INTRODUCTION
Situated between the shimmering waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, St Kitts resides as a hub for island festivities, immersive culture, and deeply entwined tradition.
The larger of the two islands that make up the nation of St Kitts and Nevis, the former stands out thanks to its highly diverse topography, which boasts otherworldly rainforests, rolling lush valleys, and emerald mountain ranges that combine to make 18 miles of Caribbean paradise.
From powerful peaks to hidden shores, St Kitts has a vast range of beaches to suit any type of traveller. Thanks to the Atlantic coastline to the north, you can take in spectacular crashing waves, particularly at Sandy Bank Bay and North Friar’s Bay.
Strolling the island’s volcanic black beaches offers an additional unique experience as they are a step beyond the typical sandy shores of the region.
That being said, beach lovers and sun seekers can immerse themselves in the more tranquil waters of South Friar’s Bay, Cockleshell Beach, and South Frigate Bay, offering soft, silky sands and the gentle sapphire tide of the Caribbean Sea that lets travellers drift away from the pressures of everyday life.
St Kitts is also the burgeoning Caribbean destination of choice for a dreamy romantic getaway – courtesy of its colourful, soaring and blissful landscapes – where couples feel like they’re at the edge of the world as they bask in natural beauty and create memories to last a lifetime.
Those looking for a charming island escape have a vast range of hotels and resorts to choose from, each offering an intimate experience.
Along with a diverse selection of authentic cuisine, you will find a plethora of locally crafted rums on offer, as the rich, tantalising beverage is deeply rooted in St Kitts culture.
With a storied history dating back to the 17th century, rum production methods have remained unchanged, expertly made using local sugarcane and distilled with strong, enriching flavours.
Take a deep dive into this potent heritage by visiting the likes of Old Rum Road – the island’s oldest rum distillery – or go on a rum history tour at the majestic Fairview Great House and Botanical Garden, where you can sample seven flavours of Shipwreck Rum made locally by the Brinley family.
Travellers should also indulge in the delightful rums of Hibiscus Spirits, made from the roselle hibiscus plant, known locally as sorrel. The distiller also offers a unique tour experience where you can create your own cocktail or even your own spiced rum.
More than just a Caribbean island, St Kitts offers a vast range of experiences – from calming stillness that lets you drift off into idyllic bliss to action-packed snorkelling and diving adventures, there are unforgettable memories waiting to be unlocked.
Q&A WITH ST KITTS TOURISM AUTHORITY
The St Kitts Tourism Authority (SKTA) continues to be a central pillar to the island’s ever-blossoming travel industry, proudly advocating and promoting this spectacular destination.
We catch up with Honourable Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism, who updates us on how the authority continues to highlight the best the island has to offer travellers and showcase St Kitts on the world stage.
Firstly, how does SKTA continue to curate different experiences for travellers who want to see the best of the island?
Honourable Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism (HMTH): There are two ways this is achieved: through the itinerary planner on the Visit St Kitts website for stays ranging from 24 hours to seven days, and via annual advertising campaigns focused on niche activities.
This year, SKTA highlighted new or lesser-known offerings such as night kayaking and parasailing for couples, cacao ceremonies and moonlit sound therapy sessions for wellness enthusiasts, and self-drive 4×4 vehicle tours for families and groups to explore our mountains and rainforests.
How has the authority continued its efforts to increase airlift and cruise arrivals and ultimately grow brand visibility over the last 18 months?
HMTH: To increase airlift arrivals, we have prioritised training travel agents and promoting our St Kitts Rewards programme in all key source markets.
In October, our St Kitts Yourway (SKY) Programme was a Gold Winner at the 2025 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards in the ‘Hospitality – Overall Travel Advisor Support’ category. The award recognises the programme’s efforts in supporting travel advisors and helping them share the story of St Kitts with visitors through authentic storytelling and education.
To boost cruise arrivals, we are currently upgrading our port facilities to enable home porting, starting in winter 2026.
How would you say the tourism landscape has evolved in St Kitts over the last few years and how have you responded to these changes?
HMTH: Since 2022, the destination has seen year-on-year growth in both visitor and cruise arrivals.
We conduct surveys amongst our travellers and have noticed a shift from beaches to novel experiences as the reason for visiting St Kitts.
