Montserrat
Discover Montserrat—a hidden Caribbean gem offering unforgettable adventures and untouched beauty. With no big resorts, casinos, or crowds, this island is all about peace, nature, and authentic island charm. Locals are warm and welcoming, always ready to share stories and guide you with a smile. With under 5,000 residents, Montserrat promises an escape from the hustle—no traffic, no long lines, and quiet, uncrowded beaches.
Nicknamed the “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean,” Montserrat shares deep cultural ties with Ireland, even celebrating St. Patrick’s Day as a national holiday with a week of parades, concerts, and festivities. Music also runs deep here—Montserrat once drew global rock legends to record at AIR Studios, founded by Sir George Martin. It’s also the birthplace of soca icon Arrow, whose hit “Hot! Hot! Hot!” still lights up parties worldwide.
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore, from ten scenic hiking trails to the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Plymouth, the capital buried by volcanic eruptions in the 1990s. The Montserrat Volcano Observatory offers incredible views of the Soufrière Hills Volcano and the island’s ever-changing landscape.
Come to Montserrat for tranquility, rich culture, and a rare glimpse into a Caribbean untouched by time. Visit our website.
Dining
Montserrat’s cuisine is a vibrant reflection of its cultural roots, blending African, Irish, Caribbean, and European influences into dishes that are as flavorful as they are colorful. Despite the island’s small size—just 39 ½ square miles—you’ll find an impressive variety of meals, from hearty home-style cooking to spicy Creole flavors and freshly caught seafood. Meals are often made with locally grown ingredients and served with warm island hospitality, whether you’re at a cozy roadside eatery or a beachside café.
The island’s national dish, Goat Water, is a must-try. This rich, savory stew—made with tender meat from the male goat—bears some resemblance to Irish stew but carries its own distinct Caribbean flair with bold spices and hearty ingredients. Traditionally served hot and bubbling, Goat Water is a Friday staple, and you’ll quickly find locals debating which restaurant or cook serves up the best version. Don’t be shy—ask around and follow their advice; you’ll likely end up with a delicious bowl and a great story.
Whether you’re trying grilled fish with breadfruit, a spicy roti, or a sweet treat like coconut tart, Montserrat’s food scene is full of surprises and soul, just like the island itself. Learn more
Quick Facts
Languages spoken: English
Banking & Banking Hours: Montserrat has one primary domestic bank, The Bank of Montserrat, which also handles international currency exchanges. Additionally, Royal Bank of Canada is another domestic bank licensed to conduct business with overseas correspondent banks. The island does not have a large presence of international banks, but the Bank of Montserrat facilitates transactions with other financial institutions worldwide. Banks are usually open from 8am to 2pm Monday through Friday.
Currency: The EC dollar is the official currency of Montserrat. Not all businesses accept credit cards; the USD is widely accepted. Banks will exchange US currency.
Climate: Average temperature year-round is 77F. From December to April, the temperature in the evening can go as low as 62F.
Dress Code: In Montserrat, the local dress code is generally casual. There are no specific dress code requirements for dining or most activities, but beachwear or swimwear is not considered socially acceptable outside of designated areas like beaches and pools.
Driving: On the left-hand side of the road. Americans must present their valid driver’s license to drive in Montserrat, though a temporary Montserrat driver’s license is still required. Link to purchase your temporary license in advance.
Electricity: Adaptors are not necessary as hotels, villas and guest rooms carry both 110V and 220V outlets.
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (-4 GMT); Montserrat does not observe Daily Savings.
Activities
Montserrat offers a wide range of unique and fascinating experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Take a guided historical walking tour through the Exclusion Zone (Zone V)—an area only accessible with certified guides—to witness the haunting beauty of the island’s volcanic past. Or enjoy quieter moments birdwatching or spotting nesting turtles along our peaceful coastlines.
With numerous hiking trails rated for all endurance levels, you can journey through lush rainforests, discover hidden waterfalls, and traverse rocky volcanic paths. Each trail offers something different—just don’t forget your binoculars and camera to capture the island’s rich plant life, curious wildlife, and incredible bird species.
Montserrat’s beaches are as distinctive as the island itself, with sand that ranges from sparkling black and soft gray to a rare stretch of white sand. Hop in a car and explore them all, or dive beneath the surface to discover colorful coral reefs teeming with life. From snorkeling and diving to kayaking and jet skiing, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the island’s crystal-clear waters.
Whatever your pace—adventurous or relaxed—Montserrat offers a blend of nature, history, and serenity that’s truly unforgettable.
Travel Essentials
Flight Information
Montserrat is a short 20-minute flight away from VC Bird International Airport in Antigua and Barbuda.
From Antigua, Montserrat is serviced by both Fly Montserrat and SVG Air. SVG Air will offer twice daily flights from Antigua to Montserrat from September 1, 2025 through to March 31, 2026.
