Did you know that Bequia (pronounced “BECK-way”) is one of only four places in the world legally permitted to hunt humpback whales under aboriginal subsistence whaling provisions? This fascinating cultural heritage is just one of many unique aspects that make this 7 square mile (18 sq km) Caribbean gem truly special. As the second-largest island in the Grenadines chain, Bequia offers an authentic Caribbean experience that has largely escaped mass tourism – a place where sailors, locals, and in-the-know travelers mingle in perfect harmony.
Best Time to Visit Bequia
Timing your visit to Bequia can make all the difference in your experience. The island enjoys a tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons that influence everything from prices to activities.
Peak Season (December to April)
This is considered the best time to visit Bequia, with temperatures averaging 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F). You’ll enjoy dry, sunny days perfect for beach activities and sailing. However, this is also when accommodation prices peak, especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
If you’re interested in local culture, plan your visit during the Easter Regatta in April, when the harbor fills with sailboats and the island buzzes with music, boat races, and festivities.
Off-Season (May to November)
The off-season brings lower prices and fewer tourists, with May and November being excellent “shoulder season” months that offer good value. Temperatures remain warm at 27°C to 31°C (81°F to 88°F), but expect brief afternoon showers.
Hurricane season officially runs from June to November, with the highest risk between August and October. While direct hits are rare, tropical storms can disrupt travel plans.
Getting to Bequia & Planning Your Journey
Reaching this Caribbean paradise requires a bit more effort than more mainstream destinations, but that’s precisely what keeps Bequia special and uncrowded.
By Air
The most common route to Bequia is flying into Barbados (BGI) or St. Lucia (UVF), then connecting to a smaller aircraft to J.F. Mitchell Airport (BQU) on Bequia. These small planes offer spectacular views but have limited schedules and capacity, so booking well in advance is essential.
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By Sea
Alternatively, fly to St. Vincent (SVD) and take the Bequia Express ferry, which runs several times daily and takes approximately 60 minutes. The ferry costs about $25 EC (Eastern Caribbean dollars) per person and offers beautiful views of the approaching island.
For the ultimate entrance, sailing enthusiasts can charter a yacht from St. Vincent, Grenada, or other nearby islands. Admiralty Bay in Bequia is a popular anchorage in the Caribbean.
Arrive in Style by Cruise
Many Caribbean cruises include Bequia as a port of call. Experience this charming island as part of a larger Caribbean adventure.
Getting Around Bequia
Bequia is small enough to explore thoroughly during your stay, and there are several transportation options to help you discover all its hidden corners.
Taxis
Island taxis are open-air pickup trucks with bench seating in the back – a breezy, fun way to travel. Rates are standardized but always confirm the price before departing. A full island tour typically costs around $25-30 USD per person and takes 3-4 hours.
Water Taxis
Water taxis are an essential part of Bequia transportation, connecting Port Elizabeth to beaches like Princess Margaret and Lower Bay. They cost around $5-10 EC per person and are easily hailed from the main dock or by waving from the beach.
Rental Cars & Scooters
Several companies offer rental jeeps, cars, and scooters. A temporary local driving permit is required (approximately $25 EC) and can be obtained when you rent the vehicle. Driving is on the left side of the road.
Walking
The Belmont Walkway is a picturesque seaside path connecting Port Elizabeth to Princess Margaret Beach. Many visitors enjoy walking between beaches and restaurants, especially along the western coast.
Where to Stay in Bequia
Bequia offers a range of accommodations from luxury boutique hotels to charming guesthouses and private villas. Unlike many Caribbean destinations, there are no large all-inclusive resorts here, which helps maintain the island’s authentic character.
Luxury Options
The Bequia Beach Hotel on Friendship Bay offers colonial-style elegance with modern amenities. The Liming presents exclusive luxury villas with private pools and stunning views. Both properties feature excellent restaurants and direct beach access.
Mid-Range Stays
Bequia Plantation Hotel along the Belmont Walkway offers comfortable rooms and a prime location. Sugar Reef Café and Hotel on Industry Bay provides a more secluded experience on the Atlantic side with a farm-to-table restaurant.
Villa Rentals
For families or longer stays, villa rentals provide space and privacy. Options range from simple cottages to architectural showpieces like Cassava House above Lower Bay. Many come with staff including housekeepers and optional chefs.
Find Your Perfect Bequia Accommodation
From beachfront boutique hotels to private villas with stunning views, book your ideal stay on this Caribbean gem.
Bequia’s Best Beaches
Bequia’s beaches are among its greatest treasures, each with its own distinct character. Unlike some Caribbean destinations, you’ll rarely find crowds here – just pristine sand and crystal-clear waters.
Princess Margaret Beach
Named after the British royal who once swam here, this 800 m (0.5 mi) stretch of white sand is often considered Bequia’s finest beach. Protected by the bay, its waters are calm and perfect for swimming. Jack’s Beach Bar provides food, drinks, and beach chair rentals. The beach is accessible via the Princess Margaret Trail from Port Elizabeth or by water taxi.
