About Tobago

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    Buccoo Reef & Nylon Pool

    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.

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    Argyle Waterfall

    Argyle Waterfall is a beautiful natural attraction located in the eastern part of Tobago, which is part of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike who want to experience the island’s natural beauty.

    The waterfall is situated in a lush rainforest setting, and visitors can take a short hike through the forest to reach the waterfall. The hike is not particularly challenging, but it does involve some steep inclines and rocky terrain, so it is important to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

    The waterfall itself is approximately 175 feet tall and cascades into a deep pool below, where visitors can swim and cool off in the refreshing waters. The surrounding forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds and butterflies, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

    Overall, the Argyle Waterfall is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Tobago, offering a unique opportunity to experience the island’s natural beauty and explore its lush rainforest environment.

    • The waterfall is located in the area of Roxborough – on the eastern side of Tobago – ‘country side’.
    • Argyle is high multidrop waterfall on the edge of the rain-forest rising over 160ft high.
    • It takes about 15-20 minutes walking along the trail from the entrance to the base of the waterfall.
    • There is a paid entry fee of $60 TTD for visitors.
    • A small bar with snacks and a toilet facility (no shower) is available.
    • Guides are available for hire.

    The waterfall pools can be deep – take caution if swimming!

  • 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Tobago

    1. Beautiful Beaches

    Tobago is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean, with clear turquoise waters and white sandy shores. Popular beaches include Pigeon Point, Store Bay, Buccoo, Mt. Irvine and Englishman’s Bay.

    2. Biodiversity

    Black pelicans

    Tobago boasts a rich and diverse ecosystem with over 200 species of birds, marine life, and lush rainforests to explore. The island is also home to the world’s oldest protected rainforest reserve, the Main Ridge Forest Reserve.

    3. Snorkeling and Diving

    Tobago’s clear waters and coral reefs offer incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities, with colorful fish and marine life to discover. Buccoo Reef is one of the most popular spots for snorkeling and diving.

    4. Watersports

    andre surfing in mt. irvine tobago

    Tobago is a great place to enjoy water sports such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, surfing kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

    5. Culture and History

    Tobago has a rich cultural history, with a mix of African, European, and Caribbean influences. There are several historical sites to explore, including Fort King George, the Tobago Museum, and the Heritage Park.

    6. Food

    Tobago’s cuisine is a fusion of African, Indian, and European influences, with fresh seafood and spices being a staple. Some must-try dishes include curried crab and dumplings, callaloo soup, and bake and shark.

    7. October Carnival

    Tobago’s Carnival is a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and color, with colorful costumes and energetic traditional performances. It’s separate and smaller from the main Trinidad Carnival. It’s and is usually held in late October (Oct 30–Nov 1, 2026) in Scarborough and other areas around the island. It features Jouvert (morning paint/mud mas), traditional characters, steelpan, and intense street parades of bands and people.

    8. Relaxation

    Tobago is a great place to relax and unwind, with many secluded beaches and tranquil spots to enjoy. Some popular spots include Pleasant Prospect, Charlotteville, Castara, and Speyside.

    9. Wildlife

    Tobago is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Tobago hummingbird, the Cocrico, and the endangered leatherback sea-turtle. There are several nature reserves and sanctuaries to visit, including the Tobago Cocoa Estate and the Little Tobago Island Bird Sanctuary.

    10. Hospitality

    Tobago is known for its warm and friendly people, who are always ready to welcome visitors and make them feel at home. The island’s laid-back and welcoming atmosphere is one of its biggest draws.

  • Amerindian Tribes

    Tobago was home to several Amerindian tribes before the arrival of Europeans. These tribes included the Arawaks, Caribs, and Waraos.

    The Arawaks were the first known inhabitants of Tobago, and they arrived on the island around 500 AD. They were a peaceful people who lived off the land through fishing, hunting, and farming. They constructed homes made of wood and thatch, and their society was organized into clans and governed by a chief.

