St. Kitts & Nevis, Decoded

Shipwreck Beach Bar & Grill, Saint Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Photo by Omar Martin on Unsplash

If you’re planning a trip to St. Kitts and Nevis, chances are you’re asking the same questions we hear all the time. The good news? There’s no wrong choice here—just different vibes. Here’s how we break it down when helping travelers decide (or figure out how to do both).

• So… Is It Better to Stay in St. Kitts or Nevis?

  It depends on what kind of trip you’re craving.

  St. Kitts is the livelier of the two. It’s larger, more developed, and offers a broader mix of activities—think historic sites like Brimstone Hill Fortress, beach bars, and a nightlife scene that actually exists.

  Nevis, on the other hand, is quieter and more intimate. It’s ideal for travelers who want space, calm beaches, lush landscapes, and a slower pace. Hiking, swimming, and doing absolutely nothing are all very much encouraged.

  Many of our travelers choose to split their time between both islands, which is often the best of all worlds.

• Are the Beaches Actually Swimmable?

  Yes—on both islands.

  In St. Kitts, South Friar’s Bay and Frigate Bay are popular for their calm waters and easy swimming. In Nevis, Pinney’s Beach is a standout: long, uncrowded, and consistently swimmable. Snorkeling, floating, and lingering in the water are all very much on the agenda.

• Is It Safe to Walk Around St. Kitts and Nevis?

  Generally, yes. Both islands are considered safe, especially in resort areas and well-traveled neighborhoods.

  As with anywhere new, common-sense awareness goes a long way. We always recommend being mindful of your surroundings, particularly at night or when venturing off the beaten path—but overall, these islands feel welcoming and relaxed.

• Are St. Kitts & Nevis Expensive?

  Nevis sits in the upper tier of Caribbean pricing, but it offers a very different kind of value than flashier islands.

  For a thoughtfully planned Nevis stay, travelers typically see average nightly hotel rates in the $500–$900 range, depending on season, room category, and property. This reflects the island’s focus on low-density luxury, space, and service, rather than volume tourism.

  Dining and activities are consistent with this level—polished, high-quality, and relaxed rather than scene-driven. A Nevis trip tends to feel indulgent and restorative, without the markup that often comes with trend-forward Caribbean destinations.

• Can You Use U.S. Dollars?

  In most cases, yes.

  U.S. dollars are widely accepted at hotels, resorts, and many businesses—especially in more populated areas. That said, if you’re heading beyond the resort bubble or making small purchases, it’s helpful to have East Caribbean Dollars (XCD) on hand.

• What’s the Best Way to Get Around?

  It depends on the island—and how much flexibility you want.

  • St. Kitts: Renting a car is often the easiest way to explore. Taxis are also readily available and work well for shorter trips.

  • Nevis: Renting a car or scooter makes sense, though bikes can be a fun option thanks to the island’s size and scenery.

  • Between islands: Ferries and water taxis make getting from St. Kitts to Nevis simple—and scenic.

Thinking About St. Kitts or Nevis?

If you’re weighing the two—or wondering how to combine them into one easy, well-paced trip—we do this kind of planning all the time. From choosing the right island (or both) to securing great hotels, perks, and seamless logistics, thoughtful planning makes all the difference here.

Because the best trips start before you ever board the plane.