St Kitts and Nevis is the smallest country in the Americas — two green volcanic islands a short boat ride apart — and one of the gentlest Caribbean holidays you can take. St Kitts has the UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress, a scenic railway and the best beaches; Nevis has plantation inns, Pinney’s Beach and a perfect volcanic peak.
This guide helps you split your time between the two. For our hand-picked trips, see our St Kitts and Nevis holidays page.
The quick answer
- For beaches and the most choice, stay at Frigate Bay on St Kitts.
- For charm and peace, book a plantation inn on Nevis.
- Don’t miss Brimstone Hill Fortress and the scenic railway.
- Nevis is a short ferry or water taxi from St Kitts.
- Go between December and April.
Where to stay
| Area | Best for | What it feels like |
|---|---|---|
| Frigate Bay & the south-east peninsula | Beaches, choice | Calm bays, resorts and views across to Nevis |
| North St Kitts | History, hiking | Brimstone Hill, rainforest and plantation houses |
| Nevis | Couples, slow travel | Plantation inns, Pinney’s Beach and Nevis Peak |
Many travellers split the stay: a beach hotel on St Kitts for the sights, then a few nights in a Nevis plantation inn. Basseterre’s Port Zante is also a regular cruise call.
Things to do
- Brimstone Hill Fortress — a UNESCO World Heritage Site with views to neighbouring islands.
- St Kitts Scenic Railway — a narrow-gauge train on the old sugar-cane line.
- Hike Mount Liamuiga — or the rainforest trails of St Kitts.
- Pinney’s Beach — beach bars and calm water on Nevis.
- Charlestown — birthplace of Alexander Hamilton.
- Catamaran day — between the islands, with snorkelling.
When to go
The dry season, December to April, is the best time. The hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest risk from August to October.
Getting there and entry
Flights from London Gatwick take about 9–10 hours, usually with a short stop in Antigua. Nevis is a 45-minute ferry or a few minutes by water taxi from St Kitts. UK passport holders don’t need a visa for a holiday. Check the FCDO travel advice for St Kitts and Nevis before you go.
Money and local costs
The Eastern Caribbean dollar is the local currency, and US dollars are widely accepted.
Food and drink
Try goat water (a rich stew), saltfish with spicy plantain, fresh lobster and Nevis honey. The beach bars of Frigate Bay’s ‘Strip’ are the place for a rum punch at sunset.
Frequently asked questions
St Kitts or Nevis?
St Kitts has more beaches, sights and hotels; Nevis is quieter, with charming plantation inns. Many travellers stay on both.
When is the best time to visit?
December to April, the dry season. Hurricane season runs from June to November.
How do I get to St Kitts from the UK?
Fly from London Gatwick, usually via Antigua, in about 9–10 hours.
How do I get to Nevis?
By a 45-minute ferry or a quick water taxi from St Kitts.
Do I need a visa?
No, UK passport holders don’t need a visa for a holiday.
Planning a St Kitts and Nevis holiday?
Tell us how you would like to split your time, and we will plan the hotels, boats and transfers.
