Beaches
The closest beach to Top O’ Tobago is Arnos Vale Bay which is a short 10 minute stroll down our garden paths. Arnos Vale Bay is renowned for exceptional snorkeling by just swimming right off shore. You will see a myriad of brightly coloured reef fish, varieties of coral and an underwater world that will amaze you. There is even a resident Hawksbill turtle in our bay that one can try to follow before it speeds quickly away. At least another four romantic secluded beaches are found nearby where one can feel like you are shipwrecked and marooned on a tropical paradise – but still only a twenty minute walk away from the Villa – ask the manager!
Arnos Vale Bay
The closest beach to Top O’ Tobago is Arnos Vale Bay. A busy day may have ten to fifteen people on this idyllic beach so bring your snorkelling gear, hammock, some sandwiches and cold drinks and spend some time.
This bay has a long history as a point where the shipment of sugar was taken out to larger ships in the bay in colonial days. The Arnos Vale area was once a plantation that had many workers at the nearby Arnos Vale Waterwheel and on the hills cultivating sugar cane. The present main road through the Arnos Vale valley to Les Coteaux was once the same track used to transport the sugar to the beach for shipment. The plantation house that was situated on the hill above the beach is now the Arnos Vale Hotel. The hotel has a beach bar and sometimes serves barbecue near the beach.
The bay is ideal for snorkelling. It is one of the few beaches where you can swim simply off shore and see amazing varieties of reef fish and coral. Other snorkelling areas require a boat to get to the better dive sites. Many outfitters choose Arnos Vale Bay as a scuba diving site as well.
As you explore this underwater world you will learn various landmarks and rock outcroppings. On the left you will trace how the coral was carved out to make a channel for boats in earlier days. There is very little current at Arnos Vale which makes it ideal for novice and young swimmers. We have snorkelling gear available for our guests at Top O’ Tobago at no charge.
Other Beaches too Numerous to Mention
There are so many beaches around Tobago that it would be impossible to name them all. Near Top O’ Tobago there are special secluded beaches to explore. Ask the manager or the staff if you have something particular in mind and they can give you directions. Each beach seems to have a different character and personality. This makes it so much fun to just rent a car to explore each one. Some have many facilities with lifeguards while some are active with people but some are very quiet and laid back. Use common sense when exploring, careful not to take any valuables to the beach. Tobagonians might approach you to offer you a few souvenirs or slather you in fresh aloe to soothe your baked skin. If you wish not to be disturbed a firm “no” is enough and they will respect your privacy.
