Where to stay in St. Kitts & Nevis [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

Green dotted dunes, white sand, sapphire waters, rainbow cocktails and palm trees galore… This is the Caribbean life. Saint Kitts and Nevis are famous for its mountainous coastline, pristine beaches, buzzing nightlife and rainforest vibes.

Map of St. Kitts & Nevis - Locations on where to stay

One can see why celebrities flock to this absolute gem of a place aboard their private yachts. Don’t have a private yacht? It’s all good, this is where to stay in Saint Kitts and Nevis without the need of a boat, crew and captain.

On the island, you may even have a better experience than chartering a yacht… Only one way to find out, let’s get into it!

❤️ Best Area first timersBasseterre or New Castle
💸 Best Luxury HotelPark Hyatt St. Kitts
👪 Best Hotel for For FamiliesRoyal St. Kitts Hotel
🏨 Best Mid-Range HotelZenith Nevis
🛏️ Best Budget Hotel – St KittsBoyd’s View, West Farm
✨ Best Budget Hotel – NevisManuae House of Birds

Below are 8 of the best places to stay in Saint Kitts and Nevis to help you make the right decision when trying to work out best suburb to stay in Saint Kitts and Nevis for you. We have tried to make the guide as easy to follow as possible.

We have also included some things to do or places to visit as well as some eatery suggestions of either our favourite places or some funky places to eat at within the areas in Saint Kitts and Nevis so you can use this as a go to guide.

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Saint Kitts

Let’s look at the reasons why you should stay in Saint Kitts as well as things to do in Saint Kitts first.

Basseterre – Where to stay in St Kitts for First Timers

Why stay in Basseterre?

For first time visitors to Saint Kitts, you may be overwhelmed by the vast number of activities and places there are to visit in Saint Kitts. Not to worry, let’s break it down to a simple location that will allow you to see and do everything that’s worth doing in Saint Kitts.

You’ll stay in Basseterre, which is the capital city of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Basseterre is home to many historical and cultural landmarks, including the Independence Square, the St. George’s Anglican Church, the National Museum, and the Circus. You’ve just landed in Saint Kitts and there’s already so much to do.

Famed for some of the greatest beaches in Saint Kitts, Basseterre is the place to be if you’re looking to enjoy the best of the Caribbean. Popular beaches include Frigate Bay Beach, Cockleshell Beach, and South Friars Beach.

Basseterre is centrally located in Saint Kitts, making it a convenient base for exploring the island. The Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport can also be found in Basseterre, making it easy to access other destinations in the Caribbean.

Things to do in Basseterre

Start by ticking off the cultural hotspots such as the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for historians.

The fortress was built by the British in the 17th and 18th centuries and offers brilliant views of the surrounding countryside. Yep, Saint Kitts does have a countryside, it’s not only sandy beaches.

To experience local events and feel as though you’re a part of the Basseterre culture, head over to the Independence Square. It is a pretty park with fountains, statues, and gardens. This is where many public events and celebrations occur and can be experienced by locals and tourists.

Whilst we’re on the topic of history, check out the St. George’s Anglican Church. This historic church was built in the 17th century and features beautiful stained glass windows and a peaceful courtyard.

Also worth seeing is the National Museum which is located in the Old Treasury Building. The National Museum offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

To view Basseterre from a unique perspective, take a ride on the Sugar Train, which is a scenic railway that winds its way through the countryside, offering breathtaking views of the coast and mountains that envelope the train.

For adventurous travelers and adrenaline seekers at heart, take a hike up Mount Liamuiga, an active volcano. It is a challenging but rewarding experience.

You might want to save your trip to Saint Kitts for December which is when the colorful and lively Carnival celebration takes place and features parades, music, dancing, and plenty of local food and drink.

Map of Basseterre

Best places to stay in Basseterre

Budget accommodation in Basseterre

Mid range accommodation in Basseterre

Family Friendly accommodation in Basseterre

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Basseterre

Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis town skyline at the port.

Christophe Harbour – Where to stay in St Kitts near the ferry to Nevis

Why stay in Christophe Harbour?

Christophe Harbour is the perfect place for travelers who prefer a vacation with the intent to unwind, relax and simply do absolutely nothing but soak up the sun, sand and spicy margaritas.

Christophe Harbour is secluded and private while also being located close to the ferry which takes its passengers to Nevis. 

The community is gated, and many of the villas and residences are situated in secure areas which also promote exclusivity. If the celebrities venture past their cushioned yacht decks, this is where you’ll most likely find them.

The villas and residences in Christophe Harbour are some of the most luxurious on the island, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and amenities such as private pools, spas, and gourmet kitchens. If luxury travel is your thing, this is where you’ll stay.