    The Caribs, who were known for their aggressive nature, arrived on Tobago sometime in the 14th century, and they quickly established dominance over the Arawaks. They were skilled warriors and seafarers, and they used Tobago as a base for raiding nearby islands.

    The Waraos, who were a seafaring people from the Orinoco Delta region of present-day Venezuela, also visited Tobago regularly for fishing and trading.

    The arrival of European explorers and colonizers in the 16th century brought significant changes to Tobago’s indigenous population. The Spanish, French, Dutch, and British all established settlements on the island at various times, and they often used force to subjugate and exploit the native population. Many Amerindians were enslaved or forced to work on plantations, and their culture and way of life were eroded over time.

    Today, there are few remaining traces of Tobago’s indigenous population, although some place names and archaeological sites serve as reminders of the island’s rich pre-colonial history. The Tobago Museum in Scarborough also has exhibits and information on the island’s indigenous peoples

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    Glass Bottom Boats

    Glass bottom boats are a popular way to explore the beautiful waters surrounding Tobago. These boats have a clear glass panel in the bottom that allows passengers to view the underwater world without getting wet.

    There are several tour operators in Tobago that offer glass bottom boat tours. Some of the popular glass bottom boat tours include:

    1. Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool Tour: This tour takes you to the Buccoo Reef, which is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful corals, fish, and sea turtles. After exploring the reef, the tour stops at Nylon Pool, a shallow sandbar in the middle of the ocean, where you can swim and snorkel.
    2. Store Bay Reef Tour: This tour takes you to the Store Bay Reef, which is located close to the shore and is known for its vibrant marine life. The tour also includes a stop at the No Man’s Land beach, where you can relax and swim in the calm waters.
    3. Glass Bottom Boat Adventure Tour: This tour takes you on a scenic journey along Tobago’s coastline, where you can admire the beautiful scenery and view the marine life through the glass bottom boat.

    The glass bottom boat tours in Tobago are a fun and exciting way to explore the underwater world without getting wet.

  • Tobago

    Tobago is a beautiful Caribbean island located in the southern part of the Lesser Antilles. It is one of the two main islands that make up the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, a country in the Caribbean Sea. Tobago is located about 30 kilometers northeast of Trinidad and covers an area of approximately 300 square kilometers.

    The island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and unique culture. The capital of Tobago is Scarborough, which is also the largest town on the island. The island is home to a population of approximately 60,000 people, and the official language is English.

    Tobago has a rich history and is known for its colonial heritage. It was once a Dutch, French, and British colony before gaining independence in 1962. Today, Tobago is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse wildlife.

    Some of the popular attractions on the island include Pigeon Point Beach, Store Bay, Buccoo Reef, and Nylon Pool. Tobago is also home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Tobago Heritage Festival, Carnival, Buccoo Goat Race, and the Great Fete Weekend.

    Tourism is the main industry on the island, and there are plenty of accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Some of the popular activities for visitors include hiking in the rainforest, bird watching, beach hopping, and visiting historical sites like Fort King George.

    The local culture is vibrant and colorful, with music, dance, and festivals playing an important role in daily life. Some of the most popular festivals include the Tobago Jazz Experience, the Tobago Heritage Festival, and the Great Fete Weekend.

    Overall, Tobago is a beautiful and welcoming island that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. It is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the Caribbean in a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path way.

    • Capital – Scarborough
    • People – ~70,000
    • Islands – 6
    • Villages – 36+
    • Districts – 15
    • Towns – 2

    • Length – 25.5 miles
    • Size – 116 mi²
    • Width – 7.5 miles
    • Latitude – 11.2337° N 
    • Longitude – 60.6989° W
    • 21 miles North-East of Trinidad.

    Climate and Geography

    In terms of climate, Tobago has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C throughout the year. The rainy (wet) season runs from June to December, but even during this time, the island still experiences plenty of sunshine.

    Tobago’s climate is pleasant all year round. It is cooler and less humid than Trinidad because of the more frequent northeast winds.

