Bequia, (pronounced ‘Beck-way’), lying just nine miles to the south of St. Vincent, is the largest of the Grenadine Islands. One of the lesser known jewels of the Caribbean, Bequia is a compact 7 miles, with around 5,000 warm and friendly inhabitants eager to welcome visitors. The island’s history has been deeply entwined with the sea for generations and the age-old traditions of boat building and fishing are still evident.

Bequia Island means “island of the clouds” in the ancient Arawak language, and appears to have first been inhabited around 200 AD by highly skilled pottery-making Amerindians, originating from the South American mainland. Successive migrations of further mainland groups followed, until a final migration by the Caribs shortly before the arrival of Columbus in the Antilles. This resulted in the descendants of the earliest inhabitants being ultimately over-run and a new, culturally mixed population emerged.

The sea and maritime activities will always be the lifeblood of the island and its people. Boatbuilding remains an honoured calling, whether seagoing or miniature size, using tools and techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation. Indeed for many years, Bequia could only be reached by sea, and it continues to be a favourite for yachtsmen from around the world. Vessels of all shapes and sizes fill the pretty harbour, from luxury yachts and motorised boats to old wooden schooners and small cruise ships. The opening of the JF Mitchell Airport in 1992 has made the island far more accessible with regular scheduled and charter flights.

Getting around in Bequia

Port Elizabeth is nestled along the waterfront of Admiralty Bay, and you can’t help but visit during your stay in this tiny island paradise. Jump in one of the open back Taxis parked under the Almond Tree in the harbour. Easy to spot, they sport colourful names likes “Humble Servant”, “jump in”,  and “fat man”. Alternatively try a local “dollar van”, which as the name suggests costs between EC$1 and EC$5, based on the length of the journey. These travel regularly to most parts of the island. They represent the cheapest way to get around, are often crowded, and rarely without loud on-board music – true Bequia style! Our favourites are the water taxis! You will find them dotted around the harbour or at the dinghy dock in Port Elizabeth, also with colourful names and they are perfect for taking you to the beach. They costs around EC$15 – EC$20 depending on the length of the journey.

Alternatively hire a vehicle. The island is small and easy to navigate, so it’s almost impossible to get lost. You will however require a visitor driving permit which costs around EC$65.

On foot, take a stroll along the Belmont Walkway which meanders along the waterfront of Admiralty Bay starting at the Porthole Restaurant and Bar and weaving it’s way south past the Frangipani Hotel (a favourite hangout and watering hole for locals and visitors alike, birthplace and home of the former Prime Minster James F Mitchell and fondly referred to as the “Frangi”). You can follow the walkway all the way along to the delightful Princess Margaret trail which connects to the walkway to the splendid beaches of Princess Margaret and Lower Bay.

There is far more to Bequia than just its amazing beaches. Take an Island tour, leisurely and informative and see as much or as little as you want. Tours are tailored to your wishes, just agree the price beforehand. Travel a short distance away from the heart of the island in Port Elizabeth, and you will find lush green meadows, deserted beaches, spectacular views down the Grenadine Islands, densely wooded hillsides, fishing villages, boat-builders executing a skill passed down for generations, artists’ studios, windswept hillsides alive with sheep and goats, fabulous flora and fauna, and a real sense of history and heritage hidden just below the surface.

On the northern point of Admiralty Bay stands Hamilton Fort, beyond Hamilton village. The original structure is long gone, but both French and English cannon retrieved from the waters around Bequia are now placed there; the view alone is worth the visit. Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary , Bequian Orton King’s turtle sanctuary is a must see. A true labour of love, Orton has been providing a nursery for young Hawksbill turtles since 1995.The turtles are cared for from birth to about 18 months when they are tagged and returned to the ocean. A former skin-diving fisherman, Orton welcomes visitors enthusiastically and delights in sharing his passion and knowledge with others.

Perhaps the best way to really get to know Bequia and its hidden treasures is on foot. Early morning or late evening are the ideal times of day – but whenever you go, remember to take water, a hat and sunscreen! Just exploring the winding roads on Bequia can be a revelation, but there are also smaller trails and disused roads to take you deep into the heart of the island.

Of course, no trip to the island is complete without a visit to its most famous beach. Princess Margaret, who had a home on nearby Mustique, visited Bequia in the 1950s and had a beach renamed in her honour. A spot of scuba diving might be just the thing and Bequia has several wrecks and shallow caves accessible to advanced divers. It is not unusual to see Hawksbill turtles, lobsters, moray eels and many kinds of fish when diving around Bequia. You can easily find diving guides and information during your stay.

Getting there