Things to do in Trinidad and Tobago

Things to do in  Trinidad and Tobago

Two peas in a Caribbean pod

The islands of Trinidad and Tobago are full of music, welcoming locals, and lush tropical scenery. Things to do in Trinidad and Tobago include snorkeling, swimming, and hiking. In Trinidad you’ll be tempted to lounge on seemingly endless white sand beaches, to dine on local favorites like crab and dumplings, and just to be hanging out (liming) at the clubs and bars. Tobago has a quieter feel, with a less-developed tourism sector than its neighbor, which makes Tobago an ideal destination for visitors wanting to experience classic Caribbean relaxation.

Top 15 attractions in Trinidad and Tobago

Caroni Swamp

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Caroni Swamp is a 12,000-acre swamp situated just south of Port of Spain on Trinidad & Tobago’s west coast. Being the second largest mangrove wetlands on the island and the natural nesting home for one of the country’s national birds, Caroni Swamp is protected under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance.The swamp runs along the banks of the Caroni River and features a maze of channels and lagoons. The central section is designated as a wildlife sanctuary, with the mangrove trees providing the ideal nesting place for the distinctive Scarlet Ibis birds, along with around 100 species of migratory birds, making it perfect for birdwatchers. The main attraction for nature lovers occurs just before sunset, when the ritualistic roosting habits of thousands of the brightly-colored Ibis can be observed close-up. The birds fly in unison to feed and nest here, creating a dazzling cloud of red against the evening sky.Caroni Swamp is naturally a popular tourist destination, and flat-bottom boats with experienced guides conduct regular tours through the mangroves, helping you to spot the many bird species and other swamp inhabitants, such as crabs, caimans, and boa constrictors. Book a Caroni wetlands boat tour or a Caroni Bird Sanctuary tour from Port of Spain to experience the natural wonders of this unique swamp for yourself.More

Las Cuevas Beach

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Meaning ‘The Caves Beach’ in Spanish, this long stretch of Blue Flag beach is so-called due to the small caves that line its shore. A beach lover’s paradise, Las Cuevas is blessed with soft white sand lapped by turquoise waters, and is framed by beautiful flowering trees.Las Cuevas Beach is just a short drive from Maracas and is usually far less crowded than its more commercialized neighbor. It has everything you might need for a lazy day on the beach though, with a car park, snack bar, shower and changing facilities, plus lifeguards on duty until 6pm. If lazing about in the sun doesn’t appeal, there are always the caves in which to seek shelter from the tropical heat, plus the beach is ideal for a long stroll or a relaxing swim.A day trip to Las Cuevas Beach from Port of Spain involves a scenic drive along the coast, revealing some stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Your tour is likely to stop at the Maracas Lookout on the way and at Maracas again to sample its famous Bake and Fish sandwich on the return journey. A visit to Las Cuevas Beach is also included on the coastal tour of Trinidad itinerary.More

Port of Spain

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Trinidad and Tobago’s capital city boasts an immersive blend of history and culture, providing visitors with plenty of music, art, food, and tradition. Highlights of the town include the rolling 260 acres (105 hectares) of greenery and historic buildings found at Queen’s Park Savannah, as well as the city’s many artistic festivals and celebrations, including the world-famous Carnival.More
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Windward Road

Windward Road

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Stretching from just outside of Scarborough all the way up to Charlotteville, Windward Road offers beautiful views of Tobago's coast and countryside. While driving the entire length of the 25-mile (40-kilometer) road usually only takes around 90 minutes, it’s worth taking your time to soak in the scenery and make stops along the way.More

Caroni Bird Sanctuary

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The scarlet ibis is the fiery-colored national bird of Trinidad and Tobago, and its daily flight home to roost at the Caroni Bird Sanctuary offers birdwatchers and nature lovers an outdoor experience unlike others in the Caribbean. Tour the mangrove swamps with a guide to learn about the area and see the ibis’s stunning plumage.More

San Fernando

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The industrial capital of Trinidad, San Fernando is the second-most populated city in Trinidad and Tobago. A good base for exploring the southern part of the island, it has plenty of attractions of its own, from San Fernando Hill and its fantastic city views to downtown's Harris Promenade, a popular spot for open-air concerts.More
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Woodford Square

Woodford Square

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In the heart of downtown Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Woodford Square is home to many of the city’s most important buildings, including the Red House and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. It was here that Dr. Eric Williams, the country’s first prime minister, addressed the public at political meetings that led to the nation's eventual independence.More

Buccoo Reef

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This protected marine park is set just off the shores of Buccoo Beach, Pigeon Point, and Shore Bay, and boasts a spectacular display of aquatic life. Though parts of the coral reef are under threat from overuse from touristic activities, the local community still offers glass-bottom boat tours, plus recreational offerings such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sustainable fishing.More

Maracas Bay

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Located on the north coast of Trinidad, Maracas Bay is an idyllic white sand beach, complete with rolling turquoise waves and swaying palm trees. After a scenic mountain drive through the rain forest, you’ll arrive at these sandy shores, which are protected by a deep bay, perfect for an afternoon lazing on the beach. More
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Grande Riviere

