Things To Do
in Jamestown
Jamestown, the capital of Saint Helena, sits on a windswept coastline framed by terraced streets and sweeping Atlantic views. The town is tiny but rich in history, with Napoleon's Longwood House and colonial architecture dotting the landscape. It feels remote, with a relaxed pace and a distinctly British-influenced daily life.
The surrounding island offers lush greenery, dramatic cliffs, and abundant endemic wildlife, making it a quiet haven for curious travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Jamestown and take some time to settle into your accommodations. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, soaking in the views of the dramatic landscape. Take a stroll along the waterfront, admiring the old colonial architecture that tells the story of this historic port.
Visit the Napoleon Museum to learn about the exiled French leader’s life on the island. Explore the East Ridge Trail, offering stunning vistas and rich flora and fauna. Enjoy a picnic lunch with local delicacies in the scenic gardens of the museum.
Dine at a popular local restaurant serving traditional Saint Helenian cuisine. Enjoy the sounds of the ocean as you relax over dinner and discuss the day’s adventures. End your evening with a walk down to the water's edge, watching the sunset that casts a golden hue over the landscape.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a guided tour of Jamestown. Visit the historic fortifications and learn about their significance in the island’s history. Capture photographs of the iconic Jacob's Ladder, a steep stairway with an impressive 699 steps.
Engage with local artisans by visiting the craft market and picking up unique souvenirs. Spend your afternoon hiking on the beautiful walking trails that wind through the island’s lush interior. Return to your hotel for a short rest before your evening plans.
Enjoy a traditional meal at a cozy eatery, experiencing the flavors of Saint Helena. Attend a cultural performance or local event if available, to immerse yourself in the island's rich heritage. Relax on your accommodation’s terrace, reflecting on the day while stargazing in the clear night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $60-90 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $5-15 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night | $120-250 |
| 📶Data/SIM card | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Remote, pristine landscapes offering a sense of discovery
- English is widely spoken and tourism infrastructure is developing
- Very limited transport options and accessibility can be challenging
- High travel costs and limited medical facilities
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Do you speak English?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Jamestown
Visit one of these nice places.
A steep staircase with ocean views and dramatic light, a classic Jamestown shot.
Colonial architecture and manicured gardens set against volcanic scenery.
Striking sea-stack formation with waves crashing below, ideal for dramatic seascapes.
High-elevation vistas across the island with cloud cover and greenery.
Historic church and harbor scene with boats and pastel facades.
Food in Jamestown
Jamestown Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked meat stew seasoned with peppers and aromatic herbs, a historic island staple.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught seafood prepared simply to highlight local herbs and citrus.
Vegetarian-friendly sides featuring locally grown breadfruit and tubers.
Flaky pastries filled with seafood and creamy sauces.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small weekly market near the harbor offering fresh fish, produce, and crafts.
Occasional inland markets with peppers, herbs, and preserves.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite tone; dress modestly for religious sites; ask before taking photos of individuals or inside private properties; respect local customs and privacy.
Safety
Tipping in Jamestown
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up for good service is common in tourist facilities.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger facilities; cash in SHP and GBP preferred in smaller shops; some remote stores may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dec–Feb are warm and humid with good conditions for hiking and sea vistas; expect afternoon showers and coastal breezes.
Mar–May bring milder days and fewer crowds; great for photography and wildlife watching.
Jun–Aug cooler and wetter; evenings cool; steady winds make for dramatic coastal photographs but rough seas can limit boat activities.
Sep–Nov mild and becoming drier; flowers begin to bloom, ideal for outdoor exploration.
Jamestown at Night
Hiking in Jamestown
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep ascent to a plateau with endemic flora and expansive views.
Great for photography and wildlife watching during migration seasons.
Airports
How to reach Jamestown by plane.
Main gateway to Saint Helena; typically served by chartered or limited scheduled flights from South Africa via Cape Town or Johannesburg.
Airport on Ascension Island used for military and occasional civilian flights; access is limited and often via charter.
Regional hub for connections to Saint Helena and Ascension; commonly used for travel planning.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of Saint Helena with a mix of British and African heritage; small, close-knit community.
Seasonal workers, diplomats, and researchers from UK and other countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among residents; local leagues and social games take place regularly.
Widely played in schools and community clubs.
Traditionally important coastal activities with local clubs and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jamestown.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist; look for vegetable stews, salads, and plant-based sides; ask for no meat or fish and for mild or spicy flavors as desired.