Plizio Visual Lab

Bocas Islands

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

The Bocas Islands, locally referred to as 'Down de Islands,' are situated in the Bocas del Dragón (Dragon's Mouths) strait between the northwestern coast of Trinidad and Venezuela. The group consists of several primary islands, including Monos, Huevos, Chacachacare, and Gaspar Grande. These islands feature a rugged limestone topography with numerous hidden coves and sea caves. Gaspar Grande is particularly famous for the Gasparee Caves, a spectacular underground system of caverns featuring a clear subterranean pool. Chacachacare has a diverse history, having served as a cotton plantation, a whaling station, and most notably as a leper colony from 1922 to 1984, the ruins of which remain visible today. The surrounding waters are highly popular for sailing, fishing, and weekend recreation for residents of Port of Spain. Due to their strategic position, the islands were historically significant for defending the entrance to the Gulf of Paria during colonial times. The wildlife is closely related to that of the South American mainland; for instance, Monos Island is named after the howler monkeys found there. The archipelago features a unique blend of natural wonders and poignant historical narratives.

Location: Trinidad and Tobago
Top sights: Chaguaramas, Trinidad and Tobago · Gasparillo Island
Nearby: Carenage (7 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	26	26	27	28	28	27	27	27	27	27	27	26
Rain mm	100	61	52	56	117	222	202	202	141	176	213	178

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Bocas Islands are a group of islands off Trinidad's northwest coast, reachable by boat. The main islands have public beaches and small settlements to explore.

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Typical hours

The islands are accessible anytime, but boat services typically run only during daylight hours. Ferries usually depart in the morning and early afternoon.

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Photography

Photography is unrestricted on all the islands. The views over the bays and the Caribbean Sea provide fantastic subjects for landscape shots.

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Time needed

Allow a full day to visit one or two islands, including boat travel and beach time. For more islands, you will need two days.

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Combine with

Combine the boat trip with a visit to the capital Port of Spain, located right on the coast. The historic Fort San Andrés makes a good next stop.

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Getting there

The islands are reached by public ferries or private water taxis from the Port of Spain harbour. The crossing takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

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Insider tip

Set off early in the morning to avoid crowds on the ferries and secure a shaded spot. Don't forget sunscreen and plenty of drinking water.

Geography

Coordinates

10.70000, -61.65000

Facts

The primary islands are Monos, Huevos, Chacachacare, and Gaspar Grande.
Chacachacare functioned as a leper colony between 1922 and 1984.
Gaspar Grande features the Gasparee Caves, a major geological attraction.
Monos Island is named after the red howler monkeys that live there.
The islands are located in the strait known as the Dragon's Mouths.
The ruins of a Dominican convent and a hospital still exist on Chacachacare.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Gasparee2 km · WExplore →

La Vache Bay6 km · SExplore →

Gasparee Caves6 km · NExplore →

Carenage7 km · NExplore →

Carenage Defensive Site9 km · NExplore →

Chacachacare Island11 km · SExplore →

Saut d'Eau Island12 km · NExplore →

Fort George13 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Bocas Islands (2)

Chaguaramas, Trinidad and Tobago📍 landmark

A settlement on Trinidad's northwest coast, featuring a harbor and natural surroundings.

Gasparillo Island📍 landmark

A small island off the coast of Trinidad, part of the Bocas Islands group.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the Bocas Islands?

The islands are only accessible by boat from Port of Spain; organized tours usually depart in the morning.

Are the islands suitable for families with children?

Yes, the calm waters are good for swimming, but there is little infrastructure, so bring your own food and drinks.

How much time should I plan for a visit?

A half to full day is sufficient to explore the small coves and relax.

Are there good spots for snorkeling?

Yes, some coves offer clear water and coral formations, convenient for snorkeling beginners.

Is photography allowed?

Of course, the scenic backdrop has excellent subjects, especially at sunset.

Bocas Islands: where is it located?

Bocas Islands is located in Trinidad and Tobago.

Bocas Islands: what is there to see?

Highlights include Chaguaramas, Trinidad and Tobago, Gasparillo Island.

Bocas Islands: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.

Bocas Islands: why is it worth visiting?

The Bocas Islands, locally referred to as 'Down de Islands,' are situated in the Bocas del Dragón (Dragon's Mouths) strait between the northwestern coast of Trinidad and Venezuela.