Mayreau

Introducing Mayreau

The compact palm-covered island of Mayreau sits just west of the Tobago Cays. With only a handful of roads, no airport and a small smattering of locals, Mayreau is the paradigm for chilled. The small village that sits beside Saline Bay is the sole habitation, rising up the hill to give commanding views of the sea.

Over the ridge and down to the other side you are confronted with the sublime Saltwhistle Bay. Picture perfect and the star of countless racks of postcards, this white-sand beach defies description. The thin strip of sand leads to a point where the ocean laps on both sides, sometimes only a few feet away. The azure water is a mecca for boaters – yachts drop anchor in the bay and bob along with the swaying palms.

The island is wonderfully quiet, until the cruise ships arrive to vomit passengers onto the land for a short excursion. Clad in socks, sandals and sunburn, they traipse around for a few hours. Luckily the invaders are soon to leave and you are left with the island the way it’s supposed to be – nice and quiet.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009