    Government and Population

    Since 1889, Tobago and Trinidad have shared the same government. In 1980 the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) was instituted and was made responsible for administrative governance within the island, with local governance remaining with the city and county councils. In 1987, full internal self-governance was granted to Tobago. The population is approximately 70,000, of which 80 % are of African decent. 

    History

    Tobago has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 5,000 years. The Amerindian Arawaks and the Carib tribes also inhabited the island, before it was colonized by Europeans in the 16th century and became a center of sugar production.

    Tobago changed hands several times between the British and the French, and it was also briefly occupied by the Dutch and Spanish. Today, Tobago is part of an independent nation, but it still retains strong ties to the United Kingdom.

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    Little Tobago

    Little Tobago is a small island located off the northeast coast of Tobago, which is itself an island in the southern Caribbean Sea and part of the nation of Trinidad and Tobago. Little Tobago is also known as Bird of Paradise Island, due to its abundance of exotic birds, including the red-billed tropicbird, the white-tailed sabrewing hummingbird, and the magnificent frigatebird.

    The island is home to a bird sanctuary and nature reserve, and is a popular destination for birdwatchers and eco-tourists. It is accessible by boat from the village of Speyside on Tobago’s main island.

    The island is popular for

    • Naturalists
    • Bird-watching
    • Angel reef
    • Scuba diving
    • Glass-bottom boat tours

    Angel reef is also a popular site around the island for divers and glass-bottom boat tours.

    The largest brain coral in the caribbean is also located on the reef system.

    The island is an important breeding site for seabirds such as red-billed tropicalbird, bridled terns and many more.

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    Pigeon Point

    Pigeon Point is a popular beach and tourist destination located on the southwestern tip of Tobago, which is an island in the southern Caribbean Sea and part of the nation of Trinidad and Tobago.

    The beach is known for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and scenic views of the nearby Buccoo Reef. The area has been developed into a beach resort with facilities such as restaurants, bars, changing rooms, and water sports equipment rentals, including kayaks, paddle boards, and jet skis.

    Pigeon Point is also a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving due to its proximity to the Buccoo Reef, which is home to a diverse array of marine life. The beach is accessible by car or taxi from the nearby Crown Point area.

    Pigeon Point is one of the island’s most known beach.
    The entire peninsula is also known as Pigeon Point Heritage Park.

    • Life guards
    • Security
    • Cabanas
    • Water sports
    • Shops
    • Restaurant & Bar
    • Entrance fee – $20.00 TTD for Adults, Kids $10.00 TTD
      under 6 yrs – free
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    Bon Accord Lagoon

    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.

    What’s near:

    • Buccoo Reef
    • No Man’s Land
    • Mangrove Wetlands
    • Pigeon Point
    • Buccoo Bay
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    Fort King George

    Fort King George is a historic fortification located on the island of Tobago in the Caribbean. It was built by the British in the late 18th century, during their colonial period in the region.

    The fort was constructed in 1779 on a hill overlooking the harbor of Scarborough, Tobago’s capital. Its primary purpose was to defend the island against French and Dutch attacks, as Tobago was a valuable strategic location in the Caribbean.

    Today, Fort King George is a popular tourist attraction and historical site. Visitors can explore the fort’s ruins, including the barracks, officer’s quarters, and cannons. There is also a small museum on the site that houses artifacts and exhibits related to Tobago’s history and the fort’s role in it.

    In addition to its historical significance, Fort King George offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, including the Caribbean Sea and the town of Scarborough. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Caribbean history and architecture.

    Fort King George is named after King George III of Great Britain.
    The fort sits at the very top of Scarborough Hill (Fort Hill) with views of the Atlantic Ocean, Tobago’s capital town Scarborough and part of the south-eastern side of island.

    • Preserved buildings
    • Batteries
    • Cannons
    • Light house (old)
    • Manicured Garden
    • Museum
    • Views of Trinidad

  • Pleasant Prospect

    Pleasant Prospect is a small hilly village, located between three popular bays, Mt. Irvine Bay, Back bay (Rockly Point) and Stone-haven bay, also known as Grafton bay. The village also borders the caledonian sanctuary and nature reserve.

