Manzanilla Beach

Trinidad's wild east coast is dotted with some very nice beaches one of the largest being the 2½ mile long Manzanilla Beach.

The brownish grey, fine sand strip bordered with a restless Atlantic on the one side and bowing palms on the other side are a favorite setting for the many sun bathers and few swimmers (there is a bounded area with lifeguards in season). Snack bar, picnic tables and even changing facilities with showers are well maintained. The beach is about 1½ hour drive from Port of Spain.

 

Carnival

Trinidad's Carnival is the king of all Caribbean Carnivals and many Trinidadians prepare for it with obsessive devotion.

It starts New Years Day, the preparation for the King of Carnivals. Then on the Monday before Ash Wednesday a pre-dawn procession proceeds toward the city center. By dusk, tens of thousands dancing and drinking revelers are having the time of their lives. Yes, it is The Carnival of Carnivals and Trinidad's unabashed obsession!

On Carnival Tuesday, the many bands participate in the competition for Band of the Year. Everywhere is the steel drum, a Caribbean invention created from empty oil drums. Yes, it is loud and the pulsating picks you up and makes you one with the crowd. Carnival is said by many to be the best reason to go to Trinidad. But, then, this is when you'll pay the highest rates for anything and everything. Thousands think the party is worth it.