Things to Do in Trinidad
Meaning ‘The Caves Beach’ in Spanish, this long stretch of Blue Flag beach is so-called due to the small caves that line its shore. A beach lover’s paradise, Las Cuevas is blessed with soft white sand lapped by turquoise waters, and is framed by beautiful flowering trees.
Las Cuevas Beach is just a short drive from Maracas and is usually far less crowded than its more commercialized neighbor. It has everything you might need for a lazy day on the beach though, with a car park, snack bar, shower and changing facilities, plus lifeguards on duty until 6pm. If lazing about in the sun doesn’t appeal, there are always the caves in which to seek shelter from the tropical heat, plus the beach is ideal for a long stroll or a relaxing swim.
A day trip to Las Cuevas Beach from Port of Spain involves a scenic drive along the coast, revealing some stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Your tour is likely to stop at the Maracas Lookout on the way and at Maracas again to sample its famous Bake and Fish sandwich on the return journey. A visit to Las Cuevas Beach is also included on the coastal tour of Trinidad itinerary.
Caroni Swamp is a 12,000-acre swamp situated just south of Port of Spain on Trinidad & Tobago’s west coast. Being the second largest mangrove wetlands on the island and the natural nesting home for one of the country’s national birds, Caroni Swamp is protected under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance.
The swamp runs along the banks of the Caroni River and features a maze of channels and lagoons. The central section is designated as a wildlife sanctuary, with the mangrove trees providing the ideal nesting place for the distinctive Scarlet Ibis birds, along with around 100 species of migratory birds, making it perfect for birdwatchers. The main attraction for nature lovers occurs just before sunset, when the ritualistic roosting habits of thousands of the brightly-colored Ibis can be observed close-up. The birds fly in unison to feed and nest here, creating a dazzling cloud of red against the evening sky.
Caroni Swamp is naturally a popular tourist destination, and flat-bottom boats with experienced guides conduct regular tours through the mangroves, helping you to spot the many bird species and other swamp inhabitants, such as crabs, caimans, and boa constrictors. Book a Caroni wetlands boat tour or a Caroni Bird Sanctuary tour from Port of Spain to experience the natural wonders of this unique swamp for yourself.