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Looking for the best beaches in Montserrat? We’ve got you covered.
As Caribbean nationals, the island of Montserrat is small and does not get the volume of tourists when compared to its regional counterparts.
The island has also survived massive destruction from the volcanic eruption in 1995 which led to the migration of a large part of the population.
Today, approximately 5,000 persons live on Montserrat. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of the top beaches on the island.
So let us begin.
1. Little Bay Beach
Little Bay Beach is highly regarded as the best beach on the island due to its calm waters and prime location.
The area of Little Bay has been earmarked to be the new capital city of the island.
There are amenities such as shops and restaurants nearby.
Additionally, cruise ships to the island dock in the Little Bay region.
Some of the best places to eat include Time Out Grill and Summer Breeze restaurants for lunches overlooking the boats drift in and out of the beach and the regional bars offer homemade smoothies and Soufriere stout produced from regional fruits.
Soca Cabana is located on its shoreline and is usually the venue for Montserrat Idol Singing Competition. It is an ideal nightlife spot if you are seeking music and entertainment.
2. Isle Bay Beach
This black sand location is on the Western side of the island. The Belham River joins to the sea at the Isle Bay Beach.
The beach sits with a view facing the Soufriere Hills Volcano and the former capital city of Plymouth. It is also an excellent location for swimming and sunbathing.
Isles Bay Beach is home to the award winning Isles Bay Beach Bar. This popular spot with locals serves various seafood dishes, salads, burgers, sandwiches and main course meals.
3. Woodlands Beach
Situated on the Western side of the island, this beach is about a less than a mile long with beautiful turquoise waters.
This black sand spot is secluded which makes it ideal for persons seeking solitude and privacy.
At times, the water can be choppy so know that if you visit you may have not be able to swim on that day.
Woodlands Beach also has amenities which include picnic tables, changing rooms and bathroom facilities.
This location is a prime turtle nesting spot on the island so be mindful when you are visiting as the authorities are conscious about preserving the population in its waters.
4. Rendezvous Beach
This is the only white sand beach on the island that is accessible by either hiking or via a boat ride.
Companies such as Aqua Montserrat and Scuba Montserrat provide tours to Rendezvous Beach.
Alternatively, if you prefer hiking, the trail to this location takes about 45-60 minutes to go to and also for the return trip.
The trail is suitable if you are interested in admiring the many views as well as the flora and fauna on the island.
There are certain areas where one has to walk uphill so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.
Rendezvous Beach is loved for its remoteness as well as its clear and calm waters.
There are no amenities in this location so be sure to pack food and other items to make your stay comfortable.
This location is also well loved by snorkelers who can see various species and other sea creatures in the waters near the coral reef on beach’s Northern region.
5. Lime Kiln Bay Beach
Situated in the community of Salem is this small black sand beach which is loved for its crystal clear blue waters.
It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. Eels, turtles and stingrays can be seen in this location.
The spot does not have amenities such as bars, restaurants and changing rooms.
6. Bunkum Bay Beach
A beautiful black sand beach perfect for swimming or taking a stroll.
It is surrounded by mountains and coconut trees. There is a beach bar at this location which is well loved for its delicious pizza.
7. New Beach
Located near Bottomless Ghaut, this new beach formed as a result of the volcanic activity of Soufriere Hills.
The black sands and majestic surroundings are truly a wonder. A must visit beach location in Montserrat.
Best Time To Visit Montserrat
The best time to visit Montserrat is from December to April annually. This is the dry season and hence the weather is generally sunny on most days. During the month of March, the island celebrates St Patrick’s Day festivities with a bank holiday due to its strong Irish heritage.
How To Get To Montserrat
The airport in Montserrat is called John A Osborne Airport and is suitable for only smaller aircrafts.
If you are traveling from major international city in the USA, UK, Canada or Europe, the best option is to travel to V C Bird International Airport in Antigua.
Fly Montserrat and BMN SVG Airways are the two regional airlines that provide direct and non-stop service from Antigua to Montserrat.
The flying time is only about twenty minutes and both airlines allow you to check a bag for free as well as bring a carry on onboard.
To make a booking for BMN SVG Airways visit their website https://flysvgair.com. You can also make a reservation via phone on 12685628033 or 12685637183.
Similarly, in relation to Fly Montserrat can be done online at https://www.flymontserrat.com. For queries and concerns, you can email [email protected].
Prior to the pandemic, there were two ferry companies that provide transportation over to Montserrat by sea.
At the time of publication, there are no ferry services to Montserrat. Feel free to check out the Facebook pages of Jayden Sun and Island Escape Ferry for updates on their ferry services.
Alternatively, you can contact the Access Division in Montserrat via email at [email protected].