Lower Bay
Just beyond Princess Margaret Beach, Lower Bay offers a longer stretch of sand with gentle waves and excellent snorkeling at its southern end. Several beach restaurants, including De Reef and Keegan’s, serve fresh seafood and cold drinks. This family-friendly beach has shallow entry points perfect for children.
Friendship Bay
Located on the island’s southeastern coast, this long curved beach faces the Atlantic Ocean. The waters can be slightly rougher than the western beaches but are still suitable for swimming. The Bequia Beach Hotel offers facilities for non-guests who purchase food or drinks. This beach tends to be quieter and less developed.
For the adventurous, Hope Beach on the Atlantic side offers a more wild, undeveloped experience with rolling waves (swimming not recommended) and natural driftwood. Industry Bay and Ravine Bay provide secluded spots for those seeking privacy, though they require a bit more effort to reach.
Top Things to Do in Bequia
Beyond its beaches, Bequia offers a wealth of activities that showcase its natural beauty, maritime heritage, and authentic Caribbean culture.
1. Sail to Tobago Cays Marine Park
The highlight of many Bequia vacations is a day trip to the Tobago Cays Marine Park, a protected area of five uninhabited islands surrounded by a horseshoe reef. Here you can swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat, snorkel among vibrant coral, and enjoy a beach barbecue on pristine sand. Several operators offer day trips, with the traditional schooner Friendship Rose providing one of the most memorable experiences.
2. Visit the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary
Founded by retired fisherman Orton “Brother” King, this sanctuary has released over 2,000 hawksbill turtles into the wild. Visitors can see turtles at various stages of development and learn about conservation efforts. The $10 USD entrance fee supports the continued operation of this important project.
3. Hike to Ma Peggy’s Rock
For panoramic views of the island and surrounding seas, take the moderately challenging hike to Ma Peggy’s Rock. Named after a local woman with exceptional eyesight who would spot fish for the island’s fishermen, the trail takes about 2-3 hours round trip and rewards hikers with 360-degree vistas.
4. Explore Port Elizabeth
Bequia’s main town is a charming collection of colorful buildings, local shops, and waterfront restaurants. Visit the Rasta Market for fresh produce, browse handmade crafts at the boutiques along Front Street, and stop by the Bequia Maritime Museum to learn about the island’s seafaring heritage.
5. Admire Model Boats at Sargeant Brothers
Bequia has a long tradition of boat building, now preserved in the exquisite wooden model boats crafted at Sargeant Brothers Model Boat Shop. These detailed replicas take months to create and make unique souvenirs. The shop created a model of the Royal Yacht Britannia that was presented to Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to the island.
Experience Bequia’s Best Activities
From sailing adventures to turtle sanctuaries, book guided tours and activities to make the most of your Bequia vacation.
Water Activities & Adventures
Surrounded by the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, Bequia offers outstanding opportunities for water sports and marine exploration.
Snorkeling & Diving
Bequia boasts over 30 dive sites within a short boat ride from shore. Dive Bequia and Bequia Dive Adventures offer equipment rental, guided trips, and PADI certification courses. Popular sites include Devil’s Table, a shallow reef perfect for beginners, and the more challenging West Cay Wall with its dramatic drop-offs.
Snorkelers can enjoy excellent conditions right off Lower Bay and Princess Margaret Beach. For a guided experience, join a snorkel tour to Moonhole, a unique architectural community built into the natural rock formations at the island’s western tip.
Sailing & Boat Tours
As a sailor’s paradise, Bequia offers numerous boating experiences. Beyond the popular Tobago Cays trip, consider excursions to nearby Mustique, the private island playground of celebrities, or Isle a Quatre for secluded beaches and excellent snorkeling.
For a taste of local maritime tradition, arrange a fishing trip with a local fisherman. If you’re an experienced sailor, charter a yacht for a day or longer to explore the Grenadines at your own pace.
Dining & Local Cuisine in Bequia
Bequia’s food scene combines fresh seafood, Caribbean flavors, and international influences, all served in relaxed settings with stunning views.
Waterfront Dining
Mac’s Pizzeria on the Belmont Walkway serves excellent wood-fired pizzas (including a famous lobster pizza) and pasta dishes with harbor views. Jack’s Beach Bar on Princess Margaret Beach offers fresh seafood and strong rum punches in a perfect beachfront setting. Laura’s at the Fig Tree provides authentic local cuisine with tables right at the water’s edge.
Local Specialties
Don’t miss trying roti, a Caribbean flatbread wrapped around curry fillings – Petra’s in Lower Bay makes excellent versions. Callaloo soup, made from local greens and coconut milk, is a traditional dish worth sampling. For dessert, Maranne’s homemade ice cream on the Belmont Walkway offers tropical flavors like passion fruit and coconut.
