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6 Great Jamaican Adventures You Should Experience

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Active Caribbean Travel Has a Blast River Tubing down the Yardy River in Jamaica

Adventurous Things to Do in Jamaica – Rivers, Links, Trails, Caves and more…

The third largest island in the Caribbean after Cuba and Hispaniola (Haiti / Dominican Republic), Jamaica is located south-east of Cuba in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. The island is about 3 times the size of Long Island NY.  Aptly known as the “land of wood and water”, the island is probably best known for it’s Reggae music & culture, white sand beaches, as well as it’s Rum and Coffee. Jamaica is rich with a beautiful and diverse landscape that includes mountain ranges, green valleys, wild rivers and waterfalls. Perhaps the island’s most iconic natural landmark is the Blue Mountain range, home to Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, a World Heritage Site.

To really appreciate Jamaica’s natural beauty, you need to get away from the resorts and journey into Jamaica’s forests and get active on it’s rivers and mountains.  A very popular Caribbean vacation destination, Jamaica is one of the best islands to enjoy waterfalls, river rafting, hiking and golf.  Our personal favourites include:

Jamaica River Rafting and Tubing

It would truly be a shame to visit Jamaica and not experience one of it’s marvelous rivers…  Depending on your mood, you can enjoy a slow romantic ‘gondola’ style ride, or you can get wet on an exciting fast-moving river tube or raft. Can’t decide? No Problem Mon – You can do both!

Active Things to do in Jamaica include River Rafting - Gondola Style

For a relaxing and romantic rafting excursion, there are a few options to choose from.  Probably the most famous rafting tour in Jamaica is on the Martha Brae, a meandering river close to Falmouth.  You start at “Rafter’s Village”, six acres of grounds that include manicured lawns, Miss Martha’s Herb Garden, a picnic area, a full service bar, souvenir shops, a swimming pool and modern restrooms.  From there, your personal guide will pole you and your companion down 3 miles of quiet river on a long bamboo raft.  Similar bamboo rafting tours are also available on the Great River just west of Montego Bay, as well as on the Rio Grande river, just west of Port Antonio – at the east end of the island. One of the most romantic and relaxing things to do in Jamaica!

Active Things to do in Jamaica include white water River Rafting / River Tubing

For a more adventurous river rafting experience, you can venture out into the fast moving waters of the White River, just east of Ocho Rios.  You’ll love the stunning White River Valley while you’re tubing or rafting, and you’ll enjoy some bird watching on a short hike to some lovely waterfalls.  If you’re staying on the other side of Ocho Rios closer to Falmouth, you’re in for a treat river rafting on the fast moving waters of the Rio Bueno River – Also known as the Jungle River, some Rio Bueno River tours include waterfalls, rapids, river pools and a private beach.  Similar rafting tours are also available: At the west end of the island on the Yardy and Great Rivers; South of Falmouth at the Good Hope Estate as well as the River Bumpkin Farm; South west of Montego bay on the Great River at the Lethe Estate.

For more information about rafting, tubing and the tour operators who will get you on the water, check out our Jamaica River Rafting / Tubing page

Want to see more? Check out our Jamaica River Rafting on the Martha Brae, and Jamaica Yardy River Tubing Fun videos on YouTube!

Jamaica Golf – So Many Courses to Choose From!

Perhaps the best Golf destination in the Caribbean, Jamaica offers a smorgasbord of Caribbean Golf with over ten courses to choose from, including a number of Championship courses.  Located mostly along the north coast between Negril and Ochos Rios at the west end of the island, here’s a small sampling of Links to wet your appetite:

The Tryall Club Resort is an 18-hole, 6,836-yard golf course designed by Ralph Plummer.  The course covers land bordering the sea, and travels inland rising 180 feet (55m).

Active Things to do in Jamaica include playing Golf

Half Moon Resort has an 18-hole / Par-72 championship course originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and later updated by Roger Rulewich.  This golf course is home to PGA tournaments including the Jamaica Open and the European PGA Senior Tour.

Cinnamon Hill Golf Course at Rose Hall is an 18-hole course originally designed by Hank Smedley and later updated by Robert von Hagge/Rick Baril.  This golf course features sea-side holes and a 350 foot (105m) rise from the ocean. Home to PGA tournaments including the BMW Jamaica Classic, the Latin America Tour and Annie’s Revenge ProAm.  It’s 15th hole was used for a scene in the James Bond Movie ‘Live and Let Die’.

Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort (Also known as SuperClubs Golf Club at Runaway Bay) is an 18-hole / Par 72 championship golf course measuring 6,870 yards.  Designed by Major John Harris, this course has hosted PGA tournaments including the Ryder Cup, The Jamaica Open, The Brinks (JA) Classic, The Heineken World Cup Qualifier, CNBC Nations Cup and numerous JGA Qualifiers.

Active Things to do in Jamaica include Golf

Founded in 1865, the Manchester Golf Club is the oldest golf course in the Caribbean.  This 9-hole / Par 35 course measures 2,865 yards and is set on 55 acres of rolling hills, at over 2,000 feet (610m) above sea level.

For more information on one of the most popular things to do in Jamaica, including a full list of courses along with tour operators you can get you there, click on our Jamaica Golf Vacations page



Jamaica Hiking – Several Forests to Choose From

There’s plenty of variety with the hiking trails on the island.  There’s some hilly and mountainous trails as well as some short nature walks.  For the serious hiker, you can enjoy some intermediate or more challenging mountainous adventures for sure.

