St Kitts: The Caribbean without Mass Tourism and Giant Resorts

Last Updated on June 17, 2021

Swaying coconut trees, sparkling blue water, powdery sand and the sounds of reggae music in the distance: St Kitts is everything we’d imagined – and more. Having spent almost a week exploring, we’re thrilled to find that St Kitts isn’t just any Caribbean island. It’s the Caribbean without sun-burnt tourists, all-inclusive resorts, and Señor Frogs. Imagine Barbados 20 years ago and that’s St Kitts – no high-rise hotels, touts nor throngs of crowds. In their place are empty, pristine beaches, tranquil villages, lush green rainforests, and a huge monkey population (bigger than the human population of 35,000!).

Despite its small size (68 square miles), St Kitts packs a punch especially for active travelers like ourselves who like to get out and about. Over the past few days, we’ve hiked in the Phillips Rainforest, ziplined through the Wingfield forest, and tried SNUBA diving for the first time.

While navigating our way around the island, we also learned about St Kitts’ colonial and slavery history in the capital of Basseterre, where prisons and British architecture can still be seen today. At the UNESCO World Heritage Site of  Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, we were transported back in time when British troops protected the land against the French. Wingfield Estate also gave us a glimpse into the island’s sugar production history.

To give you an idea of St Kitts’ secrets, here are some of Alberto’s shots from various corners of the island. We’ll be back with more stories but in the meantime, enjoy the photos!

The numerous hills on the island offer amazing view points

Travel Insurance for Frequent Travelers

I’ve been using Safety Wing for years now, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made as a frequent traveler. Their Nomad Insurance plan is affordable and provides solid coverage for medical emergencies regardless of where I’m traveling. It’s been super reliable for me, and I think you’ll find it just as helpful on your adventures!

READ NOW

15 Things to Do in Cozumel, Mexico

On a clear day, a view of the whole South Peninsula can be enjoyed with the island of Nevis in the background

Nellie enjoying some sunshine at one of the beautiful beaches of St. Kitts

St. Kitts is also a great place for bird watching. Here’s a Cattle Egret resting on a tree

The island of St. Kitts was once called Liamigua or “fertile island” by its early inhabitants. Locals believe that touching this rock and the fertility drawings carved on it will boost your chances of getting a baby

The Rum Tree. Locals express their love to the Caribbean’s signature beverage by hanging empty rum bottles to decorate this very special bush

The Brimstone Hill Fortress is a living testament of the power of the british empire during their rule on the island

The fortress is located on a vantage spot for defense and control of the island

The Brimstone Hill Fortress is one of the best preserved historical fortifications in the Americas, something we can attest while visiting its interior

Barbecue stands are scattered all across the island to the enjoyment of tourists and locals

After a day of exploring, what better way to kick back and relax than at one of St. Kitts tranquil beaches

Disclaimer: Our trip was made possible by St Kitts Tourism, but all opinions expressed above are our own.