St. Kitts With Autistic Children

St. Kitts is a delightful destination for families, including those with autistic children. A beautiful Caribbean island often visited by cruise ship passengers, St. Kitts is a beautiful island with a lot to offer.

Getting to St. Kitts

The most common way to reach St. Kitts is by flying into Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB). The airport is well-connected with direct flights from several major cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Alternatively, cruise ships frequently dock at Port Zante in Basseterre, making it accessible for those arriving by sea.

When traveling from Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB) in St. Kitts to Basseterre, you have several transport options:

• Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. The drive to Basseterre takes about 10-15 minutes. Taxis can take you directly to your hotel or other destinations in St. Kitts.
• Rental Car: Major rental car companies have desks at the airport. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Remember, driving is on the left side of the road in St. Kitts.
• Hotel Shuttles: Some hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport. It’s advisable to arrange this service with your hotel in advance.
• Public bus: Public buses (which are actually minibuses) run from the airport area to Basseterre. This is the most affordable option, but buses may not run on a strict schedule and can be crowded.
• Private Transfers: You can book a private transfer service in advance, which offers a more personalized experience. These transfers are typically in more comfortable vehicles and provide direct service to your destination.

Each option offers varying levels of convenience, cost, and comfort, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs.

When we visited, it was a cruise ship stop. We walked from the boat to the town and explored by foot.

Where to Stay

Selecting the right accommodation is crucial when traveling with children, especially those with autism. St. Kitts offers a variety of family-friendly resorts and hotels that cater to different needs. I have no personal recommendations because we were only there for a day as part of a cruise ship tour.

• St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino is a popular choice, offering spacious rooms and numerous family-friendly amenities, including pools, a kids’ club, and beach access. The resort’s staff is known for being accommodating and understanding of special needs. You can book a transfer from St. Kitts airport to St. Kitts Marriot via GetYourGuide here.
• Park Hyatt St. Kitts is another excellent option, known for its luxurious accommodations and attentive service. The resort offers beautiful views, multiple dining options, and activities suitable for children. You can pre-book a transfer to Park Hyatt on GetYourGuide.
• Sugar Bay Club Suites & Hotel provides a more budget-friendly option while still offering comfortable accommodations and a family-friendly environment. The hotel features pools, playgrounds, and easy access to the beach.

Family-Friendly Things to Do in St. Kitts

St. Kitts Scenic Railway

This narrow-gauge railway offers a scenic tour of the island, providing stunning views of the coastline and countryside. The leisurely pace and open-air cars make it an enjoyable experience for children. You can book a tour to St. Kitts Scenic Railway online here.

Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers expansive grounds to explore, historical exhibits, and panoramic views. The open space and intriguing history can captivate children and provide a sensory-friendly outing.

Frigate Bay Beach

Known for its calm waters and soft sand, Frigate Bay Beach is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The beach’s gentle waves and tranquil environment make it ideal for children. You can actually book a tour here with a drone photoshoot included.

St. Kitts Eco-Park

This botanical garden offers a peaceful and educational experience with a variety of plants, flowers, and walking paths. The serene environment can be very soothing for autistic children. You can book a guided hike to the rainforest then Romney Gardens in advance of your trip.

Dolphin Discovery St. Kitts

Located at Bird Rock Beach, this facility offers interactive dolphin experiences that are both educational and enjoyable. The structured environment and trained staff can help ensure a positive experience for children.

Romney Manor and Caribelle Batik

This historic estate offers beautiful gardens to explore and a batik workshop where children can see the fabric dyeing process. The colourful surroundings and hands-on experience can be very engaging.

Splash Island Water Park

Located on the beach at St. Kitts Marriott Resort, this inflatable water park offers fun and excitement for children. The soft, floating structures provide a safe and entertaining environment.

Nevis Botanical Gardens

Just a short ferry ride from Basseterre, these gardens offer beautiful landscapes and peaceful walking paths. The ferry ride itself can be an exciting part of the adventure for children.

South Friars Bay

This quiet beach offers calm waters and a serene atmosphere, perfect for a family day out. The beach is less crowded, providing a more relaxed environment for children.

Our Favourite Sensory-Friendly Activity in St. Kitts

Independence Square

This historic square in the heart of Basseterre is a great place for a leisurely stroll and offers a playground where children can burn off energy. It is a nice open space, but it is really hot so bring water. There is a really nice church just across the road from the square that is worth checking out.

Getting Around St. Kitts with Autistic Children

Navigating St. Kitts requires some planning to ensure a smooth experience, especially when traveling with autistic children. Here are some transport options:

• Taxis and Private Transfers: Taxis are readily available and offer a convenient way to travel around St. Kitts. Pre-booking private transfers can provide additional comfort and reduce stress.
• Car Rentals: Renting a car allows you to explore the island at your own pace. Many rental agencies offer vehicles with GPS and child seats, making it easier to navigate with children.
• Public Buses: While public buses are an affordable option, they can be crowded and might not be the most comfortable choice for families with autistic children.

We went on a cruise stop, and just walked everywhere. You get a decent amount of time on a cruise stops so you have plenty time to walk about the nearest town or city. We walked around as much of Basseterre as we could in time timeframe.

Is St. Kitts Autism-Friendly?

St. Kitts is a beautiful and welcoming destination, but it may not yet be fully equipped to support the specific needs of individuals with autism. The island’s calm and less crowded environment can be beneficial for those with sensory sensitivities, but the availability of specialized services, support networks, and autism-specific accommodations is limited.

Things That Make St. Kitts Stand Out

• Public transportation on the island is limited, and taxis or rental cars are the primary means of getting around. This can be both a positive and a negative—while public transport might be chaotic and challenging, private transport can offer more control over sensory experiences.
• St. Kitts offers a variety of attractions, including beaches, historical sites, and nature reserves. These outdoor activities can be suitable for individuals with autism who enjoy calm, open spaces. The island is less crowded than more popular Caribbean destinations, which can help reduce sensory overload.
• Autism-specific services at tourist attractions are likely limited. It’s advisable to contact hotels and tour operators in advance to discuss any special needs and ensure they can provide the necessary accommodations.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

1. Plan Ahead: Research each location and contact them to discuss any special accommodations your child might need. If you can plan to arrive after check-in time you should, or try to arrange an early check-in.
2. Sensory Tools: Bring along sensory tools and comfort items that help manage sensory needs, such as noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys, and a sensory toolkit.
3. Clear Communication: Ensure that everyone involved in the trip understands the needs and preferences of the neurodiverse individual. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and enhance the travel experience. Consider using PECS or an AAC. We have a free pack of travel PECS available for download.
4. Safety: Consider getting an autism card for your child, or even better – use our emergency passport for medical information and important contacts. Our absolute must have safety item for travelling with an autistic child is a TinyTags wristband or tag that can be tapped or scanned by a mobile phone – giving the person who tapped it all of the information they need to get your child back to you. TinyTags also feature a location alert to help you find your child.

St. Kitts offers a wide range of activities and accommodations that cater to the needs of families with autistic children. With some preparation and planning, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable holiday in this beautiful Caribbean destination.

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