Scarborough, Tobago

A short drive or a steep walk from the port leads to Fort King George, a well-preserved 18th-century fort offering panoramic views of the bay and housing a small museum.

About a 25-minute drive from Scarborough is the iconic Pigeon Point Heritage Park, famous for its picturesque white-sand beach and thatched-roof jetty. From here, you can take a glass-bottom boat tour to the Nylon Pool, a shallow, crystal-clear sandbar in the middle of the sea.

For nature lovers, a visit to Argyle Waterfall, the island's highest waterfall, is a popular excursion. It is located about a 45-minute drive from the port and involves a short hike through a lush forest to reach the cascading tiers.

Many visitors take a day trip to the famous Buccoo Reef, a protected marine park accessible via glass-bottom boat tours from the Buccoo or Pigeon Point areas, located about 20-30 minutes drive from the port.

For a scenic coastal drive, the charming fishing village of Castara is about 45 minutes away and offers a glimpse into local life with a beautiful, tranquil beach. Further afield, the village of Speyside on the island's northeastern tip is a hub for diving and snorkeling, located about an hour's drive from Scarborough, offering views of Little Tobago island.

The Port of Scarborough is conveniently located on the southwestern edge of the city, within walking distance of the downtown area. Cruise ships typically dock directly at the pier, so tendering is not usually required.

While the city's main shops and the local market are accessible on foot, the terrain can be quite hilly. Taxis are readily available at the port terminal for passengers who prefer not to walk or wish to travel to attractions outside the city center.

The cruise terminal itself has basic amenities, including a tourist information desk, restrooms, and some souvenir and craft stalls.

The official currency is the Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD). While US dollars are widely accepted in major tourist areas, shops, and by taxi drivers, you will likely receive change in TTD.

ATMs are available at the cruise terminal and in banks throughout Scarborough for withdrawing local currency. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at most hotels, larger restaurants, and established stores, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors and market purchases.

Scarborough is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is important to exercise standard safety precautions. Avoid displaying valuable items like expensive jewelry or large sums of cash. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded places like markets or when using ATMs.

It is safe to explore the main town area independently during daylight hours. However, for visiting more remote beaches or natural sites, it is recommended to hire a registered taxi driver or join an organized shore excursion. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially after dark.

Tobago enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). The year is divided into two main seasons: a dry season from January to May and a wet season from June to December.

Even during the wet season, rainfall typically occurs in short, intense showers, often followed by sunshine. Visitors should pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunglasses, a hat, and strong sunscreen. A light raincoat or umbrella is also advisable, especially during the wetter months.

Tobago lies south of the main Atlantic hurricane belt, making direct hits rare, though the island can experience tropical storms during the hurricane season, which runs from June to November.

Taxis are the most common and convenient mode of transportation for cruise passengers. They are readily available at the port, and you should look for vehicles with license plates starting with 'H' to identify them as registered taxis.

Fares are not metered, so it is crucial to negotiate and agree on the price before beginning your journey. Route taxis, which are shared and run on fixed routes, offer a cheaper but less direct alternative.

While a public bus system is operated by the Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC), it may not be practical for visitors on a tight schedule as routes may not directly serve all major tourist attractions. Ride-sharing apps are not operational on the island.

The main shopping area is in downtown Scarborough, particularly around the central market, where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts. The cruise port terminal also has several stalls offering souvenirs and locally made goods.

Popular items to purchase include local rum, hot sauces, hand-woven items, wood carvings, and batik clothing. Tobago is also known for its high-quality cocoa, so look for locally produced chocolate. Haggling is acceptable at the market but not in established retail stores. Some duty-free shopping for liquor and tobacco is available.