St. Paul, Trinidad and Tobago Travel Guide

Discover the serene beauty and vibrant culture of St. Paul in Trinidad and Tobago, where nature, history, and local traditions create an unforgettable experience.

St. Paul, nestled in the lush landscapes of Trinidad and Tobago, offers a blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. This charming village provides a serene escape from the bustling city life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its tranquil ambiance and picturesque surroundings. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a history buff, St. Paul has something for everyone. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, with numerous hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden waterfalls. The nearby Asa Wright Nature Centre is a must-visit, renowned for its birdwatching opportunities and guided nature tours. St. Paul is also steeped in history and culture. The village is home to several colonial-era buildings that tell the story of Trinidad and Tobago's past. Local markets and festivals offer a glimpse into the vibrant traditions and customs of the island, where you can savor delicious local cuisine and enjoy lively music and dance. For those looking to relax, the pristine beaches of Maracas Bay and Las Cuevas are just a short drive away. These sandy shores provide the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. St. Paul truly offers a diverse and enriching experience, making it a must-visit destination in Trinidad and Tobago.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring St. Paul.

Visit during the dry season (January to May) for the best weather and outdoor activities.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the nature trails and historic sites.
Don't miss the Asa Wright Nature Centre for exceptional birdwatching experiences.
Sample the local cuisine at village markets and try traditional dishes like roti and doubles.
Plan a day trip to the nearby beaches of Maracas Bay and Las Cuevas for some sun and relaxation.

Top City Travel Guides in St. Paul

The cities of St. Paul, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Port of Spain

Explore St. Paul: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in St. Paul

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Queen's Park Savannah

Discover the lush landscapes and cultural vibrancy of Queen's Park Savannah, the heart of Port of Spain, Trinidad, where nature meets history.

4.4

Argyle Falls

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Argyle Falls, a stunning waterfall in Roxborough, Trinidad and Tobago, perfect for adventure, relaxation, and photography.

4.6

Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust

Explore the serene beauty of Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust, a sanctuary for waterfowl and a hub for environmental conservation in Trinidad and Tobago.

4.6

Castara Waterfall

Experience the tranquil beauty of Castara Waterfall, a must-visit scenic spot in Tobago, offering breathtaking views and serene natural surroundings.

4.4

Best landmarks in St. Paul

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

San Fernando Hill

Discover the stunning views and lush landscapes of San Fernando Hill, a must-visit park for nature lovers in Trinidad and Tobago.

4.4

Chaguaramas Boardwalk

Discover the beauty and vibrancy of Chaguaramas Boardwalk, a perfect blend of nature, leisure, and local culture in Trinidad.

3.9

Fort King George

Uncover Tobago's colonial past at Fort King George, a historical landmark offering stunning views and rich heritage.

4.5

Tobago Plantations

Explore Tobago Plantations: A Tropical Haven with Luxurious Accommodations and World-Class Golf Courses.

4.3

Best restaurants in St. Paul

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Town Restaurant & Bar

Discover authentic Trinidadian cuisine and vibrant cocktails at Town Restaurant & Bar in Port of Spain – a culinary gem for every traveler.

4.3

Toppers Restaurant & Bar

Experience Trinidadian flavors at Toppers Restaurant & Bar in Valsayn - where local meets international cuisine.

4.0

Buzo Osteria Italiana

Discover exquisite Italian cuisine at Buzo Osteria Italiana in Port of Spain—where authentic flavors meet elegant dining.

4.4

Aioli

Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Aioli in Port of Spain – where culinary artistry meets vibrant Caribbean culture.

4.3

Best bars in St. Paul

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Frankie’s Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Frankie’s Bar in Port of Spain, where local culture meets unforgettable nightlife experiences.

4.1

The Avenue Pub House

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Port of Spain at The Avenue Pub House, where local culture meets lively entertainment.

4.1

The MiniBar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Arima at The MiniBar, where delicious food and refreshing drinks meet upbeat music in a lively atmosphere.

4.2

Brooklyn Bar

Discover Brooklyn Bar: A lively pub in Port of Spain offering a vibrant atmosphere, great drinks, and a taste of local nightlife.

4.0

Best nightclubs in St. Paul

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

VAS Lounge

Discover the heartbeat of Port of Spain's nightlife at VAS Lounge, where every night is a celebration of music, dance, and culture.

4.1

Rush Sports Bar and Night Club

Discover the ultimate blend of sports excitement and nightlife at Rush Sports Bar and Night Club in Tacarigua, Trinidad.

3.9

Ibiza Night Club & Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Trinidad at Ibiza Night Club & Lounge, where music, dance, and fun converge for an unforgettable evening.

4.4

D59 Bar and Lounge

D59 Bar and Lounge in Bamboo Village: A vibrant night club experience with music, drinks, and unforgettable fun.

4.1

Best shops in St. Paul

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Trincity Mall

Explore Trincity Mall, Trinidad and Tobago's largest shopping destination, featuring diverse shops, delicious dining, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.1

The Falls at Westmall

Discover the charm of The Falls at Westmall, a premier shopping destination featuring diverse retail, delightful dining, and vibrant entertainment in Port of Spain, Trinidad.