    Local Amenities

    • Grocery Shops
    • ATM Bank Machine
    • Restaurants
    • Bars
    • Guesthouses
    • Small Play ground
    • Beaches
    • Turtle Nesting
    • Public Transport
    • Nature Reserve
    • Mountain-bike Tours
    • Pizza Boys

    Grafton Caledonia Wildlife Sanctuary

    The bird sanctuary is no longer maintained but bird feeding by the caretaker can sometimes be observed. The entire nature reserve comprises over 200 acres of protected land that was formally part of a coco estate owned by Eleanor Alefounder. The main purpose of the nature reserve is to promote the native flora and fauna of the island.

    Mt Irvine Bay

    picture of mt. irvine bay in Tobago
    Mt. Irvine Bay
    andre surfing in mt. irvine tobago
    Sufing Mt Irvine – Andre
    anchor bar mt. irvine tobago
    Anchor Bar & Grill
    Mt. Irvine Bay

    Mt. Irvine bay is very popular beach in Tobago for locals and vistors, and especially surfers. There are cabanas, food outlets, beach bar and a fish market and well as a beach facility with security and lifeguards.The bay is part of the extended Buccoo Reef System with small patches of coral reefs that are great for snorkelling and the Mt. Irvine Wall for scuba diving. Mt. irvine is the most popular Surfing spot in tobago with a Right Break over coral rock bed.

    Stone Haven Bay (Grafton Bay)

    Stone Haven Bay
    Grafton Bay

    Stone Haven Bay is also know as Grafton Bay is a popular sea turtle nesting site and home to the Grafton Resort and Waves restaurant and bar. This bay is popular with large groups and for exercising. Seine pulling (Net fishing) can be observed at times. No facility, security or lifegurds available.

    Back Bay (Rocky Point)

    Nesting Leatherback Turtle
    Back Bay Sunrise

    Back bay which is officially known and Rocky Point is a beautiful semi-secluded bay that is popular for nesting leatherback and hawksbill sea turtles. Back bay is very scenic but the waters can get very strong with big waves and powerful currents. The bay is popular with families, beach limes and couples. No facility, security or life guards available.

    Links

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    Scarborough

    Scarborough is the capital city of Tobago, a small island nation in the Caribbean. Located on the southwestern coast of Tobago, Scarborough is home to approximately 17,000 people and serves as the administrative and economic center of the island.

    One of the main attractions in Scarborough is Fort King George, a historic fortification that was built by the British in the 18th century. Today, the fort houses several museums and galleries that showcase the island’s history and culture.

    Scarborough is also home to the Market where visitors can purchase fresh produce, local crafts, and other goods. The city is also known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and nightclubs offering a range of entertainment options.

    Other notable attractions in Scarborough include the Botanical Gardens.
    With its mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, Scarborough is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tobago.

    Scarborough became the capital of Tobago in 1769. Scarborough’s deepwater harbour was built in 1991; before that ships would anchor offshore. The estimated population of Scarborough is approximately ~18K.

    Local Amenities

    • Coast Guard. Police. Fire Services
    • Public Washrooms
    • Public Library 
    • Health Center
    •  Ferry Service
    •  Schools
    • Guesthouses
    • Security
    • Local Market
    • Restuarants & Bars
    • Food Vendors/Craft shops
    • Public Transport
    • Off Road Parking
    • Banks and Credit Unions
    • Supermarkets, stores, hardwares

    Battle of Scarborough 1677 – Before being called Scarborough, the area was called Lampinsburg by the dutch with the bay of Scarborough being called Lampins bay also known as Roquely Bay (Rockly Bay). The Dutch built a fort on top of a nearby hill which is known today as Dutch fort hill in down town Scarborough. In February and December of 1677, the Dutch and French both wanted control of Tobago which lead to a bloody battle in Scarborough bay and on dutch fort hill which resulted in the death of thousands, including French and Dutch women and children and African slaves. Three hundreds years later and the remains of up to 20 warships and their undiscovered artifacts are still in the muddy bottom of what is now Scarborough harbor.

