| | |

Buccoo Reef & Nylon Pool

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 off the shoreline, is another popular attraction.

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.

Related Guides

  • | |

    October Carnival

    Tobago Carnival is an annual festival held on the island of Tobago. The carnival takes place in the month of october each year.

    The Tobago Carnival is a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and culture, with a focus on the island’s unique traditions and heritage. The festival features colorful costumes, lively music, and energetic dance performances, with participants taking to the streets to dance and celebrate.

    Although the Tobago Carnival is a smaller and more traditional version of the larger Trinidad Carnival, which takes place on the neighboring island of Trinidad. The October Tobago Carnival still attracts a large number of visitors and locals each year, with events including calypso competitions, steelpan performances, and a grand parade.

    One of the highlights of the Tobago Carnival is the traditional J’Ouvert celebration, which takes place in the early hours of the morning. During J’Ouvert, participants cover themselves in mud, paint, and powder as they dance through the streets to the beat of steel drums and soca music.

    The Tobago Carnival is a lively and colorful celebration of Tobago’s culture and heritage, and is a must-see event for anyone visiting the island during the Carnival season.

  • |

    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

  • Forts

    Tobago has a rich history, and as a result, there are several forts located on the island that were built to defend against colonial powers. Some of the most notable forts in Tobago include:

    1. Fort King George: Built in the 18th century, Fort King George is the largest and most well-preserved fort in Tobago. It offers spectacular views of the island and the Caribbean Sea, and it now houses the Tobago Museum and the National Archives.
    2. Fort Bennett: Located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Fort Bennett was built in the 17th century by the Dutch to defend against attacks from the French. It is now a popular spot for visitors to take in the breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding coastline.
    3. Fort James: Built in the early 18th century, Fort James was constructed by the British to defend against attacks by the French. Today, it is a popular spot for hiking and bird watching, as well as for taking in the scenic views of the coastline.
    4. Fort Granby: Located on a hill overlooking Great Courland Bay, Fort Granby was built in the 18th century by the French to defend against the British. It offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding countryside.
    5. Fort Milford: Built in the late 18th century by the British, Fort Milford is located on a hill overlooking Scarborough and the Atlantic Ocean. Today, it is a popular spot for visitors to take in the panoramic views of the town and the sea.

    Overall, Tobago’s forts offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history and provide visitors with stunning views of the coastline and surrounding countryside. They are well worth a visit for anyone interested in history or looking for a unique perspective on the island.

  • 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

  • |

    Rain Forest

    The Main Ridge Forest Reserve is a protected area located in Tobago, a small island nation in the Caribbean. Established in 1776, it is the oldest forest reserve in the Western Hemisphere and covers approximately 10% of Tobago’s land area.

    The Main Ridge Forest Reserve is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including over 200 species of birds, over 600 species of butterflies, and numerous species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. It is also an important watershed that provides drinking water to local communities.

    The forest reserve offers numerous hiking trails and nature walks, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The reserve is also an important site for research and education, with several institutions conducting studies on the ecology and biodiversity of the forest.

    The Main Ridge Forest Reserve is a crucial component of Tobago’s natural heritage, and its protection and conservation are vital to the island’s future sustainability.

  • |

    Popular Bays

    Tobago is home to many beautiful beaches, some of which are known for their pristine white sand, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Here are a few of the top beaches to visit in Tobago:

    picture of mt. irvine bay in Tobago
    1. Pigeon Point Beach: One of the most famous beaches in Tobago, Pigeon Point is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
    2. Store Bay Beach: Another popular beach, Store Bay is located just a short walk from Pigeon Point and the Airport. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sunshine, and there are also plenty of food vendors and souvenir shops nearby.
    3. Englishman’s Bay: This secluded beach is located on Tobago’s north coast and is known for its natural beauty and calm waters. It’s a great spot for snorkeling and exploring the nearby rainforest.
    4. Castara Bay: This small fishing village is home to a lovely beach that’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There are also several restaurants and bars where you can enjoy fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
    5. Mount Irvine Bay: Located on Tobago’s west coast, this beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling and diving, with a variety of coral reefs and marine life to explore.

    These are just a few of the many beautiful beaches that Tobago has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a lively, tourist-friendly beach or a secluded spot to relax and unwind, there’s sure to be a beach in Tobago that’s perfect for you.