10 Extraordinary Family-Friendly Holiday Destinations in Trinidad

Galera Point is one of the most beautiful and dramatic ocean destinations in Trinidad. Literally the furthest eastern point of the island, Galera Point is the location of the Toco Lighthouse that overlooks the turbulent stretch of water known as the Fisherman's Graveyard, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea. The Toco lighthouse, a white stone tower built in 1897, shines a red light that warns vessels of the rocky waters below. Take a walk past the lighthouse down a narrow path through a small gate in the fence to the windblown rocky cliffs below where large waves crash against jagged black rocks. Here literally at Trinidad's easternmost point you will behold a dramatic watery struggle where the waters of the Atlantic intermingle with the Caribbean Sea giving you a feeling that you are actually at world's end. Outdoor furniture and carat sheds around the lighthouse make for a relaxing breezy picnic location.

Formerly called La Vigie, Fort George is situated on the hills to the North of St. James overlooking the Gulf of Paria. The fort, which was part of a complex of fortifications, is the best destination for one of the most spectacular views of Port of Spain and the sea. In addition to the beautiful vista at this well preserved structure one can see the original cannons, dungeons, artefacts of the day and a signal station which was established in 1802 and designed by Prince Kofi Nti, son of King Kofi Calclai of Ashanti, West Africa. Built in 1804 under the direction of the then British Governor, Brigadier-General Sir Thomas Hislop, the fortifications at Fort George consisted of sea defences and a series of supporting batteries: V. I. Z the York; Princess Charlotte; Abercombry and Cambridge on the lower slopes and Cumberland to the North above the Fort. Considered well-nigh impregnable in the day, it was the major defensive position in the Trinidad, but it was never to experience military action. In times of rumours of war the merchants of Port of Spain would store their records, cash and valuables here. Fort George ceased to be a Military establishment in 1846.

This Hindu temple was built through perseverance and strength. The Waterloo Temple, better known as Temple in the Sea, is an octagonal- shaped colourful structure. At the entrance of the temple, stands a statue of its designer Seedas Sadhu. Flags and statues adorn the temple’s perimetre. Before entering, you must remove your shoes because once inside, you are on holy ground. The beauty of reverence is reflected in the well-crafted murtis of Lord Hanuman, Lord Ganesh, Lord Shiva and Mother Durga and flowers adorned around them. The temple was first built in 1947 by indentured labourer Sadhu, whose dream was to build a place of worship. That dream was short lived as, five years later, it was destroyed by the government of the time since it was built on State-owned Caroni land. Not discouraged, Sadhu rebuilt the temple - this time in the sea to avoid the further incident. For the next 25 years, Sadhu dedicated himself to completing the temple. On his bicycle and in a leather bag, he carried stone by stone, assembling the base of the temple. In 1994, the government at the time helped finish the temple in commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the coming of Indians to the country. A pier was added to ensure the Waterloo Temple could easily be accessed during high tide.

The Asa Wright Nature Centre (AWNC) is a Not-for-Profit Trust established in 1967, it’s Mission: “To preserve a part of the Arima Valley in its natural state; to create a conservation and study area and to protect  the wildlife therein for the enjoyment and benefit  of all persons of this and succeeding generations”. The Centre was selected by the Ecotourism Society and listed in the October 1999 issue of Audubon Magazine as one of the finest eco-lodges in the world, it was also selected as the model for a case study on “Eco-tourism as a Strategy for Sustainable Development”. As you make your way along the Blanchisseuse road, the adventure has begun, vines hanging, blind  corners and precipitous  drops, lush Christophene farming and nature sounds, you are definitely getting nearer to your destination. The AWNC and Lodge is a must to experience, it is the best destination in Trinidad for unique birding and natural history experiences. Overnight guests wake up to the alarm of a variety of bird sounds, and as they gravitate toward the veranda they help themselves to our plantation grown robusta coffee, found only at Asa Wright. Breakfast is all local, with our very own whole wheat bread, local jams and jellies made from fruits harvested in our garden. Daily we welcome visitors as we are open to the public from 9am – 5pm,we offer daily natural history tours at 10.30 am and then at 1.30 pm. We serve creole food in our restaurant please call ahead with your dietary requirements so that we can cater to your needs. Families are encouraged, the allure of our small clear water pool, the connection with nature, the relaxed pace and peaceful environment brings a sense of contentment we all need to experience.

Shark River is beautiful river destination that is ideal for a good ‘Trini’ river lime. With many shallow spots for wading complemented by deep crystal clear pools for swimming, it is a river that everyone can enjoy. The clarity of the water is astounding and in deep areas, the surrounding lush vegetation gives the water an amazing emerald green tinge. Shark River, is so named because at one time visitors would witness sharks swimming up the river from the nearby Caribbean Sea. But have no fear, this has not occurred for some time and it is safe to swim in the beautiful water. Located between the villages of Grand Riviere and Matelot, it is a lovely destination to spend a relaxing day. Unlike many other river lime destinations, the banks of Shark River are equipped with concrete seating and tables for those who wish to have a meal. The more adventurous can explore upstream where you will discover various pools, gorges and waterfalls.