Active Things to do in Jamaica include hiking in the Blue Mountain and John Crow National Park

At the east end of the island, the Blue Mountain range is 28 miles (45km) long and typically covered in a bluish cloudy mist, hence it’s name. The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, is where you can find the highest points of the island, including Blue Mountain Peak which stands 7,402 feet (2,256 m) tall – The most iconic hiking tour in Jamaica, the Blue Mountain Sunrise Hike, ascends this peak.  The trail is about 11.5 miles (18.5km) long round trip, requiring 5-8 hours.  This is a great hike with epic views of the island / sea waiting for you at the top.

Active Things to do in Jamaica include hiking in the Holywell Recreation Area

There’s another half dozen up-hill mountainous trails in the Park, ranging in length from 2 to 6 miles (3 to 10 km), including Middleton Mountain and Catherine’s Peak.  The Holywell Recreation Area, also located in the Park has a few easier trails, each taking little more than an hour to complete.

Another dozen decent trails can be found just outside of The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, north-east of Kingston.

For more information about these hikes, and hiking guides that can get you on the trail, check out our Jamaica Hiking – National Park and Surrounding Area page

While the southern portion of the Blue Mountain Range gets most of the attention, the northern part of the foothills, just south of Port Antonio offers some great hiking as well. Quiet and remote, this area will show you all the natural beauty Jamaica has to offer!  There are a few trails in the Rio Grande Valley and a few more near Moore Town, three hours south of Port Antonio.

For more information about these hikes, and hiking guides that can get you on the trail, check out our Jamaica Hiking – North East page

Active Things to do in Jamaica include hiking in Cockpit Country

Another hilly region of note in the north-west/central part of the island is the Dry Harbour Range with it’s lesser known and visited Cockpit Country. This is probably the wildest area left on Jamaica. The jungle landscape is wrinkled and dimpled with hundreds of limestone hills and karst caves and is home to a few hidden trails worth exploring.

Day hikes in Cockpit Country include the challenging Troy to Windsor Trail which follows the route of a British military road built in the 1700s for 10 miles (16km) one way.  The Quick Step Trail is 11 miles (18km) one way running from Windsor to the village of Quick Step.  There are also a couple of easier shorter hikes as well.

For more information about these hikes, and hiking guides that can get you on the trail, check out our Jamaica Hiking – Cockpit Country page

Jamaica Waterfall – Cool Off Under a Refreshing Stream of Water

One of my favourite things to do in Jamaica is to visit one of over a dozen easily accessible waterfalls on the island. This is a great way to explore the real Jamaica – Get out there and explore her rivers and natural highlights attractions like waterfalls.  Excursions usually involve a short hike to the falls, where you can cool off under a soft stream of clean Caribbean water then splash around in natural river pools.

The best locations for a wet and wild waterfall experience in Jamaica include:

Active Things to do in Jamaica include visiting a Waterfall

YS Falls – Located in the south-west part of island between Negril and Kingston, these falls feature a spectacular seven-tiered cascading waterfall.  A visit there can also also include wading pools (one with a rope swing), canopy rides, river tubing and a zip-line.

Mayfield Falls can be found nestled in the Dolphin Head Mountains, on the west end of the island between Negril and Montego Bay.  Take a short hike along a bamboo stairway, across manicured lawns and a wooden bridge to a Rasta village called Reggae Style Mayfield Village.  From there a guide will accompany you along the snaking river so that you can enjoy a number of mineral pools, the waterfalls as well as taste local foods.

Active Things to do in Jamaica include visiting a Waterfall... Dunns River Falls

Of course, the most iconic tourist attraction in Jamaica has to be Dunn’s River Falls, just west of Ocho Rios. Although it’s always crowded with tourists, this is indeed a beautiful area where you can join hands with others and walk on it’s natural calcium carbonate based steps, part-way up the 600 feet (180m) tall gorgeous waterfalls.

Konoko Falls, just west of Ocho Rios, are a beautiful cascading waterfalls in a well maintained Park environment.

The Irie Blue Hole, also known as Secret Falls and the Cool Blue Hole, has a nice waterfall along with natural swimming pools.  South-east of Ocho Rios, these falls are further away from the crowds, making it a great location to visit.  Please note that the “Blue Lagoon”, from the movie with Brooke Shields, is located just west of Port Antonio.

Other less visited waterfalls can be found in the east end of Jamaica.  Reach Falls are located just east of Port Antonio – This hidden gem has been featured in a couple of major movies.  Somerset Falls, just west of Port Antonio are situated in a natural garden with ponds.  Scatter Waterfalls are located in the Rio Grande Valley south of Port Antonio – These private grounds have several hiking trails and a campground.

For more information, along with tour guides who can help make the most of your day, check out our Jamaica Waterfalls page

Want to see more? Check out our Natural Beauty of YS Falls video on YouTube!

Jamaica Caving (Spelunking)

Escape the sun’s rays by venturing underground to explore one of Jamaica’s dozens caves – Some are accessible by tourists, while others are for serious spelunkers.  There’s tours of large caverns with bat viewing as well as remote rarely visited caves to go deep into…

For tourists looking for a cool cave tour you have a few options:

Active Things to do in Jamaica include Caving / Spelunking

You can visit the popular Green Grotto Caves, between Falmouth and Ocho Rios. You’ll experience passageways and chambers close to 130 feet (40m) below the earth’s surface.  The feature attraction is the ‘grotto’ itself – A huge limestone cave with stalactites, stalagmites, as well as a large subterranean body of water.

