Plan your trip
Everything you need before you drive down
Mayaro rewards a little preparation: the coast is open Atlantic, services thin out after dark, and most bookings happen over WhatsApp. Here's the practical version.
Last reviewed 12 August 2026 by Mayaro.org editorial desk · next review 12 November 2026
Notice · Nesting beaches, Mayaro to Nariva
Turtle nesting season: guided access only on protected beaches
Between March and August, access to nesting beaches is restricted and a permitted guide is required. Do not use white light and never approach a nesting turtle.
Issued 1 Mar 2026, 04:00Updated 15 Jul 2026, 05:00Under review until 31 Aug 2026, 20:00Forestry Division / Wildlife Section
Summarised from the source above and not a live feed — always check the issuing authority before travelling.
Getting there
Roughly 2 to 2.5 hours from Port of Spain via the Solomon Hochoy Highway, Rio Claro and the Naparima–Mayaro Road. Allow extra time on holiday weekends and after heavy rain.
Cash and cards
Prices are in TTD. Beach stalls, taxis and small vendors are usually cash only. Bring small notes — ATMs in the village can run out on long weekends.
What to pack
Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a torch, refillable water, a cooler if you're self-catering, and covered shoes for night walks or river trips.
When to visit
Dry season (January–May) gives the steadiest beach days. Turtle nesting runs March to August. Rainy season brings rougher surf and river run-off.
Beach safety on the Atlantic coast
- Strong undercurrents and high waves are documented along Mayaro Beach.
- Swim near populated access points, in daylight, and never alone.
- Keep children within arm's reach; the shore drops away quickly in places.
- Avoid the water after heavy rain when river run-off and debris increase.
- Alcohol and open-ocean swimming are a bad combination here.
Mayaro.org is not an emergency service. In an emergency call the national emergency numbers and follow lifeguard or police instructions.
Emergency and useful numbers
Tap to call. These are the numbers issued by the competent authorities — follow their instructions over anything on this site.
- Police, Fire and AmbulanceNational emergency line 999
- Ambulance (EHS)Medical emergencies 811
- Fire ServiceFire and rescue 990
- Coast Guard operationsIncidents at sea 634 4440
- Mayaro District Health FacilityNon-emergency clinic enquiries (also 226 1575) 630 1258
- Mayaro Police StationNon-emergency police matters (also 630 3432) 630 4333
- Rio Claro Police StationNearest inland station, Eastern Division 644 2332
A workable three-day shape
Adjust freely — this is a sequence, not a schedule. Confirm every operator directly.
- Stop in Rio Claro or Mayaro Village for groceries, ice and cash before checking in.
- Check into your beach house or guesthouse, then walk the beach before sunset.
- Shark and bake or fresh catch for dinner; call ahead if your group is over eight.