In Search of Serenity – the Best Destinations to Get Away from it All

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.

Big Bay is well suited for jogging and beach sports especially surfing due to its length. The strong breeze that comes off the ocean makes it well suited for kite flying. This Bay is really scenic and pretty ideal for a picnic or all day family outing. Part of the Bay lies alongside the Paria Main Road so it is fairly easy to just pull aside and enjoy the ambiance of the surroundings. There is also a flat grassy area that can be used for parking. At Easter the beach is used for camping.

Hundred Steps Beach is a secluded gem with calm clear waters, great sand and picturesque surroundings set at the base of a verdant green cliff. It is a serene destination by virtue of the difficulty to get to it. Located after Las Cuevas on the North Coast Road, Trinidad. Situated at the base of a cliff, the beach is accessed via a short nature walk from Mitchell Trace to the top of a concrete staircase that leads to the beach. However, you are surprised to learn that a section of the staircase is missing and the completing your descent requires a climb done a rope tied to a tree. But once you are passed the adventurous scramble down the cliff, you realize that this is a destination worth the effort getting to. You are greeted by a lovely beach comprised of fine golden sand with a gorgeous view of the Chupara Bay to the front and enclosed by rocks on either end. The tranquil nature of the beach is a privilege to behold and you realize that you are experiencing something that few others have. Because of the isolation we strongly advise that you visit this destination during the day with a group.

This is one of many serene destinations in the tropical paradise that is Tobago. Located just south of Buccoo Reef, you can relax in the soft white sand bordering the thigh-high turquoise waters. If you can't resist the urge to go in, you can float in the still lagoon, with the deep blue ocean on one side and a palm-fringed beach on the other. Locals claim the water here has the ability to rejuvenate anyone lucky enough to swim in it. Accessible by glass-bottomed boat from Store Bay and Pigeon Point, the area was named by Britain’s Princess Margaret in 1962, who likened it to the transparency of nylon, when she spent her honeymoon there. And it remains today a popular idyllic destination for couples and families alike.

On the leeward coast of Tobago, if you look carefully, you will find Englishman's Bay - a picturesque secluded beach which despite its lack of popularity among beach-goers is arguably Tobago's most beautiful beach destination. Counted among the top 10 beaches in the Caribbean by many travel magazines and websites, this beach is indeed a diamond in the rough. Located between Castara and Parletuvier about 1. 5 km past Castara, the beach is not visible from the Northside Road. Locating it requires a keen eye for a blue and white sign indicating a left turn. Follow the unpaved road to the end and there you will find the classic crescent shaped beach nestled between the thick tropical rainforest and the clear blue Caribbean Sea. The destination is ideal for swimming, snorkelling and camping. Chairs, umbrellas and snorkelling equipment can be rented. It is a nesting ground for the leatherback turtle and is a popular mooring spot for yachts. There is food on sale as well as local craft.

The fort then fell into the hands of the British in the 1800's, and was again refortified to protect their claim to Tobago. The fort was mainly for military purposes when it protected sugar loading operations in the adjacent bay from American Privateers harassing the British during the American Revolution. Archaeologists suggest that the remnant walls can be found under the undulating surface of the fort, an indication of the constant reconstruction that took place in the wake of the numerous battles fought there. The signature cannons are still positioned safely in a recess near the entrance to the grounds, illustrating how the British battery may have originally looked. The turbulent history of the fort stands in stark contrast to the modern day serenity of this spot. A small gazebo sits on the end of the short winding and sloping path, offers shelter from the elements and a panoramic view of the bay.

Nestled between Mount Irvine and Grafton lies a secluded patch of paradise. The adventure begins with the access the beach. The unmarked entrance is directly opposite Gleneagles Drive and visitors must park along Shirvan Road. After passing an abandoned estate property, prospective beach-goers begin a trek over a cliff side trail to journey to the beach set below the cliff of rugged rocks. At 500 metres in length, the Bay is short but one of the most beautiful beaches in Tobago. Large rocks spot the coastline while pretty small fish swim in the crystal clear waters close to the shore. Boulders on the western end make for an exciting snorkelling and scuba diving setting. A natural pool is filled with the tide as water flows in and out; a hidden spot that nature seems to have created just for two. There are no washroom facilities, lifeguards or restaurant and bars on this beach which is something to consider if you intend to spend all day lounging on the isolated beach. Though it is generally unpopulated, Back Bay is a favourite among bodysurfers and surfers as there are good bodysurfing waves.