What makes St Kitts perfect for those looking for a romantic getaway in 2026?
HMTH: St Kitts is uncrowded and under-the-radar, yet easily reachable through many non-stop and direct flights from the US, Canada, and the UK.
Couples can turn on ‘Do Not Disturb’ as they dine at restaurants perched on cliffs and centuries-old ruins, hike along lush rainforest trails with a forest guide, or unwind at a hotel spa.
Surrounded by sweeping views of rolling mountain ranges and the sea, couples can reignite their romance in St Kitts.
What can adrenaline junkies get up to on the island?
HMTH: Land adventurers can hike Mount Liamuiga, our dormant volcano, zipline over the rainforest canopy, and go off-roading through the countryside and mountains, all of which offer breathtaking vistas. Sea lovers can also kitesurf, wing foil, sea cycle, and drive mini speedboats.
“Land adventurers can hike Mount Liamuiga, our dormant volcano, zipline over the rainforest canopy, and go off-roading through the countryside and mountains, all of which offer breathtaking vistas”
Honourable Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism, St Kitts Tourism Authority
How can first-time travellers to St Kitts enjoy the cultural authenticity of the island?
HMTH: First-time travellers can enjoy the cultural and authentic aspects of the island through our local culinary offerings such as grilled lobster and fish at beach bars along The Strip in Frigate Bay, grilled meat offered along the main road, and traditional weekend delights, such as a cook-up – a mix of seasoned rice and variety of meat; goat water – a stew made of goat meat; and black pudding – a type of sausage.
On the St Kitts Scenic Railway, travellers can see the oldest passenger train in the Caribbean and intriguing masquerade dances accompanied by live playing of flutes and drums.
In what ways does SKTA continue to harness sustainable tourism and encourage travellers to protect St Kitts’ natural environment?
HMTH: The government recently signed a new agreement with Taiwan to develop a 50-megawatt land-based solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage plant that will promote industrial growth and boost energy resilience on the island.
The solar power plant, which harnesses sunlight to generate electricity, will feed directly into the national grid, reducing the island’s reliance on diesel and natural gas.
The rainforest in St Kitts, which covers about 25 percent of the island and has been protected since 1902, is expanding as it reclaims fields once used for sugarcane cultivation.
Finally, are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in St Kitts?
HMTH: Yes, I look forward to seeing the tourism industry evolve as St Kitts and Nevis works towards becoming a sustainable island state by 2040.
BASSETERRE IN FOCUS
Flanked by green mountains and sandy shores, Basseterre is packed with beautiful landmarks of profound historical significance and unique local vibrancy.
Looking out over the west coast to the Caribbean Sea, St Kitts’ bustling capital is one of the Eastern Caribbean’s oldest cities, where shadows of its fascinating history are round every corner. This can be felt most deeply by taking in its distinct architecture, which has both French and British colonial influences.
The island’s past is further depicted by the likes of Independence Square. Originally constructed in 1790, the square was renamed in 1983 upon the island’s independence from the UK and transformed into a tranquil oasis with a kaleidoscope of beautiful flowers and vegetation, perfect for a gentle stroll in the heart of the city.
Another must-see spot is The Circus, with the Berkley Memorial at its centre. Built in 1883 as a reimagining of Piccadilly Circus in London, the tower is a commemoration of a local legislator and landowner, with each clock face looking out to Basseterre’s four main streets – Bay Road, Liverpool Row, Central Street, and Canyon Street, each featuring boutique-style shops, bustling restaurants, and local markets.
OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS
Eat:
FOR AUTHENTIC CARIBBEAN SPIRIT ON THE BEACH…
Found on the Southeast Peninsula of St Kitts, Reggae Beach Bar and Grill is the place to go for the island’s best seafood and barbecue dishes. With the motto ‘rush slowly’, you are instantly taken in by the restaurant’s relaxed vibe.
Foodies can indulge in a vast range of dishes, including fresh grilled fish and lobster, coconut shrimp salad, honey mustard ribs, and beef burgers – just to name a few, each complemented by zesty tropical frozen drinks.
If delicious food wasn’t enough, adventure seekers will no doubt make the most of the establishment’s water sports on offer, with snorkelling equipment available to rent, ocean kayaks, deep sea fishing gear, and private charters.
