbing the mountain is a renowned hiking trail.
Take Pictures At The South Peninsula
This is truly the most spectacular spot on the island for photo opportunities. The road is long and winding and you can view the Atlantic Ocean on the left side and the Caribbean Sea on the right side of the path simultaneously. The Caribbean Sea waters are calm while the Atlantic Ocean has strong waves which are choppy. Frankly, it is a jaw-dropping site to behold.
Shop At Port Zante
Located in the heart of the capital city of Basseterre, Port Zante is the cruise ship terminal. Visitors can buy souvenirs, jewelery and locally made craft items. There is also a food court where you can access a diverse range of meal options. Duty free shops are available and Bitcoin cash is readily accepted by a number of stores as a method of payment.
The local currency used is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar. Nevertheless, US dollars are widely accepted by businesses on the island. For ease of completing transactions, it is best to have US bills of smaller denominations. Individuals in a wheelchair will be delighted at the ease of navigation as most of the shops have ramps and the area is level and even.
Stop By Romney Manor
85GX+8H Old Road Town, St Kitts & Nevis, Old Road Town, St. Kitts & Nevis
This former plantation house is currently used to manufacture batik items which are sold on site. As stated on the website Beyond Ships, this house was previously owned by the great, great great grandfather of Thomas Jefferson.
The tour will take about one hour and is a short activity to schedule if you enjoy
architecture. This venue is a perfect activity for families including children and there are ramps on the premises which make it easy for individuals to access using a wheelchair.
Take A Scenic Train Tour
Enjoy a three hour tour which covers 30 miles around the island in the last railway in the West Indies. Eighteen miles of the tour is by a narrow gauge train and the remaining 12 miles on a bus.
The rail was built between 1912 and 1926 to bring sugar cane from the plantations to sugar factories on the island. This attraction is unique to St Kitts and is not available on other Caribbean islands and is perfect for individuals of all ages.
Relax On The Beach
Cockleshell beach is the best beach in St Kitts and the most visited by visitors and locals alike. It is beautiful with calm waters but can be crowded especially if there is a cruise ship in harbor.
Cockleshell beach is also home to the famous Reggae Beach Bar which specializes in seafood and barbecue meals. Amenities such as beach chair and umbrella rental as well as toilet and shower facilities are available.
If you are visiting on a cruise ship and want to pack many activities into your schedule, South Frigate Bay Beach is the nearest to the cruise ship terminal.
It is one of the preferred locations on the island for snorkeling.
Hike Mount Liamuiga
This is the highest point in St Kitts which stands at an elevation of 3,792 feet. The trail to climb Mount Liamuiga takes about three hours to complete which allows hikers to experience the beauty of the tropical rainforest.
The hike is moderate to difficult and may be challenging for beginners. Nevertheless, the view at the summit is magnificent. There is also a crater lake which you can take a dip before descending.
Explore The City of Basseterre
As stated above, Basseterre is the capital city of St Kitts and is the hub of commercial activities. Additionally, there are numerous sites and historic landmarks to explore. For those who love historic architecture, the Immaculate Conception Catholic Co-Cathedral is a building to view.
If you are interested in learning about the history of the island, the national museum is the place to visit. You will find literature on the European Settlement, the Sugar Industry and the Emancipation of slaves.
Another spectacular attraction to visit is the Fairview Great House and Botanical Garden where you can see the diversity of the flora and fauna. There is a restaurant on site as well as a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs. The Great House and Botanical Garden is a desired venue for weddings as well as
business meetings.
That’s A Wrap!
St Kitts & Nevis is truly a gem in the Caribbean that gives you the opportunity to enjoy delicious cuisine, beaches, hiking trails and for the adventurous the option to take a ferry to nearby St Maarten. The island lies on the Southern tip of the hurricane belt and is therefore susceptible to tropical storms during the period of June to November annually.
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Around The Caribbean is an online travel magazine dedicated to sharing information about the Caribbean islands. The content provides helpful and meaningful tips for individuals who want to relocate or vacation in the region.
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