The Two Sisters Cave is located just south-west of Kingston and features two caves (hence the name), each with a large sink hole filled with fresh water. These caves are connected underground to a myriad of caverns extending in all directions. One cave contains a petroglyph carving of a face which is believed to be several hundred years old.

Further west of Kingston, you’ll find the Mountain River Cave.  A mile long trail takes you to the cave, which is about 30 feet deep.  Plenty of ancient pictographs can be seen on the cave walls, along with a few petroglyphs.

One of the more adventurous things to do in Jamaica is to go caving / spelunking in Cockpit Country or Cave Valley… What an experience!

Cockpit Country, south-east of Montego Bay, is home to hundreds of rivers, streams and caves that provide some of the best spelunking opportunities in the Caribbean.  There are hundreds of caves in the area, including:  Windsor Caves; Smokey Hole Cave – Which at 630 feet (193m) deep is the deepest on the island, Rock Spring Cave and the huge Quashie River Sink.

Cave Valley is located pretty much in the centre of the island.  This is really cool…  A river travels both under and above the ground, appearing and disappearing as it meanders through the valley.  Major caving attractions include the “Noisy Water” River Cave and “Rat Bat Hole”.

For more information, as well as tour operators who will get caving, click on our Jamaica Caving page

Jamaica Mountain Biking & Cycling

Biking is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise while taking-in breathtaking views of the mountainous island and Caribbean sea. Making good use of it’s natural landscape and ancient foot-paths, Jamaica has plenty of technical and just plain fun downhill mountain biking trails, as well as several flat and hilly cross-country routes to enjoy. There are scenic coastal road circuits to cycle as well. Riding through active plantations and small villages, then cooling off in a local waterfall is a great way to experience Jamaica.

If you’re looking to join an organized ride, Jamaica has three annual events: The Jamaica Fat Tyre Festival in February – Great for mountain biking enthusiasts; The Jamaica Reggae Ride in November – A 3 day escorted bike ride across the scenic coastlines of the island; and The Jamaica By Bike Ride – A long distance cycle from Kingston to Negril.

Active Things to do in Jamaica include Mountain Biking and Cycling

The Negril area has a number of bike trails, both in the hilly wilderness as well as along the coast.  There are challenging trails for the hard-core biking enthusiasts as well as easy routes for sight-seeing.

Your need-for-speed will be satisfied on downhill MTB courses between Ocho Rios and the Blue Mountains.  With names like ‘Rivers of Babylon’, ‘Jellied Eel’ and ‘Pressure Drop’ you know you need to check out these trails!

Not surprisingly, some of the island’s most challenging biking is in the Blue Mountains.  Trails range in length from 1 to 11 miles (0.5 to 17 km), with most in the 1 to 4 mile (2-6km) range.  Trail names like ‘Triple Bypass’ and ‘Downpipe Gully’ paint a mental picture for sure!

That said, there are also tourist focused ‘sightseeing’ rides in the Blue Mountains that everyone in the family can enjoy.


For more info on one of the funnest things to do in Jamaica, including tour operators who will get you on the saddle, check out our Jamaica Mountain Biking & Cycling page

Enjoy!

ACT Staff

Also – For great Tourist Attractions, check out our Things to Do in Jamaica blog

For an overview of the land of wood and water, take a look at our Jamaica Vacations page

For a video collage of Some of the Fun Things to Do in Jamaica, check out our YouTube video (by clicking the highlighted link)

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Things to do on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman

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Things to do in Cayman Brac and Little Cayman include relaxing... then visiting the National Trust Parrot Reserve, Preston Bay Iguana Habitat and the Booby Pond Nature Reserve!

Wildlife Attractions like Parrots, Iguanas and Red Footed Boobies!

A British Territory in the Western Caribbean, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are peaks of the massive underwater Cayman Ridge. The Cayman Islands are located south of Cuba, between Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and Jamaica. Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are situated east and slightly north of Grand Cayman.

If you’re wondering how to get to these remote islands… Don’t worry, there are daily island hopper flights from Grand Cayman that can fly you over quickly and easily. Local Grand Cayman boat operators can also cover the 80 miles (130km) and the cruise is fun in itself.

There’s plenty of unique and interesting things to do in the Cayman Islands, and that includes the lesser visited ones as well as Grand Cayman. Let’s take a look at some of our favourite attractions and things to do when visiting Little Cayman and Cayman Brac.

Things to Do in Cayman Brac

Things to do in Cayman Brac and Little Cayman include relaxing... then visiting the National Trust Parrot Reserve, Preston Bay Iguana Habitat and the Booby Pond Nature Reserve!

The first thing to know about Cayman Brac, affectionately known as ‘the brac’, is that the island is named for the 140 foot (43m) high bluff, or “brac” on the east end of the island. While not exactly daunting, it is the highest point of the Cayman Islands and provides some pretty spectacular views of the sea towards Cuba. The main attraction of the Brac is the National Trust Parrot Reserve. These protected lands are home to the remaining few hundred of endemic parrots that exist in the wild. There’s a mile long nature trail that loops through a corner of the reserve, allowing you to experience the area’s natural brush and forested habitat as well as mango trees, cactus and orchids. With any luck, you may even spot a parrot!

