Old Road Town Travel Guide
City Historic town on Saint Kitts' southwest coast
On Nevis’s western shore, Old Road Town keeps a low colonial profile: a weathered Anglican church, fishermen mending nets, rum shops and a coastal road that leads to crumbling sugar estates and low-key swimming coves.
Why Visit Old Road Town? #
One of St Kitts’s oldest settlements, Old Road Town attracts history-minded visitors with sugar-plantation ruins, the 19th-century Cottle Church and a low-key fishing-harbour atmosphere. Beachfront bars and rum shops line quiet coves, while local markets sell fresh seafood and Caribbean street food. It’s a place to take in plantation-era history and island rhythms without the larger crowds found in Basseterre.
Top Things to Do in Old Road Town
All Attractions ›
- Old Road Town waterfront - Small historic waterfront with fishing boats, roadside kiosks, and Caribbean atmosphere.
- Old Road Bay beach - Calm sandy bay suitable for swimming, relaxing, and local beachside vendors.
- Wingfield Estate sugar plantation ruins - Ruined estate with century-old sugar mill remains and dramatic coastal overlooks.
- Coastal walking paths - Low-key seaside tracks connecting local bays, ideal for easy scenic strolls.
- Local roadside food stalls - Family-run stalls serving grilled fish, Caribbean specialties, and fresh produce.
- Early-morning fish market - Small dockside market where fishers unload catches and local cooks shop.
- Basseterre - St. Kitts capital with Georgian architecture, local markets, and waterfront promenades.
- Nevis (Charlestown) - Short ferry ride to Nevis for colonial streets, shops, and historic sites.
Best Time to Visit Old Road Town #
Visit Old Road Town December-April for sun, calm seas and festivals; May-November brings rain, higher humidity, and hurricane risk. Peak beach season is the winter dry months.
Best Time to Visit Old Road Town #
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How to Get to Old Road Town
Old Road Town on Saint Kitts is easily reached from the island's main airport (SKB) by taxi or by the shared minibus network. Public minibuses are cheap but slower; taxis are convenient for direct trips.
Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB): This is the main airport for Saint Kitts (near Basseterre). From SKB a taxi to Old Road Town takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic; expect fares in the range of US$20-35.
Aviation from Antigua (ANU) / other islands: There are short regional flights between nearby islands; if arriving via Antigua you’ll transfer by regional carrier and then take land transport on Saint Kitts.
Train: There is no passenger rail service on Saint Kitts.
Bus / shared taxi: Public minibuses (shared taxis) run the island’s coastal roads and are the cheapest way to travel between Basseterre and towns such as Old Road; fares are low (a few dollars) and journey times are about 25-40 minutes depending on stops. Taxis are faster and more direct but cost more.
How to Get Around Old Road Town #
Old Road Town is compact and easy to explore on foot. For trips around St Kitts, use local shared minibuses/route taxis or hire a private taxi; car rental is available elsewhere on the island if you want more freedom. Fares for minibuses are modest but carry small change. Taxis are convenient for shore excursions and connections to Basseterre; if travelling after dark, arrange transport in advance.
Where to Stay in Old Road Town #
- Four Seasons Resort Nevis (budget-adjacent?) - Upscale resort, occasional deals available.
- Montpelier Plantation & Beach - Boutique plantation hotel and beach access.
- Royalton Negril (note: on Nevis area check) - Large resort-style property.
- Four Seasons Resort Nevis - Full-service luxury beachfront resort.
- Montpelier Plantation & Beach - High-end boutique, fine dining and pool.
Where to Eat in Old Road Town #
Nightlife in Old Road Town #
Nightlife in Old Road Town is low-key: a handful of bars, guesthouse restaurants and beachside spots operate in the evenings, particularly during tourist season. For more nightlife choices, Basseterre provides bars, restaurants and occasional live music.
Shopping in Old Road Town #
Shopping within Old Road Town is limited to small grocery shops, produce stalls and a few local vendors. For a broader retail selection - craft shops, souvenirs and larger markets - head to Basseterre and the main tourist hubs. Local food stalls and bakeries are where you’ll find everyday items and fresh produce.
