Wallilabou, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Things to Do in Wallilabou

Things to Do in Wallilabou

Wallilabou, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Complete Travel Guide

Wallilabou is a picturesque coastal village located on the leeward side of Saint Vincent, part of the stunning Saint Vincent and the Grenadines archipelago. This charming fishing village gained international recognition as a filming location for Disney's 'Pirates of the Caribbean' movies, with its dramatic black sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical backdrop providing the perfect Caribbean setting. The village sits nestled between towering volcanic cliffs and the Caribbean Sea, creating a naturally protected bay that has served as a safe harbor for centuries. Today, Wallilabou offers visitors an authentic Caribbean experience away from the crowds, combining its Hollywood fame with genuine local culture and natural beauty. The village features a small marina, traditional Caribbean architecture, and friendly locals who are proud to share their slice of paradise. With its proximity to hiking trails, waterfalls, and some of the best snorkeling spots on Saint Vincent, Wallilabou serves as an ideal base for exploring the island's diverse attractions while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of a traditional Caribbean fishing village.

Top Things to Do in Wallilabou

Pirates of the Caribbean Film Location Tour

Explore the famous filming locations where Johnny Depp and the cast brought the swashbuckling adventures to life. Visit the iconic Wallilabou Bay where Port Royal was recreated, see the remaining movie sets, and learn about the production history from local guides who worked as extras during filming.

Booking Tip: Tours cost around $25-40 per person and are best booked through local operators in the village. Visit during morning hours for better lighting and fewer crowds, and look for guides who actually participated in the filming for authentic stories and behind-the-scenes insights.

Snorkeling and Diving in Wallilabou Bay

Discover the underwater world of this protected bay with its vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and excellent visibility. The calm waters make it perfect for beginners, while experienced divers can explore deeper sections with more diverse marine life including sea turtles and rays.

Booking Tip: Snorkeling gear rental costs $10-15 per day, while guided diving trips range from $45-65 per dive. Best conditions are typically in the morning with calmer seas, and local dive shops offer PADI certification courses for those wanting to advance their skills.

Falls of Baleine Boat Trip

Take a scenic boat ride along Saint Vincent's rugged coastline to reach the spectacular Falls of Baleine, a 60-foot waterfall cascading directly into the sea. The journey offers stunning views of the volcanic coastline, and you can swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls.

Booking Tip: Full-day boat trips cost $60-80 per person including lunch and typically run on weekends and holidays. Book with established operators who provide life jackets and snorkeling equipment, and bring waterproof bags for your belongings as the boat ride can be splashy.

Hiking the Vermont Nature Trail

Embark on a moderate hiking adventure through Saint Vincent's lush rainforest ecosystem, starting from the village and winding through tropical vegetation to scenic viewpoints. The trail offers opportunities to spot endemic birds, exotic plants, and provides panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.

Booking Tip: Guided hikes cost $30-50 per person and take 3-4 hours roundtrip. Early morning starts are recommended to avoid afternoon heat and rain, and choose guides certified by the Saint Vincent Tourism Authority who carry first aid supplies and know the local flora and fauna.

Traditional Fishing Experience

Join local fishermen for an authentic Caribbean fishing experience, learning traditional techniques passed down through generations. Cast nets, try your hand at line fishing, and gain insight into the daily life of this coastal community while potentially catching your dinner.

Booking Tip: Half-day fishing trips cost $40-60 per person and are best arranged directly with local fishermen through your accommodation. Early morning departures around 5-6 AM offer the best fishing conditions, and trips often include cooking your catch for lunch on the beach.

Getting There

Wallilabou is accessible by road from Kingstown, Saint Vincent's capital, located approximately 45 minutes north along the scenic Leeward Highway. Most visitors arrive via Argyle International Airport (SVD), then take a taxi or rental car to reach the village. The journey from the airport takes about 1.5 hours and offers spectacular coastal and mountain views. Water taxis and private boats also service Wallilabou Bay from other parts of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, making it a popular stop for yacht charters and island-hopping adventures.

Getting Around

Wallilabou is a small village easily explored on foot, with most attractions, restaurants, and accommodations within walking distance of each other. Local buses run sporadically along the main coastal road connecting to other parts of Saint Vincent, while taxis can be arranged through your accommodation for trips to nearby attractions. For greater flexibility, rental cars are available in Kingstown, though the winding mountain roads require careful driving. Many visitors also use the village as a base for boat trips to explore the coastline and nearby islands.

Where to Stay

Wallilabou Bay Hotel
Anchorage Yacht Club area
Buccament Bay Resort vicinity
Local guesthouses in village center
Beachfront vacation rentals
Eco-lodges in nearby hills

Food & Dining

Wallilabou's dining scene centers around fresh seafood and traditional Caribbean cuisine, with several waterfront restaurants offering catch-of-the-day specialties and local favorites like callaloo soup, fried plantains, and grilled lobster. The Wallilabou Anchorage restaurant is famous among visitors for its Pirates of the Caribbean memorabilia and hearty local dishes, while smaller local establishments serve authentic Vincentian cuisine at budget-friendly prices. Many accommodations offer meal plans featuring locally sourced ingredients, and the village's proximity to fishing grounds ensures exceptionally fresh seafood. Don't miss trying the local rum punches and fresh fruit juices made with tropical fruits grown on the island.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Wallilabou is during the dry season from December to May, when rainfall is minimal and trade winds provide comfortable temperatures averaging 75-85°F (24-29°C). This period offers the calmest seas for water activities and the most reliable weather for hiking and outdoor adventures. The shoulder months of November and June can also be pleasant with fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates, though there's a higher chance of brief tropical showers. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with September and October being the peak months to avoid, though Saint Vincent's southern location means it's less frequently affected than islands further north.

Insider Tips

Visit the small museum display at Wallilabou Anchorage to see original Pirates of the Caribbean props and costumes left behind after filming
Bring cash as many local establishments don't accept credit cards, and the nearest ATM is in Kingstown
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent, as the tropical environment can be intense for unprepared visitors

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