Things to do in Christophe Harbour

First you’ll check out the place you’re staying near, which is the marina. Christophe Harbour has a full-service marina with 24-hour security, a fuel dock, and concierge services. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and other water activities in the crystal waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Sticking to water activities, next up is a party at the beach club (some of which are highly exclusive and can only be entered by invite only or knowing Leo Di Caprio personally).

The Christophe Harbour Beach Club is a private oasis for resort guests, offering private access to the beach, a pool, and a restaurant serving Caribbean cuisine all accompanied by professional dj’s.

Practice your swing at the Tom Fazio-designed golf course, which is one of the top courses in the Caribbean, with stunning views of the sea and challenging holes.

Also worth doing, which is close to the harbor, is hiking amongst the lush tropical vegetation, waterfalls, and wildlife such as monkeys and tropical birds.

Finally, end your day back by the ocean, listening to the soft sound of lapping water and nearby gulls at one of the various spa and wellness facilities in the Christophe Harbour such as massages and yoga classes.

Map of Christophe Harbour

Best places to stay in Christophe Harbour

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Christophe Harbour

Protected Harbor on St Kitts with Green Mountains

Frigate Bay – Where to stay in St Kitts with Family

Why stay in Frigate Bay?

On an island that has a reputation for partying all day and all night, you may think that Saint Kitts isn’t a holiday destination for the family. However, the opposite is true of Frigate Bay, which is a perfect family destination.

Frigate Bay is known for its calm beaches which is perfect for those with wandering kids. The calm water makes it great for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

All of which keep the older and younger kids entertained. South Frigate Bay Beach and North Frigate Bay Beach are two of the most popular beaches in the area.

When kids are hungry, they get hangry, so you don’t want to be running around trying to find an appropriate restaurant that suits the picky eaters.

Frigate Bay has a variety of child-friendly and family-friendly restaurants all within walking distance from each other. You’ll be able to enjoy everything from Caribbean seafood to international cuisine and live music.

Frigate Bay has a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals, offering something for every budget and preference.

Things to do in Frigate Bay

Frigate Bay is all about the water sports. Mention anything on or around the water, and Frigate probably has it. Paddleboarding, kayaking, parasailing, you name it!

Get the family outdoors to breathe in the fresh air of the Saint Kitts rainforest. Take a guided hike through the lush rainforest of Saint Kitts and discover the island’s unique flora and fauna. Some hikes may also include a visit to historic sugar plantations and natural hot springs.

Treat the family to a relaxing sunset catamaran cruise and explore the beautiful coastline of Saint Kitts. The cruises often include snorkeling, swimming, and a beach BBQ.

For a unique, family experience, go for a horseback ride across the white beaches of Frigate Bay.

Visit Caribelle Batik, a historic site that was once a sugar plantation and is now a workshop and store for handcrafted batik fabrics. The family can watch the artisans at work and purchase unique souvenirs.

Map of Frigate Bay

Best places to stay in Frigate Bay

Budget accommodation in Frigate Bay

Mid range accommodation in Frigate Bay

Family Friendly accommodation in Frigate Bay

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Frigate Bay

Panoramic view of South end of St Kitts and Frigate Bay with Nevis in the background.

Trinity – Where to stay in St Kitts like a Local

Why stay in Trinity?

If beach huts, coconut cocktails, fire-roasted fish, footie with the locals and hammocks in the trees are your kind of vibe, then you’ll love Trinity, which is a part of Saint Kitts where you’ll find locals and local things to do.

Trinity is a small village located on the North-Eastern coast of the island of Saint Kitts, and it’s a popular destination for travelers seeking a more secluded and tranquil experience.

Trinity is a traditional Caribbean village with a rich cultural history, and visitors can experience local culture through visits to historic sites such as the Romney Manor and the Wingfield Estate.

Things to do in Trinity

As previously mentioned, you could visit Romney Manor, which is a historic site located in Trinity and is home to the Caribelle Batik workshop and store. Visitors can watch the artisans at work and purchase unique handcrafted batik fabrics.

To satisfy your sweet tooth, the Wingfield Estate is another historic site in Trinity that offers a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural history. Visitors can see the ruins of the estate’s sugar mill and learn about the island’s sugar plantation era.

Swim, snorkel, dive and sunbathe at Trinity’s best beaches which are Turtle Beach and Sand Bank Bay.

Trinity is known for its fishing scene and you’ll find that you’ll be able to fish alongside the locals and feel as though you’re really fitting into the culture and lifestyle. You can also go on guided fishing trips to see how many native fish breeds you can catch including marlin, tuna, and wahoo.

Another local favorite is bird watching. Watch the skies pulse with color and sound as a variety of bird species including the Caribbean Martin and the Saint Kitts Bullfinch fly high.

Finally, spend the evening with the locals as they gather in their local bars and on the beaches, sitting around bonfires, overlooking the red sky.

