Charlestown, St. Kitts and Nevis

Covered in rainforest and ringed with beaches, Nevis offers the quintessential Caribbean experience in a quiet, relaxing environment. Throughout the island, the ancient volcano of Nevis Peak forms the scenic backdrop, its upper reaches often shrouded in clouds. The capital of Charlestown is a delight to explore on foot, its streets lined with 18th- and 19th-century Georgian-style architecture that includes the Museum of Nevis History, housed in the birthplace of U.S. founding father Alexander Hamilton. Other historic sights on Nevis include former sugar estates, colonial-era churches and the elegant 18th-century Bath Hotel, the Caribbean’s first to promote the restorative properties of hot springs. A number of plantation houses have been converted into hotels and are featured on the Nevis Heritage Trail, but unspoiled nature is the main attraction. Close to Charlestown is Pinney’s Beach, popular yet never crowded at nearly three miles long. Head inland to hike the rainforest or discover native flora at the Botanical Gardens.