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Buccoo Reef & Nylon Pool

ByTobago Guide
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Buccoo Reef is a popular tourist destination located on the northwest coast of the island of Tobago, which is part of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. The reef is a protected marine park and is one of the largest coral reefs in Tobago.

Visitors can take glass-bottom boat tours to view the stunning array of marine life and coral formations that make up the reef. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also popular activities in the area. The nearby Nylon Pool, a shallow crystal-clear pool in the middle of the ocean, is another popular attraction.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Buccoo Reef area is known for its vibrant culture and nightlife, with the Sunday School street party being a particularly popular event.

Overall, Buccoo Reef is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tobago, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture.

  • 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

The reef borders with the Bon Accord Lagoon, together they create an important and complex marine habitat for hundreds of sea and land creatures and for the livelihood of many people living on the island.

Tobago Guide

Useful Information from locals, to help you have the best experience while on the island of Tobago.

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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.

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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
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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!

  • 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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    Mt. Irvine Bay, Tobago

    Mt. Irvine Bay is situated on the south western coast of Tobago, between the villages of Buccoo and Pleasant Prospect. The bay is a very popular spot on the island especially with surfers and limers.

    picture of mt. irvine bay in Tobago

    SURFING

    People have been surfing in Mt. Irvine Bay Tobago, since the late 1960’s. Today the bay is the go to spot for surfing on the Island. There are other known surfing spots along the coast but Mt Irvine Bay, with its right reef break and waves reaching up to 12 feet high is frequented by locals and visitors.
    On the bay you can also find friendly surfing guides/instructors that can give you surfing lessons for a small fee, equipment provided.

    andre surfing in mt. irvine tobago

    FISH MARKET

    Mt. Irvine bay has a small fish market where you can buy fresh fish daily, from various vendors. Prices ranges between TTD $20 – $40 per pound of, Mai Mai, Tuna, Snappers, Barracuda, King Fish, Grouper, Trevali, etc.

    BEACH FACILITY

    Mt. Irvine beach facility provides access to toilets, showers, security, and beach cabanas for public use.
    A small fee of about $2 TTD may be required for toilet & shower usage.

    LIFEGUARDS

    Lifeguards are available and on duty 7 days a week from 10am-6pm. Safe swimming areas are marked with a Red & Yellow flag, while unsafe areas are marked with a Red flag.

    BOAT TOURS

    Coastal boat tours to the Buccoo Reef, Nylon Pool, No man’s Land, and other hidden bays around the island can be arranged with Screamer Boat Tours. They also do fishing trips and private beach limes.

    LIMING

    You may find many locals liming or hanging out on the beach on a regular basis. Anchor Bar and Grill is open daily and they are located directly on the beach. They serve various drinks and cocktails, as well as grilled and fried food.

    anchor bar mt. irvine tobago

    SUNSETS

    Sunsets on Mt. Irvine bay can get very colorful and mesmorising, depending on the time of the year. Sunset normally happens between 6pm – 7pm daily.

    picture of mt. irvine bay in Tobago

  • Castara

    Castara is a fishing village located on the northern coast of Tobago, a small island nation in the Caribbean. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a more relaxed and authentic Tobago experience.

    Castara is home to two beaches, Big Bay and Heavenly Bay, which are known for their calm waters and excellent snorkeling and swimming conditions. The village is also surrounded by lush rainforest, providing plenty of opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

    One of the main attractions in Castara is its fishing culture, and visitors can witness the daily catch being brought in by local fishermen. The village is also home to several restaurants serving fresh seafood, including the popular Boathouse Restaurant, which is situated right on the beach.

    For those looking to learn more about local culture, Castara is home to the Tobago Heritage Festival, an annual event that celebrates Tobago’s African and indigenous heritage through music, dance, and other cultural activities.

    Overall, Castara is a charming and authentic Tobago destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation.

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