Things to Do in Tobago Cays

Tobago Cays delivers on its reputation. This cluster of five uninhabited islands sits in the southern Grenadines, surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped coral reef that creates some of the clearest waters in the Caribbean. The entire area operates as a protected marine park, which means the snorkeling and diving here ranks as genuinely excellent—you'll encounter sea turtles, rays, and plenty of tropical fish in waters so clear you can see the sandy bottom from 30 feet up. What makes Tobago Cays special? There are no hotels, no restaurants, no permanent structures at all—just white sand beaches, clear lagoons, and that reef system. Most visitors arrive on day trips from Union Island or Mayreau, though some anchor overnight on sailing charters. The contrast between deep blue ocean outside the reef and turquoise shallows inside creates a visual that sticks with you, and the whole area has this peaceful, end-of-the-world feeling that you won't find elsewhere in the Caribbean.

Food happens on your boat. Day trip operators typically provide lunch as part of their packages, often featuring local specialties like grilled fish, rice and peas, and fresh fruit—quality varies significantly between operators, so read reviews about the food specifically. Multi-day sailing charters include all meals prepared by onboard chefs, with menus ranging from simple Caribbean fare to gourmet cuisine depending on your charter level. Some visitors bring picnic supplies from Union Island or Mayreau, though the marine park has strict waste disposal rules to protect this environment.

Visit during dry season—December through April. You'll get the calmest seas, clearest skies, and most comfortable temperatures, though this is peak season with higher prices and crowded anchorages, particularly around holidays. May through November brings higher rain chances and rougher seas, but fewer crowds and better prices—hurricane season runs June through November. For the best experience, consider late November or early December when weather improves but crowds haven't arrived yet. Water temperature stays 78-82°F year-round, making any time good for swimming.