by Carissa Kane

Created on: February 21, 2009   Last Updated: February 22, 2009

Trinidad is without a doubt a slice of paradise. It is a haven in its own right and can be, what I consider, one of the most beautiful places in the world. Having lived here all my life, I think it would be inappropriate to say anything less about this beautiful island.

One of the main contributions towards Trinidad's beauty is its magnificent beaches. The seas, the sand, the sun, what more can someone ask for? When you're here, you know it's an incredible experience. So just where are all these breath-taking beaches located?

If you're in the north the obvious choice is none other than Maracas Beach. The beach is about 1850m / 1 1/4mi long and has off white sand. Waves are an average height of 1.0m / 3ft and are ideal for surfing. Here you can help yourself to the famous dish of "Bake and Shark".

Further up the road from Maracas is Las Cuevas. This bay is more sheltered than Maracas and is therefore calmer. The water is clear and provides excellent swimming with waves reaching to 0.82m / 3ft. The Spanish influence from the island's colonial past has influenced a lot of names around the country.

Blanchisseuse is next on the list in the North Coast. In recent times there have been a lot of resorts and guest houses surfacing and the area is becoming popular for exciting weekend get-a -ways.

Just east of Maracas Bay is Tyrico Bay with a beach about 900m / 1/2mi long and fine grayish brown sand. Similar to Maracas it offers good sea and sun bathing with waves reaching to 0.80m / 3ft. It will definitely not be as crowded as Maracas will be but surely beautiful and relaxing.

Paria Beach and Waterfall is another popular attraction especially for those who are interested in some hiking. This trail is about 2 to 3 hours long and leads to a deserted beach and refreshing waterfall.

Moving on, onto the North-East Coast we have Balandra. The narrow stretch of land shelters make it good for swimming and even body-surfing at the rougher ends.

Next is the famous Manzanilla Beach or more affectionately called "Manzan" by locals. It is known for the biggest cool down' parties after the Carnival festivals. A long beach of about 4000m / 2.5mi with brownish grey fine sand, it is ideal for sunbathing.

Grande Rivire is where the river meets the sea so you can have a combination of sea bathing and river swimming. The area is known for friendly tour guides who make rain forest hikes available. It is possible to see the nesting of the leather back turtles here during the months of March to August.

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