36 Best Sights in Trinidad and Tobago

At the far reach of Tobago's windward coast, this small fishing village has a few lodgings and restaurants. Divers are drawn to the unspoiled reefs in the area and to the strong possibility of spotting giant manta rays. The approach to Speyside from the south affords one of the most spectacular vistas of the island. Glass-bottom boats operate between Speyside and Little Tobago Island, an important seabird sanctuary.

This impressive temple site was constructed by artisans brought in from India. It is well worth a visit to admire the intricate architectural details of the main temple, learn about Trinidad Hinduism, and marvel at the towering 85-foot statue of the monkey deity Hanuman. Krishna Ramsaran, the compound manager, is extremely helpful and proud to explain the history of the center and the significance of the various murtis (sacred statues). Kids are welcome, so this makes for a pleasant and educational family outing (kids seem especially interested in the giant elephant statues that guard the temple doors). This is a religious site, so appropriate clothing is required (no shorts), and shoes must be left outside the temple door. It's fine to take pictures of the statue and the temple exterior and grounds, but permission is required to take pictures inside, as it's an active place of worship. The temple is half an hour from Port of Spain; take Churchill Roosevelt Highway east to Uriah Butler south; turn off at the Freeport flyover (overpass); then turn right and follow the signs east to Waterloo; then follow signs to the temple.

The underwater cliffs and canyons here off the northeastern tip of Tobago draw divers to this spot, where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean.

This gorgeous stretch of sand is literally across the street (a small secondary road) from the Grafton Beach Resort and is great for tanning. There are strong currents and no lifeguards on duty so bear in mind that swimming poses risks. A better bet is to relax with a cocktail from the hotel beach bar and wait for one of the locals to come by offering handmade souvenirs. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: walking.

This beach, where boats depart for Buccoo Reef, is little more than a small sandy cove between two rocky breakwaters, but the food stands here are amazing. The tourist board has licensed several huts to local ladies, who sell roti, pelau, curry crab, and dumplings. There are also souvenirs ranging from carvings to soap as well as local sweets. It's near the airport; just walk around the Crown Point Hotel to the beach entrance. There's also free parking just off Milford Rd. Amenities: food and drink; showers; toilets. Best for: partiers; swimming.

This beach is named for the leatherback turtles that lay their eggs here at night between February and June. (If you're very quiet, you can watch; the turtles don't seem to mind.) It's 8 miles (13 km) from the airport between Black Rock and Plymouth. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude; walking.