Nevis

Nevis at a glance

Nevis lies at the northern end of the Lesser Antilles, a few miles across a narrow channel from St. Kitts. It is roughly circular, with a single volcanic peak at its center and beaches around the edge.

The Nevis Tourism Authority describes golden and black-sand beaches, rainforest and mountains, and an island that feels unhurried. It also notes that Nevis has no traffic lights and no fast-food chains.

Area

93 square kilometers (36 square miles)

Population

13,182 at the 2021 census

Capital

Charlestown

Highest point

Nevis Peak, 3,232 feet (985 meters)

Language

English; Nevis Creole is also spoken

Currency

Eastern Caribbean dollar, pegged at EC$2.70 to US$1

Driving

On the left

Time zone

Atlantic Standard Time

Climate and seasons

The Nevis Tourism Authority gives average temperatures of 26 to 29 degrees Celsius (79 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit) with year-round humidity. It describes January to April as relatively cool and dry, and June to November as hot, humid and rainy.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. NOAA's National Hurricane Center puts the climatological peak at September 10, with most activity between mid-August and mid-October. Hurricanes and Construction covers the season and how households prepare.

Culture and the calendar

Culturama, created in 1974, runs from late July into early August with calypso, soca, pageants, food fairs and street parades. Mocko jumbies perform during Culturama and at Christmas, and kite making is an Easter tradition.

String band music is a community tradition. Traditional wooden houses with hand-laid stone bases and gingerbread trim sit alongside Georgian stone buildings in Charlestown, and the Charlestown Art Gallery shows local artists.

Golf

The resort's 18-hole course was designed by Robert Trent Jones II and opened in February 1991. It plays to par 71 over 6,766 yards, with a pro shop, instruction, a driving range and a putting green.

The site is a former sugar and coconut plantation dating to the late 1790s. The remains of a stone windmill can be seen from the second tee.

Recreation at the resort

Beyond golf, the Four Seasons press kit lists tennis on two artificial-turf, two hard and four red clay courts, four pickleball courts, and water activities including sailing, boating, scuba certification and deep-sea fishing. A spa and three pools complete the amenities.

Rainforest hiking, kayaking along the shoreline and diving and snorkeling are among the activities the Nevis Tourism Authority lists across the island.

Healthcare and schools

Alexandra Hospital in Charlestown is Nevis's public hospital. According to the Nevis Island Administration's 2025 budget remarks, it provides outpatient and inpatient care, responds to emergencies and serves residents and visitors. Departments include laboratory, radiology and an eye care program. The 2026 budget funds a new hospital wing, with financing still being negotiated.

The island has two public secondary schools run by the Nevis Island Administration, Charlestown Secondary School and Gingerland Secondary School, along with Nevis International Secondary School. Families should confirm admissions and options directly with the schools and the Ministry of Education.

Currency, language and daily practicalities

The Eastern Caribbean dollar has been pegged at EC$2.70 to US$1 since July 7, 1976, according to the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank. U.S. dollars are widely accepted on Nevis, and ATMs are available, although the Tourism Authority advises carrying some cash because some businesses do not take cards.

English is the main language, with Nevis Creole also spoken. Drivers keep to the left, and visitors who rent a car get a temporary local license through the rental company. Taxis are plentiful.

Getting around

Renting a car is optional because taxis are plentiful, and hotels can arrange rides with preferred drivers. Rental companies operate in Charlestown, at Oualie Beach and at Clay Ghaut.

Caribbean Journal notes that roads are winding, so trips take longer than the distances suggest. A drive around the island passes villages, churches and stone ruins.

Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office notes that serious crime has occurred and recommends ordinary precautions: keep accommodation secure, avoid isolated areas after dark and use licensed taxis, which carry a yellow plate marked T or TA. It also notes that currents can be strong and that not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags.

The same advice says there is no recent history of terrorism in St. Kitts and Nevis. It recommends travel insurance suited to your plans.

Residency and citizenship

St. Kitts and Nevis established its Citizenship by Investment program in 1984. The Citizenship by Investment Unit sets the rules, approves developments and decides applications. Which residences qualify, and the government's current terms, are confirmed with the Unit before any commitment.

Our Citizenship by Investment page sets out how the program works. Buyers should take advice from a qualified adviser on licences, duties and tax.