Trinidad and Tobago

Tropical Tobago: Paddleboarding in the Caribbean

Carrie Machen

by Carrie Machen

Intro

Tobago is the tropical twin island to Trinidad and both islands are located just off the beautiful coast of South America. The birthplace of Calypso, Soca and steel pan music, Tobago is a true gem of the Caribbean and is surrounded by pristine waters to explore with your SUP. To get there, take a flight to Trinidad.

There are regular flights from Trinidad to Tobago or you can ride the ferry. In order to fully enjoy paddling in Tobago be sure to take your paddle board with you so you are free to explore the coast at your own speed. The beautiful beaches, leatherback turtles, stunning coral reefs, laid back vibe, and friendly locals make Tobago an unforgettable destination to paddle board. Oh, and the bioluminescence at Bon Accord Lagoon is a must see for any paddler!

Highlights

Be sure to paddle back to Big Bay by 4pm for a chance to paddle and snorkel with the sting rays! Castara is a fishing village and the rays stop by every day to take advantage of the remnants left from the fisherman’s daily catch.

It is worth going on a bioluminescent SUP tour with Stand-Up Paddle Tobago. This tour launches at night from Pigeon Point and takes you through the Bon Accord Lagoon to see and swim in the bioluminescence caused by blooming phytoplankton.

A bucket list tour for sure and the guides are very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the local area.

Route Directions

  1. I recommend taking the night tour to see the bioluminescence through Stand-Up Paddle Tobago.
  2. This tour leaves from Pigeon Point although the southwest tip of Tobago has many beaches to launch from.
  3. For a more remote location, launch from Big Bay in Castara and paddle past Little Bay and along the coastline, exploring the coves along the way.
  4. There are plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the water. Look out for leatherback turtles and rays while paddling.

Local Knowledge

  • Sat Nav

    11.2794509,-60.6954889

  • Nearest Parking

    Parking: Once in Tobago, you can get a taxi to your desired location or rent a car. There is parking at most locations for paddling as put ins are at the local beaches.

  • Launch Point

    If staying in Castara, launch at Big Bay and bring your snorkelling gear! Paddle the coast with stops at smaller bays and coves – it is a great area to snorkel and explore the coral reefs.

  • Places to Stay

    To Stay: There are plenty of accommodation options near Crown Point! The plethora of options keeps prices low. It is the most commercialized area of Tobago. If you want a quieter, more remote stay, try Castara Retreats near Castara Bay. Castara Retreats is a collection of wooden, airy studios with kitchens overlooking the bay.

    Castara Retreats 

    https://castararetreats.com | +44 (0)7908-978-477

  • Places to Eat / Drink

    To Eat: In the remote fishing village of Castara there are many quaint places to dine. Try Caribbean Kitchen which has amazing cocktails and the food blends local flair with an upscale presentation. Cheno’s is in the village and serves a great breakfast and coffee for your early morning walks to town. You do not want to miss the fresh fish served at any of the restaurants in the village. 

    Caribbean Kitchen 

    https://castararetreats.com/caribbean-kitchen | (868)-687-7711

Things to Know

  • When paddling from Castara do not forget your snorkeling gear. The reefs are beautiful and the rays are a blast to swim with. Make sure to pack a lunch. You really can spend an entire day exploring the coastline.