Jamesby Island | Tobago Cays

Jamesby Island – Tobago Cays, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Jamesby Island is the smallest and most elevated island in the Tobago Cays Marine Park, offering stunning panoramic views, pristine beaches, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Its secluded nature, rocky cliffs, and lush vegetation make it a perfect escape for visitors seeking solitude, natural beauty, and adventure.

Location & Accessibility

• Located within the Tobago Cays, southeast of Mayreau Island and near Petit Bateau, Petit Rameau, and Baradal Island.
• Accessible only by boat, typically via private charters or guided tours from Union Island, Canouan, Mayreau, and Saint Vincent.
• Part of the Tobago Cays Marine Park (TCMP), a protected area requiring an entry fee.

Scenery & Atmosphere

• A tiny, rocky island with a mix of white sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and green vegetation.
• One of the highest islands in the Tobago Cays, offering breathtaking 360-degree views from its peak.
• More secluded and untouched than other islands, making it ideal for those seeking a private island experience.

Activities

1. Hiking & Scenic Views

• Short trails lead to the island’s highest point, offering incredible panoramic views of the surrounding cays, reefs, and ocean.
• The elevation provides a unique vantage point, making it a favorite for photographers.

2. Snorkeling & Marine Life

• Surrounded by shallow coral reefs, home to parrotfish, angelfish, wrasses, and stingrays.
• The western and southern sides offer the best snorkeling conditions.
• Occasional sightings of sea turtles grazing on nearby seagrass beds.

3. Swimming & Beach Relaxation

• Small but pristine beaches with powdery white sand, perfect for a quiet beach day.
• The calm waters on the leeward side make it an excellent swimming spot.
• Fewer visitors than Petit Bateau or Petit Rameau, enhancing the feeling of exclusivity.

4. Wildlife Watching

• Iguanas, hermit crabs, and seabirds are commonly spotted on the island.
• The rocky cliffs provide a nesting area for frigatebirds, terns, and pelicans.

5. Yachting & Sailing Stop

• A quiet anchorage spot, ideal for sailors looking for a peaceful retreat.
• Often visited by catamarans and private yachts exploring the Tobago Cays.

Nearby Attractions

1. Baradal Island (Sea Turtle Sanctuary)

• A protected zone for sea turtles, offering an excellent snorkeling experience.
• Surrounded by seagrass beds where turtles feed.

2. Petit Bateau & Petit Rameau

• Slightly larger islands with more beaches, snorkeling spots, and lush vegetation.
• Frequently visited by day-trippers.

3. Horseshoe Reef

• A massive coral reef system surrounding the Tobago Cays, protecting them from ocean currents.
• One of the best snorkeling and diving locations in the Grenadines.

4. Mayreau Island

• The closest inhabited island, offering restaurants, bars, and local Caribbean culture.
• Home to Saltwhistle Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.

Best Time to Visit

• December to May – The dry season offers sunny weather, calm seas, and excellent snorkeling visibility.
• June to November – Fewer tourists, but a higher chance of rain and tropical storms.

Jamesby Island is a hidden gem in the Tobago Cays, offering a unique blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and tranquility, making it an ideal stop for nature lovers, snorkelers, and sailors.