Between March and August each year, giant leather-backs, Hawks-bill, and Green sea turtles visit the shores of Tobago to lay their eggs. The process can take up to 2 hours from start to finish, going longer sometimes if the turtles are disturbed.
Some turtles will make multiply visits to the shores during the season untill the right spot is found. Once the nesting process is complete – aproximately 60 days later, baby turtle hatchlings will emerge from the sand.
What happens :
A sea turtle will find the right spot for a nest by checking the sand with both front and back flippers.
Sea Turtles dig holes up to 2.5 feet deep with back flippers only.
Once the right depth is met – between 60 -100 eggs are layed.
Sea Turtles will then gentle cover eggs with back flippers only.
They will then use both flippers to camouflage the area around the nest.
Once completed they then slowly return to the sea.
Popular Bays for sightings:
Turtle Beach – Great Courland Bay
Grafton Bay – Stone Haven Bay
Back Bay – Mt. Irvine
Lambeau Beach – Little Rockly Bay
Protection Guidelines
If possible, do not disturb, obstruct or approach a turtle that is coming to shore, laying or covering its nest.
Never handle Turtle eggs or try to sit, stand or ride on a Turtle.
Avoid using bright lights as it can confuse the Turtles or cause them to abandon their nests.
If observing – stay up to 20 feet away from Turtles while they are nesting.
Bon Accord Lagoon is a shallow lagoon located on the southwestern coast of Tobago, which is an island in the southern Caribbean Sea and part of the nation of Trinidad and Tobago.
The lagoon is separated from the ocean by a narrow strip of land, and is connected to the sea by a narrow channel. The area surrounding the lagoon is known for its mangrove forests and wetlands, which provide important habitat for a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers.
The lagoon is also home to a variety of fish, crabs, and other marine life. The area is popular for nature walks, birdwatching, and kayaking tours. Visitors can explore the lagoon and its surrounding mangrove forests on guided tours or by renting kayaks.
The lagoon is located near the village of Bon Accord, which is accessible by car or taxi from the nearby Crown Point area.
The Bon Accord Lagoon is surrounded by the mangrove wetlands and the Buccoo Reef making it an important habitat for many species of animals and marine life.
The lagoon is easier to access by water with boats, kayaks, paddle-board etc.
Tobago is a beautiful Caribbean island that offers excellent surfing opportunities for surfers of all skill levels. The island has a number of beaches and surf spots that are popular with both locals and visitors.
One of the best surf spots in Tobago is Mount Irvine Bay. It is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with consistent waves and is suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. The waves at Mount Irvine Bay are usually between 3 and 6 feet, making it an ideal spot for longboarders and shortboarders.
Another popular surf spot in Tobago is Bacolet Bay. This beach offers a variety of waves, from small and gentle to fast and powerful, making it suitable for surfers of all skill levels. Bacolet Bay is also a great spot for paddleboarding, snorkeling, and swimming.
Other surf spots in Tobago include King’s Bay, Castara Bay, and Englishman’s Bay. These spots offer a variety of waves and are suitable for different skill levels.
If you are new to surfing, there are several surf schools and rental shops on the island that can provide you with lessons and equipment. With warm water, consistent waves, and beautiful scenery, Tobago is a great destination for anyone looking to catch some waves in the Caribbean
People have been surfing in Mt. Irvine Bay Tobago since the early 1970’s. Today the bay is the go to spot for surfing on the Island. There are other known surfing bays along the coast but Mount Irvine Bay, with its right-hand reef break and waves reaching up to 3 meters high is frequented by locals and visitors.
The surf season in Tobago normally runs from late September to April, with peak season and swells happening during December to March.
On the bay you can find and hire friendly surfing guides that can give you surfing lessons and tours to secret surf spots around the island. Equipement may be provided.
History of surfing in Tobago
In the late 1960’s international visitors, mainly from the USA and Europe started surfing in Mt. Irvine, Tobago. This inspired locals like Michael Baker, Trevor Paience, David Achong and a few others to become the first to try the sport on the island. Since the 1970’s, the sport has grown steadily in popularity with the local youths of both Trinidad and Tobago. During the 1980’s 90’s and 2000’s there were various surfing competition held on Mt. Irvine bay, involving both local and international surfers. In 2016 “The Tobago Pro” competition was won by Andre Stewart of Tobago, and Adrian De Silva came in Second.
Right Surf Break
Mt. Irvine has a right hand surf break that rolls over a flat reef bed with patches of dead and alive fire corals. During high tide it can get very deep with most waves breaking off the point. At lower tides the waters can drop as low as 10 feet at the surf break.
Off the Point
The very big waves will start to peak off the tip of Rocky Point, (Back Bay). These waves can get as big as 3 meters high and become very powerful in rapid sets. Surfing off the point is only recommended for experienced surfers as the sets can get very heavy and dangerous.
Tobago is a beautiful island in the Caribbean, known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse natural attractions. Here are some things you can do in Tobago:
Visit Pigeon Point Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in Tobago, known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and picturesque views. You can rent a beach umbrella and lounge chair, go for a swim, or try your hand at water sports like snorkeling or jet skiing.
