The climate is tropical, but sea breezes keep the islands relatively cool. There are no definite seasons; the yearly average temperature is 79°F (26°C). Although rain is possible throughout the year, the average is higher between July and November, which coincides with the hurricane season.
The islands of St Kitts and Nevis are two of the sleepiest places in the Caribbean, and one of the few countries in the region where agriculture is still a larger part of the economy than tourism. Some people find the islands' relaxed nature ideal; others get restless after a few days.
There's something about this small, sombrero-shaped island that grabs you. The charm and tranquility takes you back to a time when things were simpler, when life was more peaceful, when stress was just a word, not a way of life.
This 36-square-mile island lies near the top of the Lesser Antilles archipelago, about 200 miles south of Puerto Rico, and just west of Antigua. This island jewel is approximately 7 miles long and 5 miles wide, with natural vegetation that is unparalleled.
Green and serene, Nevis is truly one of the remaining unspoilt places and proudly carries the name, "Queen of the Caribees." From the top of the 3,232-foot Nevis Peak to the depths of the clear waters offshore, there is a world of flora and fauna to be explored. In the hills, the comical green vervet monkeys chatter and scamper; in the sea, the whales cruise by. Stroll around and see the architecture of eras gone by: churches, windmills, and refurbished Great Houses.
Its 10,000 residents are friendly and helpful, ready to make new friends and welcome back regular visitors. The genuine charm and hospitality radiate into the unspoken, "Welcome," "Be my guest," and "Do come again."
Nevis is paradise for nature lovers. Just listen to the monkeys chattering in the trees, the doves cooing in the distance. There is excellent snorkeling just offshore and scuba diving around wrecks and natural reefs. For those more interested in man-made exploration, try your hand at archaeology, or exploring the ruins of old sugar plantations, a lime kiln, or Amerindian sites.
These are the rainforests, reefs, and ruins of Nevis, a fascinating destination for people who enjoy the natural side of the tropics.
Hiking in the rain forest is a must for everyone, whether it be the short hike through the nature trail at Golden Rock Plantation Inn or a day-long climb to the top of Nevis Peak (3,232 feet). Walk on the beach and learn about the nesting of sea turtles with a biologist as your guide, or go snorkeling with a marine biologist to learn about life under the sea.
There are even night beach walks available, to study the stars, seemingly light years away from the glare of the cities.
The island is covered with the ruins of the sugar plantation era, which declined in the late 1800s after slavery was abolished and the sugar beet created competition for sugar cane. Over the years, volunteer groups and researchers have come to the island to explore the history of the old buildings and record them for future generations. Several archaeology projects led by university researchers from England and the United States continue each year.
Beaches
Top 10 Best Beaches (All beaches are public on Nevis):
• Cades Bay (swimming, bar hopping)
• Ft. Ashby (birding, picnics)
• Gallow’s Bay (snorkeling at south end)
• Herbert’s Beach (swimming, snorkeling, bar)
• Long Haul Bay (snorkeling)
• Lovers Beach (secluded, swimming)
• Newcastle Beach (white sand, walks)
• Nisbet Beach (swimming, shelling, snorkeling)
• Oualie Beach (swimming, sports, kids)
• Pinney’s Beach (swimming, bars)