Navassa Island Travel Guide

Explore the exotic Caribbean paradise, Navassa Island, with our in-depth travel guide. Find out about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Navassa Island

Navassa Island is a small and exotic Caribbean island located in North America. It was once a thriving center of guano mining, but now is a nature reserve. With its pristine beaches, tropical forests, and underwater treasures, Navassa Island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure-seekers. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a tour to Navassa Island, giving you insights into the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Navassa Island

Visitors will find plenty of exciting attractions and activities in Navassa Island. Here is a list of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Navassa Island Lighthouse: Built-in 1917, the Navassa Island Lighthouse is an iconic structure that remains in excellent condition. The surrounding area offers gorgeous views of the island’s natural beauty.
  • Navassa Island Library: This library is the primary source of information on the island’s history and culture. It’s a must-visit spot for history buffs.

Natural Attractions of Navassa Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Navassa Beach: The pearl-white sandy Navassa Beach is perfect for tourists seeking a relaxing environment to soak in the sun and crystal-clear water that surrounds the island.
  • The Devil’s Nest: The Devil’s Nest is a giant cavern, with a natural pool of various rocks and you can find a lot of different fish that frequent here.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Navassa Island

Navassa Island is a great place for hikers and bikers, with many excellent trails to choose from. You can explore the island’s natural beauty by going on the following routes:

  • The Lighthouse Route: This is a must-try route, a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. The trailhead begins at the lighthouse, and you can explore the nearby jungle and caves.
  • The Saddle Hike: This hike offers a different experience of Navassa Island. You will see breathtaking views of the island and surrounding water as it takes you through its saddle roads.

Best Things to Do in Navassa Island: Activities and Tours

Navassa Island offers plenty of activities and tours for its visitors, including:

  • Snorkeling and Diving: The crystal-clear waters surrounding Navassa Island are home to a vast array of marine creatures. You can explore them by going on a snorkeling and diving excursion.
  • Fishing: Fishing enthusiasts can have a day of fun fishing in the island’s waters. You may catch some tasty fish like snapper or sardines.
  • Camping: If you’re an adventure-seeker, camping is a must-try activity for you. You can camp on the beach and experience the island’s natural beauty by night time.

Week-Long Itinerary for Navassa Island

Here’s a seven-day itinerary to help you make the most out of your visit to Navassa Island:

Day 1: Arrive on the island, spend some time on Navassa Beach, and take in the serene environment.

Day 2: Explore the island’s history and visit the Navassa Island Lighthouse.

Day 3: Take the Saddle Hike and enjoy the stunning views of the island.

Day 4: Go on a snorkeling or diving excursion to explore the island’s underwater treasures.

Day 5: Indulge in fishing and catch some delicious fish for a beachside barbecue.

Day 6: Take a break from the adventures and spend a relaxing day on the beach.

Day 7: Go kayaking and explore the island from a different perspective.

Food and Drink Scene of Navassa Island

Navassa Island is renowned for its delicious local dishes and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish Stew: This delicious dish is made of fresh fish and various vegetables. It is a must-try for seafood lovers.
  • Goat Curry: The goat curry is a spicy dish made with local spices and meat. It is a unique and flavorful experience.

Local Beverages

  • Ting: Ting is a refreshing grapefruit-flavored soda, which is the most famous drink in Navassa Island.
  • Rum Punch: You can’t leave Navassa Island without trying the delicious Rum Punch. It is made with local distillery rum and various tropical fruit juices.

Where to Stay in Navassa Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Navassa Island has limited accommodation options, but you can find some comfortable places to stay, including:

  • Navassa Island Lodge: The Navassa Island Lodge offers comfortable and affordable rooms with picturesque views of the island.
  • Navassa Island Guesthouse: You can stay in the guesthouse, meet new people, and learn about Navassa Island’s vibrant culture.

What to Buy in Navassa Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Navassa Island offers some unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, like:

  • Handmade Jewelry: The local artisans make beautiful jewelry from the island’s natural resources, like shells and seeds.
  • Artifacts: You can also find various artifacts, like pottery and baskets, made by the island’s indigenous people.

Local Culture and Customs of Navassa Island

Navassa Island has a unique culture, with a mix of African, European, and Caribbean. The islanders celebrate their cultural heritage through food, music, dance, and arts.

Best Time to Visit Navassa Island

The best time to visit Navassa Island is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. Weather-wise, it’s also the most pleasant time to visit. It is best to avoid the rainy season as it leads to unexpected delays in traveling.

Do’s and Don’ts of Navassa Island

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when in Navassa Island:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Be kind and welcoming to the locals.
  • Protect the island’s natural beauty by disposing of trash properly.

Don’t:

  • Litter.
  • Damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect the cultural heritage of the islanders.

Safety and Health

Safety in Navassa Island

Navassa Island is a safe destination for tourists. The crime rate is low, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. However, be careful when visiting remote places.

Health in Navassa Island

Navassa Island has no medical facilities, so visitors should bring all necessary medication and supplies. Make sure to have plenty of bottled water.

Getting to Navassa Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Navassa Island is a remote island and is not easily accessible. However, visitors can reach the island via:

Airports Near Navassa Island

The nearest international airports are in Jamaica and Haiti, with several flights a day to Jamaica’s capital city, Kingston.

Other Options

Visitors can travel by ferry or charter boat, departing from Jamaica or Haiti’s coastal cities.

How to Get Around in Navassa Island

The island has no public transportation, but visitors can move around on foot or rent bicycles.

Where to Go Next from Navassa Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After a relaxing and rejuvenating stay on Navassa Island, visitors can explore nearby destinations like Jamaica or Haiti. Both offer a wide range of activities and attractions to enjoy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Navassa Island is a true paradise, and visitors can enjoy a relaxing and exciting trip here. This comprehensive travel guide provides all the information you need to make your trip unforgettable, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and various other details. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the hidden gem of the Caribbean - Navassa Island!

Map of Navassa Island Map of Navassa Island