Bequia, France - Things to Do in Bequia

Things to Do in Bequia

Bequia, France - Complete Travel Guide

Bequia sits in the Grenadines like a perfectly preserved Caribbean postcard, though one that hasn't been sanitized for mass tourism. This is the largest of the Grenadine islands, where yacht crews and locals still mingle at the same waterfront bars, and you can actually have a conversation without shouting over cruise ship crowds. The island maintains that rare balance of being sophisticated enough for discerning travelers while keeping its authentic Caribbean soul intact - you'll find world-class sailing alongside traditional boat building, and restaurants that serve both visiting celebrities and fishermen who've lived here for generations. What strikes most people about Bequia is how naturally beautiful it feels without trying too hard. The beaches have that powdery sand you see in magazines, but they're not lined with resort umbrellas. Port Elizabeth, the main town, curves around Admiralty Bay with colorful buildings that look like they grew there organically rather than being planned by some resort developer. The whole place has this unhurried rhythm that makes you wonder why you've been rushing around everywhere else.

Top Things to Do in Bequia

Princess Margaret Beach

This crescent of white sand consistently ranks among the Caribbean's finest beaches, and for once, the hype matches reality. The water transitions from pale turquoise to deep blue as you wade out, and the beach manages to feel both pristine and lived-in. You might find yourself sharing the sand with locals and yacht crews, which actually adds to the authentic island atmosphere rather than detracting from it.

Booking Tip: No booking required - it's a public beach. Taxi rides from Port Elizabeth run about $10-15 EC, or you can walk the coastal path in about 20 minutes. Bring your own refreshments as beach services are minimal, which is part of the charm.

Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary

This small sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates hawksbill turtles, giving you a chance to see these ancient creatures up close while supporting genuine conservation work. The founder, Brother King, is often around to share stories about individual turtles and the challenges they face. It's genuinely educational without feeling like a tourist trap, and the entrance fee directly supports the sanctuary's work.

Booking Tip: Open daily, small entrance fee of about $5 US. No advance booking needed, but calling ahead ensures someone will be there to show you around properly. Best visited in the morning when the turtles are most active.

Mount Pleasant Lookout

The highest point on Bequia offers panoramic views across the Grenadines that genuinely take your breath away on clear days. You can see the distinctive silhouettes of Mustique, Canouan, and the other islands scattered across impossibly blue water. The hike up takes about 45 minutes and passes through local neighborhoods where you'll get glimpses of everyday island life away from the waterfront tourist areas.

Booking Tip: Free to access, but hiring a local guide for $20-30 US adds context about the islands you're seeing and ensures you don't miss the best viewpoints. Early morning or late afternoon provide the best light and cooler temperatures.

Admiralty Bay Sailing

Bequia sits at the heart of some of the world's best sailing waters, and even if you're not an experienced sailor, day charters let you experience why this area is legendary among yachting enthusiasts. The steady trade winds and protected waters between islands create ideal conditions, and you'll likely spot dolphins or flying fish along the way. Most trips include snorkeling stops at secluded coves that are only accessible by boat.

Booking Tip: Day charters range from $80-150 US per person depending on boat size and inclusions. Book through established operators like Passion Fruit Sailing or Friendship Rose for reliable service. Sunset sails are particularly magical but book early as they fill up quickly.

Sargeant Brothers Model Boat Shop

Watching the Sargeant brothers craft detailed model boats using traditional techniques gives you insight into Bequia's deep maritime heritage. These aren't tourist trinkets but genuine works of art that reflect generations of boat-building knowledge. The brothers are usually happy to explain their techniques and the history behind different vessel designs, making it as much about cultural preservation as craftsmanship.

Booking Tip: No fee to watch, though purchasing a model supports local artisans (prices range from $50-500 US depending on size and detail). Visit during weekday mornings when the brothers are most likely to be working and available to chat.

Getting There

Bequia connects to the outside world through a combination of flights and ferries that's actually more straightforward than it initially appears. Small aircraft fly directly to J.F. Mitchell Airport from Barbados, St. Vincent, and other Caribbean islands - the runway is short but perfectly adequate for the twin-engine planes that service these routes. Alternatively, you can fly into St. Vincent and take the regular ferry service, which runs multiple times daily and takes about an hour across some genuinely beautiful water. Many visitors actually prefer the ferry approach as it builds anticipation and gives you that proper sense of arriving on an island.

Getting Around

Bequia is small enough that walking works for much of Port Elizabeth, but taxis become necessary for beaches and attractions beyond town. The taxi drivers generally know everyone and everything happening on the island, making them informal tour guides as much as transportation. Rental cars are available but honestly unnecessary given the island's size - most visitors find that a combination of walking, occasional taxis, and boat transfers to different beaches covers all their needs. The roads can be steep and winding, so if you do rent a car, make sure you're comfortable with Caribbean driving conditions.

Where to Stay

Port Elizabeth waterfront
Spring Bay area
Lower Bay beachfront
Friendship Bay vicinity
Industry Bay surroundings
Mount Pleasant hillside

Food & Dining

The dining scene reflects Bequia's position as a serious yachting destination - you'll find surprisingly sophisticated restaurants alongside local spots that have been serving the same families for decades. Waterfront establishments like Mac's Pizzeria and The Fig Tree cater to both yacht crews and land-based visitors with menus that blend Caribbean flavors with international techniques. For more authentic local experiences, seek out smaller places away from the waterfront where you can try traditional dishes like callaloo soup and fresh-caught fish prepared with local spices. The Thursday night jump-up at various venues gives you a chance to experience local nightlife and food in a genuinely festive atmosphere.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Saint Vincent

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Adaggio

4.6 /5
(1131 reviews) 2

Massawa Restaurant

4.6 /5
(877 reviews) 1

PARDI

4.5 /5
(212 reviews)

Restaurant Le cadran solaire

5.0 /5
(162 reviews)
Explore Italian →

When to Visit

Bequia's location in the southern Caribbean means it sits below the main hurricane belt, making it relatively safe from major storms while still enjoying consistent trade winds. The dry season from December through April offers the most reliable weather and calmest seas, which is why it's also the most expensive and crowded period. That said, the shoulder seasons of November and May can actually be ideal - you'll get good weather with fewer crowds and better prices. The summer months bring more rain but also fewer visitors and significantly lower accommodation costs, plus the sailing conditions remain excellent year-round thanks to those steady trade winds.

Insider Tips

The Thursday night street party rotates between different venues - ask locals where this week's jump-up is happening for the most authentic local experience
Water taxis between beaches cost much less than land taxis and give you better views - negotiate rates beforehand and confirm pickup times
The small grocery stores in Port Elizabeth stock surprisingly good wine selections thanks to the yachting clientele, often at better prices than resort bars

Explore Activities in Bequia

Plan Your Perfect Trip

Get insider tips and travel guides delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.