Sleep:
FOR A LUXURIOUS PARADISE ESCAPE…
Striking the perfect balance between comfort, convenience, and stylish aesthetics, Royal St Kitts Hotel makes you feel at home through a vast range of available room types, including a cosy studio space, thoughtfully decorated one and two-bedroom suites, and spacious private bungalows that have direct access to premium amenities like an exclusive pool and golf course.
Found in the heart of Frigate Bay, the hotel is also close to renowned local restaurants as well as some of St Kitts’ best beaches.
Do:
FOR PREMIUM CUBAN CIGARS…
A treasure trove of the best Cuban cigars St Kitts has to offer, alongside a carefully crafted selection of fine wines and warming spirits, La Casa Del Habano (La Casa) boasts the largest humidor in the Eastern Caribbean and houses only the best-quality products.
The perfect setting for a flavourful drink and cigar, La Casa is also home to a sophisticated lounge where aficionados can sit back and relax with great entertainment. Guests of this esteemed establishment can also enjoy a refreshing beverage from the lounge’s Mojitos Bar or take part in La Casa’s regular scotch and rum tastings.
FOR ST KITTS’ MOST SOUGHT-AFTER JUNGLE TOUR…
Recognised by National Georgaphic as a cultural hot spot, Liamuiga Natural Farms is the island’s only working coffee farm which strives to preserve St Kitts’ beautiful natural environment and uphold its sacred traditions.
The experience begins with a ride in an open-air military truck through the towering mountain slopes before entering this picturesque, one-of-a-kind farm reserve, where you can enjoy a tour of the working farm and coffee estate.
Settling into the reserve’s main base after the tour, enjoy a wealth of hearty dishes crafted using exclusively local produce and sample the rich aromas and flavour profile of rainforest-grown coffee.
FOR SOARING AMONGST THE VERDaNT TREETOPS…
Why hike and clamber across the rainforest when you can fly through the trees on a zipline with Sky Safari Tours?
There are five distances to choose from, with the longest being 1,350 feet (ft) at 250 ft above ground. Seated in a comfortable harness, zipliners can explore the beautiful Wingfield Estate from the sky.
LANDMARK ATTRACTIONS
Wingfield Estate
The remnants of one of the oldest sugarcane estates in St Kitts, catch a glimpse of a partly restored mill, smokestack, lime kiln, and aqueduct that combine to create intriguing plantation ruins. Here, you can also find the vibrantly decorated Romney Manor – the former home of the plantation owners. Established in 1625 and in operation until the early 1920s, Wingfield Estate is both scenic and highly engaging.
Timothy Hill
Looking over a small stretch of land that acts as a unique divide between the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, Timothy Hill is ideal for panoramic views of St Kitts, letting you truly take in all the island’s natural beauty has to offer. This impressive spot is accessible through many local tour guides or independently via car.
Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park
This fascinating fortress is the island’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and a demonstration of British military strength in St Kitts across the 17th and 18th centuries. With construction lasting over 100 years, it is one of the best-preserved fortifications not only in the Caribbean, but across the Americas, and a must-visit for the best views of the island.
GETTING THERE AND AROUND
Flying to St Kitts couldn’t be easier, with direct flights from the UK, Canada, the US, as well as domestic flights from other Caribbean regions.
Visitors can fly to the island via a multitude of major airlines, including American Airlines, British Airways, Air Canada, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, as well as regionally via Liat Air, interCaribbean Airways, Caribbean Airlines, WINAIR, and Sunrise Airways.
Upon entry to St Kitts, travellers require an approved Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), which you can submit an application for up to 90 days before arrival.
The eTA is then valid for 90 days from the date of entry or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, with a service fee also involved in the application.
Given St Kitts is only 18 miles long, visitors have a wealth of car rental options available to journey across the entire island in just under an hour.
There is also reliable public transport on offer in the form of regular minibuses that travel to and from most residential and tourist areas, typically priced between EC$2 and EC$5 per journey.
For those who wish to island hop from neighbouring Nevis, there are also several ferry service options available. However, make sure to check the ferry schedule, which differs depending on what day of the week you are making the journey.
It’s also worth noting that you don’t need any travel documents, authorisations, or a visa to travel between the two islands.
