The Best Things to do in St Kitts and Nevis
/If you’re looking for the best things to do in St Kitts and Nevis, you’re in the right place. This guide to visiting St Kitts and Nevis covers all of the best things to do, where to stay, and a detailed map. While we live in Barbados, we decided to make the 60-90 minute hop over to St St Kitts and Nevis to explore this island couplet. After a lot of research and fun, let me help you find the best things to do in St Kitts and Nevis!
This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.
Pinney’s beach in nevis is home to gorgeous sand and sea, plus Sunshine’s is along this stretch of beach
St. Kitts and Nevis is a dreamy island duo in the Caribbean offering the perfect blend of adventure, history, and family-friendly charm. Once a hub for British sugar plantations, these islands hold rich stories from their colonial past. St Kitts is home to the stunning, well-preserved Brimstone Hill Fortress—a UNESCO World Heritage site—giving a peek into the 18th century.
our suite at the st kitts marriot overlooked the gorgeous hills of st kitts
St. Kitts and Nevis also boast some of the region’s most beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and unique wildlife. Whether you're hopping on the scenic railway around St. Kitts with the kids or snorkeling in Nevis’s clear waters, these islands promise unforgettable experiences for family travelers.
So, let’s dive into my complete guide to St Kitts and Nevis and plan a trip you won’t soon forget!
Check out my Instagram for more videos and photos of St Kitts & Nevis!
Here are the best things to do in St Kitts and Nevis
Table of Contents
Click any Activity Below to Jump to it’s description and see images!
Map of What to Do in St Kitts & Nevis
Map of Things to do in St Kitts and Nevis
Where to Stay in St Kitts and Nevis
Montpelier PLantation and Beach hotel has this incredible pool, attentive staff, delicious food, and even an old sugar mill
We stayed on the island of St Kitts at one of the largest Marriott properties in the world - St Kitts Marriott Resort. With huge pools, fire pits, entertainment, several on-site restaurants, an on-site casino, on-site shops, a gorgeous beach fronts, and so many options for room sizes - you can’t go wrong. St Kitts Marriott Resort is also a short and easy drive from the airport which makes travel days so much easier. We stayed in a 1-Bedroom suite and it was enormous!
this is the beach at the st kitts marriott - the property is huge!
While we stayed at the amazing St Kitts Marriott, I would absolutely LOVE to go back and stay on Nevis. We visited both Montpelier Plantation and Gold Rock Inn. Both have attentive staff and impeccable gardens. Either would be a phenomenal choice for your stay.
If you’d like to check out other hotels in St Kitts and Nevis, use the map below to find an accommodation that fits your group size and budget.
What to do in St Kitts
St. Kitts is so pretty. It offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, with activities that showcase the island’s natural beauty and deep history. There are so many things to do in St Kitts from a visit to Brimstone Hill Fortress to hiking through the lush rainforest trails of Mount Liamuiga to snorkeling at South Friars Bay. One things we absolutely loved about St Kitts was that it has really nice roads which make it easy to hire a car and explore on your own.
Brimstone Hill Fortress is a must visit in st kitts
Visit Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park
Visiting Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is a must-do on any family trip to St. Kitts! This UNESCO World Heritage site, built by enslaved Africans in the 17th and 18th centuries, is one of the best-preserved fortresses in the Americas and offers incredible views across the island and the Caribbean Sea.
Be sure to explore the Citadel, which houses fascinating exhibits on the island’s history, and climb up to the Fort George Bastion for panoramic views of the neighboring islands. The fortress has plenty of grassy areas for a family picnic, but when we visited there was a guy cooking delicious bbq chicken. He is cash only, but it was worth every EC. Highly recommend grabbing lunch with him and sitting at the picnic tables.
Cost: $15 USD for adults and $10 USD for children ages 5-12, with kids under 5 free.
this chicken was so so good!
Timothy Hill Overlook
Timothy Hill overlook St Kitts
Timothy Hill Overlook is one of the most famous spots in St Kitts. You absolutely must make a stop here. This spot was only about 5 minutes from where we stayed at the St Kitts Marriott Resort, so it was easy to pop over on our last day.
This spot has panoramic vistas of the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. It is located along the southeastern peninsula and while you look along the island’s southern peninsula, you can see Nevis in the distance.
Visiting Timothy Hill Overlook is free, and it’s easily accessible by car, making it a must-see stop for anyone exploring St. Kitts!
a local was at timothy Hill overlook with his two pet baby green monkeys and my daughter got to hold one named Jimmy
Spend a Day at the Beach
Let’s be honest, one of the real reasons anyone goes to the Caribbean is to sit along the gorgeous beaches. St Kitts is home to several worthwhile beaches. The most famous and best beaches in St Kitts are Cockleshell Beach, Frigate Bay South, and Dieppe Bay.
