The Ultimate Tobago Coastal Drive: A Scenic Road Trip Guide
Looking for the most breathtaking drive in Tobago? The island’s coastal roads offer stunning ocean views, lush rainforest landscapes, and an immersive glimpse into local island life. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, this scenic drive along the Windward Road from Scarborough to Speyside is an unforgettable experience.
Why Take a Coastal Drive in Tobago?
There’s something timeless about a leisurely Sunday drive—just following the road, soaking in the scenery, and stopping wherever catches your eye. Tobago’s winding coastal roads make for the perfect island road trip, offering dramatic cliffside views, charming villages, and hidden gems along the way.
If you’re planning to explore Tobago by car, this scenic route is a must.
The Route: Scarborough to Speyside
Starting in Scarborough, Tobago’s capital, this drive takes you along the island’s Windward Road, passing through some of the most stunning scenery on your way to Speyside, a charming fishing village known for its breathtaking offshore reefs and famous Sunday lunch spot, Jemma’s.
Highlights of the Drive
- Fort Granby – A historic stop with panoramic ocean views, perfect for stretching your legs before continuing east. See the blog post here.
- Dramatic coastal cliffs – The winding roads reveal breathtaking sea views at nearly every turn.
- Lush rainforest canopy – As you drive through the hills, you’ll be surrounded by dense, vibrant greenery.
- Local culture – Along the way, you’ll see villagers relaxing, street vendors selling local snacks, and the easygoing rhythm of island life.
- Goats, cows, and more – Expect to share the road with Tobago’s free-roaming animals, adding to the charm of the journey.
- Jemma’s in Speyside – The ultimate stop for Sunday lunch, known for its treehouse-style dining and delicious home-cooked meals. (More details in a separate post!)
Driving in Tobago: What to Expect
Tobago’s coastal roads are incredibly scenic but can be challenging if you’re unfamiliar with island driving. Expect:
- Narrow roads with sharp turns and steep drop-offs (often with no guardrails!)
- Potholes and uneven pavement in some areas
- Local drivers who navigate the roads at impressive speeds
- Occasional roadblocks—whether from construction or a wandering herd of goats
If you’re not confident driving on Caribbean roads, hiring a local taxi driver allows you to sit back and enjoy the views without the stress.
🚗 Prefer to sit back and enjoy the views stress-free? Book our private driver services and let a knowledgeable local guide you through Tobago’s most scenic routes. Contact us today to plan your perfect island road trip!
Best Tips for a Tobago Coastal Drive
- Start early – The morning light makes for beautiful photos, and traffic is lighter.
- Pack snacks and water – There aren’t many places to stop along the way.
- Bring a camera – The views are some of the best in the Caribbean.
- Drive slowly and enjoy the ride – This isn’t a road to rush through.
Experience Tobago Beyond the Beach
Tobago is so much more than its stunning beaches. A coastal drive reveals the island’s rugged beauty, rich culture, and laid-back charm in a way no other experience can. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, taking the time to explore Tobago’s backroads will leave you with memories (and photos) to last a lifetime.
Ready to explore Tobago? Rent a car or book a guided tour and take the ultimate scenic drive!
Capturing the Journey: A Photo Diary
On the drive from Scarborough to Speyside, I sat back and soaked in the stunning views, taking in the peaceful island vibes. But on the way back, I simply couldn’t resist capturing the breathtaking scenery of the Windward Road drive from Speyside to Scarborough. With every turn, there was another picture-perfect moment—rugged cliffs, lush rainforest, and endless ocean views. This stretch of road is truly one of Tobago’s most photogenic drives.
All photos shot on Sony RX1 in a moving vehicle and with no editing a. Photo quality suffers quite a bit when uploading to the blog unfortunately.
