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Nevis: Can You Keep a Secret?

The tiny island of Nevis is a rare commodity these days: a Caribbean getaway that is still a well-kept secret. Nevis remains virtually untouched. Former sugar plantations now house quaint inns and businesses. Rising out of the sea into a fog-shrouded gigantic cone, Nevis is the Caribbean for the learned. The literacy rate on this tiny island is one of the highest in the entire world. When you have finished reading the latest best seller while sunning yourself on a sugary sand beach, Nevis also offers all the other activities that go with its Caribbean locale. A day's itinerary can include swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, parasailing, hiking, and everything in between.

The center of activity on Nevis is historic Charlestown. The town was the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, and his childhood home has been transformed into the Museum of Nevis History, which is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Nevis. Local artists sell their creations in stalls at the Cotton Ginnery Complex. Boutiques, bistros, and street vendors ply their wares along Main Street.

Seemingly unending amounts of white sand beaches help define Nevis as one of the premier travel destinations in the Caribbean. Beach combing and sunbathing can be enjoyed on all parts of the island. One of the most popular beaches is Pinney's Beach, a gentle sloping, 3-mile long area that is a great spot for families with small children. The beach is especially gorgeous in the afternoon when the cattle egrets come home to roost at Nelson's Spring. Little known, but just as beautiful is Oualie Beach. Divers and snorkelers come here for the reef located close to shore. Indian Castle Beach, at the southern end of Nevis, is rarely sought out and is a great spot for a pure Caribbean experience. You will see a few people and possibly some friendly goats that want to share your picnic!

Hikers will love the day-long trail that leads to Nevis Peak, the tallest point on the island at 3, 232 ft. The Nevis Historical and Conversation Society is charged with maintaining the 9-mile road that makes up the Upper Round Trail. The path follows numerous vegetation areas including the pristine rain forest. The cobble stones that made up the original path can still be seen.

Most of the best scuba diving in Nevis is off the western coast. Monkey Shoals, located about 2 miles offshore, is a beautiful reef with angelfish, turtles, nurse sharks, and extensive soft coral patches. The Devil's Caves are popular with experts and novice divers alike. These extensive coral grottoes are home to numerous squirrelfish and needlefish. The Coral Garden has a maximum depth of 70 ft, and is loaded with Atlantic spadefish and large sea fans. This site is also a favorite with divers of all skill levels.

Just south of Charlestown lie the Botanical Gardens of Nevis. This 7-acre facility has beautifully landscaped displays that showcase the native trees, flowers, rain forest, and tropical plants. The gift shop serves English tea and scones with double Devon cream.

A trip to Nevis is a visit to the Caribbean before the modern world knew it existed. The people are friendly, the pace is slow, and the West Indies sunshine cannot be beat. If you want a vacation that soothes the mind and nourishes your weary spirit, Nevis is just the place!