You’ll also find a couple of interesting low-key attractions on the island. Heritage House, a re-purposed old tannery, hosts cultural events and a local craft market. The Cayman Brac Museum features free exhibits showcasing the turtle trade, ship-building as well as the history of local hurricanes.

Things to Do on Little Cayman

If you’re looking for a quieter island than Cayman Brac, well Little Cayman, population 100 (there-abouts), will probably fit the bill 😉 One recommendation for something to do on the island is… Relax and do nothing – and by nothing we mean, meditate, read a book or go for some leisurely walks. When you’re ready for a little more excitement, you can hop on a bike and casually cycle around the island’s 8 mile (13km) loop stopping at wildlife viewing stations along the way.

Things to do in Cayman Brac and Little Cayman include relaxing... then visiting the National Trust Parrot Reserve, Preston Bay Iguana Habitat and the Booby Pond Nature Reserve!

The real attraction of the island is it’s relatively undisturbed nature. Little Cayman has gorgeous mangroves and lagoons, as well as salt ponds and tropical forests to explore. One area of interest is the Preston Bay Iguana Habitat. Here you can stroll along a boardwalk learning about what lives in the area from informational signs posted along the way. The real star of the show however, is Booby Pond Nature Reserve – A RAMSAR wetland, recognized by BirdLife International as an ‘Important Bird Area’! The 200 acre site is home to 10s of thousands of red-footed boobies along with frigates, herons, ducks, warblers, plovers, sandpipers and more. The Reserve has a visitor centre with an observation gallery equipped with some handy telescopes for examining the local flora and fauna.

Things to do in Cayman Brac and Little Cayman include relaxing... then visiting the National Trust Parrot Reserve, Preston Bay Iguana Habitat and the Booby Pond Nature Reserve!

If you’re looking for some fun and festivities, time your visit to coincide with the annual Cayman Islands Pirates Week Festival. You can participate in the Caribbean’s premier pirate festival and the Cayman Islands’ largest national event which includes activities on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. Events include parades, costume contests, scavenger hunts, street parties, boat races and more.

Have Fun!

ACT Staff

For more information on things to do in the Cayman Islands, including a list of tour operators to take care of you, click on our Things to Do in the Cayman Islands, Cayman Islands Land Excursions, Cayman Islands Ocean Excursions and Cayman Islands Festivals & Events pages

If you’re looking for something else to do on the islands, that will raise your pulse rate a bit higher, check out our Cayman Brac & Little Cayman Adventure recommendations blog

For our overview of the beautiful and diverse islands that make up the Caymans, click on our Cayman Islands Vacations page

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The Best Hiking in Saint Lucia – The Gros Piton & More…

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ST. Lucia Hiking – Rain-Forest Trails, Waterfalls and Epic Views Await You

I suspect that most people think of the Caribbean as a place to relax on the beach with a tropical rum punch in hand… and while that’s a great idea, when I think of the Caribbean, I paint a mental picture of hiking through a lush rain-forest, passing a beautiful waterfall along the way up a green volcanic mountain, enjoying eye-popping views of the Caribbean Sea as a reward! On Saint Lucia, you can easily make this vision come true.

Saint Lucia Hiking includes Rain-Forest and Volcano trails
St. Lucia’s Mount Gimie in the Background

You’ll find Saint Lucia in the southern Caribbean’s ‘Windward’ islands, just south of Martinique and west of Barbados. When exploring St. Lucia, you’ll find a mountainous island covered in lush green rain-forest, with the distinctive and easily recognizable Pitons (mountains), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A very popular Caribbean destination known for romantic getaways, St. Lucia also has plenty to offer adventurous travelers looking for a hiking-filled vacation – If you know where to look…

Saint Lucia hiking offers a variety of trails on the island, offering something for everyone – From short nature walks to intermediate hikes along with a couple of challenging hikes. While no hiking trip to Saint Lucia is complete without climbing the majestic Gros Piton, the island’s highest peak is Mount Gimie at just over 3,000 feet (950m) above sea level. Our favourite trails on the island include:

The Best St. Lucia Hiking Trails on the south end of the island include:

Saint Lucia Hiking includes Rain-Forest and Volcano trails - Mount Gimie

Mount/Morne Gimie Trail in the Edmund Forest Reserve – Plan a full day for this fun and challenging hike covering 5-6 miles (8-10km) of amazing tropical terrain. For those looking for a remote and challenging rain-forest hike on St. Lucia, this is the one to do. While the trail meanders up and down across a mountain ridge and valley, the absolute vertical from start to finish is just under 2,000 feet (600m). You’ll experience a range of trail conditions on this hike, including a couple of amazingly steep sections, where you will need to climb natural ladders of tree roots. You’ll see amazing plant life in this moist rain-forest, and you’ll even be able to go for a dip at the bottom of a waterfall. Of course, the views of the island at various stops along the trail are spectacular, including a very unique perspective of the Pitons from the island’s interior.

For a more colourful review, check out our personal, first-hand account of Hiking St. Lucia’s Tallest Peak

For more information on this trail, including hiking guides to show you the way, check out our St. Lucia Mount – Morne Gimie Hike page

While we’re talking about it… The Edmund Forest Reserve is home to one end of a couple of ‘cross-country’ trails of note. The Des Cartiers to Edmund Forest Trail is an approximately 5 mile (8km) long easy-to-intermediate level hike, while the Barre D’Isle to Edmund Forest Trail is a more challenging 10 mile (16km) Saint Lucia hike with a section of the trail venturing across a nice ridge.

