Tobago City Guide

Local dishes include Crab and Dumplings, Curried Crab, and Callaloo. International options are mainly Italian, Chinese, and American. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing. Late-night food is limited.

Nightlife is relaxed with beach bars, pubs, and hotel entertainment, mostly around Crown Point. Peaks on weekends.

Coffee scene is developing with local cafes offering traditional brews. Limited specialty coffee shops or roasters.

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, taxis, and for services. Usually 10-15% in restaurants if no service charge is included.

SIM cards are available at the airport and provider shops in towns. Bmobile and Digicel are main carriers. eSIMs are rare. ID is required for activation.

Main tourist areas are clean; some local spots have litter. Waste collection regular but recycling limited. Drainage issues sometimes after heavy rain.

Limited 24/7 services. Some late pharmacies and minimarts exist, but most close early. Emergency services and some hotel eateries operate late.

Supermarkets offer international and local products. Larger stores include Penny Savers and Massy Stores. Scarborough Market sells fresh local produce and fish. Shops usually open 8 AM to 8 PM, less on Sundays.

Credit cards are accepted at hotels, bigger restaurants, and supermarkets. Cash is needed for smaller shops, taxi rides, and local vendors.

ATMs are found in major towns like Scarborough, Crown Point, and Roxborough. Banks include Republic Bank and Scotiabank. Fees for international cards vary.

Local public and private schools teach in English following the Caribbean curriculum. No international schools on Tobago; most are on Trinidad.

Small community with informal meetups but no dedicated nomad hubs or co-living spaces. Networking mainly through local contacts.

Extensive green areas in the Main Ridge Forest Reserve. Good shaded walking and outdoor space for running and relaxation.

Running routes along coastal roads, parks, and beaches. Generally safe with scenic spots like Pigeon Point Heritage Park.

Gyms are mostly in bigger towns and hotels. Public football and cricket facilities are common.

Tennis courts at some hotels and clubs, mainly hard courts. Equipment rental and coaching limited but possible.

No padel courts available.

A few studios and instructors offer various yoga styles. Wellness retreats and spas exist, mostly in resorts.

Some local clubs offer karate, taekwondo, and boxing. Training mostly for residents; English-speaking instructors available.

No skiing opportunities on Tobago.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are common at main beaches. Rentals and guided tours available. Best conditions in dry season.

Surfing mainly on the Atlantic coast at spots like Mt. Irvine and Grange Bay. Warm water year-round. Best waves from November to April. Options for beginners and experienced surfers.

Excellent diving with clear waters and rich marine life. PADI centers available mainly in Crown Point and Speyside. Suitable sites for all levels.

Scarborough General Hospital is the main public hospital. Private clinics offer shorter waits. Staff normally speak English. Pharmacies sell common meds and operate regular hours.

Tap water is generally safe to drink, especially in hotels and established places. Some still prefer bottled water.

Good for families with playgrounds, kid-friendly restaurants, and attractions like Argyle Waterfall and Main Ridge Forest Reserve.

Generally conservative with growing tolerance in tourist spots. No official safe spaces or events. Legal protections improving but discrimination possible.

Pet policies vary. Some places allow pets outdoors. Veterinary services and supplies are mainly in large towns. Strict pet import rules.