Kingstown Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, activities, accommodation options, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations in Kingstown with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Kingstown

Located in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Kingstown is the capital city and the main commercial center of the country. Nestled in a natural harbour, Kingstown boasts a vibrant cultural scene, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. It is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore the Caribbean.

List of Places to Visit in Kingstown

Kingstown has a plethora of destinations for every type of traveler. Here is a roundup of the top attractions that you must visit when in Kingstown:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kingstown has an abundance of historical and cultural sites that highlight the country’s rich past and present. Some of the must-visit museums and historical sites include:

  • The St. Vincent National Museum: Located within walking distance of the city center, this museum is renowned for its collection of Carib and Arawak artifacts, natural history exhibits, and historical information on slavery and colonialism.

  • Fort Charlotte: Built during the 19th century, Fort Charlotte is perched atop a hill on the outskirts of Kingstown. This massive structure provides stunning views of the city and the surrounding areas.

  • Kingstown Anglican Church: Built in the early 19th century, the church’s Gothic architecture is impressive. The church houses historical artifacts and tombstones of various historical figures.

Natural Attractions of Kingstown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kingstown boasts an array of natural attractions that include scenic views and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the most popular attractions:

  • Botanic Gardens: Set over 12 acres, the gardens are home to various species of tropical plants and trees, and a collection of exotic birds. It also has a beautiful waterfall and marine museum.

  • La Soufriere: This volcano hasn’t seen any activity since 1979, but it is still one of the most popular tourist destinations in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Visitors can hike up to the crater or soak in the hot springs located at the foothills of the volcano.

  • Richmond Beach: This beach is located just outside Kingstown and is an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach boasts stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and surrounding islands.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kingstown

Kingstown boasts beautiful hiking and biking trails that offer stunning scenery and picturesque views. Here are some of the most popular trails:

  • Vermont Nature Trail: This 3-mile trail is located in the Vermont Valley and is perfect for nature lovers. It takes hikers through lush rainforests and past waterfalls.

  • Montreal Gardens Trail: This trail is located near the historic Montreal Estate and is a paradise for bird watchers. It takes hikers through tropical gardens and rainforests.

Best Things to Do in Kingstown: Activities and Tours

Whether it’s beach-hopping or exploring the local culture, Kingstown has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the best activities and tours:

  • Island-hopping tours: Discover nearby uninhabited islands, coral reefs, and turtle reserves that are only accessible by boat.

  • Learn to dive: Take a PADI-certified diving course and explore the vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and underwater caves around Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

  • Visit Wallilabou Bay: This bay is famous for being the filming location of the first Pirates of the Caribbean movie. Visitors can also explore the nearby river and waterfalls.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kingstown

Here is a detailed week-long itinerary for Kingstown:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Botanic Gardens while the sun is still low
Day 2 Head over to Fort Charlotte and hike to the top of the hill
Day 3 Visit Montreal Gardens Trail
Day 4 Take an island-hopping tour and explore the nearby uninhabited islands
Day 5 Visit La Soufrière and learn about the history of the volcano
Day 6 Take a day trip to Bequia, an island known for its stunning beaches
Day 7 Spend the day at Richmond Beach and soak up the sun

Food and Drink Scene of Kingstown

Kingstown has a vibrant food and drink scene, and travelers must sample local cuisine and drinks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Callaloo soup: a flavorful dish made from leafy vegetables usually served with bread or dumplings.

  • Fried jackfish with breadfruit: a popular local delicacy that consists of fried jackfish and a side of breadfruit, a starchy fruit similar to potatoes.

  • Saltfish and banana: a local favorite that is made from salted codfish, boiled banana, and dumplings.

Local Beverages

  • Hairoun beer: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ national beer, known for its robust flavor and crisp finish.

  • Sunset rum: Rum is a popular drink in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Sunset rum is a local favorite.

Where to Stay in Kingstown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kingstown offers a range of accommodation options for every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Cobblestone Inn: Located in the heart of Kingstown, the Cobblestone Inn is a budget-friendly option that offers clean rooms and convenient access to the city’s attractions.

  • Grenadine House: This upscale hotel is located in a historic house that dates back to the 18th century. It offers stunning views of Kingstown and is within walking distance of the city center.

  • Mariners Hotel: Located on the outskirts of Kingstown, the Mariners Hotel is a beachfront property that offers a wide range of amenities, including a pool, spa, and restaurant.

What to Buy in Kingstown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kingstown boasts a range of handicrafts and local products that make excellent souvenirs. Here are some of the best items to buy:

  • Carib beer: A six-pack of the local brew makes for a great gift or souvenir.

  • Handmade crafts: Kingstown has a vibrant market scene, and visitors can find an array of handcrafted baskets, clothing, and jewelry.

  • Local spices and sauces: Spice is a big part of Saint Vincent and Grenadines’ cuisine, and visitors can buy a range of spices and sauces to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kingstown

Kingstown has a rich cultural heritage, and travelers must respect the local customs and traditions. Here are some of the local culture and customs to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are predominantly Christian, and it is essential to dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.

  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Kingstown, but it is appreciated.

Best Time to Visit Kingstown

The best time to visit Kingstown is between December and April, which is the dry season. During this time, travelers can enjoy the best weather, excellent sea conditions, and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kingstown

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when in Kingstown:

Do:

  • Take time to explore the local culture.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Pack sunscreen and insect repellent.

Don’t:

  • Exchange money on the street, as it is illegal.

  • Wear beachwear in public places.

Safety and Health

Kingstown is generally safe, but visitors must take precautions to avoid getting hurt or sick. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Kingstown

  • Be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone at night.

  • Keep your valuables and passports safe.

  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash with you.

Health in Kingstown

  • Make sure you are up to date on your vaccinations before traveling.

  • Avoid drinking tap water and only consume bottled water.

  • Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue and Chikungunya.

Getting to Kingstown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kingstown is well-connected to the rest of the world via air and sea. Here are the most popular transportation options:

Airports Near Kingstown

  • Argyle International Airport: Located 5 miles from Kingstown, is served by airlines such as Caribbean Airlines, American Airlines, and British Airways.

Bus Stations Near Kingstown

  • Kingstown Bus Station: Located in the city center, connects visitors to destinations around the island.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Visitors can hail taxis on the street, or hotels can arrange taxi services.

  • Car rental: Car rental services are available at the airport and the city center.

How to Get Around in Kingstown

Kingstown is small enough to explore on foot, but visitors can also use a range of transportation options. Here are the best ways to get around:

  • Taxis: Affordable and reliable, just make sure to agree on a price before getting in.

  • Buses: Local buses connect Kingstown to other destinations around the island, and are a budget-friendly option.

  • Car rental: Car rental is a great option for travelers looking to explore the island at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Kingstown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kingstown is the ideal base to explore Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ other destinations. Here are some of the nearby places to visit:

  • Bequia Island: Known as the ‘island of the cloud,’ Bequia is an island known for its stunning beaches and local culture.

  • Tobago Cays Marine Park: Home to some of the best coral reefs in the Caribbean, Tobago Cays Marine Park is a must-visit destination for snorkelers and divers.

Conclusion

Kingstown is a vibrant, historical, and beautiful destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. By following this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can make the most of their time in Kingstown and explore its rich culture, outdoor adventures, and stunning scenery.