Saint Lucia Hiking includes Rain-Forest and Volcano trails - Gros Piton
The view south – Near the top of St. Lucia’s Gros Piton
Saint Lucia Hiking includes Rain-Forest and Volcano trails - Gros Piton

Gros Piton Trail – An “adventurous” trip to St. Lucia is incomplete without hiking the iconic Gros Piton. This memorable St. Lucia hike consists of a fairly challenging climb to the peak, which is just over 2,500 feet (780m) tall. While this trail is under 3 miles (4.4km) round trip, it’s all uphill (on the way up that is ;), with some pretty steep sections. As expected, once you catch your breath, the views from the top, of the western and south part of the island, are sensational. While this is a somewhat short hike, in order to really enjoy it, you’ll require decent leg strength and cardio. FYI – The Petit Piton can also be hiked, however it is extremely steep and potentially dangerous in some areas.

For a more colourful review, check out our personal, first-hand account of Hiking St. Lucia’s Stair Climber of a Trail

For a more detailed review of this trail, along with a list of local guides to make it happen, click on our St. Lucia Gros Piton Hike page

Saint Lucia Hiking includes Rain-Forest and Volcano trails - The Pitons from Mount Gimie
A unique view of the Pitons and Tet Paul, from part way up Mount Gimie
Saint Lucia Hiking includes Rain-Forest and Volcano trails - EnBas Saut Falls
Enbas Saut Falls – The top cascade / pool

Enbas Saut Falls Trail – This is an intermediate level St. Lucia hike with lots of rustic wooden/natural stairs to first descend, then climb-back-up on the return journey. Depending on your starting point, the hike can cover over 5 miles (9km), requiring 3-4 hours to get to and from the fun and amazing cascading waterfalls.

Saint Lucia Hiking includes Rain-Forest and Volcano trails - Enbas Saut Falls


For a more colourful review, check out our personal, first-hand account of Hiking a Stairway to Adventure

For more info, including hiking guides to show you the way, check out our St. Lucia Enbas Saut Falls Hike page



The Best Saint Lucia Hiking Trails elsewhere on the island include:

Further north in Saint Lucia, you’ll find a number of interesting rain-forest trails. The Union Nature Trail, a quick 10 minute drive east of Castries, provides a short and easy trail – Good for a much-needed visit to nature. The Intermediate level Piton Flore Trail, just south-east of Castries, is a hilly hike taking about 4 hours to complete. Other trails in the area include the Jacquot Trail and the Millet (Bird Sanctuary) Trails. Further south you’ll find the interesting and varied Barre D’Isle Ridge – Mount La Combe – Grande Ravine area trails.

For more information about hiking in the north end of St. Lucia, around Castries, including a list of guides who can get you on the trail, click on our St. Lucia Hiking page

The Eastern Nature Trail, not surprisingly found on the east side of island, is a fairly easy, but reasonably long St. Lucia hike along the remote eastern coastline of the island – Great for adventurers looking to get away from it all.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing walk on the the island, you can always enjoy an outing on Pigeon Island National Park or the highly recommended Tet Paul Nature Trail!

Saint Lucia Hiking includes Rain-Forest and Volcano trails - The Petit Piton from the Tet Paul Nature Trail
The Petit Piton from the Tet Paul Nature Trail

For more information about the trails on the island, including hiking guides who will help you get the most out of your day, click on our St. Lucia Hiking page

So… When you’ve had enough relaxation on the beach and have enjoyed indulging in a local chocolate based meal, you can go for a heart pumping adventurous hike up a piton or mountain or simply take a great leisurely stroll through the rain-forest… Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to have a memorable hiking holiday in St. Lucia!

ACT Staff

If you’re looking for other exciting activities to experience on the island, take a look at our St. Lucia Adventures recommendations

When you’re not hiking, snorkeling or biking around the island, there’s plenty of other things to do on St. Lucia, including a visit to the Sulphur Springs, Mud Baths and associated Waterfalls. For more ideas for a fun and relaxing vacation, take a look at our St. Lucia Attractions blog

For an overview of the beautiful island of Saint Lucia, click on our St. Lucia Vacations page

Have fun!

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Top 6 Adventures You’ll Want to Experience in Bonaire

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Bonaire Adventures - Things to do in Bonaire include Snorkeling, Biking, Hiking, Caving, Kayaking, Surfing and Diving

Things to do in Bonaire – Adventures, both Wet and Dry


One of the Caribbean ABCs, Bonaire is a relatively small island in the southern Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles, situated about 25 miles (80km) north of the Venezuelan coast. The island is a special municipality of the Netherlands. Safe from hurricanes, Bonaire has a truly amazing climate, relatively warm and dry for most of the year. Famous for it’s pink flamingos and white mountains of salt, the island has plenty of amazing adventure activities to enjoy, both below the ocean’s waves as well as on (and in/under) the land. When it comes to “adventurous” things to do in Bonaire, our personal favourites include:

Bonaire Snorkeling – Just Off the Coast

Bonaire Adventures - Things to do in Bonaire include Snorkeling, Biking, Hiking, Caving, Kayaking, Surfing and Diving

With it’s healthy coral reefs and rich marine life, Bonaire may be the best island in the Caribbean for snorkeling! The main island and Klein Bonaire, a small island less than 1/2 mile (1km) from Bonaire’s western coast, are encircled by coral reefs providing an amazing range of biodiversity, including colourful fish, coral and sponge. There are plenty of spots on Bonaire’s western shores where you can slip into the warm Caribbean sea and snorkel right off the beach.  There are also a number of boat operators who can take you to plenty of locations in Bonaire’s Marine Park where you can visit shallow corals or skirt along the edge of steep underwater cliffs. Visibility is great as you can clearly see through more than fifty feet (15m) of Bonaire’s clear blue ocean water. There are even caves you can snorkel in!