There is an Antigua Airport Administration Charge of US$40 per passenger for non connecting passengers (within 24 hours). For all passengers connecting within 24 hours through Antigua’s Airport, a tax of US$20 per passenger is charged.
Montserrat is also accessible via St. Maarten and serviced with Winair flights on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
For information on flights from other gateways, click HERE.
Entry Requirements for Americans
Americans require a valid passport (valid for six months after your planned date of return) as well as proof of a return or onward ticket. Americans do not require a visa.
For more information, see your Travel Advisor or follow this link: US State Department/Montserrat
Getting Married
Getting Married (requirements):
From magnificent black sand beaches to the breathtaking mountainous views of the Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat is tailor-made for you to say “I Do!” To help plan your special day, it is suggested that you work with a local wedding planner.
The following is the procedure that must be followed upon arrival in Montserrat:
- To be eligible for this license, one of the parties must reside in Montserrat for three (3) working days prior to submitting the completed Marriage License application form.
- During this 3-day waiting period, the applicants should arrange the time and place of the wedding ceremony with the Registrar or a Minister of Religion. These details must be noted on the marriage application form. Please note the Registrar will inform you on the fees for officiating at the wedding during working hours and outside working hours.
- After the three (3) working days of residence has been established, the parties should submit the completed Marriage License Application form to the Office of the Deputy Governor (Consular Division), along with the required documents.
- When the Marriage license has been signed by the Governor, the parties will be notified by telephone.
- The parties will then be advised to purchase EC$500.00 in Montserrat stamps (fee stipulated by law).
The following documents must be provided:
- Original birth certificates
- Valid passports
- Certificate of Non-marriage – If one or both parties has/have never been married, he/she/they must provide this certificate which is obtained from the Registrar’s Office in the city where the parties reside.
- Decree Nisi or Decree Absolute if applicant is divorced (original or a notarized copy)
- Death Certificate if applicant is widowed (original or a notarized copy).
- A written consent from the parents if the applicant is under the age of 18. This consent must be notarized by the Notary Public.
Deputy Governor’s Contact information: M-F from 8am to 4pm
Phone: 664-491-9202 x6524
Email: consular@gov.ms
Destination Wedding Procedures
Cultural/Annual Events
PUBLIC AND/OR GOVERNMENT HOLIDAYS:
The Government of Montserrat observes the following holidays each year:
(Some services may be impacted with reduced hours, or there may be full closures on these days)
2026 Public Holidays
Thursday, January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day
Tuesday, March 17, 2026 – St. Patrick’s Day
Friday, April 3, 2026 – Good Friday (Stores closed)
Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
Monday, April 6, 2026 – Easter Monday
Monday, May 4, 2026 – Labour Day
Monday, May 25, 2026 – Whit Monday
Monday, June 8, 2026 – King’s Birthday
Wednesday, July 8, 2026 – National Day of Prayer, Reflection and Thanksgiving
Saturday, July 18 -27, 2026 – Calabash Festival
Saturday, August 1+2, 2026 – Cudjoe Head Weekend
Monday, August 3, 2026 – Emancipation Day
November 2026 – Literary Festival (date TBA)
Saturday, December 12 through to January 1st – Carnival
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Medical & Dental Information
Montserrat is a mountainous island with hilly terrain and narrow sidewalks.
Montserrat’s main hospital is located in St. John’s.
Glendon Hospital
Phone: 664-491-2552/2836/2843
Email: mehcs@gov.ms
Additional medical clinics are located throughout Montserrat:
St. John’s Health Centre
Ph: 664-491-5218
St. Peter’s Clinic
Ph: 664-491-5436
Brades Health Centre, Cudjoe Head
Ph: 664-491-5258
Salem Health Centre
Ph: 664-491-5256
Medivac services are offered by:
Fly Montserrat
Phone: 664-491-3434
Email: info@flymontserrat.com
FOR EMERGENCY DENTAL SERVICES:
Regal Dental, St. Johns
Phone: 664-496-6644
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is no hyperbaric chamber in Montserrat. There is however, a hyperbaric chamber located in St. Kitts at the CDA Technical Institute, Basseterre.
Accessibility
Please ensure that your airline is aware of any special needs travel prior to departure from the U.S.
Airport Services
John A. Osborne Airport (MNI):
- Accessible restrooms with wheelchair access are located in the terminal
- Wheelchair Assistance: available at the airline counters
- Ramps are available
Ferry Terminal
Little Bay Ferry Terminal
- Accessible restrooms with wheelchair access are located in the terminal
- Ramps are available
Transportation and Activities:
There are no wheelchair accessible transfer vehicles available in Montserrat. All taxis and buses would be able to accommodate collapsible wheelchairs and store these in the trunk of the car or bus for transport or tours. Please note that if the individual is severely disabled whereby they cannot stand on their own, and where they would need to be physically lifted in and out of the vehicle, this is not a service that drivers can facilitate.
For Accessibility information at hotels located in Montserrat, please consult the hotel’s individual websites.