Unique Experiences
Fernando’s Hideaway offers a memorable dining experience in a garden setting, with set menus featuring slow-cooked meats and fresh fish. Sugar Reef Café at Industry Bay serves farm-to-table cuisine using ingredients grown on their plantation. For sunset cocktails, try the Frangipani Hotel’s waterfront bar or the floating Bar One in Admiralty Bay.
Culture & Local Traditions
Bequia’s rich cultural heritage blends African, European, and indigenous Carib influences, creating a unique island identity centered around maritime traditions.
Whaling Heritage
Bequia is one of the few places worldwide with an International Whaling Commission exemption allowing limited traditional whaling. While controversial, this practice is deeply embedded in local culture and strictly regulated to a maximum of four humpback whales annually using only traditional wooden boats and hand-thrown harpoons. The Bequia Heritage Museum in Friendship Bay provides context on this tradition.
Boat Building
The island has a storied history of boat building, from fishing vessels to racing schooners. While large-scale construction has declined, the craft lives on through model boat building. These aren’t simple souvenirs but detailed works of art requiring months of skilled labor.
Festivals & Events
The Easter Regatta is Bequia’s largest annual event, featuring sailing races, beach parties, and live music. The Mount Gay Music Fest in January brings Caribbean and international artists to perform across the island. Carnival in July offers colorful parades, steel pan music, and traditional Mas (masquerade) celebrations.
Practical Travel Tips
Make your Bequia vacation smoother with these essential travel tips and local insights.
Currency & Payments
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), but US dollars are widely accepted. The exchange rate is fixed at approximately EC$2.7 to US$1. Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, but many smaller restaurants and shops are cash-only. There are ATMs in Port Elizabeth, though they occasionally run out of cash.
Health & Safety
Bequia is generally very safe, with low crime rates. Basic medical facilities are available at the Bequia Hospital in Port Elizabeth, but serious conditions require evacuation to St. Vincent or beyond. Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be present, especially during the rainy season.
Communication
Cell service is good throughout most of the island. Many accommodations and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. The local area code is +1-784 (same as St. Vincent). Purchase a local SIM card for more affordable data if staying longer.
Local Etiquette
Bequians are friendly and welcoming. Greet people with “good morning,” “good afternoon,” or “good night” (used after dark). Casual dress is acceptable almost everywhere, though beachwear should be confined to beaches. Ask permission before photographing locals.
Important: When leaving Bequia, you’ll need to pay a departure tax of approximately EC$100 (US$40) per person at the airport or ferry terminal. Children under 12 are exempt. Also be aware that bag inspections can be thorough when departing.
Shopping & Souvenirs
While Bequia isn’t a major shopping destination, it offers unique locally-made items that make meaningful souvenirs.
Model Boats
The island’s signature souvenir is a handcrafted wooden model boat. Visit Sargeant Brothers or Mauvin’s Model Boat shops to see these intricate creations being made. Prices reflect the craftsmanship, starting around US$100 for smaller pieces.
Local Crafts
Bequia Threadworks in Port Elizabeth sells beautiful handmade clothing and accessories created by local women as part of a community empowerment project. The Oasis Art Gallery features paintings and sculptures by island artists.
Food Products
Take home a taste of Bequia with local honey from the apiary near Friendship Bay, hot sauces, or spice mixes. The Firefly Plantation sells sea salt harvested from the eastern shore and processed in a restored sugar mill.
Practical Shopping
For groceries and provisions, Doris’s Fresh Food in Port Elizabeth offers the best selection, including imported items. The Rasta Market along the waterfront sells fresh local produce, though prices are often negotiable.
Day Trips from Bequia
Bequia’s central location in the Grenadines makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby islands, each with its own distinct character.
Tobago Cays
This protected marine park offers some of the Caribbean’s best snorkeling and swimming with sea turtles. The five uninhabited cays are surrounded by a horseshoe reef with extraordinarily clear waters. Day trips typically include snorkeling, beach time, and a barbecue lunch.
Mustique
This exclusive private island is home to celebrity villas and pristine beaches. Day trips allow you to tour the island, have lunch at Basil’s Bar (a celebrity hotspot), and snorkel in Britannia Bay. The contrast between Mustique’s manicured perfection and Bequia’s authentic charm makes for an interesting comparison.
St. Vincent
The “mainland” offers a different experience with its volcanic landscapes and rainforests. Day trips typically explore the leeward coast, visiting Dark View Falls, black sand beaches, and local villages. More adventurous travelers can arrange to hike La Soufrière volcano, though this requires a full day and good fitness.
Why Bequia Should Be Your Next Caribbean Destination
In a region increasingly dominated by all-inclusive resorts and cruise ship crowds, Bequia stands apart as an authentic Caribbean experience. Its perfect balance of natural beauty, genuine local culture, and just enough development to ensure comfort without compromising character makes it ideal for travelers seeking something beyond the ordinary.
Whether you’re sailing into Admiralty Bay, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, swimming with turtles in crystal waters, or simply relaxing on uncrowded beaches, Bequia offers the rare opportunity to experience the Caribbean as it once was – unhurried, unspoiled, and unforgettable.
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