Scarborough Cruise Port Guide: Things to Do & Practical Tips

Quick Take

Port Type

Beach + town hybrid

Best For

Beach relaxation, casual snorkeling, local market browsing, low-key Caribbean exploration

Avoid If

You want high-energy activities, nightlife, or upscale dining; this is a quiet, small-town port

Walkability

Town center is compact and walkable (15–20 min on foot), but beaches require transport or a 30–40 min walk

Budget Fit

Budget-friendly; local taxis, food, and activities are affordable compared to other Caribbean ports

Good For Short Calls?

Yes; 4–5 hours is enough for a beach swim and town stroll, or a snorkel trip

Port Overview

Scarborough is the capital of Tobago, the smaller island of Trinidad and Tobago. Ships dock at the cruise pier in the town center, steps from local markets and town streets. This is a small, low-key port with a genuinely local feel—not a developed cruise destination. You'll find authentic Caribbean experience, affordable prices, and good beach access, but limited upscale services or organized activities.

The port is best for cruisers who want a quiet beach day, snorkeling, or a glimpse of everyday Tobago life. If you're looking for resort infrastructure, shopping, or structured shore excursions, you'll be disappointed. Most activities are self-organized via local taxis or informal operators.

Is It Safe?

Scarborough is generally safe for tourists during daylight hours in and around the port area and main beaches. Petty theft (bag snatching, pickpocketing) does occur, especially in crowded markets; keep valuables out of sight and avoid leaving items unattended on the beach. Avoid walking alone at night or venturing into residential streets after dark. The port and town center have visible police presence.

Water safety: currents at some beaches can be strong; ask locals before swimming. If snorkeling independently, use a buddy system and know the tide times. Stonefish and sea urchins are present; wear reef shoes.

Accessibility & Walkability

The town center is mostly flat and walkable, but sidewalks are uneven in places and can be crowded. The pier itself is accessible from the ship. Accessible taxis are limited; inform the port in advance if you need wheelchair-accessible transport. Store Bay Beach has basic access (ramp or gentle slope) but no formal accessible facilities. Pigeon Point Beach has a small parking area and slight incline; bring a beach wheelchair if needed. Many local operators are not set up for accessibility, so plan ahead.

Outside the Terminal

You'll exit directly into the town of Scarborough. The immediate area smells of salt water, diesel, and market food. You'll see fishing boats, colorful local minibuses, a few souvenir stalls, and plenty of locals going about their day. The energy is low-key and friendly, not aggressively touristy. A short walk brings you to the town market (a covered structure with food, crafts, and local goods) and the waterfront. It feels like a real working port, not a cruise resort.

Beaches Near the Port

Local Food & Drink

Local food is affordable and authentic. Food vendors at Store Bay and the town market sell fresh roti (flatbread with curry filling, $3–5 USD), fish cakes (fried, savory, $2–3 USD), fresh fruit (mangoes, coconut, $1–2 USD), and grilled fish. Quality is high and hygiene is generally good. For sit-down meals, small restaurants around the waterfront and town center serve local curry, grilled fish, and rice dishes ($8–15 USD per plate). Breakfast options (eggs, toast, fruit juice) are cheap and cheerful.

Trinidad and Tobago cooking blends African, Indian, and Caribbean influences; don't miss doubles (curried chickpea sandwich) or callaloo (leafy green stew). Seafood is fresh and affordable. Avoid tap water; stick to bottled water, coconut water, or beverages sold by vendors.

Shopping

The town market is the main shopping hub; stalls sell local crafts, spices, dried fruits, and souvenirs at fair prices. Woodcarvings, woven goods, and spice blends are authentic and cheaper than tourist shops. A few shops on the main street sell clothes, jewellery, and tourist crafts, but prices are higher and selection is limited. There are no large malls or duty-free shopping; this is not a shopping port. Haggling is acceptable in the market but not in established shops.

Money & Currency

Currency

Trinidad and Tobago dollar (TTD); 1 USD ≈ 6.8 TTD (check current rate)

USD Accepted?

Yes

Card Payments

Visa and Mastercard accepted at restaurants and some shops; ATMs in town accept most cards

ATMs

ATMs near the waterfront and town center; check balance before relying on cards for market shopping

Tipping

Tipping is customary (10–15% in restaurants). Taxi drivers do not expect tips but appreciate small change. Market vendors do not expect tips.

Notes

Bring a mix of USD cash and a card. Many small vendors prefer local currency or USD cash. Notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.

Weather & Best Time

Best months

December–May (dry season, 75–85°F, low humidity, minimal rain)

Avoid

September–October (peak hurricane season, very hot, high humidity)

Temperature

75–85°F (24–29°C), humidity 60–70%, occasional brief showers

Notes

Tobago is south of the main hurricane belt and sees fewer storms than Trinidad. Rainy season (June–November) brings afternoon showers but is warm and lush. Sea can be rough in winter months (Dec–Feb); some snorkel tours may be canceled.

Airport Information

Airport

A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (TAB)

Distance

15 km (9 miles) from Scarborough

Getting there

Shared taxi $10–15 USD, private taxi $25–35 USD, rental car available but driving is left-hand on island roads

Notes

Small regional airport serving Trinidad, Tobago, and Grenada. No direct flights from North America; most connect through Trinidad (POS). Useful for pre-cruise stays or fly-in options on multi-island itineraries.