Bonaire Adventures - Things to do in Bonaire include Snorkeling, Biking, Hiking, Caving, Kayaking, Surfing and Diving

Bonaire’s West Coast is where the snorkeling action is…  North of Kralendijk there are over a dozen snorkeling sites, many accessible from the beach and several suited for beginners.  With names like Playa Bengi, 1000 Steps and Witch’s Hut, I’m sure you want to check them out! South of Kralendijk there are another dozen snorkeling spots, like Pink Beach and Sweet Dreams, some also beach accessible.  There’s also a few good spots to snorkel on Bonaire’s Lac Bay.

Of course the famous Klein Bonaire has well over a dozen locations for snorkeling, including some that are beach accessible.  This is a great location for beginners as well as for underwater photography. Clearly, snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Bonaire!

Click on this link (to a page on our website) for more information about locations and boat operators – Bonaire Snorkeling

Bonaire Water Sports

Bonaire Adventures - Things to do in Bonaire include Water Sports like Kite boarding, Kite-surfing, Kayaking and Windsurfing

With it’s happening vibe… this is where the cool kids hang out!

Thanks to it’s near constant trade winds, year round warm air and water temperatures, Bonaire is one of the best places in the Caribbean to enjoy life on the water. The south-west coast of the island seems to be made for kite boarding and kite-surfing, while the mangroves and water ways of Lac Bay are ideal for kayaking and windsurfing.

Bonaire Adventures - Things to do in Bonaire include Water Sports like Kite boarding, Kite-surfing, Kayaking and Windsurfing

There’s no better way to experience the Caribbean than hanging out on the beach and getting active in the surf.  So many options… mean Water Sports are one of the best things to do in Bonaire.

Check out the scene at our Bonaire Water Sports page


Bonaire Mountain Biking and Cycling

Bonaire Adventures - Things to do in Bonaire include Snorkeling, Biking, Hiking, Caving, Kayaking, Surfing and Diving

With literally hundreds of kilometres of cycling trails and a dry warm climate, Bonaire is one of the best Caribbean destinations for bike riding. Cycling is a great way to see the island – The hills in the north provide picturesque views of the island, while the rest of the island’s mostly flat with occasional gentle slopes offer soothing views of the Caribbean Sea. You can enjoy road courses that include amazing coastline routes, or you can mountain bike in desert-like off-road terrain.

Washington Slagbaai National Park has 21 miles (34kms) off-road trails, including some decent hills and is probably the most popular place to cycle on the island.  That said, the Rincon Valley and the Bara di Karta Region have a number of trails and roads circuits through the countryside as well, many with views of the Caribbean Sea.  There’s also some longer road circuits for the serious cycling enthusiast.

There’s more Bonaire mountain biking and cycling info to check out by clicking on our Bonaire Cycling page

Bonaire Hiking – Hit the Dusty Trails

Bonaire offers opportunities for some nice relaxing walks as well as a couple of intermediate level hikes, all in a unique-for-the-Caribbean, low scrub-brush like environment.

Bonaire Adventures - Things to do in Bonaire include Hiking

Perhaps the best hiking can be found in Washington-Slagbaai National Park at the north end of the island. This 14 thousand acre (56 sq km) sanctuary was the first in the Netherlands Antilles and has three main hiking trails to explore. Brandaris, the highest peak on Bonaire at 784 feet (241m), is located within the park and offers some spectacular views of the island – on a clear day you can even see Venezuela!

Other hikes elsewhere on the island include the Montana Trail (with views of Goto Meer Lake and the Caribbean Sea); The Roi Sango Trail (Partially shaded trail with views of the sea along with rock formations); The Dos Pos Trail (A Loop Trail along Washington Slagbaai National Park’s boundary); The Bara di Karta Hill (the small hill provides surprisingly spectacular 360 views of the island); and The Red Hill Trail (Desert-like terrain with views of the Atlantic Ocean).

Find out more about Bonaire’s trails and tour operators by clicking on our Bonaire Hiking page

Bonaire Caving

Bonaire Adventures - Things to do in Bonaire include Snorkeling, Biking, Hiking, Caving, Kayaking, Surfing and Diving

Looking for a good escape from the relentless sun?  Journey underground to a world of natural subterranean limestone grottoes, where eerie stalagmites, stalactites and pillars dominate the scenery. There are literally 100s of caves in Bonaire, some ‘dry’ and some ‘under water’ – grottos with freshwater that you can actually wade into and check out the underwater rock formations with a snorkel. There are caverns with bats as well as native petrogyphs / paintings on the walls. Many caves are open to the public – Touring a cave is a unique activity few tourists experience, making it one of the coolest things to do in Bonaire.

For a list of local tour operators, click on our Bonaire Caving page

Bonaire Scuba Diving and Freediving

Saving one of the best activities for last… Bonaire’s healthy coral reefs and rich marine life make it one of the best islands in the Caribbean for Scuba Diving.  Bonaire is also one of the best locations in the world for Freediving.

