Bequia

Bequia, the largest of Saint Vincent's Grenadines, is the laid-back, unspoilt soul of the archipelago, a tranquil and characterful haven long beloved of sailors. Its pretty main village, Port Elizabeth, curves around the sheltered Admiralty Bay, where yachts bob at anchor and a walkway leads past bars and restaurants to the lovely Princess Margaret Beach. The island retains deep, enduring traditions of the sea, from wooden boatbuilding to a licensed remnant of traditional whaling, and a warm, welcoming community. With gorgeous beaches, snorkelling, a turtle sanctuary and an easygoing pace, Bequia is a genuine, low-key Caribbean idyll.

History

The Kalinago lived throughout the Grenadines before Europeans came, and the name Bequia is said to mean island of the clouds. The French settled the island in the 18th century, the Treaty of Paris of 1763 gave it to Britain, and James Hamilton, father of Alexander Hamilton, lived here from 1774 to 1790 on land along Southeast Bay (Wikipedia, Bequia).

Highlights

• Princess Margaret Beach - the lovely beach near the harbour.
• Port Elizabeth and Admiralty Bay - the pretty sailing village and bay.
• The boatbuilding heritage - the traditional wooden-boat craft.
• The turtle sanctuary - the Old Hegg turtle conservation project.

When to go

December to May, the dry season, for the best weather and calmest seas, and the height of the sailing season; the island is reached by ferry or a small flight from Saint Vincent, and rewards a relaxed few days soaking up its unhurried charm. It is busiest and liveliest during the winter sailing season.

Things to know

Bequia is small, quiet and low-key, without resorts, nightlife or major sights, which is precisely its unspoilt, sailor's-haven charm, so it suits those seeking tranquillity, beaches and character rather than buzz; the island's licensed traditional whaling, though a tiny, culturally rooted remnant, is a point some visitors find uncomfortable. As a genuine, laid-back and characterful Caribbean island of lovely beaches, a pretty harbour and enduring maritime traditions, though, Bequia is a delightful escape.

Nearby

The Tobago Cays, the other Grenadines and Saint Vincent are within reach.

Key facts