Limin' at Maracas Beach, Trinidad

A popular favorite among Trinidad beaches

Nestled into the lazy crescent of Maracas Bay is Maracas Beach, Trinidad, a pearl of the south Caribbean Sea.

Join us for a Sunday lime - hanging out with friends - an activity that is as much a local institution as is the famous local delicacy available at this spectacular Trinidad beach.

 Natural Beauty 

The popularity of Maracas Beach is a result of both its proximity to the capital and its natural beauty. This picturesque beach (see Maracas Beach photos), complete with it's backdrop of mist-covered mountains, retains the simple splendor of beaches on much less developed Caribbean islands.

We enjoy Maracas Beach, as much during the week, when we can bask in its quiet tranquilly, as we do on weekends, when we join friends in their weekly migration from Port-of-Spain.

 A Piece of Paradise 

After arriving, our first priority is always to find that perfect location, preferably somewhere with a little shade, close to the center of the bay.

As we walk along the beach, with our well-stocked cooler (our most important accessory) in tow, the Trinidadians in our group greet friends, already strategically positioned on this Maracas Bay beach. Soon, we are similarly parked on our own little parcel of paradise.

 Lime Like a Trini 

Settled now, the old-talk begins in earnest, time to get down to some serious drinking and unwind. Maracas is the perfect location to reconnect with old friends and make new ones.

Standing there with the warmth of the Caribbean sun seeping into our souls and the soothing sound of the surf messaging our minds, we feel waves of relaxation wash over us. The memory of frozen noses, fingers and toes fading into distant memory.

 Great Sand and Surf 

The surf at Maracas is one of this beaches greatest assets. It's like going to an environmentally-friendly amusement park; kids of all ages love to play in the endless waves and it's ideal for body surfing. Sometimes it's so invigorating, it's difficult to drag yourself out of the water.

The frappuccino-colored sand of Maracas is another of its charms, ideal for keeping kids occupied and building sandcastles. While Maracas Beach is not the average, gentle Caribbean beach, it's more, it's an exceptional beach in our view, a beach very much like the nation, distinct and exciting.

 Shark and Bake? 

It's noon, time to tantalize the taste buds. Wherever you go in Trinidad, people ask if you had a Shark and Bake at Maracas.

Located within easy walking distance and directly behind the beach, are a number of small, take-away, beach restaurants, many of which offer Shark and Bake on their menu. Richard's Shark and Bake, the one with the lines and the red tent, is obviously the local favorite.

On weekends, we've waited for 30 minutes or more, at Richard's, for a bite of this mouthwatering local delicacy. But it's well worth the wait. However, if you prefer not to stand around on a beautiful Caribbean day, then try one of the other restaurants, they are all quite good and eager for you custom.

 The Cloak of Dusk 

As our brilliant tropical day slips into mellow Caribbean night, the beach gradually empties. Those who remained barely noticed the exodus. Forgotten are the challenges of life. All that remains is the sound of the surf, and a few similar groups lost in their own worlds, dotted along the beach. Days like this are the norm, every weekend, here at Maracas Beach in Trinidad.