Grande Riviere

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This village on the north coast of Trinidad is an eco-tourism hot spot, best known for its leatherback sea turtle nesting grounds at Grande Riviere Beach. One of the more remote settlements of Trinidad and Tobago, Grande Riviere takes pride in its sustainability practices and low-impact activities, including kayaking, bird-watching, and hiking to such places as Homard River Waterfall.More
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Sangre Grande

Sangre Grande

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Located directly east of Port of Spain, the town of Sangre Grande is the economic hub of northeastern Trinidad and is a good base for visiting nearby attractions in the region by the same name. It is a particularly idyllic destination for nature lovers, as it has ample opportunities to hike, see howler monkeys in the wild, or do a bit of birdwatching.More

Charlotteville

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Straddling Man-O-War Bay and Pirate’s Bay on the northern end of Tobago, the fishing village of Charlotteville is a great spot for travelers who'd prefer to forego bigger resorts in favor of low-key rest and relaxation. It's also usually a good place for snorkeling, with crystalline waters and an abundance of colorful fish.More
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Emperor Valley Zoo

Emperor Valley Zoo

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Emperor Valley Zoo is Trinidad and Tobago’s largest zoo, located north of the Queen’s Park Savannah on the island of Trinidad. The zoo houses familiar animals, such as lions and giraffes, and also showcases flora and fauna unique to the area, including crab-eating raccoons, boa constrictors, and Trinidad motmots—an endemic bird species.More
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Arima

Arima

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In the center of northern Trinidad is the town of Arima, less than an hour's drive or bus ride from Port of Spain. Nestled in the foothills of the island’s Northern Range, Arima is a good jumping-off point for visiting natural areas in the northeastern part of the island. While you’re in town, visit such destinations as the Asa Wright Nature Centre and the nearby Brasso Seco Community Centre, a popular base for waterfall hikes and birdwatching trips.More

Fort King George

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Looking out over Scarborough Bay in the southern part of Tobago, Fort King George is the city's most recognizable landmark. Built by the British in the 1770s, it fell into French hands towards the end of the 18th century. The British recaptured it in 1793, using it until the mid-1800s when a hurricane destroyed many of the fort’s 30 buildings. The fort has since been restored, and today offers insight into the island’s military history.More
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All about Trinidad and Tobago

When to visit

January to May is the dry season in Trinidad and Tobago, when the temperatures are mild and you can spend the whole day on the beach without getting rained out. The country’s most famous festival, Carnival, also happens in this period. This unmissable event is a riot of music, dance, food, and color that showcases the vibrant and diverse cultures of the islands.

Getting around

Taxis are easy to find and affordable, while minivan buses are a popular choice among locals. The minivan buses get crowded at rush hour, so seek local advice if you’re trying to get somewhere for a specific time. Otherwise, a car rental allows you to explore at your own pace—just be aware that cars drive on the left, and you must hold an international driver’s license.

Traveler tips

Among the many things to do in Trinidad and Tobago, get a taste for its flavors. To do so visit the beloved Miss Trim’s food stand in the town of Crown Point, on Tobago. This stand near the beach serves up crabs and dumplings—Tobago’s favorite dish. Local crabs are drenched in a spicy coconut milk curry and paired with cornmeal dumplings to create a meal that combines Indian and African culinary traditions, reflecting the diversity of the country itself.

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People Also Ask

Why should I visit Trinidad and Tobago?

You should visit Trinidad and Tobago not only to spend time lounging on the country’s many beautiful beaches, but also to check out the rain forests and wetlands. Music lovers won’t want to miss the chance to listen to live calypso performances, a style of music that originated in the country.

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What is the most visited place in Trinidad?

While most visitors to Trinidad and Tobago fly into the capital city of Port of Spain in Trinidad, Tobago gets the bulk of the country’s beach-bound tourists. The most popular is Pigeon Point, known for its warm waters and white sands.

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How long do you need in Trinidad and Tobago?

While some people visit Trinidad and Tobago as part of a cruise shore excursion, you really need at least five days in the country. This will give you enough time to get a feel for the cultural attractions in Trinidad, with time left over to enjoy the beaches on Tobago.

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What is there to do at the beach in Trinidad and Tobago?

There’s plenty to do at the beaches of Trinidad and Tobago, from lounging on the sands to taking a tour through the waters on a glass-bottom boat. The waters at many of the beaches are ideal for swimming, and you can even swim after dark among glowing bioluminescent plankton.

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What is there to do in Trinidad at night?

There’s plenty to do in Trinidad at night, from attending live calypso music performances to dancing the night away at a Port of Spain nightclub. Nighttime is also great for checking out the street food scene, and many stalls serving Trinidad’s staple street food, doubles, are open well into the night.

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Are Trinidad and Tobago cheap to visit?

While Trinidad and Tobago is not exactly a budget destination, it is certainly affordable relative to most Caribbean destinations. Here you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly accommodations and you can save a lot by relying on public transportation and eating from the many street food stalls found across the country.

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
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