Charlestown, Nevis

A quiet Caribbean town with old-world warmth.

A breathtaking panoramic view of Charlotte Amalie harbor in St. Thomas, with a cruise ship anchored in the bay, surrounded by rolling green hills and a colorful sunset.

Overview

Charlestown, Nevis Cruise Port

Charlestown is the charming and laid-back capital of Nevis, one of the two islands that form the Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis in the Caribbean. Nestled on the island's western coast, Charlestown exudes a timeless appeal with its well-preserved Georgian architecture, colorful wooden buildings, and a tranquil atmosphere that stands in contrast to some of the more bustling Caribbean ports. Nevis itself is dominated by the lush, cloud-capped Nevis Peak, a dormant volcano, offering stunning natural beauty and a rich history, including its past as a prominent sugar-producing island.

Charlestown is a popular and sought-after cruise port of call for smaller luxury and expedition cruise lines exploring the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean. Larger ships typically anchor offshore and tender passengers ashore directly to the pier in Charlestown's town center, which is very convenient for exploration. A visit to Charlestown offers cruise passengers a chance to step back in time, explore historical sites (including the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton), relax on beautiful beaches, and experience the warm, unhurried pace of authentic Caribbean island life.

Top Things to Do in Charlestown, Nevis

Visit the Museum of Nevis History (Alexander Hamilton's Birthplace)

Explore the most famous historical site in Charlestown, the Museum of Nevis History, housed in a reconstructed Georgian building believed to be the birthplace of U.S. Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. The museum chronicles the island's rich past, from its Amerindian origins to its colonial era and beyond.

Tip: The museum is located right on the waterfront, just a short walk from the tender pier, making it an easy first stop.

Stroll Through Charlestown Town Center

Wander through the charming streets of Charlestown's town center, admiring the well-preserved Georgian-style buildings, many with brightly painted wooden facades. Discover local shops selling crafts, art galleries, and small, authentic eateries.

Tip: The town is very walkable. Take your time to soak in the relaxed atmosphere and perhaps chat with friendly locals.

Relax at Pinney's Beach

Head to Pinney's Beach, arguably the most famous and popular beach on Nevis, located just south of Charlestown. This long stretch of golden sand offers calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and a selection of beach bars and restaurants (including the famous Sunshine's Bar & Grill, home of the "Killer Bee" rum punch).

Tip: Pinney's Beach is about a 15-20 minute walk or a very short taxi ride from the tender pier. You can rent chairs and umbrellas for a comfortable beach day.

Explore the Botanical Gardens of Nevis

Escape to the serene and lush Botanical Gardens of Nevis, located in the foothills of Nevis Peak. These beautifully landscaped gardens feature a diverse collection of tropical plants, waterfalls, fountains, and even a re-creation of a pre-Columbian Amerindian settlement.

Tip: This requires a short taxi ride from Charlestown. Allow ample time to leisurely explore the extensive grounds.

Visit the Bath Hotel and Spring House

Discover the historic Bath Hotel and Spring House, built in 1778, which was the Caribbean's first-ever tourist hotel. While the hotel is no longer operational as such, the natural thermal springs are still accessible, offering warm, mineral-rich waters.

Tip: The springs are usually open to the public for a small fee. Bring a towel if you wish to soak your feet or take a dip in the therapeutic waters.

Discover Nevis's Plantation Heritage (by Tour)

Take an island tour to explore some of Nevis's former sugar plantations, many of which have been beautifully converted into boutique inns or ruins. These sites offer a glimpse into the island's rich yet complex past, with impressive stone ruins and lush, landscaped grounds.

Tip: Organized shore excursions or private taxi tours are the best way to visit these sites, as they are scattered across the island. Consider Montpelier Plantation or Nisbet Plantation for a historical experience.

Overview