Things To Do
in Calliaqua
Calliaqua is a picturesque coastal town on Saint Vincent’s southern shore, just a short drive from Kingstown. It charms visitors with a laid-back fishing-village vibe, colorful boats, and palm-lined quays that glow at sunset. The harbor and market bustle offer fresh seafood, produce, and friendly locals, creating a warm, authentic Caribbean atmosphere.
As a convenient base for exploring the island’s beaches, volcanic landscapes, and lush hills, Calliaqua blends easy access with a peaceful, small-town rhythm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the Argyle International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in Calliaqua. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town. Spend the rest of the morning strolling through the streets, discovering local shops and the picturesque waterfront.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Calliaqua Beach for some sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Take a walk along the shore and collect some unique shells as souvenirs. Alternatively, indulge in a refreshing drink at a beachside bar while enjoying the scenic views.
As the sun sets, join a guided tour to witness the stunning beauty of the vibrant sunset over the Caribbean Sea. Afterward, savor a delightful dinner at a local seafood restaurant, indulging in the fresh catch of the day. Spend the evening at a lively local bar enjoying live music and mingling with locals.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before boarding a boat for an island-hopping adventure to the nearby Grenadine Islands. Revel in the breathtaking views as you cruise through turquoise waters and spot small secluded cays. Enjoy snorkeling at a pristine coral reef, observing the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.
Arrive at one of the stunning islands, such as Bequia or Mustique, and spend the afternoon exploring the charming villages or relaxing on the white sandy beaches. Enjoy a leisurely seaside lunch at a local restaurant, tasting the local flavors and fresh ingredients. Consider renting a bike or scooter to explore more of the island at your own pace.
Return to Calliaqua in the evening and unwind from the day's activities with a casual beachside barbeque. Share stories with fellow travelers over a delicious meal while enjoying the sound of waves lapping against the shore. End the night with a peaceful beach walk under the stars, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚌Local short ride (bus/taxi) | $2-7 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🏖️Beach chair rental | $5-10 |
| 🩹Basic medicine/clinic visit | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed island vibe and friendly people
- Close access to beaches, markets, and nature
- Compact size makes it easy to explore on a short stay
- Limited high-end dining and big-city amenities
- Public transportation can be infrequent outside peak routes
- Hurricane season brings weather variability and disruption
- "Helo" - Hello
- "Gud mawnin" - Good morning
- "Plis" - Please
- "Tank yuh" - Thank you
- "Weh is di bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Calliaqua
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, fishing nets, and early-morning light provide classic Caribbean harbor photos, with occasional fishermen at work.
Calm waters, lush hills, and pastel harbor buildings create panoramic seaside images, especially at golden hour.
A lively urban-waterfront scene featuring ferries, markets, and dramatic sunsets over the Caribbean Sea.
Food in Calliaqua
Calliaqua Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The national dish—a hearty one-pot stew of fish or chicken, breadfruit, callaloo, yam, dumplings, and coconut milk simmered until silky and deeply flavorful.
Must-Try!
A thick, savory soup or stew made from leafy greens (amaranth/shore called callaloo) with coconut milk and spices; often served with dumplings or bread.
Creamy, coconut-based fish stew with okra, peppers, and root vegetables; best enjoyed with bammy or bread on the side.
A traditional pairing: cassava-based bammy (bread-like flatbread) served with saltfish and peppers for a satisfying bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, spice stalls, and seafood; great for sampling fruit, breadfruit, and local snacks.
Coastal stalls offering grilled fish, fried plantains, and coconut-based treats—perfect for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a handshake are common. Dress modestly in churches and respect local customs during religious or community events.
Ask permission when photographing people or small businesses; some residents may appreciate a tip for portraits.
Polite, relaxed conversation goes a long way. Avoid controversial topics in initial chats, and engage with a warm, patient demeanor.
Safety
Tipping in Calliaqua
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always included. In restaurants, a 10–15% tip is common if service is good and not automatically added. For casual eateries and market stalls, rounding up the bill is typical.
Cash (Eastern Caribbean dollars and USD) is widely accepted in markets and small shops. Many larger restaurants and hotels accept cards, but carry some cash for smaller vendors and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sunny days with lower rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities, boat trips, and photography with clear skies; evenings remain pleasant and breezy.
Frequent tropical showers and higher humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms are common; greens are lush and waterfalls are more dramatic, but plan for possible rain delays.
Increased risk of tropical cyclones. Stay informed with local weather forecasts, secure gear, and have a flexible itinerary during these months.
Calliaqua at Night
Hiking in Calliaqua
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging rainforest hike to Saint Vincent’s active volcano crater; guided tours are recommended for safety and navigation.
Coastal hike featuring waterfalls and dramatic sea views; suitable for experienced hikers seeking rugged scenery.
Airports
How to reach Calliaqua by plane.
Main international airport serving St. Vincent and the Grenadines; typically a 30–60 minute drive to Calliaqua depending on traffic and route.
Domestic and regional flights hub near Kingstown; convenient for inter-island connections and short trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Afro-Caribbean Vincentians with strong Creole influences; small expatriate and diaspora communities contribute to cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple sport across the islands with local clubs and informal matches in communities.
Widely played and followed; local leagues and street games are common, especially on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calliaqua.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy callaloo soups, yam or cassava-based dishes, plantains, grilled vegetables, and fruit-based desserts. When ordering, ask for coconut milk or vegetable oil to avoid meat-based broths and clarify stock ingredients.