Plizio Visual Lab
Falls of Baleine
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Falls of Baleine is a spectacular 18-meter waterfall located at the remote northern tip of Saint Vincent. Geographically, it is tucked away in a deep canyon accessible only by boat, which has preserved its pristine and wild character. The water plunges over a sheer volcanic rock face into a deep, boulder-rimmed basin that invites swimming. The surrounding area is characterized by dense tropical rainforest, home to numerous endemic birds and rare plant species. In the past, the falls have been impacted by volcanic activity and landslides, which often makes access difficult or impossible, but this only cements its status as a mystical natural monument. The geology of the falls showcases the rugged layers of pyroclastic material typical of the island's northern region. Visiting the Falls of Baleine is considered one of the most exclusive natural experiences in Saint Vincent, requiring careful planning around weather and sea conditions.
- Location: St. Vincent & Grenadines
- Nearby: Chateaubelair (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 59 | 38 | 39 | 71 | 74 | 114 | 122 | 144 | 144 | 159 | 139 | 74 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Falls of Baleine are a freely accessible natural waterfall reachable by boat from the north coast. Entry is free as it is an open water body. Visitors can swim directly in the pool beneath the fall.
Typical hours
The falls are best visited during daylight hours, typically between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Since it is an open natural area, there are no set opening times. Boat tours usually depart in the morning.
Photography
Photography is allowed without restrictions around the waterfall. The best shots are taken from the water, capturing the 18-meter drop and the surrounding jungle. Protect your camera from spray.
Time needed
Plan for about one to two hours for the visit, including boat ride and swimming time. The actual time at the waterfall is usually 30 to 45 minutes. Many trips combine the fall with nearby snorkeling.
Combine with
Combine the trip to Falls of Baleine with a boat tour along the north coast or a visit to Dark View Falls. Snorkeling at the nearby reef is also a good addition. Both are easily reachable from Kingstown.
Getting there
Falls of Baleine is mainly accessible by boat, organized by various providers from Kingstown or the north coast. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. There is no road access; sturdy footwear is not required.
Insider tip
Bring a waterproof bag for valuables and camera, as you will get wet on the boat and at the waterfall. A snorkel set is recommended to explore the underwater world in the pool. Early morning is the quietest.
Geography
Facts
- Located at the northernmost point of mainland St. Vincent.
- The height of the waterfall is approximately 18 meters (60 feet).
- Accessible only by sea via boat trips.
- Originates from the slopes of the La Soufrière volcano.
- Temporarily closed in 1992 due to a massive landslide.
- The plunge pool at the base is up to 3 meters deep.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to get to the Falls of Baleine?
By boat only; book a tour from Chateaubelair or Kingstown.
Is the water suitable for swimming?
Yes, the pool at the base of the waterfall is great for a refreshing dip.
Are there dining facilities there?
No, it is an untouched spot. Bring your own food and drinks.
Is a tour guide necessary?
Since access is by boat, an experienced boat captain is essential.
Is it good for photography?
Yes, the combination of jungle and cascades is a fantastic photo opportunity.
Falls of Baleine: where is it located?
Falls of Baleine is located in St. Vincent & Grenadines.
Falls of Baleine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Falls of Baleine: why is it worth visiting?
The Falls of Baleine is a spectacular 18-meter waterfall located at the remote northern tip of Saint Vincent.
Nearby cities
Kingstown
Kingstown is the capital and chief port of Saint Vincent.
Calliaqua
Calliaqua is located on the southern coast of Saint Vincent.
🗺️
Byera Hill
Byera Hill is a settlement on the eastern coast of Saint Vincent.
Biabou
Biabou is a settlement on the eastern coast of Saint Vincent.
Barrouallie Fisheries Complex
A significant coastal hub for the national fishing industry.
Barrouallie
Barrouallie is a coastal town on the western side of Saint Vincent.
Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth is the main settlement on the island of Bequia.
Derrick
Derrick is a small settlement in the south of Bequia island.
Chateaubelair
Chateaubelair is the northernmost town on the leeward coast of Saint Vincent.
Dovers
Dovers is a small settlement on the exclusive island of Mustique.
Layou
Layou is situated north of Kingstown on the western coast.
History & landmarks
🗺️
Trinity Falls
A powerful triple-drop waterfall located deep within the forest of the northern mountains.
Dark View Falls
A pair of waterfalls cascading down high cliff faces on the Richmond River.
Owia Salt Pond
A natural pool formed by volcanic rocks where the Atlantic Ocean crashes over the barriers.
Rabacca Dry River
Rabacca Dry River is a volcanic riverbed that has historically been the site of major lahars.
Cumberland Bay
A deep coastal bay known for its black volcanic sand and coconut groves.
🗺️
Wallilabou Estate
Wallilabou Estate is a historic plantation site that features ruins of an 18th-century sugar mill.
🗺️
Wallilabou Bay
A natural harbor on the leeward coast surrounded by steep volcanic cliffs.
Black Point Tunnel
The Black Point Tunnel is a 300-foot engineering feat completed in 1815.
Nature
La Soufrière
An active stratovolcano reaching 1,234 meters, forming the highest point of the island.
Richmond Peak
A 1,077-meter peak located south of the Soufrière volcano.
Dark View Nature Area
A protected area featuring spectacular twin waterfalls and an intact river ecosystem.
🗺️
Petit Bonhomme
Petit Bonhomme is the smaller neighboring peak to Grand Bonhomme, forming part of the island's central backbone.
Vermont Nature Trail
This reserve protects the habitat of the rare St.
Grand Bonhomme
A central mountain peak reaching 970 meters, covered in dense elfin forest.
Mount St. Andrew
A peak rising 735 meters above Kingstown, offering panoramic views of the Grenadines.
More places
Richmond Vale Nature Park
A park in the northwest of the island focusing on sustainability and tropical forest conservation.
🗺️
Richmond Quarry
A key site for the extraction of volcanic sand and aggregate.
Cumberland Nature Trail
A trail through secondary rainforest known for its birdwatching opportunities and fern diversity.
Owia Salt Pond Park
A natural sea pool on the northeast coast, protected from the surf by volcanic rock barriers.
Cumberland Valley
Cumberland Valley in the west of the island is a deep relief depression shaped by the Cumberland River.
Morne Garu
The Morne Garu massif is a rugged mountain range situated between Richmond Peak and the northern central range.
Vermont Valley
Vermont Valley is a lush, forested depression known for its nature trails and as the habitat of the Saint Vincent Parrot.
Montreal Gardens
A private botanical garden located in a lush valley with a diverse collection of exotic flowers.