Explore the Rainforest: Tobago is home to a lush rainforest that is teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. You can take a guided tour through the forest, go bird watching, or hike to some of the island’s stunning waterfalls.
Visit Buccoo Reef: This is one of the most famous coral reefs in the Caribbean, known for its vibrant marine life and clear waters. You can take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the reef, or go snorkeling or scuba diving to get up close and personal with the fish and coral.
Check out the Historical Sites: Tobago has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical sites, including Fort King George, the Tobago Museum, and the Courland Monument. These sites offer a glimpse into the island’s colonial past and the struggles of its indigenous people.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Tobago is known for its delicious food, which is a fusion of African, Indian, and European influences. Be sure to try some of the island’s signature dishes, like crab and dumplings, callaloo soup, and doubles (a popular street food made with fried bread, chickpeas, and chutney).
These are just a few of the many things you can do in Tobago. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or just relaxing on the beach, Tobago has something for everyone.
Fishing is an important activity in Tobago, both for commercial and recreational purposes. Tobago’s waters are home to a diverse array of fish species, including marlin, sailfish, tuna, and barracuda, making it a popular destination for sport fishing enthusiasts.
There are several fishing villages along the coast of Tobago where visitors can experience the local fishing culture and sample fresh seafood. Some of the most popular fishing villages include Charlotteville, Castara, and Speyside.
There are also numerous fishing charters and tours available for visitors who want to try their hand at catching their own fish. These tours typically provide all necessary equipment and offer expert guidance on fishing techniques and safety.
It is important to note that sustainable fishing practices are encouraged in Tobago to ensure the long-term viability of the island’s fish populations. Some local organizations, such as the Tobago Game Fishing Association, promote catch-and-release practices and advocate for responsible fishing practices.
Overall, fishing in Tobago is a popular and rewarding activity for visitors, but it is important to respect local regulations and engage in sustainable practices to preserve the island’s marine ecosystem.
Spear fishing (shooting fish) is another great way to get some decent size ones. Tobago normally has clean, clear, warm waters and if you’re an experience diver there’s an abundance of hunting grounds to choose from. As with every other technique, the catch would vary depending on tide and seasonal changes along with the diver’s skills and experiences.
Snappers, barracuda, parrot-chub, groupers, sharks, grunts, horse-eye jack, tarpons and catfish are some of the species hunted.
Pulling Seine (shooting seine) is a more traditional way of fishing, with mostly the older generations and some rural villages still doing it. The concept is simple and can be very rewarding but it is a tedious and slow process. The catch is simular to those caught by sand and rock fishing with a combination of;
Tobago Mountain Bike Tours offers guided rides around the island of Tobago. If you like riding and want to discover hidden spaces and secret places then this adventure is for you.
Bikes are a great, low-impact way to explore the island. Tours follow paths along the beaches, mangroves, rain-forest and through villages.
The Buccoo Reef is a crown jewel of Tobago’s marine life. It is one of the most accessible coral reefs in the Caribbean, it offers a window into a vibrant underwater world of fringing coral reefs.
The Buccoo Reef Marine Park
The reef is located on the western coast of the island of Tobago. It is a protected marine park and is one of the largest coral reefs in Tobago.
Glass Bottom Reef Boats
Visitors can take glass-bottom reef-boat tours to view the stunning array of marine life and coral formations that make up the fringing reef system. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also popular activities in the area.
What to Expect
The Coral Gardens
The Coral Gardens: A slightly deeper area of the reef, known for its stunning coral formations and diverse tropical fishes, that can be viewed through the glass bottom reef boats.
Nylon Pool
The Nylon Pool: A natural, waist-deep area in the reef that was named by Princess Margaret in 1962, who reportedly said the water was as clear as her nylon stockings.
Reef Sand Bank
The Sand Bank: This is a natural formation of sand deposited in a small area of the reef. It is sometimes visible depending on the tides and currents.
Bon Accord Lagoon
Bon Accord Lagoon: The Buccoo Reef borders the Bon Accord Lagoon, creating a complex ecosystem essential for the island’s sea life and mangroves.
Essential info
Size – 2.7 mi²
Type – Fringing Coral Reef
Largest in Tobago
Nylon Pool
Coral Gardens
Bon Accord Lagoon
Reef boat tours
Snokelling
No mans land
Sun Protection: The sun reflects off the shallow water intensely. Wear reef-safe sunscreen or a rash guard to protect your skin and the delicate corals below.
Footwear: While the sand is soft, some areas near the reef can be sharp. Consider water shoes if you plan on exploring.
Booking Your Tour: Most tours depart from Buccoo Beach, Store Bay, or Pigeon Point. You don’t always need to book online; you can often find reputable local operators directly on the beach, but checking reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Instagram first is always a good idea.
Beyond the Reef: Local Culture If you have time, many tours also stop at No Man’s Land, a secluded beach nearby. It’s the perfect place to relax after your swim, enjoy a local snack, and take in the view of the coastline
No man’s land
Overall, Buccoo Reef is a must-visit destination for anyone on the island of Tobago, offering a unique blend of natural marine beauty, adventure, and local culture.
