Trinidad and Tobago offers one of the more unique nature and cultural experiences of all the Caribbean islands. This article highlights only seven (7) of the many beautiful places to visit in Trinidad.
1. Maracas Beach
Our first must-visit destination is Maracas Beach located on the north coast of the island. Its white sand, blue-green waters and palm trees make this an ideal Caribbean beach experience. Only 10 miles from the capital city, Port Of Spain. Beachgoers and nature lovers can enjoy the 2km stretch of soft white sand and tumbling waves. Great for body and broad surfing. This destination offers a tasty tradition; it’s the home of the famous bake and shark. Various vendors set up shop and offer hot off the grill meals. The mouth-watering sauces are said to be the secret.
2. La Brea Pitch Lake
Second must see we go to the La Brea Pitch Lake. Fondly called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” by villagers on Trinidad’s south-western coast. Known to be one of the world’s largest commercial deposit of natural asphalt in the world. The La Brea Pitch Lake spans 109 acres, the lake is a large oval shape. The asphalt is used to pave roads and airports around the world. Walking on the surface, you can hear hissing and burping and you can also smell the sulphur. The pitch lake is a phenomenon. Small pools form during the rainy season where visitors can bath in these pools. The La Brea pitch lake is a historical site with a history dating back to 1595 or before. There is also an onsite museum with artefacts, and more.What an adventure!
3. Waterloo Temple
Next is the Waterloo Temple, known as the temple in the sea. Located off the Waterloo coast Gulf of Paria, tt is an octagon-shaped temple on a man-made island. An Indian labourer Seedas Saadhu singlehandedly build this beautiful site, took him 25 years. This was done after his first structure was demolished in 1947, because it was on state-owned land. Saadhu took to the sea to rebuild his place of worship. This Hindu temple is a National Treasure of Trinidad and Tobago. Peaceful and magnificent.
4. Asa Wright Nature Centre and Nature Resort
Number four Asa Wright Nature Centre and Nature Resort. Nestled on the Northern Range is 1500 acres on the forested lands, in the Arima and Aripo Valleys. This nature centre and resort is one of the top birdwatching destinations in the Caribbean. With 159 species of birds recorded and an impressive tropical rainforest. The nature resort includes the main estate house, an inn and a restaurant, which serves traditional, local dishes. Truly a naturist and birdwatchers’ dream.
5. Queen’s Park Savannah
Our fifth must-see location is the Queen’s Park Savannah. Locally known as “the savannah” is the largest open space in the capital. History dates back to 1817 when the town council bought this land, and in the 19th century, it was established as a park. History goes on to it being used for sports. Today the Queen’s Park Savannah has Grand Stand on the south side used to host our Carnival Show. The Magnificent Seven Houses are on the western edge. On the north is the Royal Botanical Gardens and Emperor Valley Zoo. There is also an open-air food court serving local dishes. Great for the evening stroll.
6. Caroni Bird Sanctuary
Next up is the Caroni Bird Sanctuary, one of the most extensive mangrove wetlands in Trinidad and Tobago. Located northwest of Chaguanas where the Caroni River meets the Gulf of Paria. The ecological diversity of the swamp is essential to maintain the environment. The Caroni Bird Sanctuary is an environment that has a variety of flora and fauna species, which supports in providing food and protection for the marine and freshwater species. This bird sanctuary is the home of Trinidad and Tobago’s national bird, the Scarlet Ibis and the home for over 100 avian species. The Caroni Swamp is protected under the Ramsar Convention and is an important economically, and a popular ecotourism site.
7. Chacachacare Salt Pond
Our last must-see is Chacachacare Salt Pond. This island is located on the westmost side of the Bocas Islands. The Bocas Islands are a group of islands between Trinidad and Venezuela. The sand and shingle bank tapped seawater from a bay, and on the eastern side of the pond is a large 30ft shingle bank that separates the pond from the Gulf of Paria. The high levels of salinity, the salt pond is warm, relaxing, and one can float easily. Some claims the hyper-salinity has therapeutic properties. A popular attraction for sure.
Author: TriniMel
Just a fellow trini making a contribution.