Map of Trinity

Best places to stay in Trinity

Budget accommodation in Trinity

Family Friendly accommodation in Trinity

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Trinity

A view over St. Kitts Island with residential area and beaces on the foreground and lush green hills on the background

Sandy Point Town – Where to stay in St Kitts for Relaxation

Why stay in Sandy Point Town?

If climbing hills, racing jet skis, hunting for local treasures and partying all night isn’t your vibe, then you’ll love Sandy Point Town. 

Sandy Point Town focuses on sleeping in, slow coffee mornings, late brunches, spa treatments and poolside retreats with a good book in hand.

Sandy Point Town is a small village located on the southern coast of the island of Saint Kitts, and it’s a great destination for travelers seeking a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path Caribbean experience. 

Things to do in Sandy Point Town

Sandy Point Town’s specialty is its secluded, intimate and peaceful beaches, so that’s where you’ll start your morning before it gets too hot.

Find a shady palm tree and fall asleep to the sounds of the waves crashing gently on the shore. Banana Bay and Majors Bay are the nicest beaches to frequent.

Unwind with various spa treatments offered in the area or at your hotel.

Many resorts and wellness centers in Sandy Point Town offer yoga and meditation classes, which can help you relax and find your inner peace. These classes often take place in beautiful outdoor settings, such as on the beach or in a tropical garden.

As the afternoon approaches, along with it comes tea time. Sandy Point Town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including lush forests and rolling hills, which make for great picnic and afternoon tea spots. Or pack a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature.

As evening approaches, go on a relaxing sunset cruise around the bay. Enjoy a glass of wine or Caribbean cocktail while watching the sun bleed into the horizon.

End your day with a delicious meal of Caribbean and international dishes, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients at Serendipity, which has a terrace that overlooks the ocean.

Map of Sandy Point Town

Best places to stay in Sandy Point Town

Budget accommodation in Sandy Point Town

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Sandy Point Town

A view over St. Kitts Island with residential area and beaces on the foreground and lush green hills on the background

Nevis

Next up, we’re taking the ferry from Saint Kitts to Nevis to explore a new island with different cultures and history.

New Castle – Where to stay in Nevis for First Timers

Why stay in New Castle?

Never been to Nevis? Read on, this one’s for you. New Castle is a small village located on the island of Nevis, which is part of the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The village is situated in the hills of Nevis and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. 

New Castle is best for first time visitors to Nevis as it has outrageous views (as in 1200 ft above sea level birds eye views), is nestled amongst local villages for that true cultural experience and has a variety of native activities to do that will have you bounding out of bed in the morning to check out. 

Things to do in New Castle

Start your day by hiking to the Summit of Nevis Peak. Nevis Peak is the highest point on the island, and hiking to the summit is a challenging but naturally rewarding experience. The hike takes several hours, but the views from the summit are super cool, offering scenic views of the island and the surrounding Caribbean Sea. 

Next up is the Cottle Church, which is one of the oldest churches on the island of Nevis, dating back to the 1820s. The church is unique as it was built by a former slave owner and his slaves, who used their own money and labor to construct the building.

See more of Nevis’ greenery at the Botanical Gardens of Nevis, which is cool to see from both a botanist’s and casual viewer’s perspective. The Botanical Gardens of Nevis is a 6-acre garden located in the hills above Charlestown.

The garden features a wide variety of tropical plants, including palms, orchids, and bromeliads. There is also a Japanese garden, a tropical rainforest conservatory, and a museum filled with Nevisian history and culture.

Given that New Castle is close to local activities and attractions, spend the afternoon attending a local cultural event such as the Nevis Mango & Food Festival and the Nevis Culturama Festival, which take place annually.

Although New Castle is located in the hills of Nevis and not directly on the beach, the island is surrounded by picturesque beaches that are just a short drive away. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Pinney’s Beach, Lover’s Beach, and Oualie Beach.

Map of New Castle

Best places to stay in New Castle

Budget accommodation in New Castle

Mid range accommodation in New Castle

Family Friendly accommodation in New Castle

overview of beach and resort, st kitts, Caribbean

Cotton Town/ Ground – Where to stay in Nevis with Family

If you’re coming from Saint Kitts to Nevis with the family, your destination of choice will be Cotton Town. Get the kids excited by telling them you’re going to the land of cotton candy. 

Why stay in Cotton Town/ Ground?

Cotton Ground is a village located on the Western coast of the island of Nevis. It caters towards families with busy children who always want to be doing an activity.

It also has attractions for the laid back family who prefer to chill on holiday. Cotton Ground Town is a favorite amongst families due to its budget friendly options, location and proximity to attractions. 

Cotton Ground Town is also the closest you can get to a real life Pirates of the Carribean getaway.

