The heart of Tobago, beyond its beaches
Who doesn't love a picture-perfect beach? Tobago is certainly blessed with them in abundance, which is probably what attracted you to this idyllic Caribbean destination in the first place, right? But when your camera is full of turquoise waters and palm-fringed white sands, how about adding a little cultural colour to your photographic memories? Because, unlike many Caribbean islands, Tobago's beaches are not its main attraction, but merely one element of what makes the island so appealing. The little-known fact is, Tobago's gems extend beyond its shores; indeed, for the inquisitive traveler, a multitude of hidden treats await you on this beautiful island.
PODCAST
Cheno, manager of Castara Coffee Shop
Cheno talks about the food, atmosphere and music at Castara Coffee Shop. [00:34]
Our top trip
Trinidad & Tobago nature vacation
The best of Trinidad & Tobago's widlife and natural scenery
From
£4485
15 days
ex flights
Tailor made:
This trip can be tailor made throughout the year to suit your requirements
This trip can be tailor made throughout the year to suit your requirements
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PODCAST
Newton George, wildlife guide
Listen to Newton speak about what kind of birds you can see in Tobago. [01:39]
From Main Ridge it's a short leap into the dazzling waters around Speyside and Little Tobago. Whether you're a certified diver or an intrigued novice, you need nothing more than a snorkel to appreciate the spectacular underwater ecosystem created by the coral reef which fringes Tobago. Manta rays, barracudas, sea turtles and harmless black tipped reef sharks co-exist in these warm waters, along with all manner of tropical fish. Addiction alert: once you've glimpsed this underwater world, it can easily become an obsession. Jacques Cousteau wannabes should consider a trip out to the Buccoo Reef, a protected marine park just off the coast of Pigeon Point and one of the most easily accessible reefs in the Caribbean. And what's more, Jacques Cousteau himself rated it as the third most spectacular reef in the world. Choose your dive school carefully, and ask questions about the fish and environment you will see, so next time you dive beneath the surface you'll have a better understanding of the marine paradise surrounding you.
Back on dry land there are numerous ways to satisfy your hunger, and when it comes to cuisine the key word is local. Think seasonal produce, catch of the day, spicy influences from Africa and India, plus a whole lotta Creole soul. For an authentic bite, hit the street stalls at Store Bay Beach Facility, where kiosks sell boxes of homemade fare such as curry, roti and saltfish. Other dishes served in restaurants include crab and dumplings, slow-cooked spiced stew and every type of seafood imaginable, accompanied by plantain or coconut rice. Most menus feature curiously-named dishes like doubles or callaloo which beg to be discovered, whilst coconut bake and tropical fruit will cure any sweet cravings.
PODCAST
Alison Sardinha, owner of the Blue Crab Restaurant
Listen to Alison talking about her restaurant and the food she prepares. [01:41]
All this washes down rather nicely with locally-produced rum (purely in the name of authenticity, of course) and should you find yourself reviewing your vacation snaps after dinner, they will reflect an island beyond beaches, in which you discovered the true heart of Tobago, from core to coast.
Responsible Travel would like to thank Visit Tobago for their sponsorship of this guide.
More Tobago articles
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As you would expect form an island that has protected its forest since 1776, nature and wildlife in Tobago is highly treasured.
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The food in Tobago is a mouthwatering medley of Caribbean, Latin American and African ingredients and recipes.
Tobago's history and heritage is everywhere, with forts, cannon and monuments memorialising battles that played out on this island over centuries.
Clean, green and serene, Tobago benefits from respectful tourism - conservation and social projects in Tobago help keep paradise, paradise.
Our guide to Tobago accommodation reveals a world detached from the traditional Caribbean concept of gated off luxury and all inclusive resorts.
We visited Tobago to meet hotel and guesthouse owners, and sea turtle conservationists to ask them for their top Tobago travel advice.
What is the best way to travel to Tobago? It all depends on where you’re coming from. We explain more in our guide.
The Tobago Tourism Board share their thoughts on responsible tourism in Tobago and how it creates a unique experience for travelers.