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    Hillsborough Reservoir

    Hillsborough Reservoir, which was commissioned in May 1952, by His Excellency Sir Hubert Elvin Rance, then Governor of Trinidad and Tobago, is the only impounding reservoir in Tobago.

    The reservoir is located 870 feet above sea level, Hillsborough has a rustic beauty and an elegantly designed spillway which provides a safety outlet when the reservoir is too full. The reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 1.02 million m³ and the water treatment plant located just below can produce up to 9,091m3 per day.
    Water from the reservoir serves areas such as Mt. St. George, Concordia, Whim, Mary’s Hill, Union and Les Coteaux.

    The raw water from the reservoir passes through two strainers that clear the incoming water of large debris such as branches, twigs and leaves before entering the chemical house. Aluminium sulphate (alum) is added to make the suspended particles of silt and mud in the water coagulate and form large and heavier particles that sink to the bottom of the sedimentation (or settling) basins. The water is then filtered through layers of sand and gravel, a process that removes fine particles still in the water. The final stage of the water treatment process is the addition of lime, to counteract the acidity of the water and the injection of chlorine to destroy any disease-causing bacteria.

    Construction of the Hillsborough Dam significantly changed the landscape but the catchment area and the reservoir still teem with an abundance of wildlife and a variety of flora.
    There are twenty-eight (28) species of birds documented at Hillsborough which will excite the interest of any bird watcher.

    WASA

    pictures of hillsborough dam in Tobago

  • Districts of Tobago

    Tobago was previously divided into seven (7) parishes while under colonial rule. 

    • Saint Patrick
    • Saint Andrew
    • Saint David
    • Saint George
    • Saint Mary
    • Saint John
    • Saint Paul

    In 1980 the Tobago House of Assembly replaced this system with twelve (12) local electorial districts and seats in the assembly.

    • Bacolet/Mt. Saint George
    • Goodwood/Belle Garden
    • Bethe/Mt. Irvine
    • Black Rock/Whim/Spring Garden
    • Buccoo/Mt. Pleasant
    • Canaan/Bon Accord
    • Lambeau/Signal Hill
    • Parlatuvier/L’Anse Fourmi/Speyside
    • Plymouth/Golden Lane
    • Providence/Mason Hall/Moriah
    • Belle Garden East/Roxborough/Deleford
    • Scarborough/Calder Hall

    In 2021 an additional 3 seat were added making it 15 electorial districts.

    Tobago is comprised of 15 electorial districts that are represented by seat in the Tobago House Of Assembly.
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    Islands of Tobago

    Saint. Giles Island

    Saint Giles Island is located off the northeast tip of Tobago. The island can be viewed clearly from flag-staff lookout in Charlotteville. Reef patches and cliffs surrounding the island makes it a popular dive site.

    St. Giles Island

    Goat Island

    Goat Island is located off the coast of Speyside, between Tobago and Little Tobago. The reef around the island is popular with divers.

    picture of tobago's goat island
    Goat Island

    Little Tobago

    Little Tobago is a small island off the northeastern coast of Tobago, popular with birdwatchers. The island is an important breeding site for seabirds such as red-billed tropicalbird,  bridled terns and many more. Angel reef is also a popular site around the island for divers and glass-bottom boat tours.

    image of little tobago
    Little Tobago

    Queen’s Island

    Queen’s Island is located on the north-eastern coast of Tobago outside of Louis D’or Bay and Delaford.

    image of tobago's queen's island
    Queen’s Island

    Richmond Island

    Richmond Island is located on the eastern side of Tobago outside of Richmond bay.

    image of richmond island in tobago
    Richmond Island

    Sisters Rock

    Sisters Rocks is tiny group of islands located off the northern coast of Tobago directly north of Parlatuvier. Sisters Rocks are popular for snorkeling and scuba diving for hammer-head sharks.

    image of sisters rock in tobago