Things to See & Do in Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Kitts and Nevis overview
History on St. Kitts, a slower pace on Nevis, and beaches on both. Each island is small enough to see in a day or two, and the crossing between them is easy.
Brimstone Hill Fortress
This British fortress on a steep hill on St. Kitts’ west coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the islands’ best-known sight. The views stretch over the coast and out to neighbouring islands on a clear day. Allow a couple of hours and bring water.
Basseterre and the scenic railway
The capital of St. Kitts is compact and walkable, with Independence Square and the Circus, a small roundabout with a Victorian clock, at its heart.
The St. Kitts Scenic Railway runs narrated tours on a former sugar-cane line along the coast. Operating days vary, so I check the schedule before building it into a plan.
The beaches
On St. Kitts, the calmest beaches are on the Caribbean side and down the southeast peninsula, such as South Friar’s Bay and Cockleshell Bay. The Atlantic-facing beaches are wilder and better for walking than swimming.
On Nevis, Pinney’s Beach runs along the west coast near Charlestown, with calm water and beach bars.
Nevis and Charlestown
Nevis is quieter and slower than St. Kitts. Charlestown, its small capital, is the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, and the Museum of Nevis History tells the story.
Nevis Peak rises in the middle of the island and is usually capped by cloud. The hike up is steep and muddy, so go with a local guide.
Hiking and the water
On St. Kitts, a guided hike up Mount Liamuiga, a dormant volcano, leads through rainforest to the crater rim. Catamaran trips, snorkelling and sailing between the islands make easy days on the water.
Back to the Saint Kitts and Nevis overview
Let’s plan your Saint Kitts and Nevis trip
Tell me who is travelling, when, and whether you want one island or both. I’ll plan the split, book the stays and flights, and sort out the crossing between the islands.
The initial 30-minute consultation is complimentary. The professional research fee is $50 per traveller aged 2 or older, paid before research begins.