Englishmans Bay and Castara Bay: Tobago Hidden Beach Guide

Castara Bay is located about 5 km southwest of Englishmans Bay and is known for its active fishing village atmosphere, sandy shores, and rocky points. It combines natural beauty with a strong sense of community. When you walk along Castara’s beach, the sounds of laughter, music from small gatherings, and children playing are common. The mix of golden sand and dark volcanic rocks creates a varied coastline to wander.

Local eateries line the streets leading to the beach, where you can try typical dishes like fish burgers or chicken roti for around 40 TTD (6 USD). The smell of spices and grilled seafood blends with the salty ocean breeze. Kayak rentals are available for roughly 100 TTD (15 USD), letting you paddle near coral reefs just offshore. Snorkeling is popular here as well; the waters are clear and rich with marine life.

Castara often hosts weekend fish fries, events where freshly caught seafood is cooked and sold by locals. These gatherings provide a chance to meet residents and enjoy authentic island food. The bay’s family-friendly nature, coupled with frequent community activities, creates a welcoming environment for visitors.

For more on snorkeling and kayaking activities in Tobago, see our guides on snorkeling and kayaking.

Traveling from Scarborough to Englishmans Bay or Castara Bay takes about 30 minutes by car. Options include taxis, rental cars, or maxi-taxis, each with different costs and convenience levels. Taxis generally charge around 250 TTD (approximately 37 USD) for a round trip, reflecting recent price updates. Rental cars now start at about 450 TTD (67 USD) per day, which allows more freedom to stop along the way or see nearby spots. Maxi-taxis provide a budget option, costing about 25 TTD (3.70 USD) per person from Scarborough to Charlotteville, but they follow a fixed schedule and can be crowded.

The route covers roughly 20 km, passing through winding roads with lush vegetation and occasional views of the coast. Parking at both beaches is limited but usually available early in the day. Traffic is generally light outside of holiday periods, but narrow roads require careful driving, especially around bends.

For more detailed transportation advice on Tobago, visit our transport guide and check official updates from the Tobago Tourism Agency and Tobago House of Assembly.

Both Englishmans Bay and Castara Bay offer basic amenities but differ in availability and variety. Englishmans Bay has just a few vendors selling food and drinks with no formal facilities like restrooms or showers. The beach remains largely undeveloped, which contributes to its quiet charm but requires visitors to come prepared.

Castara Bay, being a small village, has more infrastructure. Along the main street near the beach, you can see several small shops, local eateries, and guesthouses. Restrooms may be available in some accommodations or eateries, but public facilities are limited. Small grocery stores stock essentials like water and snacks.

The water at both beaches is generally safe for swimming, but it is important to watch for posted warnings about currents, especially during the rainy season when conditions can shift rapidly. Lifeguards are not stationed at these beaches, so swimmers should exercise caution.

Packing the right items will help you enjoy your visit comfortably and safely. Sunscreen with high SPF is essential due to strong tropical sun. Sunglasses and a hat provide necessary shade. A beach towel or mat is useful for lounging on sand, while water shoes can help if you want to see rocky areas, particularly at Castara Bay.

Snorkeling gear is recommended if you want to observe the coral reefs and marine life, especially at Castara. Carry cash in small denominations for purchasing from local vendors, who rarely accept cards. A refillable water bottle helps maintain hydration; many small shops stock chilled drinks.

Food options are limited at Englishmans Bay, so bringing a picnic or snacks is wise. Castara Bay has more eateries, but packing extra provisions is still advisable if you plan a long day. Consider reusable containers for trash to keep the beaches clean.

For a broader view of Tobago's beaches, see our Top 12 Beaches in Trinidad and Tobago guide.