Things To Do
in Scarborough
Scarborough is Tobago's charming island capital perched along the southwestern coast with a backdrop of emerald forests and Caribbean waters. It serves as a convenient base for exploring beaches, reefs, and lush landscapes while offering a relaxed, friendly vibe. The town blends colonial history with market stalls, waterfront eateries, and tropical scenery that invites outdoor and cultural adventures.
Visitors can easily mix beach days, nature hikes, and vibrant local culture from this compact and welcoming hub.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing visit to Store Bay Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the gentle waves. Take a stroll along the white sandy shores, collecting seashells and enjoying the vibrant beach culture. Indulge in a delightful breakfast at one of the beachfront cafes, savoring local delicacies like bake and shark.
In the afternoon, head to Pigeon Point Beach for some water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding. The calm turquoise waters provide the perfect backdrop for some fun in the sun. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at a beachside shack, sampling fresh seafood and refreshing drinks.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the stunning sunset over the Caribbean Sea. Afterwards, explore the local dining scene with a visit to one of Scarborough's popular restaurants, enjoying a blend of Caribbean flavors. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, listening to the sounds of the island nightlife.
Begin your exploration of Scarborough’s rich history with a visit to Fort King George, where you can learn about Trinidad's colonial past and enjoy panoramic views of the island. The well-preserved structures and informative displays provide a glimpse into the island's vibrant heritage. Don't forget your camera to capture the scenic landscapes.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Scarborough Market, where you can experience the local hustle and bustle. Sample fresh fruits, vegetables, and handmade crafts while mingling with friendly locals and other visitors. Enjoy a hearty lunch from one of the market stalls showcasing traditional dishes.
After a full day of cultural immersion, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features live music, immersing yourself in the local sounds. Taste traditional dishes while being serenaded by local musicians sharing their talents. To wrap up your evening, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets adorned with market lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | US$10-15 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | US$6-12 |
| 🥤Soft drink or coffee | US$2-4 |
| 🛍️Groceries (weekly) | US$40-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | US$80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed island atmosphere with friendly locals
- Strong access to reef, beaches, and rainforest within and around Scarborough
- Smaller urban scene than Trinidad; nightlife is more low-key
- Some areas have limited public transport outside central Scarborough
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Please" - Please
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "How much is this?" - How much is this?
- "Do you speak English?" - Do you speak English?
- "Vegetarian options?" - Vegetarian options?
- "Where is the bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Scarborough
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fort with panoramic views over Scarborough and the coastline, plus colonial-era structures and museum interiors.
Iconic lighthouse setting with turquoise water, white sands, and dramatic sunsets—perfect for long exposure and landscapes.
Colorful storefronts and colonial-era architecture along the town market streets, ideal for street photography and portraits.
Food in Scarborough
Scarborough Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Tobago specialty featuring crab in a spiced curry served with dumplings; best enjoyed at seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Fried shark served with fried bread (bake) and local sauces; a popular street-side option near the harbor.
One-pot rice dish with meat (often chicken) and pigeon peas, cooked with coconut milk and caramelized sugar for depth of flavor.
Creamy greens-based dish made from dasheen leaves, okra, and coconut milk; hearty and comforting, often served with dumplings or rice.
Flatbread filled with curried vegetables or chickpeas, a versatile option that accommodates vegetarian preferences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks from local vendors.
Beach-area stalls and kiosks offering grilled fish, roti, coconut water, and casual bites with ocean views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake, smile, and a polite greeting are standard. Politeness and friendliness go a long way in everyday interactions.
Dress modestly in religious or sacred sites; casual, respectful attire is appropriate on streets and markets. Avoid loud confrontation in public spaces and respect local norms around personal space and noise.
Safety
Tipping in Scarborough
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in sit-down restaurants (about 10–15% if service is good). Small stalls and casual vendors often do not expect tips; rounding up the bill is common in casual settings.
Cash is widely accepted, and local currency is TT$. Many restaurants and hotels also accept credit/debit cards; some smaller vendors may be cash-only. ATMs are commonly available in Scarborough and Crown Point.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect plenty of sunny days with low rainfall and comfortable beach conditions, though humidity remains high. This is the peak time for outdoor activities and festivals.
More frequent brief showers and higher humidity; lush green scenery and vibrant landscapes. Pack a light rain layer and plan flexible outdoor plans.
Scarborough at Night
Hiking in Scarborough
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short rainforest hike to a scenic three-tier waterfall near Roxborough, ideal for a refreshing dip.
Coastal hiking with ocean views and opportunities for photography along Tobago’s northern coast.
Airports
How to reach Scarborough by plane.
Located in Crown Point, Tobago; the primary international gateway to the island and a short drive to Scarborough.
Main international airport for Trinidad; most travelers connecting to Tobago fly via domestic flight or ferry from POS to TAB.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The population in Tobago is predominantly Afro-Caribbean with a mix of other ethnic groups, reflecting Caribbean multicultural heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved pastime with local clubs and community matches; common in parks and schools.
Widely played at youth and adult levels; local leagues and informal games are common.
Beaches and coastal areas support sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Scarborough.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available across many eateries; look for callaloo, dhal, chickpeas, or vegetable curries. Request no fish or meat to tailor dishes, and consider roti or rice with vegetables as a base.