The twin-island nation of St. Kitts & Nevis is located in the northern section of the Eastern Caribbean, approximately 1,300 miles southeast of Miami, Florida.
The name St. Kitts is a shortened form of its official name, St. Christopher, given to it by Christopher Columbus when he first landed there in 1493. There is some controversy about whether it was named for himself or St. Christopher. In any event, it is commonly referred to as St. Kitts and the inhabitants call themselves Kittitians.
Nevis is named after the Spanish word for snow–not because there is any!–but because of a white cloud surrounding the island’s single peak.
St. Kitts became Britain’s first colony in the West Indies with the founding of a settlement in 1623. In 1983, the Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis gained independence as a two-island nation within the British Commonwealth. Today, St. Kitts & Nevis is developing a distinct style and culture, although, not surprisingly, British influence is still strongly evidenced in many traditions.
The islands’ history is long and bloody. The French and English settled here early in the 1600s and subsequently fought with, and then annihilated, the local Carib people. For the following 200 years the islands and their vastly valuable sugar trade were an important pawn in the European struggle for supremacy of the seas and the new world. England ultimately won out over France (and then Spain). These islands played important parts in new world events during that period: at the height of their power, Nevis was considered “the richest jewel” of the Caribbean and St. Kitts was known as the Mother Colony and “cradle” of the Caribbean. Today’s population of 45,000 is mostly descended from African slaves brought to the islands to work sugar and tobacco crops and indentured servants and small farmers who stayed on after the world drop in sugar prices in the mid-1800s made plantation farming less than lucrative.
St. Kitts & Nevis has a subtle personality that comes from its unspoiled natural charm and the quiet, easy pace of life here. Often referred to as “the secret Caribbean”, both St. Kitts and Nevis feature some of the region’s most spectacular panoramas, and offer visitors the chance to experience traditional hospitality in historic inns and hotels, many of which are restored plantation houses.
Visitors come to enjoy the islands’ warm beaches and cool forests, quaint towns and authentic architecture, and its many tranquil, private pleasures.
It is delightfully easy to enhance the pleasure of a visit to either island with a day trip to the other. The two-mile distance between the two islands can be traversed by a 6-minute air taxi ride or 45-minute water ferry ride.
St. Kitts is larger than Nevis and has the more varied terrain, with volcanic peaks covered with lush green forests, cane plains, and the arid southeast peninsula which is ringed with coves of black, mink-brown and white sand.
Nevis is distinguished by its large volcanic central peak ringed with cloud and surrounded by green hills with tropical gardens, secluded lodgings, picturesque manor houses, and edged with lovely beaches.
The islands enjoy a pleasant year-round climate with an average temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity is low and constant northeast trade winds keep the islands cool. The annual rainfall averages 55 inches, but, there is really no marked rainy season.
The islands of St. Kitts and Nevis offer a surprisingly diverse range of cultural and recreational activities.
Perfect sandy beaches and warm clear waters surround a treasure trove of historic sites, exhilarating music, colours and food. More adventurous visitors can continue on into rich tropical forests and up cloud-topped volcanic peaks.
Like other Caribbean nations, St. Kitts & Nevis celebrates with a colourful and lively Carnival each year. The ten-day party officially opens on December 24th followed with traditional Caribbean celebrations into the New Year including Calypso King and Queen competitions, the Miss St. Kitts beauty and talent pageant, the regional Caribbean Queen Show, as well as various nights of youth talent and calypso contests.
But, this is only the beginning. Year-round happenings include fishing tournaments, the Caribbean Cup multi-island bicycle race — the St. Kitts leg is called the Cane Road Classic — sailing regattas, music festivals, the Nevis Culturama and much, much more.
The First St. Kitts Music Festival was a smashing success last year, marking its debut in Carnival Village to a packed house and the strains of Chinese traditional folk melodies. The celebration continued with salsa, soul, soca, samba, reggae and jazz and concluded five days later with a joyous open-air gospel revival. The 1997 festival is scheduled for June 26-29.
In July, the Nevis Culturama offers a parade of costumed troupes, arts and crafts, talent shows, beauty pageants, calypso competitions and a local food-fair in Charlestown.
If history is more your interest, take a walk around Brimstone Hill. This massive fortress, dubbed the Gibraltar of the West Indies, covers 38 acres and rises almost 800 feet above the sea. Roam the carefully restored and preserved fortifications or just gaze seaward. While you’re dreaming of pirates and tall ships, you can often catch a glimpse of Montserrat, Nevis, Saba, St. Barts, St. Eustatius and St. Maarten.
For shopping buffs, island artisans are noted for wood carvings, coral, coconut-shell and seashell crafts, woven goods and sea island cottons. Not to be missed are the colourful batiks of Romney Manor or the bold visions of Caribbean painters.