Frigate Bay South is a popular white-sand beach with a vibrant atmosphere, nightlife, and water sports. It’s a great place to snorkel, jet ski, and spend the day.
the baby and i watched the sunrise at the beach at the st kitts marriott
If you’re looking for clear waters, white powder sand, tropical fish, and gorgeous seashells - head down to Cockleshell Beach. It’s a great beach for snorkeling and enjoying the waters.
Dieppe Bay is a calm black sand beach. You can find lots of seaglass here too!
Since many of the beaches are rough or hard to get in to, a catamaran or boat may be a better way to experience the incredible diving and snorkeling in St Kitts.
the kids having ting on the beach in st kitts
St Kitts Scenic Railway
We visited St Kitts in early March and I tried for weeks to get in contact with the Scenic Railway to get tickets, but I don’t think they were open at the time we were visiting. I was so bummed because the Scenic railway is one of the most unique and memorable ways to explore the island and historic sugar plantations.
The Scenic Railway is known as the "Last Railway in the West Indies," and is a narrow-gauge train that once transported sugar cane across the island. Today, it offers a scenic tour with open-air double-decker cars that let you enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, rainforest, and small villages along the way.
COST: The tour costs around $135 for adults and includes refreshments and lively commentary from local guides. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours.
Take an ATV Tour in St Kitts
Something that is still on my bucket list for St Kitts is taking an ATV tour! Since we traveled with a 1 year old, we had to hold off on this excursion, but it’s one of the best ways to explore the island’s rugged beauty and scenic landscapes! However, our friends did go on one and recommended it as one of the top things to do in St Kitts.
Most ATV tours start near Basseterre and take you off the beaten path through lush rainforests, across rolling sugar cane fields, and up hills with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating facts about St. Kitts' history and ecology.
COST: An ATV tour typically ranges from $100 to $150 per person for a half-day tour.
the port in nevis has restrooms and a couple of spots to grab a beer and a snack
Nevis
How to get to Nevis
The best way to get to Nevis is to fly into St Kitts and then take the public ferry over. The ferry takes about 45 minutes and is $25-30 EC per adult and $15-20 EC per child. You can find a full schedule of ferries at Nevis Port Authority.
the ferry terminal has clean restrooms, plenty of seating in air conditioning, and a vending machine for snacks and drinks.
all 3 kids fell asleep on our ferry back to st kitts from nevis
the view of nevis from the ferry over
The Best Things to do in Nevis
Nevis is the quieter sister island to St. Kitts. We took the first ferry of the morning and headed over to spend a whole day on the island. Nevis offers hiking on rainforest trails, the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, the oldest Anglican church in the Caribbean, hot springs, incredible beaches, and a laid back atmosphere that takes you back to the golden era.
Take a Guided Tour of Nevis
We loved our day in nevis
Unless you are staying at a hotel in Nevis, you likely will not have a car or a way to get around the island to see more than the port. I decided to hire Island Buzz Tours to take us around the island.
Our guide, nick, showed up in a very nice van and was extremely knowledgable
Our guide, Nick, met us at the Ferry Terminal with a clean, air conditioned van. We were able to quickly install our Doona seat for the baby and head out. The guide with Island Buzz was extremely knowledgeable and was willing to ebb and flow with our needs and the kid’s needs.
nick stopped at this really cool overlook of Nevis peak for us to get a family photo
Visit the Birthplace of Alexander Hamilton
The Alexander Hamilton House in Nevis is the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s Founding Fathers, who was born here in 1755. The location of the house is very close to the ferry port, so if you don’t have a car you can easily walk there from the terminal.
the alexander hamilton house is very close to the port in nevis and a must visit
Today the Hamilton House is a museum in a beautifully restored Georgian-style building that reflects the colonial architecture of the time. We were able to look through exhibits on Hamilton’s life and the rich history of Nevis. The displays highlight Hamilton’s contributions to America and life in the Caribbean during the colonial period.
COST: Admission is typically around $5 USD.
Read Next: 10 Beach Must Haves for Baby & Toddlers
exploring the property at hamilton house
READ NEXT: The Best Things to do in Grenada with Kids
Soak in the Hot Springs at Bath House
One of the best things to do in Nevis is soak in the hot springs at Bath House! We were only able to make a short stop here because our baby was bit too young to sit in the hot water, but if you can - I highly recommend staying for a while.
The hot springs are a relaxing and unique experience in the heart of the Caribbean. Located within walking distance of the ferry terminal, these mineral-rich hot springs have drawn visitors for centuries. The waters here reach up to 107°F (42°C) and many believe they have healing properties.
On the same property, the old Bath House, built in the 18th century, reflects the island’s colonial past and once served as a spa for British settlers.
