Everything You Need to Know About Second Honeymooning in St. Kitts and Nevis

Embarking on a second honeymoon is a beautiful way to rekindle the romance and celebrate the journey you’ve shared together. If you’re dreaming of a destination that combines pristine beaches, lush landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious accommodations, look no further than St. Kitts and Nevis. These twin Caribbean islands offer the perfect setting for couples seeking relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to plan the perfect second honeymoon in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Why Choose St. Kitts and Nevis for Your Second Honeymoon

A Tropical Paradise

St. Kitts and Nevis, often referred to as the “Emerald of the Caribbean,” boast stunning natural beauty. From powdery white-sand beaches and turquoise waters to verdant rainforests and majestic volcanic peaks, the islands provide an idyllic backdrop for romance.

• Pristine Beaches: Relax on secluded beaches like Cockleshell Beach or Pinney’s Beach, where you can enjoy privacy and tranquility.
• Lush Landscapes: Explore the islands’ lush vegetation, including tropical rainforests, sugar cane fields, and exotic gardens.
• Volcanic Peaks: Hike up Mount Liamuiga in St. Kitts or Nevis Peak for breathtaking panoramic views.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant history and culture of the islands.

• Historical Sites: Visit Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to delve into the colonial past.
• Local Traditions: Experience local festivals like St. Kitts Music Festival or Nevis Culturama, showcasing music, dance, and art.

Romantic Atmosphere

The laid-back Caribbean vibe, combined with luxurious accommodations and romantic experiences, makes St. Kitts and Nevis an ideal destination for couples.

• Intimate Resorts: Stay in boutique hotels or private villas that cater to couples seeking privacy and luxury.
• Sunset Views: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the Caribbean Sea, perfect for romantic evenings.

Ease of Access

• Accessibility: With direct flights from major cities in the U.S. and Europe, reaching the islands is convenient.
• Safety: The islands are known for their friendly locals and low crime rates, offering a safe environment for travelers.

Best Time to Visit St. Kitts and Nevis

Weather Overview

St. Kitts and Nevis enjoy a tropical climate year-round, but certain times offer more favorable conditions.

• Dry Season (December to April): Ideal time to visit with sunny skies, lower humidity, and pleasant temperatures averaging 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C).
• Wet Season (May to November): Expect occasional rain showers, but the islands remain warm and less crowded.

Insider Tip: December to April is the peak tourist season, so book accommodations well in advance to secure the best options.

Festivals and Events

Experiencing local events can enhance your trip.

• St. Kitts Music Festival (June): A three-day event featuring international and local artists.
• Nevis Culturama (July/August): Celebrates Nevisian heritage with parades, music, and cultural displays.
• Carnival (December/January): A vibrant celebration with costumes, music, and dancing.

Insider Tip: Attending festivals offers a unique cultural experience but expect larger crowds and higher accommodation rates.

Getting There

Flights

• Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB): Located in St. Kitts, it receives direct flights from cities like Miami, New York, Atlanta, and London.
• Vance W. Amory International Airport (NEV): Located in Nevis, mainly serves regional flights.

Major Airlines:

• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• British Airways
• United Airlines

Insider Tip: For more flight options, consider flying into St. Kitts and taking a short ferry ride to Nevis.

Ferry Services

• Sea Bridge Ferry: Connects St. Kitts and Nevis in about 30 minutes.
• Schedules: Ferries run multiple times daily; check schedules in advance.

Entry Requirements

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
• Visa: U.S., Canadian, and EU citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
• Health Measures: Stay updated on any vaccination requirements or health protocols.

Accommodations

Luxury Resorts

Park Hyatt St. Kitts

• Location: Banana Bay, Christophe Harbour
• Highlights:
  • Beachfront Suites: Spacious rooms with private terraces and plunge pools.
  • Dining: Three signature restaurants offering local and international cuisine.
  • Spa: Miraval Life in Balance Spa provides holistic wellness treatments.

Insider Tip: Book an Ocean View Room for stunning sunrise views over Nevis.

Four Seasons Resort Nevis

• Location: Pinney’s Beach, Nevis
• Highlights:
  • Accommodations: Luxurious rooms, suites, and private villas.
  • Amenities: Championship golf course, tennis courts, and beachfront infinity pools.
  • Dining: Multiple restaurants offering farm-to-table and sea-to-table dining experiences.

Insider Tip: Opt for a private villa with a personal plunge pool for added romance and privacy.

Boutique Hotels

Montpelier Plantation & Beach

• Location: Nevis
• Highlights:
  • Historic Charm: Set on a former sugar plantation dating back to 1747.
  • Private Beach Access: Complimentary shuttle to their exclusive beach.
  • Gourmet Dining: Renowned for its fine dining restaurant, Restaurant 750.

