Surfing in Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad & Tobago is not known as a world rated surfing location however this could be one of the best kept secrets of the Caribbean Sea. Located at the very southern end of the Windward Island chain the islands have a small but dedicated surf community. In the larger island of Trinidad the best beaches to surf are along the north and northeast coast. The most famous surf spots are situated at the small village of Sans Souci where many of the villagers are avid surfers. There you can find nice accommodation catered especially for surfers. Tobago's best surfing is found at Mount Irvine beach which is nearby most of the popular hotels and accommodations of the island. This beach has a mind blowing righthander reef break that will guarantee lots of fun to your trip. The beach also offers good infrastructure with changing rooms, toilets and cabanas spreaded around the area for a nice nap after a long surf session. One of the best things about surfing in Trinidad & Tobago is that both islands still have a huge amount of coastline to be explored and new surf spots are just waiting to be found. The islands also offer good kite surf conditions for those who love to sail and surf.
Climate in Trinidad & Tobago
The climate of Trinidad and Tobago is tropical with hot temperatures all year round averaging around 32 °C (88 °F). There is a rainy season that goes from June to December, and a relatively dry season from January to mid-April. September and October are the hottest months, and January and February the coolest. The northeast trade winds blow all year round moderating the heat index. The best time to surf is from December to April when NE trade winds create windswell ranging 4-8ft and long period N-NE groundswells reach the coast producing 4 to 6ft waves. From June to October there are smaller windswells or unpredictable large hurricane swells that creates the best surfing conditions of the year.
Best surf spots in Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad's best beaches to surf are along the north and northeast coast. These are the best surf spots in Trinidad: Las Cuevas, Blanchisseuse, Grand Riviere, Sans Souci, Toco, Salibya and Balandra. Tobago's best surf spots are located on the southwest coast. There you should check Mount Irvine, Airports, Sunsets Right and Left, Crazy’s and South Coast
Budget Planning
Meal price range
Simple meals start at $7 USD. Mid-range meals start at $20 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $70-100 USD
Equipment rental
There are a handful of places where you can rent gear. Boards start at $15 USD for half day.
Prepaid SIM cards
Digicel is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from Digicel kiosk at Piarco airport in the duty free area. They are also available at malls and stores throughout the country
Prepaid packages start at $30 USD
Public transport
At first public transportation around Trinidad and Tobago can seem chaotic and unpredictable.
There are buses, maxi taxis and route taxis available to get you to most places.
Private taxis are always available.
The water taxi service between San Fernando and Port of Spain, and Port of Spain and Chaguaramas, offers a relaxed alternative to Trinidad’s busy roads.
Renting a car will start at $30 USD a day.
Gas prices
$0.85 USD a liter.
Types of risks
Reef breaks, strong localism. Hurricanes.
How to prepare
Visa
Citizens from 100 countries, including EU, US, and UK, can enter Trinidad and Tobago without a visa for up to 90 days. Citizens from Australia and New Zealand require a visa before arrival.
Vaccines
Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, yellow fever, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella. You’ll be asked to show proof of your yellow fever vaccination if you come from a country with a risk of yellow fever.
Things to know
Language & Currency
English is the official language.
The currency is Trinidadian dollar (TT$).
Best time to go
December to April.
Checking Surf forecast
Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here.
Do I need pack a pharmacy kit
You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.
Travel/Surf Insurance
World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.
Emergency
Dial 999
Check surf pictures of Trinidad and Tobago at #surftrinidad.
