Things to Do in Tobago Cays, Saintvincent

The Tobago Cays are a stunning collection of five uninhabited small islands and surrounding coral reefs located in the southern Grenadines, part of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This pristine marine park is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, making it one of the Caribbean's most spectacular sailing and snorkeling destinations. The horseshoe-shaped reef system creates a natural lagoon that provides perfect conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Designated as a marine park in 1997, the Tobago Cays offer visitors an untouched Caribbean paradise where sea turtles glide through coral gardens and tropical fish create living rainbows beneath the surface. The area is only accessible by boat, which adds to its exclusive and pristine character. This remote location has made it a favorite among luxury yacht charters, sailing enthusiasts, and eco-tourists seeking an authentic Caribbean experience away from crowded beaches and commercial development.

Top Things to Do in Tobago Cays

Snorkeling in the Marine Park

Explore the vibrant underwater world of the Tobago Cays Marine Park, home to pristine coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles. The protected lagoon offers calm, clear waters perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers to discover colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and sergeant majors.

Booking Tip: Most tours include snorkeling gear, but bring your own mask for the best fit. Full-day sailing trips from Union Island or Mayreau cost $80-120 per person and often include lunch and multiple snorkeling stops.

Swimming with Sea Turtles

Experience the magical encounter of swimming alongside hawksbill and green sea turtles in their natural habitat. The shallow, protected waters of the marine park provide excellent opportunities to observe these gentle creatures as they feed on sea grass and rest near the coral formations.

Booking Tip: Early morning tours (8-10 AM) offer the best turtle sightings when they're most active. Choose operators committed to responsible wildlife viewing with strict no-touching policies. Tours typically cost $90-150 per person.

Sailing and Yacht Charters

Navigate the pristine waters between the five cays aboard a catamaran or sailing yacht, enjoying the ultimate Caribbean sailing experience. The protected anchorage and steady trade winds create ideal conditions for both experienced sailors and those new to sailing.

Booking Tip: Day charters range from $100-200 per person, while private yacht rentals start around $1,500 per day. Book during dry season (December-April) for best weather conditions and calmer seas.

Beach Hopping and Relaxation

Discover pristine white sand beaches on the uninhabited islands, each offering its own unique character and stunning views. Baradal Island and Petit Rameau feature perfect crescents of sand ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying the ultimate tropical paradise experience.

Booking Tip: Beaches are only accessible by boat, so join organized tours or charter private boats from Union Island or Mayreau. Bring sun protection, water, and snacks as there are no facilities on the islands.

Diving and Underwater Photography

Explore deeper coral formations and underwater landscapes perfect for scuba diving and underwater photography. The marine park's protected status has preserved exceptional coral health and marine biodiversity, offering encounters with nurse sharks, eagle rays, and colorful reef fish.

Booking Tip: Certified divers can join boat dives for $60-90 per dive including equipment. PADI Open Water courses are available from Union Island operators for $350-450. Underwater cameras can be rented for $30-50 per day.

Getting There

The Tobago Cays are only accessible by boat, as they are uninhabited islands with no airports or permanent infrastructure. Most visitors arrive via organized day trips or sailing charters departing from Union Island, which has a small airport served by regional carriers from Barbados, Saint Lucia, and Grenada. Alternative departure points include Mayreau, Canouan, or Palm Island, all accessible by inter-island flights or ferry services. Private yacht charters and sailing boats regularly visit from throughout the Caribbean, making it a popular stop on sailing itineraries through the Grenadines.

Getting Around

Transportation within the Tobago Cays is entirely by boat, kayak, or swimming, as the islands are small and uninhabited. Most visitors explore the area as part of organized boat tours that provide transportation between different snorkeling spots, beaches, and islands throughout the day. Private dinghies and kayaks can be used to move between nearby islands and explore secluded beaches independently. The entire marine park area is compact enough to explore thoroughly in a single day, with the main activities centered around the protected lagoon and surrounding coral reefs.

Where to Stay

Union Island (closest accommodation)

Mayreau Island

Canouan Island

Palm Island Resort

Petit St. Vincent Resort

Live-aboard sailing charters

Food & Dining

Dining options in the Tobago Cays are limited to what visitors bring with them or meals provided by tour operators and yacht charters, as the islands are uninhabited with no restaurants or facilities. Most day trips include lunch featuring local Caribbean specialties like grilled fish, rice and peas, and fresh tropical fruits served on the beach or aboard the boat. Visitors staying on nearby islands like Union Island or Mayreau can enjoy local restaurants serving fresh seafood, conch fritters, and traditional Vincentian cuisine. Many sailing charters offer gourmet meals prepared by onboard chefs, featuring fresh-caught fish and local ingredients sourced from neighboring islands.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Tobago Cays is during the dry season from December to April, when weather conditions are most favorable with calm seas, consistent trade winds, and minimal rainfall. This period offers the clearest water visibility for snorkeling and diving, along with the most comfortable temperatures and lowest humidity. May through November brings higher chances of rain and rougher seas, though the marine life remains active year-round. Hurricane season (June-November) can bring severe weather, making boat access dangerous or impossible, so this period should be avoided for safety reasons.

Insider Tips

Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the coral reefs, as regular sunscreen is harmful to marine ecosystems

Pack a waterproof bag for valuables and bring reef-safe snorkeling gear if you have your own for the best fit

Visit during weekdays when possible to avoid cruise ship crowds and enjoy a more pristine experience with better wildlife sightings

Things to Do in Tobago Cays