Insider Tip: Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner in the property’s 300-year-old sugar mill.

Ottley’s Plantation Inn

• Location: St. Kitts
• Highlights:
  • Colonial Elegance: Nestled among 35 acres of rolling hills and gardens.
  • Spa Services: Indulge in spa treatments overlooking the rainforest.
  • Nature Trails: Explore the property’s own rainforest trails.

Insider Tip: Stay in a Supreme Room with a private plunge pool and panoramic ocean views.

Villas and Rentals

• Belle Mont Farm: Offers eco-friendly luxury cottages with farm-to-table dining experiences.
• Airbnb and VRBO: Options range from beachfront villas to hillside retreats.

Insider Tip: Renting a villa can provide more space and privacy, ideal for couples wanting a home-away-from-home experience.

Romantic Experiences

Sunset Cruises

Set sail on the Caribbean Sea as the sun dips below the horizon.

• Options:
  • Private Charter: Customize your itinerary with stops for snorkeling or secluded beach visits.
  • Group Tours: Join others on a catamaran cruise with music and cocktails.

Insider Tip: Leeward Islands Charters offers highly-rated sunset cruises with complimentary drinks and appetizers.

Private Beach Picnics

Enjoy an intimate meal on a secluded beach.

• How to Arrange:
  • Hotel Services: Many resorts offer beach picnic packages.
  • Local Providers: Companies like St. Kitts Picnic Company specialize in romantic setups.

Insider Tip: Choose Lover’s Beach in Nevis for its seclusion and serenity.

Couples’ Spa Treatments

Rejuvenate together with spa experiences designed for two.

• Popular Treatments:
  • Beachside Massages: Listen to the waves as you relax.
  • Hot Stone Therapy: Relieve tension and stress.
  • Aromatherapy Baths: Indulge in scented baths infused with local herbs.

Insider Tip: The Spa at Four Seasons Nevis offers a private outdoor garden experience for couples.

Horseback Riding on the Beach

Explore the coastline on horseback.

• Providers:
  • Trinity Stables (St. Kitts): Guided tours along the beach and through scenic trails.
  • Nevis Equestrian Centre: Offers sunset rides and picnic options.

Insider Tip: Book a sunset ride for a truly romantic experience.

Hiking Mount Liamuiga and Nevis Peak

Challenge yourselves with a hike to the islands’ highest points.

• Mount Liamuiga (St. Kitts):
  • Height: 3,792 feet (1,156 meters)
  • Duration: Approximately 3-5 hours round trip.
  • Trail: Lush rainforest, volcanic crater at the summit.
• Nevis Peak (Nevis):
  • Height: 3,232 feet (985 meters)
  • Duration: Around 4-5 hours round trip.
  • Trail: Steep and challenging but offers rewarding views.

Insider Tip: Hire a local guide for safety and to learn about the flora and fauna.

Adventure and Nature

Zip-Lining Through the Rainforest

Experience an adrenaline rush soaring above the treetops.

• Sky Safari Tours (St. Kitts):
  • Features: Multiple zip-lines, including one of the longest in the Caribbean.
  • Scenery: Panoramic views of the rainforest canopy and coastline.

Insider Tip: Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes; secure any loose items.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Discover vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters.

• Top Dive Sites:
  • Shitten Bay (St. Kitts): Ideal for snorkeling; home to colorful fish and coral reefs.
  • Monkey Shoals: Known for its diverse marine ecosystem.
  • MV River Taw Wreck (Nevis): A sunken ship teeming with sea life.
• Dive Operators:
  • Pro Divers St. Kitts
  • Scuba Safaris (Nevis)

Insider Tip: Visibility is best during the dry season; bring an underwater camera for memorable shots.

Exploring Rainforests and Wildlife

• Nature Walks:
  • Wingfield-Phillips Rainforest Trails (St. Kitts): Explore exotic plants, birds, and green vervet monkeys.
  • Nevis Botanical Gardens: Stroll through themed gardens showcasing tropical flora.
• Bird Watching:
  • Key Species: Brown pelicans, frigatebirds, and hummingbirds.
  • Best Spots: South Friar’s Bay, Great Salt Pond.

Insider Tip: Early mornings are ideal for wildlife sightings; consider guided tours for expert insights.

Cultural Immersion

Historical Sites

Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park

• Location: St. Kitts
• Significance: A UNESCO World Heritage Site; one of the best-preserved historical fortifications in the Americas.
• Features: Explore ramparts, cannons, and museum exhibits detailing colonial history.

Insider Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

Romney Manor and Caribelle Batik

• Location: St. Kitts
• Highlights:
  • Romney Manor: Historic estate with beautiful gardens.
  • Caribelle Batik: Watch artisans create batik fabrics using traditional methods.

