Old Road Town (St. Kitts), St. Kitts and Nevis: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Old Road Town sits on the exact spot where the first permanent British and French settlements were established in the Caribbean back in 1624? This historic coastal village isn’t just another pretty beach destination—it’s where Caribbean colonial history began. Nestled on the western coast of St. Kitts, this charming town offers a perfect blend of fascinating historical sites, lush rainforest adventures, and stunning coastal views that make it an essential stop on any Caribbean itinerary.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

The closest airport to Old Road Town is Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB), located near Basseterre, approximately 15 km (9.3 miles) away. International flights arrive regularly from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

From the airport, you have several options to reach Old Road Town:

• Taxi service: Available directly from the airport, taking about 25-30 minutes to reach Old Road Town.
• Car rental: Several agencies operate at the airport, offering the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace.
• Public transportation: Local buses run from Basseterre to Old Road Town, though schedules can be irregular.

If you’re arriving by cruise ship, most vessels dock at Port Zante in Basseterre. From there, it’s a scenic 25-minute drive to Old Road Town. Many cruise lines offer excursions that include visits to the historic sites in and around Old Road Town.

Best Time to Visit Old Road Town

The best time to visit Old Road Town is during the dry season from December to April. During these months, you can expect temperatures averaging 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F) with minimal rainfall, creating perfect conditions for exploring both historical sites and outdoor attractions.

If you’re interested in local cultural events, consider visiting during Carnival (December-January) or the St. Kitts Music Festival in late June. These events offer unique insights into the island’s vibrant culture, though accommodations should be booked well in advance during these popular periods.

Getting Around Locally

Old Road Town is relatively small and parts of it can be explored on foot, especially the historic center. However, to fully experience the area and nearby attractions, you’ll need additional transportation:

• Rental Cars: The most flexible option for exploring at your own pace. Driving is on the left side of the road, and you’ll need a temporary driving permit (available from rental agencies for about $24 USD).
• Taxis: Readily available but can be expensive for full-day exploration. Negotiate rates before departing, as taxis are not metered.
• Public Buses: Colorful minibuses run between major towns. They’re inexpensive (2-3 EC$ per ride) but follow loose schedules and stop running in early evening.
• Bicycle Rentals: Available in some areas, good for short distances on flat terrain.

Where to Stay

While Old Road Town itself has limited accommodation options, there are several excellent choices nearby that provide easy access to the town’s attractions:

Dining & Local Cuisine

Old Road Town offers authentic Kittitian cuisine that reflects the island’s rich cultural heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and dining spots:

Local Specialties

• Goat Water: A savory stew made with goat meat, vegetables, and spices (don’t let the name fool you—it’s delicious!).
• Saltfish and Johnny Cakes: A traditional breakfast of salted cod with fried dough.
• Conch Fritters: Tender conch meat mixed with spices and fried to perfection.
• Stewed Saltfish: Salted cod cooked with tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
• Coconut Dumplings: Sweet dumplings often served with fish dishes.

Where to Eat

Don’t miss trying the local Carib beer or a rum punch made with St. Kitts’ own Brinley Gold Shipwreck rum for an authentic taste of the island.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Historical Sites

• Wingfield Estate: The site of the first British settlement in the Caribbean, featuring ruins of a sugar mill and the Old Road Rum distillery.
• Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site just a short drive from Old Road Town, offering spectacular views and rich history.
• Romney Manor: Historic estate with beautiful gardens and home to Caribelle Batik, where you can watch artisans create colorful batik fabrics.
• Carib Petroglyphs: Ancient rock carvings left by the indigenous Carib people, located near the Wingfield Estate.

Natural Attractions

• Central Forest Reserve National Park: Lush rainforest with hiking trails and diverse wildlife, including the playful vervet monkeys.
• Black Rocks: Dramatic volcanic rock formations created by lava flow from Mount Liamuiga.
• Old Road Bay: A picturesque beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Museums & Cultural Sites

• St. Kitts National Museum: Located in Basseterre but worth the short trip to learn about the island’s history.
• Fairview Great House & Botanical Garden: A restored plantation house with period furniture and beautiful gardens.
• Amazing Grace Experience: A museum near Brimstone Hill that tells the story of John Newton, who wrote the famous hymn after a transformative experience near St. Kitts.

Local Festivals

Time your visit to experience these vibrant cultural celebrations:

• St. Kitts Carnival (Sugar Mas): Held from December to early January, featuring colorful parades, calypso competitions, and street parties.
• St. Kitts Music Festival: A three-day event in late June showcasing international and regional artists performing reggae, soca, calypso, and R&B.
• Fisherman’s Birthday: Celebrated in Old Road Town on June 29th, honoring St. Peter, the patron saint of fishermen, with boat blessings and seafood feasts.
• Green Valley Festival: A community festival in May featuring local food, music, and cultural displays.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Old Road Town’s location between mountains and sea makes it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts:

Hiking & Nature Exploration

• Mount Liamuiga Volcano Hike: A challenging but rewarding trek to the 1,156 m (3,792 ft) summit of St. Kitts’ dormant volcano.
• Dos d’Anse Pond Trail: A difficult hike leading to a beautiful freshwater pond and waterfall.
• Vervet Monkey Spotting: The forests around Old Road Town are home to playful vervet monkeys, introduced during the colonial era.

Water Activities

• Snorkeling & Diving: Explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life in the clear waters off Old Road Bay.
• Kayaking: Paddle along the scenic coastline for a different perspective of the area.
• Fishing: Join local fishermen for a traditional fishing experience or charter a boat for deep-sea fishing.
• Catamaran Tours: Sail along the coast with stops for swimming and snorkeling.

Adventure Activities

• Sky Safari Zipline: Soar over the rainforest canopy on a thrilling zipline tour at Wingfield Estate.
• ATV Tours: Explore old sugar cane paths and plantation ruins on an exciting ATV adventure.
• Rainforest Horseback Riding: Guided tours through lush trails on horseback.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Safety Tips

• Old Road Town is generally safe, but take standard precautions as you would in any tourist destination.
• Use reputable tour operators for excursions, especially for challenging hikes or water activities.
• Protect yourself from the sun with high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Stay hydrated, especially when hiking or spending time outdoors.
• The local emergency number is 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.

Local Etiquette

• Greet locals with a friendly “Good morning,” “Good afternoon,” or “Good evening” before starting a conversation.
• Dress modestly when visiting churches or walking through town (cover shoulders and knees).
• Ask permission before taking photos of local people.
• Tipping is customary (10-15% in restaurants, $1-2 per bag for porters).

Cultural Insights

St. Kitts has a rich cultural heritage influenced by African, British, French, and Carib traditions. The people are known for their warm hospitality and relaxed “island time” approach to life. Don’t rush—embrace the slower pace and take time to chat with locals for authentic insights into island life.

Visitor Comments About Old Road Town

Practical Travel Tips

Your Caribbean History Adventure Awaits

Old Road Town may be small in size, but it offers an outsized experience for travelers seeking an authentic Caribbean destination rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. From standing where European colonization of the Caribbean began to ziplining through lush rainforests and savoring fresh seafood with ocean views, this historic corner of St. Kitts delivers memorable experiences at every turn. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a less-traveled Caribbean gem, Old Road Town welcomes you with open arms and centuries of stories to tell.