Bequia Island (Port Elizabeth, Grenadines)

Bequia is a small, relaxed tender port where independent sightseeing is straightforward. Port Elizabeth, the waterfront walkway and Princess Margaret Beach can be reached without an organized excursion. A taxi or prearranged island tour is better for viewpoints, the east coast and more distant attractions.

At a Glance

• Arrival: Ships anchor in Admiralty Bay and tender passengers to Port Elizabeth.
• Independent sightseeing: Easy around the town, waterfront and nearby beaches.
• Best short visit: Port Elizabeth, Belmont Walkway and Princess Margaret Beach.
• For more of the island: Hire a local taxi or join an island tour.
• Terrain: Mostly level beside the harbor, but steep roads and uneven coastal paths occur beyond town.

Getting Ashore and Around

The tender normally lands at the jetty in central Port Elizabeth. There is no cruise-terminal complex or ground shuttle: shops, cafés, the waterfront and local transport are available close to the landing point.

Open-sided island taxis commonly meet arriving passengers. Agree on the route, total fare, duration and return point before departing. Shared vans serve some local routes but are less convenient when time ashore is limited.

Water taxis connect Port Elizabeth with beaches around Admiralty Bay, including Princess Margaret Beach and Lower Bay. Confirm the fare and arrange a specific return time with the operator. Sea conditions can affect boarding and service.

Best Ways to Spend Your Time

Port Elizabeth and Belmont Walkway

Allow 1–2 hours to browse the small waterfront, local market and craft shops before following the Belmont Walkway south beside Admiralty Bay. The immediate harbor section is an easy independent stroll, with views of yachts, small beaches and waterfront restaurants.

Princess Margaret Beach

This is the most practical beach for independent visitors. It is approximately a 15–20-minute walk from Port Elizabeth via the Belmont Walkway and coastal trail, or a short water-taxi ride. Allow 2–4 hours for the walk, swimming and beach time.

The waterfront section is relatively easy, but the final trail includes steps and uneven surfaces around the headland. Conditions may be slippery after rain or affected by rough seas. Beach services can vary, so carry water and do not rely on finding a particular facility open.

Lower Bay

Lower Bay offers a longer beach and is generally quieter than Princess Margaret Beach. It can be reached by taxi or water taxi, and experienced walkers can continue along the coastal route beyond Princess Margaret Beach. Allow at least 3–4 hours if combining both beaches on foot. A water taxi is the simpler option for passengers who want to maximize swimming time.

Island Taxi Tour

A 2–3-hour taxi tour can include elevated views over Admiralty Bay, Fort Hamilton, local villages, the boatbuilding tradition and viewpoints toward the southern Grenadines. Routes vary, so discuss priorities with the driver before leaving. This is the most practical way to see more than the west-coast waterfront during a short call.

Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary

The sanctuary is on the island’s northeastern side and requires a taxi. It can be combined with an island drive, but independent walking from Port Elizabeth is not practical for most cruise visitors because of distance, heat and steep roads. Confirm locally that it is open before making the journey.

Self-Guided Waterfront and Beach Walk

Port Elizabeth to Princess Margaret Beach

Distance: Approximately 2 km (1.2 mi) round trip
Pure walking time: About 35–45 minutes
Recommended total time: 2–3 hours with stops or swimming
Difficulty: Easy to moderate; level waterfront followed by steps and an uneven coastal section.

1. Port Elizabeth tender jetty: Begin beside the central waterfront and note the location of the return-tender queue.
2. Front Street: Pass the small shops, market stalls and model-boat workshops near the harbor.
3. Belmont Walkway: Follow the shoreline south past cafés, hotels and views across Admiralty Bay.
4. Belmont Beach: Continue beside the water toward the headland.
5. Princess Margaret Trail: Cross the short headland section carefully, using the steps and coastal path.
6. Princess Margaret Beach: Swim, relax or arrange a water taxi back to Port Elizabeth.

Walk back by the same route unless a return water taxi has been clearly arranged. The route is less suitable for wheelchairs, strollers or passengers with limited mobility because of the headland section.

Beaches and Water Safety

• Princess Margaret Beach and Lower Bay are the most practical choices from the tender landing.
• There may be no lifeguard, and swimming conditions can change with wind, swell and boat traffic.
• Use caution when entering from a water taxi, particularly if the boat must land directly on the beach.
• Do not leave valuables unattended while swimming.
• Use reef-conscious sun protection and carry drinking water; shade may be limited.

Practical Tips

• Tendering reduces usable time ashore, especially when boats are delayed or loading queues form.
• Check the final tender time rather than relying only on the ship’s departure time.
• Carry small-denomination cash; cards may not be accepted by taxis, water taxis and small vendors.
• Roads outside Port Elizabeth are narrow, steep and often lack sidewalks.
• For a beach visit, arrange return transport before settling in rather than searching for a boat or taxi at the last moment.
• Return to Port Elizabeth with a generous margin for the tender queue and shipboard security.