Insider Tip: Purchase unique batik souvenirs directly from the source.

Exploring Basseterre and Charlestown

Basseterre (St. Kitts)

• Independence Square: Historic center surrounded by Georgian architecture.
• The Circus: Modeled after London’s Piccadilly Circus, featuring the Berkeley Memorial Clock.

Charlestown (Nevis)

• Nelson Museum: Dedicated to Admiral Horatio Nelson, who married a Nevisian woman.
• Hamilton House: Birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, now a museum.

Insider Tip: Take a walking tour to uncover hidden gems and learn about local history.

Local Festivals and Events

• St. Kitts Music Festival: Enjoy performances by international and Caribbean artists.
• Nevis Culturama: Experience traditional music, dance, and parades celebrating Nevisian culture.

Insider Tip: Check event calendars and book accommodations early during festival times.

Culinary Delights

Local Cuisine

Savor the flavors of Caribbean and Creole cuisine.

• Must-Try Dishes:
  • Goat Water Stew: A hearty stew made with goat meat and vegetables.
  • Conch Fritters: Deep-fried conch meat mixed with spices.
  • Saltfish and Dumplings: A traditional breakfast dish.

Recommended Restaurants

The Pavilion (St. Kitts)

• Location: Christophe Harbour
• Cuisine: Gourmet seafood and international dishes.
• Ambiance: Elegant setting with panoramic marina views.

Insider Tip: Perfect spot for a romantic dinner; reserve a table on the terrace.

Bananas Restaurant (Nevis)

• Location: Hamilton Estate
• Cuisine: Caribbean fusion with fresh, local ingredients.
• Ambiance: Set in a charming plantation house surrounded by tropical gardens.

Insider Tip: Try their signature rum punch and homemade desserts.

Sprat Net (St. Kitts)

• Cuisine: Casual dining specializing in fresh seafood and barbecue.
• Ambiance: Rustic, beachfront setting with live music on weekends.

Insider Tip: Great place to mingle with locals and enjoy generous portions at reasonable prices.

Food Festivals

• Nevis Mango Festival (July): Celebrates the island’s 40+ varieties of mangoes with culinary events and tastings.
• Restaurant Week (July): Offers special menus and discounts at participating restaurants.

Insider Tip: Participating in food festivals allows you to sample a wide range of local flavors.

Beaches and Water Activities

Best Beaches

Pinney’s Beach (Nevis)

• Features: Long stretch of golden sand, calm waters.
• Amenities: Beach bars like Sunshine’s, famous for the “Killer Bee” cocktail.

Insider Tip: Rent a beach chair and spend the day lounging; sunsets here are spectacular.

Cockleshell Beach (St. Kitts)

• Features: Soft white sand with views of Nevis across the channel.
• Activities: Snorkeling, jet-ski rentals, paddleboarding.

Insider Tip: Visit Spice Mill Restaurant for a beachfront lunch with Caribbean flair.

South Friar’s Bay (St. Kitts)

• Features: Secluded spot ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Amenities: Beach bars and restaurants nearby.

Insider Tip: Less crowded on weekdays; great for a peaceful beach day.

Water Sports and Activities

• Kayaking: Explore coastal waters and mangroves.
• Sailing: Charter a boat for a day trip or sunset sail.
• Deep-Sea Fishing: Catch marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi with experienced guides.

Insider Tip: Leeward Islands Charters and Blue Water Safaris offer a variety of water excursions.

Day Trips and Excursions

Nevis Island Excursions

• Historical Tours: Visit Hamilton House, Bath Hotel and Spring House, and Fort Charles.
• Nevis Heritage Trail: Self-guided tour of historical sites marked throughout the island.
• Botanical Gardens of Nevis: Explore seven acres of tropical plants and orchids.

Insider Tip: Rent a bike or scooter to explore Nevis at your own pace.

Scenic Railway Tour (St. Kitts)

• Experience: Ride the St. Kitts Scenic Railway, the last remaining passenger railway in the Caribbean.
• Features: Narrated tour with historical insights, complimentary drinks, and panoramic views.

Insider Tip: Sit on the upper deck for unobstructed views and photo opportunities.

Other Islands

• Day Trip to St. Eustatius or Saba: Accessible via ferry or small plane for additional exploration.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Local Crafts and Markets

• Basseterre Public Market (St. Kitts): Find fresh produce, spices, and handcrafted items.
• Amina Craft Market (St. Kitts): Souvenirs like jewelry, wood carvings, and batik fabrics.
• Charlestown Market (Nevis): Local crafts, clothing, and traditional snacks.

