Turtle Beach

Vacationers in search of some sand and surf will treasure the undeveloped beaches of the southeast peninsula of St. Kitts. Among these, Turtle Beach offers opportunities for stalking monkeys and swimming within sight of neighboring Nevis. Open-air cafes offer margaritas, buckets of chilled Carib beer, grilled mahi mahi and other local favorites just feet from the water, and while the service can be a little slow, the food and the views are well worth the wait. A menagerie of chickens, goats and local legend Wilbur the pig, who is famously friendly to fault, is on hand.

One of the smallest popular beaches on the island, Turtle Beach nonetheless has live local music on Sunday afternoons. Pleasure seekers looking for unspoiled paradise may be disappointed due to the crowds of tourists and hawkers pushing massage and braided hair extensions, but travelers interested in soaking up some local color along with an allotment of sun should head straight for Turtle Beach. 

Practical Info

Turtle Beach is approximately a $20 cab fare from Basseterre. Numerous local tour groups make the spot the first stop on their itineraries, allowing plenty of time for swimming, visits with Wilbur and refreshments. Note that the profusion of underwater grass and large rocks make strolling through the waves at wading level somewhat precarious.