Bonaire Adventures - Things to do in Bonaire include Scuba Diving and FreeDiving

Bonaire and Klein Bonaire provide an environment that is home to over 50 varieties of coral and 350 species of fish.  The islands are also world renowned for it’s abundance of easy access shore diving.  Of course there’s also a number of boat operators who can take you to dozens of scuba diving locations in Bonaire’s Marine Park. There are over eighty dive sites in total, some in relatively shallow waters and others with steep walls that plunge into the deep dark sea. If you’re looking for great underwater photography sites, Bonaire has it all, including underwater caves to explore.  There are locations for the Beginner diver, advanced diver and everything in between!

Bonaire Adventures - Things to do in Bonaire include Snorkeling, Biking, Hiking, Caving, Kayaking, Surfing and Diving

Bonaire’s West Coast is the most popular place to dive.  There are over 30 dive sites north of Kralendijk, offering drift diving, wreck diving, night diving, as well as freestyle and technical diving.  South of Kralendijk, there are another dozen excellent dive sites.  There’s even more sites further south of Slave Huts (memorial).

Klein Bonaire is home to a couple dozen dive sites, providing more locations for drift diving, wreck diving, night diving, freestyle and technical diving and underwater photography.

Bonaire’s East Coast, including Lac Bay, is a bit rougher, however it has over a dozen dive sites, offering a less populated diving experience for advanced divers. Both shore dives and boat dives are available.

Follow this link (to a page on our website) for more Dive Spot and Boat Operator information – Bonaire Diving


For an overview of this amazing island, take a look at our Bonaire Vacations page

For a more relaxed vacation itinerary, you can find great Tourist Attractions on the island, by checking out our Things to Do in Bonaire blog

Enjoy!

ACT Staff

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Ride a Train & Tour a Fortress and Gardens in St. Kitts & Nevis

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There’s Plenty of Things to Do on the Sister Islands of St. Kitts & Nevis


The Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis Islands, commonly referred to as “St. Kitts” or “SKN”, is a two island nation in the Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles’ Leeward Islands.  The St. Kitts and Nevis islands are actually the tops of a submerged volcanic mountain range.  The green islands are covered with rolling folds of volcanic peaks and lush valleys. Regular ferry service connects the islands of St. Kitts and Nevis, which are approximately 2 miles (3 km) apart.  St. Kitts is only a few miles from its closest neighbours, Sint Eustatius to the north-west, Barbuda and Antigua to the East and Montserrat to the south.

Things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis - Major Tourist Attractions include Timothy Hill

While no trip to St. Kitts is complete without seeing Brimstone Hill Fortress, the picturesque south-east peninsula or visiting the capital Basseterre, there are plenty of other amazing and fun things to do in St. Kitts & Nevis – If you know where to look.  Our personal favourites include:

Experience Unique and Historical Attractions in Saint Kitts

Sit back and relax while you see the island from the “last railway in the West Indies” – A train, built in the early 1900s for the sugar industry, now operates a unique scenic railway tour.  The train ride takes you around the rugged north-east coastline, then bus transportation takes you along the west side of the island, giving you a great all-round island experience.

Things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis - Major Tourist Attractions include Brimstone Fortress and a Scenic Railway Tour


For the history buff, Brimstone Hill Fortress – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must see.  With it’s formidable structure and spectacular views of the Caribbean sea, this well preserved fortification makes for an imposing sight.  Located on the west side of the island, the fortress is an excellent example of British military architecture of a bygone era. Covering almost 40 acres (150k sq. m), the main features of the multi-leveled fortification include it’s massive stone wall, with it’s commanding view (and cannon range) of the surrounding coastline and Caribbean Sea, along with it’s main building the Citadel, also know as Fort George.

Things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis - Major Tourist Attractions include the Black Rocks and Wingfield Estate


Another structure of historical significance is the Wingfield Estate Sugar Plantation.  The Ruins are located in the Central Forest Reserve National Park on the west side of the island, adjacent to the more popular Romney Manor.  Old stone structures outline the remains of a once majestic set of buildings – Imagine the ancient sugar mill, rum distillery and more.  While you’re in the area, one of the more interesting things to do in St. Kitts is to find the 17th century petroglyphs.  

For a unique and interesting geological site, check out the “Black Rocks” on the rugged north-east coast near the village of Bellevue.  These ancient lava formations on the edge of the sea, provide a reminder of the island’s volcanic past.

OK, so you’re looking for some rum…  Local tour operators can take you to the Fairview Great House for some tasting, or on a Rum Runner’s Tour of the capital Basseterre, along with south-east peninsula sightseeing and 5 Rum / Bar Stops.

For more information, including tour operators who will take good care of you, click on our Things to do in St. Kitts & Nevis – Land Excursions page

Revel in the Natural Beauty of Saint Kitts

Things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis - Major Tourist Attractions include Romney Manor and Fairview Great-house

Romney Manor, on the west side of the island is one of the most popular things to do in St. Kitts and is well worth a visit – Their botanical gardens showcase a variety of local flora, including a 400-year-old SAMAN tree as well as colourful ‘lipstick’ palm trees.  A Bar and the Caribelle Batik are also on the grounds – You can even watch a local artist make the famous Batik clothing.