COST: FREE. The Springs are free of charge and open to the public.
Stop for Coffee at Montpelier Plantation
Montpelier Plantation is a historic estate that has been reinvented into a boutique hotel for travelers. Guests enjoy beautifully landscaped gardens, an intimate private beach, and gourmet dining in a converted sugar mill. We stopped in for a coffee and some snacks. Everything was so gorgeous and the staff was incredibly attentive.
the Montpelier Plantation property is incredible
Originally a 17th-century sugar plantation, Montpelier Plantation holds a unique place in history. It was here that Horatio Nelson, the famed British admiral, married Frances "Fanny" Nisbet in 1787.
St Thomas lowland Church - a plaque inside dated to 1649
Visit St Thomas Lowland Church
St. Thomas Lowland Church is the oldest Anglican church in the Caribbean, dating back to 1643. We stopped by the church to see the incredible stone architecture and sweeping views of the ocean.
We were able to go inside where we saw a carved plaque dating back to 1649. There is also a graveyard with headstones dating back to the same time! The church itself has been carefully preserved and it’s incredible that it has lasted through centuries of Caribbean storms! St Thomas Lowland Church is a staple of Nevisian history and a must see in Nevis.
looking back from st thomas lowland church you can see all of st kitts
Stop for lunch and a garden tour at Gold Rock Inn
Golden Rock Inn in Nevis is on the grounds of a former sugar plantation dating back to the 1800s. The property also sits on the lush slopes of Nevis Peak giving it spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.
you can get a table by the outdoor ponds and overlook the gardens
On the property there is a restaurant where you can have lunch. There are also gorgeous lush gardens that burst with vibrant bougainvillea, palms, and exotic flowers. The hotel is absolutely stunning and has kept it’s historic architecture, but also modernized some areas and blended them nicely into the surrounding jungle.
The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, local flavors, tranquil ambiance, and breathtaking scenery. Even if you don’t stay on the property, you can come in for lunch and explore the gorgeous grounds.
the historic architecture of golden rock inn
Check out my Instagram for more videos and photos of St Kitts & Nevis!
Spend the Day on the Beach
You can’t come to Nevis and not go to the beach. Here you’ll find stretches of uncrowded beaches spotted with local lunch spots.
Pinney’s Beach with gorgeous views of st kitts
We spent some time on the famous Pinney’s Beach. It’s a long, golden strip of shoreline with clear turquoise waters, soft sand, stunning views of St. Kitts in the distance. (see the photo!) We also found several beach chairs and umbrellas to relax under.
Antoher great beach that offers an even quieter escape is Oualie Beach on the northwestern coast. It has calm, shallow waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Grab a chair and relax on the beach in nevis
Sunshine’s is a nevisian legacy and located along Pinney’s Beach
READ NEXT: What to in Barbados with Kids
Get a Killerbee from Sunshines
No trip to Nevis is complete without a stop at Sunshine’s Beach Bar & Grill. This lively and iconic spot is located along Pinney’s Beach. So, you can have some of the best food on the island and enjoy the gorgeous Nevisian beaches. It is one of the best places in Nevis to catch the sunset too! This was our last stop before heading back to the terminal and the food was delicious, the staff was extremely friendly and accommodating, and the Killer bee was just as good as everyone said it would be!
Sunshine’s is known for it’s legendary “Killer Bee” rum punch! Be careful, its so delicious that you’ll miss how lethal it is. Don’t forget to grab a bottle to bring home!
the food was so so good at Sunshine’s
St Kitts and Nevis are a paradise for anyone seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From the pristine Caribbean beaches to mountains to historic architecture and good vibes — these islands have it all.
the baby loving the splash area at the pool at the st kitts marriott
You may ask - is St Kitts and Nevis good for families? Absolutely, yes! I traveled here with 3 kids and had the best time.
Many people also wonder - is St Kitts and Nevis Safe? Yes. We never felt unsafe! Both islands felt very safe.
Whether hiking the island peaks, exploring historical treasures like Brimstone Hill Fortress or St Thomas Lowland Church, or relaxing by the ocean, you’re going to love St Kitts and Nevis.
snorkel with sea turtles!
So, pack your sunscreen and adventurous spirit and get ready for one of the most incredible Caribbean vacations!
Check out my Instagram for more videos and photos of St Kitts & Nevis!
Have you ever been to St Kitts or Nevis? What is your favorite place to visit on either island? Leave me a comment and let me know!
PIN ME:
AMAZON AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE:
There are links on this site that can be defined as “affiliate links”. This means that I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you) if you subscribe or purchase something through the links provided.
Big Brave Nomad is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for website owners to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, audible.com, and any other website that may be affiliated with Amazon Service LLC Associates Program.