Island dishes are generally spicy and offer an unusual combination of flavours. Banana, coconut, mango and passion fruit are used with spices and freshly picked herbs to create marvellous sauces for beef, chicken, pork and fish. Goatwater, a soup of stewed mutton or goat, and souse, another piquant stew made of assorted parts of the pig, are local favourites.
Public holidays are:
New Year’s Day
Carnival Day (Last Lap)
Good Friday
Easter Monday
Labour Day
Whit Monday
Queen’s Birthday *
August Monday
Culturama (Last Lap)
Independence Day
Christmas Day
Boxing Day
* Her Majesty’s Birthday Is Celebrated On A Date To Be Officially Determined
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where exactly are St. Kitts and Nevis located?
St. Kitts and Nevis is a stunning twin-island nation nestled in the northern section of the Eastern Caribbean. If you’re curious about its proximity to the United States, it’s approximately 1,300 miles southeast of Miami, Florida. This picturesque Caribbean country enjoys a perfect location, offering visitors the quintessential tropical island experience with its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and warm, inviting climate. Its geographical position makes it an easily accessible getaway for those traveling from North America and even other parts of the world, providing direct flights from places like Miami and New York. The islands’ location in the Caribbean also means that they are part of the Caribbean community, known for vibrant cultures, rich history, and friendly, welcoming locals. The distinct location serves as a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable Caribbean adventure.
2. What is the origin of the name St. Kitts?
St. Kitts, as it is commonly known today, has an interesting naming history. Originally, the island was christened as St. Christopher by the famed explorer Christopher Columbus upon his first landing in 1493. There’s some historical debate about the name—whether Columbus named it in honor of himself or St. Christopher, the patron saint of travelers. While this remains a delightful mystery, it’s clear that the name evolved over time to St. Kitts, a more colloquial and affectionate term used by locals and travelers alike. The people of the island, known as Kittitians, embrace this shortened name, which reflects not just the island’s history, but its evolution into a modern Caribbean paradise with roots deeply grounded in its past.
3. How do the inhabitants of the islands refer to themselves?
The inhabitants of this beautiful twin-island nation take pride in their unique identity and refer to themselves as Kittitians, in honor of their home island, St. Kitts. This local terminology underscores a strong sense of community and identity among the people. St. Kitts and Nevis share a rich tapestry of culture and community, influenced by their Caribbean heritage and the numerous traditions passed down through generations. The pride felt by Kittitians is evident in their celebrations, culinary practices, and in the arts, where local music and storytelling play a vital role in preserving their distinct culture. Being a Kittitian isn’t just about residency; it’s about celebrating a shared lineage and cultural richness that defines this extraordinary place.
4. What can visitors expect from the culture and history of St. Kitts and Nevis?
Visitors to St. Kitts and Nevis can expect a captivating journey into a vibrant culture deeply rooted in history. These islands offer a rich historical tapestry marked by colonial influence, indigenous heritage, and African roots, shaping a distinctive cultural landscape. One can explore historic landmarks, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, an impressive site showcasing 18th-century military architecture with sweeping views of the Caribbean. Cultural events and festivals, such as Carnival, immerse visitors in the lively rhythm of the islands through music, dance, and colorful parades. The islands also boast a musical tradition that’s a meld of Calypso, Soca, and Reggae, captivating visitors with its infectious beats. Additionally, local cuisine offers a delightful blend of flavors, heavily influenced by African, European, and Caribbean styles, promising a culinary adventure with every bite. Visitors can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where the blend of past and present creates an enchanting experience uniquely St. Kitts and Nevis.
5. How can visitors explore the natural beauty of St. Kitts & Nevis?
Exploring the stunning natural beauty of St. Kitts and Nevis is an unforgettable experience that offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Nature lovers can take advantage of lush rainforests, serene coastlines, and marine-rich waters that surround these beautiful islands. Mount Liamuiga, an impressive stratovolcano on St. Kitts, provides hiking opportunities for those seeking adventure and breathtaking panoramic views from its peak. Nevis Peak offers another challenging climb, rewarding trekkers with a similarly stunning vista. For those who prefer the ocean’s embrace, the islands offer an abundance of options, including pristine sand beaches perfect for basking in the sun, snorkeling, and diving in coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. Birdwatchers will find delight in the diverse avian species found in the islands’ rainforests and coastal areas. The natural hot springs on Nevis, famous for their therapeutic properties, offer another tranquil retreat. Whether you’re eager to dive into adventure or indulge in serene island beauty, St. Kitts and Nevis provide an ideal playground for both explorers and those in search of tranquil getaways.