Insider Tip: Support local artisans by purchasing handmade goods; bargaining is acceptable but be fair.

What to Buy

• Batik Fabrics: Unique, handcrafted textiles from Caribelle Batik.
• Rum: Local brands like Brinley’s Gold Rum make excellent gifts.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and other Caribbean spices.
• Artwork: Paintings and prints by local artists.

Insider Tip: Check customs regulations on bringing back items like rum and spices.

Transportation on the Islands

Getting Around

Rental Cars

• Availability: Both islands offer car rentals; driving is on the left side of the road.
• Requirements: Temporary local driver’s license required, obtainable for a small fee.

Insider Tip: Roads can be narrow and winding; drive cautiously, especially at night.

Taxis

• Convenience: Readily available at airports, hotels, and major attractions.
• Fares: Fixed rates set by the government; confirm the price before starting your journey.

Insider Tip: Consider hiring a taxi driver for a half or full day to tour the island.

Public Transportation

• Buses: Minibuses operate on main routes; inexpensive but less frequent.
• Schedules: No fixed schedule; buses leave when full.

Insider Tip: Buses are a budget-friendly way to experience local life.

Guided Tours

• Benefits: Provides insights from local guides, transportation included.
• Options: Historical tours, eco-tours, food tours.

Insider Tip: Book tours through reputable companies or your hotel’s concierge.

Budgeting and Costs

Overview of Costs

• Accommodations:
  • Luxury Resorts: $400 – $1,000+ per night
  • Boutique Hotels: $200 – $400 per night
  • Villas/Rentals: Varies based on size and location
• Dining:
  • Fine Dining: $50 – $100+ per person
  • Mid-Range Restaurants: $20 – $50 per person
  • Casual Eateries: $10 – $20 per person
• Activities:
  • Spa Treatments: $100 – $300+
  • Excursions/Tours: $50 – $150 per person
  • Water Sports Rentals: $20 – $100+
• Transportation:
  • Rental Car: $50 – $80 per day
  • Taxi Rides: $10 – $30 depending on distance

Tips for Saving Money

• Travel Off-Peak: Visit during shoulder seasons (May-June, September-November) for lower rates.
• Meal Planning: Enjoy lunches at upscale restaurants (often cheaper than dinner) and dine at local spots.
• Package Deals: Look for bundled packages that include accommodations, meals, and activities.

Insider Tip: Always inquire about any additional fees or taxes when booking accommodations and services.

Currency and Payment Methods

• Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD); U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
• Credit Cards: Major cards accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops.
• ATMs: Available in main towns; may charge foreign transaction fees.

Insider Tip: Carry small bills for markets, taxis, and tips.

Safety and Travel Tips

Health and Safety

• Medical Facilities: Hospitals available in Basseterre and Charlestown; clinics in smaller towns.
• Vaccinations: Check CDC recommendations before traveling.
• Sun Protection: Use sunscreen and stay hydrated to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.

Cultural Etiquette

• Greetings: Friendly and polite interactions are appreciated; a simple “Good morning” goes a long way.
• Dress Code: Casual attire is acceptable; modest dress recommended when visiting churches or local communities.
• Photography: Ask permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas.

Insider Tip: Tipping is customary for good service, typically 10-15%.

What to Pack

• Essentials:
  • Lightweight clothing
  • Swimwear and beach attire
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Waterproof bag for beach and water activities

Insider Tip: Pack a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings, especially during the winter months.

Unique Experiences

Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities

Black Sand Beaches

• Dieppe Bay Beach (St. Kitts): Unique black sand due to volcanic activity; great for snorkeling.

Insider Tip: Bring water shoes as the sand can get hot and some areas are rocky.

Local Workshops

• Pottery Making: Visit local artisans to learn traditional pottery techniques.
• Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare Caribbean dishes with local chefs.

Hidden Gems

Wingfield Estate

• Location: St. Kitts
• Highlights: Ruins of an old sugar plantation; home to the Caribbean’s oldest rum distillery.

Insider Tip: Combine your visit with the nearby zip-lining adventure.

Oualie Beach (Nevis)

• Features: Quiet beach ideal for relaxation and spotting sea turtles.

Insider Tip: Visit the Oualie Beach Resort for casual dining and live music.

Final Thoughts

St. Kitts and Nevis offer a harmonious blend of natural beauty, rich culture, luxurious accommodations, and romantic experiences that make them an ideal destination for a second honeymoon. Whether you’re lounging on pristine beaches, exploring historical sites, indulging in culinary delights, or seeking adventure, these twin islands have something special for every couple.

Final Insider Tip: Embrace the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle—slow down, savor each moment, and let the enchanting atmosphere of St. Kitts and Nevis create memories that will last a lifetime.