Things to do in Cotton Ground Town

Go on a family expedition aboard a boat around the island. Elect a Captain Jack Sparrow and see where the wind takes you.

If you got lucky on your boat trip and caught some fresh Caribbean fish, learn to cook it well with a local chef by participating in a local cooking class.

Nevisian cuisine is a unique blend of African, European, and Caribbean flavors, and visitors to Cotton Ground can learn how to make traditional Nevisian dishes such as saltfish, johnnycakes, coconut bread, and goat water soup (yep, you read that right. Go on, try it, you only live once!).

Visit the Saddle Hill Observation Deck which is only a short drive from Cotton Ground. The Saddle Hill Observation Deck has a deck from which you can view various pieces of the island including Nevis Peak, the neighboring island St. Kitts, and the Caribbean Sea.

Another unique activity to try out is the Nevis Natural Hot Springs. First you’ll have to hike to the top but you’ll get to experience a Tarzan vibe as you make your way through the rainforest. After the walk, reward the family with a relaxing dip in the warm pools of spring water.

If you’ve explored everything from above, take a short drive to Charlestown, which is the capital of Nevis. Charlestown is a charming town with a historic downtown area and plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions to explore. 

Map of Cotton Ground

Best places to stay in Cotton Town

Budget accommodation in Cotton Town

Mid range accommodation in Cotton Town

Family Friendly accommodation in Cotton Town

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Cotton Town

The Paradise Beach at the small Antilles Island Nevis in the Caribbean Sea

Butlers – Where to stay in Nevis on a Budget

Why stay in Butlers?

On the opposite side of the island, you’ll find Butlers. Despite the name illuiding to private exclusivity that comes with a price tag, Butlers caters towards those who want to explore the Caribbean with a beer budget.

That’s not to say that Butlers is a second rate destination. In fact, Butlers has some epic beaches which cannot be seen elsewhere along the Caribbean coastline, such as Nisbet beach.

Butlers has a chilled, laid back lifestyle and vibe. It’s a place that doesn’t care whether you rock up in Air Jordans or five-year old flip flops. 

Things to do in Butlers

Budget Butlers has some budget attractions you can look forward to. Some of the attractions that are free of charge include enjoying the beach and body surfing the waves.

You can also take a walk through the village and admire the colorful Caribbean architecture, or head out into the countryside and explore the tropical rainforest and rolling hills. 

In terms of eating options, Butlers is well priced and you’ll find some of the best, fresh, locally made produce at the numerous beach shacks and local markets erected along the coastline.

The Horatio Nelson Museum is located in nearby Charlestown and offers a fascinating look into the life and career of one of Britain’s most famous naval heroes. Admission is inexpensive, and the museum is well worth a visit for anyone interested in history or maritime culture.

A unique way to learn more about the Carribean culture is to attend a local church service. Butlers is home to several historic churches, and attending a local church service is a great way to experience the island’s culture and spirituality. Many churches offer services in the Creole language, adding to the unique cultural experience.

The Nevis Peak Trail is free and starts in the village of Butlers and then winds its way up Nevis Peak, passing the countryside along the way.

The hike takes approximately 4-6 hours there and back and requires a moderate level of fitness. Make sure that you bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes.

Map of Butlers

Best places to stay in Butlers

Budget accommodation in Butlers

Mid range accommodation in Butlers

Family Friendly accommodation in Butlers

A cloudy rainforest peak in the highlands of Saint Kitts.

Areas to Avoid in St Kitts & Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis are generally safe places to visit, however, use common sense and don’t put yourself in a dangerous situation like staying out after dark by yourself.

Dieppe Bay Town has been known to experience high levels of crime and tourists have previously been advised to exercise caution when visiting the town.

Additionally, while the village of Cayon is generally safe, visitors should once again be cautious when traveling in the area at night.

With that, this guide of where to stay in Saint Kitts and Nevis comes to an end. Feeling like part of Jack Sparrow’s crew yet? As you’ve seen, no matter your preference, Saint Kitts and Nevis have it all. The islands can be as chilled or as busy as you’d like. It’s your choice.

You’ve been on a nature-inspired vacation filled with rainforests, ocean life, and some relaxing down time that has left you revitalized and brimming with energy.

Saint Kitts and Nevis are two of the most blissful islands that perfectly encompass that sweet pina colada, coconut oil, and salty palm tree, Caribbean vibe.

They’re places to get lost in –  In the best way possible and you’ll have to drag yourself away from the pearl shores to go home. 

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Author

  • Katie Barker

    Katie, a dynamic travel expert and photographer, is dedicated to exploration and sharing her adventures through travel and lifestyle blogging. With a global perspective shaped by residences in Cape Town and beyond, she offers insights into off-the-beaten-path destinations and budget-friendly travel tips. Katie's expertise spans digital nomad living, travel planning, and empowering solo female travelers.

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