Saint Anne Sandy Point, St. Kitts: History, Beauty, and Community Spirit

Nestled on the western shores of St. Kitts lies the charming parish of Saint Anne Sandy Point. Though the smallest of the 14 parishes, measuring just 5 square miles (13 km2), it packs a powerful punch in terms of history, natural beauty, and community spirit. From its historic town to its stunning coastline and vibrant festivals, Saint Anne Sandy Point offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

A Land of Contrasts: Beaches, Mountains, and History

• Geographical Marvels:
  • The parish’s triangular shape encompasses a diverse landscape. Its 4.06 miles (6.53 km) of coastline features striking black sandy beaches like Pump Bay and Belle Tête along the southern coast, contrasting with the dramatic sheer cliffs to the north.
  • Inland, the landscape transitions from gently sloping plains, dotted with remnants of sugarcane fields and lush tropical fruit farms, to the steep, forested mountains of the North West Range.
  • Cranston Ghaut and Sandy Point Ghaut define the parish’s northern and southern borders, respectively, adding to the area’s natural allure.
• Historic Significance:
  • Sandy Point Town, the parish capital and the island’s second-largest town, holds a rich history. In the 17th century, it thrived as the primary port for British Saint Christopher, fueled by the lucrative tobacco trade.
  • While Basseterre eventually became the capital, Sandy Point continued to be a vital port, particularly for mail and personal goods.
  • The ruins of old warehouses and Fort Charles are still visible, a testament to the town’s rich past.

Towns and Villages: A Community at Heart

• Sandy Point Town:
  • The heart of the parish, Sandy Point Town, boasts a population of approximately 3,000.
  • Its strategic location along the south coast makes it a hub of activity.
• Surrounding Villages:
  • Fig Tree, La Vallée, and Sir Gillee’s Estate act as vibrant suburbs, contributing to the parish’s close-knit community feel.

Economy: A Blend of History and Future Development

• Past Industry and Present Tourism:
  • The Harowe Servo Controls factory, although now closed, was a major employer in the past.
  • Today, tourism plays a vital role in the parish’s economy. The area’s historical sites, including Fort Charles and the ruins of Dutch tobacco warehouses, attract visitors eager to explore its rich past.
  • The Sandy Point National Marine Park, renowned for its excellent diving, further enhances the parish’s appeal.
• Future Developments:
  • The La Vallée Greens Corporation is currently developing the northern coastal plains, promising exciting future additions. These include:
    • The La Vallée Golf Course
    • A marina and port facility for travel to neighboring Leeward Islands
    • Luxury villa developments
    • A state-of-the-art sporting facility

Community Spirit: The Black San’ Bang-a-Lang Festival

• A Celebration of Culture:
  • The Black San’ Bang-a-Lang festival, a two-week extravaganza during the Easter season, embodies the parish’s vibrant community spirit.
  • The festival features a diverse range of events, including calypso shows, queen shows, parties, street jam sessions, and late-night limes (hangouts).
  • The parade is one of the most exciting on the island.
  • Most activities are centered around Sandy Point Town, Pump Bay, Fig Tree, and Cleverly Hill.

A Destination Worth Exploring

Saint Anne Sandy Point offers a compelling blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach getaway, an immersive historical experience, or a taste of vibrant local culture, this charming parish has something for everyone. From the historic streets of Sandy Point Town to the tranquil shores of its black sand beaches and the exciting Black San’ Bang-a-Lang festival, Saint Anne Sandy Point invites you to discover its hidden treasures.