4.3

Long Circular Mall

Explore the Long Circular Mall, a vibrant shopping haven in Port of Spain featuring diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options for a memorable experience.

4.0

Gulf City Mall

Gulf City Mall: Your ultimate shopping and entertainment destination in Trinidad and Tobago, featuring diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options.

4.3

Explore St. Paul on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in St. Paul, mapped for you.

St. Paul Essentials

St. Paul is located in the northern region of Trinidad and Tobago. The nearest international airport is Piarco International Airport in Trinidad, approximately 30 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle service to St. Paul. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes by road. Alternatively, car rental services are available at the airport for those preferring to drive themselves.
St. Paul is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Public buses operate within the town and connect to nearby areas. Renting a car can be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding regions at your own pace. There are also bicycles available for rent, which can be a fun way to explore the area.
The official currency in Trinidad and Tobago is the Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in St. Paul, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash beforehand to ensure you have enough funds for your trip.
St. Paul is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While St. Paul itself is relatively safe, some areas in the northern region of Trinidad have higher crime rates, so it is best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in St. Paul. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Make sure to carry a copy of your passport and emergency contact numbers.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches and other religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. A warm smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience St. Paul like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Trinidadian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the nearby Maracas Bay for a taste of the famous 'Bake and Shark' sandwich. For a unique experience, attend a local festival or cultural event to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.

When is the best time to visit St. Paul?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for St. Paul

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in St. Paul. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloWah Gwaan
  [Wah Gwaan]
- GoodbyeLater
  [Ley-tah]
- YesYea
  [Yea]
- NoNo
  [No]
- Please/You're welcomePleas/No problem
  [Pleas/No prob-lem]
- Thank youTank yuh
  [Tank yuh]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse meh/Sorry
  [Excuse meh/Sor-ree]
- How are you?How yuh doin?
  [How yuh doin?]
- Fine. And you?I good. An yuh?
  [I good. An yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Yuh does speak English?
  [Yuh does speak English?]
- I don't understandI eh understand
  [I eh understand]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAh would like to see de menu, please
  [Ah wud like to see de menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI eh eat meat
  [I eh eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAh would like to pay, please
  [Ah wud like to pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Go way!
  [Go way!]
- Call the Police!Call de police!
  [Call de po-lees!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call a doctor!]
- I'm lostI lost
  [I lost]
- I'm illI sick
  [I sick]
- I'd like to buy...Ah would like to buy...
  [Ah wud like to buy...]
- I'm just lookingAh just looking
  [Ah just looking]
- How much is it?How much it cost?
  [How much it cost?]
- That's too expensiveDat too expensive
  [Dat too expensive]
- Can you lower the price?Yuh could lower de price?
  [Yuh could lower de price?]
- What time is it?Wah time it is?
  [Wah time it is?]
- It's one o'clockIt one o'clock
  [It one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin
  [Mornin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin
  [Evenin]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Whey de...?
  [Whey de...?]
- What's the address?Wah de address?
  [Wah de address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh could show me (on de map)?
  [Yuh could show me (on de map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When de next (bus)?
  [When de next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of St. Paul

St. Paul, a quaint village nestled in the lush landscapes of Trinidad and Tobago, was established in the early 19th century. Originally a small settlement, it gradually grew in prominence due to its strategic location and fertile lands, attracting settlers and traders alike.
Throughout its history, St. Paul has been influenced by various colonial powers, including the Spanish, French, and British. Each of these colonial regimes left an indelible mark on the architecture, culture, and social fabric of the village. Today, visitors can still see remnants of colonial architecture and historical landmarks that tell the story of this diverse heritage.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, St. Paul experienced a significant economic boost during the Cocoa Boom. The fertile lands around the village were ideal for cocoa cultivation, leading to a flourishing industry. Many of the old cocoa estates still stand, serving as a testament to this prosperous era. The Cocoa Boom not only brought wealth but also led to the development of infrastructure and the growth of the local community.
St. Paul is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, which reflect the rich heritage and diverse traditions of the area. One of the most celebrated events is the annual Parang Festival, a lively music festival that showcases traditional Venezuelan-style Christmas carols. The festival attracts visitors from all over the country and offers a unique glimpse into the local culture and its enduring traditions.
Religion has played a pivotal role in shaping the community of St. Paul. The village is home to several historic churches and religious sites, including the St. Paul’s Anglican Church, which dates back to the late 19th century. These religious institutions not only serve as places of worship but also as centers for community gatherings and cultural events, reflecting the strong sense of community in the area.
Today, St. Paul is a blend of old-world charm and modernity. The village has managed to preserve its historical roots while embracing contemporary developments. Visitors can explore the picturesque streets, visit local markets, and enjoy the hospitality of the residents. St. Paul remains a testament to the enduring spirit and cultural richness of Trinidad and Tobago.