Fairview Great House & Botanical Gardens is a restored 18th century home and grounds.  Your tour there includes the great-house and gardens, which feature local flora.  Located on the west side of the island, you’ll also enjoy great views of the south-western shoreline and Caribbean Sea.

One of the more relaxing things to do in St. Kitts, is to take-in the best views of the islands, without having the climb a volcano or mountain. Journey to a place called Timothy Hill, approximately 3.5 miles (5km) south-east of the capital Bassettere.  From this vantage point you can see all the way down the lush and hilly south-east peninsula of the island, along with Nevis peak in the background.

Things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis - Major Tourist Attractions

For those looking for a nice nature walk, you can take a leisurely stroll in the Central Forest Reserve National Park on the west side of St. Kitts. Also visit the St. Kitts Eco-Park in the north-west corner of the island – Stretch your legs while you enjoy a variety of greenhouses, gardens, and orchards, before grabbing some shade at the tea house.

A variety of tours available in St. Kitts will take you sight-seeing through the mountainous interior of the island by jeep, Land Rover or open air safari bus.  This is a great way to really appreciate the natural beauty of the tropical island and one of the more popular things to do in St. Kitts.  Many tours provide a picnic lunch and include a visit to an old Estate and/or Plantation.

For more information, including tour operators who provide island tours, check out our Things to Do in St. Kitts & Nevis page

Visit the Capital, Basseterre

Things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis - Major Tourist Attractions includes Independence Square in Basseterre

Sometimes, there’s nothing more relaxing than simply taking a break in a park accompanied by a leisurely walk around town.  Basseterre is a great place in the Caribbean where you can wander around safely.  

Independence Square is a short walk from the port. This former slave market location is now a beautiful and tranquil park setting – Sit on a bench and soak-up the Caribbean sun while enjoying the water fountain, the park’s centre-piece.  In the background you can  see the magnificent Church of Immaculate Conception.  The equally impressive St. Georges Anglican church is also just a five-minute walk away.

Looking for more things to do in St. Kitts? On the outskirts of town, yet just a 15 minute walk from Independence Square, is the Government House – A large 19th century dwelling, now home to the island’s Governor General.

For more information, including tour operators who will take good care of you, click on our Things to Do in St. Kitts & Nevis page

Go Zip-lining and Off-Roading in St. Kitts

Want to feel the rush of flying over cane-fields or jungle foliage?  There’s a zip-line operator on the west side of the island, just next to the Wingfield Estate Sugar Plantation.  They have 5 zip-lines to experience and trying multiple rides involve 4×4 transport to get you from line to line.

ATV and Dune Buggy tours are also available on St. Kitts – Ride off-road country tracks, deserted beaches, up scenic mountain slopes and through cane-fields…  Then enjoy some beach time and maybe a refreshing swim.

For more information, including tour operators who will get you on the move, check out our St. Kitts & Nevis Land Excursions page

Cruise St. Kitts & Nevis by Sea

Things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis include Catamaran, Motorboat or Pontoon Boating for a Dinner at Sea or Sunset Cruise

Get a unique perspective of St. Kitts and Nevis by sight-seeing from sea.  At the sister islands, that means it’s west coast features, including Mount Liamuiga and Brimstone Fortress, the south-east peninsula as well as Mount Nevis.

There are a variety of sea-faring options available to you, including catamaran sailboats, power-boats and pontoon boats. Sight-seeing the western shores of the islands is spectacular and boat tours often include a beach visit and/or a BBQ lunch.  Of course, Party Cruises and Sunset Cruises – featuring the chance to see the famous St. Kitts and Nevis ‘green flash’, are also available!


For the more adventurous, how would you like to rip around in a Mini Speedboat?  A local boat operator offers guided tours with these ‘motorized dinghies for two’ – It’s a great way to explore the blue waters of St Kitts and Nevis.

For more information, including boat operators who will get you on the waves, check out our Things to do in St. Kitts & Nevis – Ocean Excursions page

Visit the Natural Beauty of Nevis

Things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis - Major Tourist Attractions include Botanical Gardens, Plantations and Museums

A short ferry ride will take you from St. Kitts to the island of Nevis, where you can enjoy peaceful natural beauty, all in the shadow of majestic Nevis Peak.  

You can enjoy the local flora at the Botanical Gardens of Nevis on the south side of the island.  Visit to the quaint village of Charlestown, the island’s capital, on the west side of Nevis – There you can learn about the island’s history at the Horatio Nelson or Alexander Hamilton Museums, or simply unwind as you bathe in the local hot-springs.  On the north end of the island you can visit the Nisbet Plantation and kick-back with great views of St. Kitts from Oualie beach.

For a little more activity, you’ll appreciate a nature walk through the rain-forest,  bird watching or looking for the Vervet or “green” monkeys that inhabit the islands.  There’s even an Amerindian Site to explore. These are all great things to do in Nevis.

For the more intrepid, there’s exciting 4×4 off-road adventure tours as well as an equestrian centre where you can enjoy trail rides or even a beach tour.

For more information, including tour operators who will take good care of you, click on our Things to Do in St. Kitts & Nevis page

Enjoy!

ACT Staff

Want to see a quick overview? Check out our Sampling of the Sights in Saint Kitts video on YouTube!

If you’re looking for more of a physical adventure, check out our Adventure Activities in St. Kitts & Nevis blog

For an overview of the amazing sister islands, take a look at our St. Kitts & Nevis Vacations page