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Speyside

A village on Tobago's northeastern coast, the base for diving Little Tobago and the giant brain coral.

Updated 2 September 2026

Typediving village
WhereTobago
Nearest cityScarborough
Best seasonJanuary to May
Time to allowTwo to three days
Getting thereOn the northeastern coast; road from Scarborough via Roxborough
EntryFree; dives and boats charged

Speyside faces Tyrrel's Bay on Tobago's northeastern coast with Little Tobago and Goat Island lying offshore, and it is the island's diving centre. The Guyana current runs through here bringing nutrients and, with them, big animals: manta rays, large schools and some of the healthiest coral around the island. A brain coral in the channel measuring several metres across has been claimed as one of the largest known anywhere.

What's there

  • The giant brain coral - a colony of several metres across in the channel.
  • The drift dives - the current-swept sites between the mainland and the islands.
  • Little Tobago - the seabird island offshore, visited by boat.
  • The manta rays - large rays regularly seen on the deeper sites.

When to go

January to May is the dry season and generally the calmest. Visibility varies with the Orinoco outflow and is not always good. Diving runs year round with operators in the village.

Before you go

Visibility here is variable because of the river outflow from the mainland and can be poor. The currents suit experienced divers rather than beginners. The village is small with limited facilities.

Nearby

Little Tobago is offshore, and Charlotteville is over the ridge.

What to pack for Speyside

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

  • Your own mask + snorkel - A well-fitting mask is the single biggest comfort upgrade underwater. Find on Amazon
  • Binoculars - The single best wildlife tool - even a compact pair transforms a sighting. Find on Amazon
  • Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
  • Rash guard or thin wetsuit - Sun cover on the surface and warmth on longer or deeper dives. Find on Amazon

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Plan your trip

Where to start if Speyside is going on the list.

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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