BEACHES

Tobago has an extensive number of beaches; here are some of the very best:

Pigeon Point: Tobago’s most famous beach. It has graced hundreds of postcards and brochures with its jetty’s carat-thatched cabana set against turquoise waters, soft white sand and swaying palms, and remains one of Tobago’s most popular beaches. The approach road, fringed with bougainvillea and towering coconut trees, is an experience in itself. Protected by Buccoo Reef, the calm waters make it ideal for families – but stay within the red markers while swimming. Water sports businesses operate from the far end and you can catch a glass-bottom boat to Buccoo Reef from here. Small entrance fee.

Store Bay: extremely popular (and busy) beach for locals and visitors, less than 5 minute walk from the airport. Fine golden sand descends into crystal clear water. Many glass-bottom boat operators begin Buccoo Reef trips here. Excellent craft shopping, food stalls, changing rooms

Canoe Bay: Tobago’s calmest and shallowest bathing beach, perfect for young families. Rarely crowded, with excellent facilities including bar and beachfront cabanas. Beware of mosquitoes at sunset and the rugged approach road. Open 9am-5pm. Small entrance fee.

Mt Irvine: a pair of beaches offering excellent facilities and some of the island’s best snorkeling. The Mt Irvine Beach Hotel side, open to the public, offers refreshments and all beach amenities. Mt Irvine Bay, a short walk away, is a popular water sports and snorkeling spot: coral, sponge and reef fish species abound here. Snorkeling gear, canoes and Hobie cats can be hired onsite.

Castara: quiet and unspoilt beach in a friendly fishing village. Enjoy the sight of fishermen bringing in their nets (pulling seine) or bread baked in old-fashioned dirt ovens. Excellent facilities, stores and craft stalls.

Englishman’s Bay: this tree-framed, crescent-shaped bay exudes a beguiling tranquility, with the crashing surf and squawking parrots, often the only sounds to be heard. The deep, clear water offers good swimming and snorkeling but beware – it shelves away steeply. Craft shopping and restaurant onsite.

Pirate’s Bay: one of Tobago’s most stunning and unspoilt bays, though it takes a little effort to get there. From Charlotteville’s eastern tip, a half-mile long, coastline-hugging dirt road brings you to a 157-step descent to the beach. No facilities.

Speyside: unlike other Windward Coast beaches, Speyside and Blue Waters are protected by nearby reef systems and islands. Both offer tranquility, great snorkeling and the chance to join a glass-bottom boat trip to Angel Reef, Goat Island and Little Tobago.