Port Guide: What to do in Bequia, St Vincent and the Grenadines

Bequia is a small but beautiful island in the Caribbean Sea, and is one of the many stops on a cruise ship's itinerary. Despite its small size, there's plenty to see and do in Bequia, from snorkelling and scuba diving to exploring the local markets. In this guide, we'll show you some of the best things to do in Bequia so that you can make the most of your time on this idyllic island.

Cruise ships anchor offshore and tender to a dock located at Port Elizabeth. Most ships vising are smaller vessels such as  Seabourn, SeaDream Yacht Club, Silversea, Star Clippers and Windstar. Although some larger lines make rare occasional stops.

Come explore Bequia with us on our SeaDream Yacht Club cruise in 2022. Our visit was unforgettable, and we want to share it with you through the video below.

Once you arrive in Port Elizabeth, the main town of Bequia, you'll find that it's easy to get around on foot. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, as well as some beautiful beaches.

Here are some of the best things to do in Bequia:

Tour the island in one of the local open-top taxis: This is a great way to see the sights of Bequia, as the road network covers most of the island and you can stop at any time for views or photos. You can also arrange for your taxi driver to drop you off at one of the beaches and come back to pick you up when it's time to leave.

You should arrange a price with the driver beforehand. They will accept US, East Caribbean dollars or Euros as forms of payment.

Visit Princess Margaret Beach: Princess Margaret Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Bequia. It's located just a short walk or taxi ride from Port Elizabeth and offers stunning views of the neighbouring islands. Here you can swim, sunbathe or even take a kayak out on the calm waters. At the beach, you will find the famous and charming Faye who sells drinks, and snacks and rents beach chairs for $5. The restaurants close to shore are always bustling with activity when several ships dock in town.

Lower Bay Beach and Moonhole Beach are two other popular beaches that offer different types of activities such as snorkelling or fishing.

Princess Margaret Beach

Visit the markets: One of the best things to do in Bequia is to visit the local markets. You'll find fresh produce, spices, and handmade goods here, as well as plenty of souvenirs to take home with you. The market is located just off Main Street and is open every day except Sunday.

Explore Port Elizabeth: Port Elizabeth is the main town on Bequia and is worth exploring for its shops, restaurants, and beautiful views. If you walk to the end of Main Street, you'll find a path that leads down to the waterfront. From here, you can enjoy views of the harbour and the nearby islands.

Go snorkelling or scuba diving: Bequia is renowned for its crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life, so don't miss out on an opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive off one of its beautiful beaches. There are several dive shops in Port Elizabeth where you can rent equipment or take lessons. Fishing trips can also be organised at Port Elizabeth if you'd like to try your luck.

Bequia is perfect for snorkelling or diving.

Take a boat trip around the island: One of the most popular activities is taking a boat trip around the island. There are several tour operators offering trips that range from short sightseeing cruises to full day expeditions with lunch included. You will see some of Bequia's best attractions such as Admiralty Bay and Princess Margaret Beach, as well as its famous traditional fishing boats called 'yachts'.

Enjoy the local food: To round off your visit, why not treat yourself to some delicious Caribbean cuisine at one of the local restaurants or beach bars? One of the most famous and popular is Mac's Pizza & Kitchen. Here you can enjoy the famous lobster pizza as well as other local dishes.

Advice for your visit to Bequia

Is Bequia safe to visit?

Yes, Bequia is a safe place to visit. There is a low crime rate and the locals are friendly and welcoming.

What currency do they use in Bequia?

The official currency in Bequia is the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD). US dollars and Euros are also accepted. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants but you will need cash for taxis and local markets.

Is Bequia (St Vincent and the Grenadines) LGBT+ Friendly?

During our visit to Bequia, we were fortunate enough to not come across any issues. Nonetheless, Homosexuality is still not accepted and is illegal in St Vincent and the Grenadines. As long as you and your partner avoid being overly affectionate with one another in public (such as hand-holding or kissing), you will be able to enjoy a pleasant trip.

These are just some of the best things to do in Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach day or an action-packed adventure, this Caribbean island has something for everyone. With its crystal clear waters, delicious seafood and friendly locals, it's the perfect port visit!

Before you go!

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