Straddling Man-O-War Bay and Pirate’s Bay on the northern end of Tobago, the fishing village of Charlotteville is a great spot for travelers who’d prefer to forego bigger resorts in favor of low-key rest and relaxation. It’s also usually a good place for snorkeling, with crystalline waters and an abundance of colorful fish.
There’s not much to do in Charlotteville beyond lazing on sandy beaches and swimming in clear waters—but the town’s slow pace of life is a big part of its appeal. It’s a great place to spend a few days if you are in search of a quiet vacation, though many people opt to come just for the day instead. Some day tours from Scarborough will take you snorkeling off the coast of this pretty town.
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Lovers’ Bay offers some of the best sand and snorkeling in the area.
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Do not swim if you see a red flag on the beach.
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Remember to apply reef-safe sunscreen before taking a dip in the water.
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If you plan to swim, make sure you have someone with you (or at least keeping an eye out on you). Similarly, never snorkel alone.
If you don’t have a rental car, you can take a taxi to Charlotteville from ANR Robinson Airport (TAB). For those traveling from Scarborough, you can hop on one of the shared maxi taxis that travel to Charlotteville regularly. If you want to take full advantage of the beach, booking a tour may be a better option, particularly if you don’t have your own snorkeling gear.
The best time to visit Charlotteville (and all of Tobago, really) is between January and May when temperatures are typically slightly cooler and there’s less chance of rain. However, while the swimming conditions in Charlotteville are usually pretty good, the waters tend to be at their calmest between May and October.
For some of the best views in the area, you need only head up to Flagstaff Hill, about a 10-minute drive (or, if you’re feeling ambitious, a 70-minute walk) from the center of Charlotteville. While the road leading up to the summit is flanked by dense jungle, the peak itself—which was used as a lookout during World War II—remains clear.