Where To Stay In Montserrat
Montserrat does not have high end all inclusive resort chains. Nevertheless, there are cozy villas and hotels on the island with lots of charm, guaranteed to make your stay comfortable.
Hereunder are two amazing recommendations:-
Famili Villa
This is a four bedroom villa which sleeps approximately nine guests. There is a pool and the property is situated 1.5km from the center of Old Towne.
A deposit is required to cover any incidences. Little Bay Beach mentioned above is situated nearby.
Kurtenas Hideaway
This oceanfront property features three bedrooms with private pool and WIFI.
Little Bay Beach is about 6km away which is about five minutes’ drive. Pets and smoking are not allowed.
Restaurants are about twenty minutes’ drive away. The property can arrange a private chef if desired.
Does Montserrat Get Hurricanes?
Yes, Montserrat is located in the hurricane belt and hence there is a high threat of natural disaster. The season in the Caribbean starts in June and ends in November annually. Hurricane Fiona is the last major hurricane to impact the island in 2022. September is the season’s peak period.
Therefore it is prudent to consider travel insurance if you are visiting the island during the hurricane season.
Furthermore, travel insurance is also advisable when visiting the Caribbean to safeguard yourself and your loved ones if there are any cancellation, delays, interruptions, lost luggage and adventure sports activities.
For reliable insurance coverage to the Montserrat, we strongly recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance.
What Is The Best Currency For Montserrat
The official currency for Montserrat is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar. This currency is also used by seven other English Speaking Eastern Caribbean islands.
The Eastern Caribbean currency has bank notes as well as coins. Bank notes are available in $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 denominations.
Coins are available in 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents, $1 and $2 denominations. Coins in 1 cents and 2 cents pieces were recently discontinued.
The Eastern Caribbean Dollar has been pegged to the US (United States) dollar since July 7th, 1976 at a rate of USD $1 to XCD $2.70.
The US dollars are widely accepted by businesses around the island. For ease of doing business, it is better to use bank notes of smaller denominations.
Banks notes that are worn or torn are generally not accepted by commercial banks across the region.
The Bank of Montserrat is the only commercial bank on the island which exchanges US dollars, British Pound Sterling, Canadian Dollars and the Barbadian Dollars.
Be sure to have at least two pieces of identification for ease of banking transactions.
Top Things To Do In Montserrat
In addition to spending time basking on the beaches around Montserrat, take time to see the island with these tours suggested below:-
Tour The Island On A Hummer- travel around the island in style. Visit several historic and cultural spots such as the Little Bay Town Area and the Barzeys Estate Sugar Mill.
Trek Silver Hills-this is a mountain peak which stands at an elevation of 219 metres. The location provides scenic views of Rendezvous Bay Beach, Little Bay region and the John A Osborne Airport.
Final Thoughts: Best Beaches In Montserrat
We trust that you found this guide helpful as you visit the beaches across the Caribbean island of Montserrat.
The crime rate on the island is negligible and the people are friendly.
In addition to relaxing beach days, we are confident that you will enjoy a vacation filled with peace and tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montserrat Caribbean Worth Visiting?
The island of Montserrat, Caribbean is worth visiting for persons seeking peace and tranquility. Calabash Festival which is celebrated in the month of July and St Patrick’s Day in March annually are two key festive times on the island. Rendezvous Beach is the only white sand beach in Montserrat.
How Long Is The Ferry Ride From Antigua To Montserrat?
The ferry ride from Antigua to Montserrat is about 90 minutes. Jayden Sun and Island Escape Ferry are two of the ferry services providing transportation from St John, Antigua to Little Bay, Montserrat. Ferry services to the island has not resumed after the pandemic.
Does Montserrat Have Nice Beaches?
Yes, there are nice beaches in Montserrat. These are predominantly black sand beaches due to the presence of the Soufriere Volcano on the island. Rendezvous Beach is the only white sand spot which is only accessible by hiking or via a boat ride. Little Bay Beach is one of the popular beach spots.
What Is Montserrat National Dish?
Goat water is the national dish of Montserrat made with goat meat. This is prepared with various seasoning such as peppers, onions, chives and garlic. Dried seasonings are also added as well as browning to give the meat its distinct color. Goat water is often served with bread or rice.
What Is The Number 1 Tourist Island In The Caribbean?
Dominican Republic is the most visited island in the Caribbean with millions of visitors to its shore annually. Punta Cana is a popular spot for nightlife and entertainment which is home to the tallest peak, one of the longest beaches, Bavaro Beach and the tallest waterfall in the Caribbean.
More Montserrat & Caribbean Guides:
How To Get To Montserrat, Caribbean (Travel Tips Included)
Best Caribbean Islands To Visit (21 Stunning Options)
The Safest and Most Dangerous Islands In The Caribbean
