Charlestown
Charlestown, Nevis
Smaller than its sibling isle St. Kitts, sleepy Nevis has a decidedly more elegant and old-fashioned vibe than its big sister’s capital city, Basseterre. Set on the western shore of the island, Charlestown’s charming narrow streets are lined with colorfully-painted 18th- and 19th-century Victorian and Georgian-style buildings.
The Basics
Walk along Main Street to the waterfront and visit the Museum of Nevis History to learn about the island and its most famous inhabitants, Alexander Hamilton and Horatio Nelson. Visit the cemetery on Government Road where headstones date from 1684. Walking and biking tours include city landmarks and museums. Some tours combine attractions outside the city such as Montpellier Estate where Nelson married Fanny Nisbet; Old Bath House, believed to be one of the region's first hotels; the Museum of Nevis to learn about native son, Alexander Hamilton; and St. John’s Figtree Anglican Church is one of the oldest churches in the Caribbean. Another great way to explore the island while getting some gentle exercise is opting for a guided bicycle tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Charlestown is an ideal spot for culture and history lovers.
- Remember sun protection and water for hydration.
- Most attractions in the city are wheelchair accessible.
- The ferry from St. Kitts docks at the city’s waterfront.
How to Get There
Charlestown is located on the west coast of Nevis. Most flights from the U.S. and Europe arrive into Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB) on St. Kitts. Most visitors staying in Nevis will be met by an escort from their hotels for the six-minute transfer to Nevis. Expect about an hour door to door.
When to Get There
Charlestown is a lovely year-round destination. Plan a drink or dinner on the early side as the city closes early. Nevis’s peak season runs from December to April, which coincides with the dry season. Come in the spring to beat the crowds and the rains that come between the months of July and November; the possibility of hurricanes is most likely in September and October.
Pinney’s Beach
From Charlestown, walk or drive north and then up the coast for a relaxing time in sun, sand and warm Caribbean water at Pinney's Beach. Three miles (5 kilometers) of palm-fringed beach, Pinney’s has soft golden sands and a smattering of restaurants and bars including popular spots within the swanky Four Seasons Resort on the north end of the beach.
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