Happy Friday guys! I spent my birthday and the final week of 2021 in Tobago. I wanted to put together a little travel guide for any of you planning to hop over from Trinidad. I’m usually quite busy when visiting the sister isle, so I’m always shocked when fellow locals say that they don’t know what to do when in Tobago. I’ve learned about these places/activities either through my research or from one of my friends. I hope you find this guide somewhat helpful!
HOW TO GET THERE
My friend and I actually took the ferry from Trinidad to Tobago. This was the first time in many years that I took that mode of transport instead of the quick 25 minute plane ride. This just made a lot more sense as we planned to stay for 7 days and having a vehicle (instead of renting) would’ve been convenient.
WHERE TO STAY
When I visit Tobago, I either stay in an apartment or Airbnb. This time I tried a resort called Le Grand Courlan Spa Resort (3 Star) which is located in Stonehaven, Black Rock. We opted for the Ocean View which was an additional cost to secure. Actually, the plan was to stay at Grafton Beach Resort which is next door to Le Grand but we got upgraded. I realized that they weren’t taking any guests at Grafton once I got there – the service industry has definitely been impacted as a result of the global pandemic. Nonetheless, we were definitely super happy for the upgrade.
The resort was everything you would expect from a 3 Star hotel. Covid-19 protocols were upheld; there actually weren't too many guests at the resort. They do a good job maintaining the grounds (minus the fact that the roof needs a good power wash as some of my pics were affected lol), the pool is clean, the rooms are nice and there is an overall relaxing ambiance. Hearing the ocean from your room is definitely a plus and if you’re in for added relaxation there’s always the spa where you can book massages and other services.
Our stay was breakfast inclusive but the restaurant at the resort was actually not operational (pandemic issues once again) so breakfast was at Waves Restaurant + Bar (more on that later) which was about a seven minute walk from our room.
WHAT TO SEE/DO
Our aim was to have a healthy balance of relaxation and adventure i.e. the best of both worlds.
- Castara Beach
This was actually the first time I put my toes in the sand of this beach and honestly it is not my favourite however this was our first stop on our 'island tour' on day 3.
- Castara Waterfall
The Waterfall is about a 15 minute hike from the main road. It's really peaceful and the hike isn't too difficult but if you dont take your time there are definitely some areas where you can slip; so be careful! Once you get there the pool is ice cold but super serene.
- Englishman's Bay
I absolutely love Englishman's Bay. You just have to be there to understand. The view is amazing and the water is beautiful and deep blue.
- Glasgow's Bar
When you enter Glasgow's you'll be seated on the balcony where you will get a bird's eye view of Parlatuvier Bay which is so surreal.
- Parlatuvier Bay
Another really beautiful beach. Tobago honestly has the best beaches.
- Fort Cambleton
The last stop on our tour; I found this gem and was blown away by the bird's eye view (see above photo) of Man O' War Bay.
- Pigeon Point
You can never go wrong spending the day at Pigeon Point. You can paddle board, as I have done in the past or simply relax in the waters as I did on this trip. Regardless of your choice, you'll have a great time!
- Kariwak Village
We had a Mindfulness session in the main Ajoupa at Kariwak Village which comprised of Tai Chi, Qigong and a little bit of Yoga. The purpose of this artform is to strengthen your immune system, take care of your muscles and ligaments, focus your mind and to release any stress or anxiety. We worked our core, arms and legs - pretty much a full body workout. Our instructor Evy was amazing and I plan to include these sessions in my future trips to Tobago. Also, Kariwak Village is so peaceful and you can stay at their hotel!
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK
There are SO many amazing food spots in Tobago. I had quite the list but due to time constraints it was just impossible to get to every restaurant. The places we ate at definitely did not disappoint though.
- Waves Restaurant + Bar (Stonehaven, Black Rock)
We had dinner here on the first night only - which was also the night of my birthday. It’s a great spot because it’s located right on the beach so it was really scenic. I had the Fish Papillote with a Rum Punch and a Pineapple and Coconut Margarita. The food was pretty delicious.
As our stay was breakfast inclusive, we would make that walk to Waves every morning and I really, really love their breakfast! I fell in love with their French Toast; I need to have that in my life right now.
- Jemma’s Tree House (Speyside)
I finally got to see the hype around Jemma’s Treehouse. By the time we arrived I was starving of course (post island tour meal), but the Breadfruit Pie and Plantains were my favourite! It’s truly an amazing spot for Caribbean food. It was nice having my meal as I looked on at ‘Little Tobago’ (another place I need to visit soon).
- Pasta Gallery (Bon Accord)
You can never go wrong at Pasta Gallery. It’s the cutest place that is also an art gallery. Luckily, we were the only guests dining in at that time. The vibe is always great there.
- Z’s Grill Shack (Pleasant Prospect, Black Rock)
Another place where the ambiance was amazing however, we opted for take-out. The Red Snapper was so delicious and well-seasoned.
- Pepe’s Pizza (Bon Accord)
I had the Pepperoni Pizza which also came with pepper flakes for added flavour.
Restaurants/Bars to visit on my next trip:
- Suckhole Restaurant + Bar
- Il Portico
- La Tartaruga
- Renmars
What are some of your favourite restaurants, activities or sites in Tobago? I'd love to know.
I really hope you found this guide helpful. Tobago is always a good time and I cant wait to get back so I can do more fun activities.
Chat soon,
x Akilah
Very detailed guide!! Sounds fun!!
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