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St. Giles Islands
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The St. Giles Islands, also known as the Melville Islands, comprise a group of small, rugged islets off the northeastern tip of Tobago. These uninhabited islands are renowned for their spectacular rock formations and steep cliffs that rise sharply from the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The islands' primary significance lies in their role as one of the most important seabird breeding colonies in the southern Caribbean. They host vast numbers of nesting species, including the Red-billed Tropicbird, Magnificent Frigatebird, and various species of boobies. The waters surrounding the islands are notoriously difficult to navigate due to powerful currents and unpredictable swell, a factor that has helped preserve the islands' pristine natural state. Geologically, the group is composed mainly of volcanic rock, shaped over millennia by intense maritime erosion. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary, the St. Giles Islands are protected by law, and visits are strictly regulated to ensure the continued safety of the resident avian populations.
- Location: Trinidad and Tobago
- Nearby: Roxborough (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 72 | 36 | 34 | 38 | 81 | 144 | 160 | 164 | 138 | 184 | 180 | 126 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The St. Giles Islands are located off the northeastern tip of Tobago and are accessible only by boat. Most tours depart from the village of Speyside. As the islands are in an area with strong ocean currents, the trip is often weather-dependent and requires experience.
Best season
The well-suited time to travel is during the dry season, when the sea is calmer and boats can approach the rocky islands more closely. For birdwatchers, the nesting period is particularly interesting, although a respectful distance from the sites should always be maintained.
Terrain & paths
The island group consists of steep, rugged rocks that offer very few flat landing spots. The vegetation is sparse, consisting mainly of robust grasses and shrubs that withstand the salty winds, making traversing the islands nearly impossible for casual visitors.
What to bring
For a boat tour, sun protection, a windproof hat, and a waterproof bag for cameras are very important. Bird enthusiasts should definitely bring powerful binoculars and a telephoto lens, as the animals can usually only be observed from the boat for safety and conservation.
Parking
In Speyside, there are parking spaces near the boat jetties and at local diving centers or restaurants. It is recommended to use the parking facilities of the tour operators, who often provide a secured space for the duration of the excursion to the islands.
Safety
Due to the rough sea and sharp rocks, you should never attempt to land without professional guidance. Passengers should wear life jackets during the trip, as currents on the Atlantic side of Tobago can be unpredictable and very strong throughout the year.
Time needed
A boat tour to the St. Giles Islands typically lasts about two to three hours. This allows enough time for birdwatching and circling the islands, with the duration depending heavily on the sea swells and visibility conditions on the specific day of the visit.
Geography
Facts
- The islands are also officially referred to as the Melville Islands.
- They host the largest colony of Red-billed Tropicbirds in the Caribbean.
- The highest point of the islands reaches approximately 115 meters.
- A notable natural arch nearby is famously called 'London Bridge'.
- The islands are geologically composed of ancient volcanic rock formations.
- Strong Atlantic currents make the surrounding waters hazardous for small craft.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town St. Giles Islands (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is it allowed to land on St. Giles Islands?
No, they are a protected bird sanctuary and landing is prohibited.
Can you see the islands from a boat?
Yes, boat tours nearby offer great opportunities for observation.
Are there rare bird species to see?
Yes, the islands are an important breeding site for many rare seabirds.
Is the area suitable for diving?
The surrounding waters are fantastic for diving and snorkeling.
When is the best time for a boat tour?
In calm seas, usually early in the morning.
St. Giles Islands: where is it located?
St. Giles Islands is located in Trinidad and Tobago.
St. Giles Islands: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Nearby cities
Mason Hall
One of the largest inland villages on Tobago.
Morne Quinton
A residential area overlooking Scarborough, Tobago.
Speyside
A village on the northeast coast of Tobago, famous for its world-class diving sites.
Charlotteville
A picturesque fishing village nestled in Man-O-War Bay in northeastern Tobago.
Roxborough
The second largest town on Tobago, located near the Argyle Waterfall.
Richmond
A small village in Tobago, near the Richmond Great House.
Belle Garden
A village on the windward coast of Tobago.
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Parlatuvier
A small village set in a scenic bay on the north coast of Tobago.
Goldsborough
An area in Tobago known for Goldsborough Bay and the nearby ruins of a sugar mill.
Pembroke
A village in Tobago known for its strong African traditions and harvest festival.
Englishman's Bay
Not a village, but a famous secluded beach on the leeward side of Tobago.
Goodwood
A village in Tobago known for its strong community spirit.
Castara
A small fishing village and growing eco-tourism destination in a secluded bay.
Glamis
A small village in central Tobago.
Plymouth
One of the oldest towns on Tobago, site of Fort James.
More places
Little Tobago Bird Sanctuary
A small island with an important seabird nesting site.
Celestial Park Forest
A private nature reserve in Tobago dedicated to rainforest conservation.
Main Ridge Forest Reserve
The oldest legally protected forest reserve in the Western Hemisphere, located on Tobago.
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Castara Fishing Village
A quiet fishing village with a small beach and local food.
Scarborough Port
The main hub for passenger and freight traffic in Tobago.
Scarborough Botanical Gardens
A quiet garden with tropical plants in Scarborough.
Buccoo Marsh
A mangrove forest and wetland area adjacent to the Buccoo Reef in Tobago.
Buccoo Reef
A protected coral reef with rich marine life.