Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago Travel Guide
City Town in Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
Scarborough’s harbor, Fort King George and the colonial buildings around High Street make it Tobago’s administrative heart. Travelers use it as a base for snorkeling, Buccoo Reef excursions, and morning fish markets where cassava pone and fried shark appear.
Why Visit Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago? #
Scarborough is Tobago’s main town where colonial history meets coastal leisure: Fort King George overlooks the harbor and provides sweeping views, while the waterfront esplanade hums with markets and seafood stalls. Excursions to Buccoo Reef and the Nylon Pool are close by, pairing snorkeling with relaxed island dining that highlights fresh fish and Creole flavors. Local festivals and friendly guesthouses make it a good base for exploring Tobago’s natural highlights.
Best Things to Do in Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago
All Attractions ›Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago Bucket List
- Fort King George - Explore the historic fort for panoramic views across Scarborough and Turtle Bay.
- Scarborough Esplanade and Market - Stroll the waterfront market for crafts, street food, and local life along the sea.
- Tobago Museum - Visit exhibits on Tobago's maritime history, Amerindian artifacts, and colonial stories.
- Den's Yard (local eatery) - Sample fresh seafood and authentic Tobago dishes at this popular family-run spot.
- Governor's Beach - Relax on a quieter sandy cove favored by locals for swimming and sunbathing.
- Local craft stalls - Browse small-scale artisans selling woven goods, batik textiles, and carved souvenirs.
- Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool - Take a glass-bottom boat trip to Buccoo Reef and swim in the shallow Nylon Pool.
- Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve - Hike protected rainforest trails for endemic birds and cooler mountain temperatures.
Best Time to Visit Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago #
Scarborough is at its best in the dry season (December-May) for snorkeling, calm seas, and island hopping. The wet season (June-November) brings lush rainforests and heavier showers.
Best Time to Visit Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago #
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How to Get to Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago
Scarborough is Tobago's main town and is served by A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (TAB) at Crown Point. Short taxi or shared minibus services connect the airport with Scarborough; the town is compact and simple to navigate on arrival.
A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (TAB, Crown Point, Tobago): TAB is Tobago’s main airport, located on the southwest of the island close to Scarborough. Taxis and rental cars from the airport to Scarborough take about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic; shared taxis and prepaid airport transfer options are also common.
From Trinidad: You can fly Piarco (POS)→TAB on regional carriers; flight time is short (about 20-30 minutes) and TAB puts you close to Scarborough for quick onward travel.
Train: Trinidad and Tobago have no passenger rail network.
Bus / Maxi-taxi: Scarborough is served by local buses and maxi-taxi services that connect the capital with towns across Tobago. Buses run along the main coast road; expect journey times of 20-40 minutes from the airport depending on stops and traffic.
How to Get Around Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago #
Scarborough is Tobago’s main town and is easy to explore on foot within the waterfront and market area. Distances on the island are short but the terrain varies, so taxis and local buses are useful for longer trips. Taxis are commonly used and can be arranged at the ferry and airport; bus services are inexpensive but less frequent. Carry small change for fares and check return schedules if you’re catching a ferry or flight.
Where to Stay in Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago #
- Coco Reef Tobago (offers varied rates) - Beachfront rooms, sometimes budget-friendly
- Scarborough guesthouses - Small guesthouses near the town centre
- Coco Reef Tobago - Beachfront resort with mid-range rooms
- Local mid-range resorts (various) - Comfortable beachfront options
- Coco Reef Tobago - One of the island's established resorts
- Other boutique resorts (Tobago) - Upscale villas and resort suites available
Where to Eat in Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago #
Nightlife in Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago #
Scarborough’s nightlife is low‑key: waterfront bars, casual lounges and a few restaurants with live music. Evenings are relaxed rather than club‑centric, with most venues closing earlier than on larger Caribbean islands.
Shopping in Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago #
Shopping in Scarborough is focused on local craft shops, small markets and convenience stores. You’ll find handmade souvenirs, spices and rum shops near the waterfront and market areas. For larger malls or brand shopping you’ll need to travel off the island or to larger towns, but Scarborough covers most everyday needs and tourist purchases.