Nevis may be small and less developed than big sister St. Kitts, but this 35.9-square-mile gem in the Leeward Islands has a ton to offer travelers. For vacationers keen to escape the throngs of sun-seekers in tourist-trodden Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas, it provides an unspoiled slice of paradise that brims with natural beauty, history, warm hospitality, and relaxed vibes.
The consistently warm temperatures and sunny days offer picture-perfect weather for taking advantage of the many outdoor activities. The primary attraction for many hikers and cyclists, Nevis Peak steals the show. Travelers can explore popular offshore dive sites and admire the Georgian-style architecture in the capital city of Charlestown or unwind with sandy beaches, thermal hot springs, and breezy resort pools. Foodies love Nevis because it’s among the most exciting food destinations in the Caribbean.
Best Hotels and Resorts on Nevis
Four Seasons Resort Nevis
Poised on Pinney’s Beach, the Four Seasons Resort Nevis stands out as a luxurious yet laid-back option that’s particularly well-suited for families with three outdoor pools, four restaurants, a bar, tennis, golf, a kids club, and a spa. The accommodations range from well-appointed rooms to spacious villas that sleep groups in comfort and style.
Paradise Beach Nevis
Travelers who enjoy the privacy of a house and the perks of a resort will love Paradise Beach Nevis, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World that’s a shell’s throw from the soft sand and shimmering sea. Ideal for families or groups, the vacation-worthy villas come in configurations of two, three, and four bedrooms and have kitchens and pools. The friendly concierge team is always happy to arrange excursions, dinner reservations, and activities.
Best Things to Do on Nevis
Pinney’s Beach
Beautiful beaches are top of mind for most travelers visiting the Caribbean. Pinney’s Beach looks like a postcard with white sand, turquoise water, and swaying palm trees. It’s also home to some bars (hello, rum punch) and casual restaurants for when you need some sustenance between swimming and sunning.
Nevis Peak
Nevis Peak rises 3,232 feet above sea level and is one of the most popular attractions for active travelers on the island.
Nevis Botanical Gardens
Not far from the capital of Charlestown, Nevis Botanical Gardens teems with tropical flora and exudes an oasis-like environment. Walking around the fragrant flowers, leafy shrubs, orchid terraces, lily ponds, and fountains feels like stepping inside a movie set for a vacation flick.
ATV Tours
The natural beauty of Nevis never ends, but it’s not all visible at first glance since so much of the island is hilly and shrouded in jungle.
Museum of Nevis History
For history buffs and fans of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway musical, Seabrookes suggests visiting the Museum of Nevis History in Charlestown, which sits on the same property as the old house where Alexander Hamilton was born.
Nevis enjoys a warm, tropical climate that’s cooled by trade winds. Tourism peaks during the dry season, which spans from December through April. The period between Christmas and New Year is particularly popular thanks to Carnival, also known as Sugar Mas, with vibrant celebrations involving steel drums, dancing, and food. The crowds thin and hotel rates drop in May and June. Like many Caribbean islands, it’s best to avoid hurricane season (June through November) when the weather can be unpredictable and many businesses close.
The vast majority of travelers will fly into Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw International Airport (SKB) on St. Kitts. From there, it’s a short water taxi or ferry to Nevis. It’s also possible to hop on a small plane to Vance W. Amory International Airport (NEV).
Most people opt to rent a car to get around Nevis. Moped and bicycle rentals are available, and taxis also operate on the island.
