Exploring St Helena Island: A Local’s Guide to My Beautiful Home
Hello there! I’m Craig, and I’m thrilled to introduce you to my home, St Helena Island. Living here has been an absolute privilege, and I can’t wait to share the magic of this tiny island in the South Atlantic with you. St Helena is a place that feels like a world all its own—remote, rugged, and incredibly welcoming. Here, the scenery is breathtaking, the history is rich, and the community is as warm as it gets.
If you’re curious about St Helena and thinking of visiting (or just want to explore it through my eyes), here’s what you need to know about my home and its incredible sights, from epic walks and dramatic landscapes to the charming quirks of island life.
Location and Life on St Helena
St Helena is way off the beaten path. We’re about 1,200 miles from Africa and 2,500 miles from South America, a tiny dot in the middle of the South Atlantic Ocean. It’s this remoteness that makes life here so special—and keeps it beautifully unspoiled. There’s just one flight a week from Johannesburg, and each arrival feels like an exciting event.
With only around 4,500 people here, we’re a close-knit community, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Life here is peaceful, everyone knows each other, and the pace is slow enough to let you really savor every moment. Saints, as we’re called, are friendly, curious, and always ready to strike up a conversation. If you come for a visit, I promise you’ll feel like part of the family in no time.
The Island Landscape: From Misty Peaks to Rocky Shores
St Helena might be small, but the landscape is incredibly varied. I love how I can walk just a few miles and feel like I’ve entered a whole new world. From lush, misty peaks and rolling green hills to rugged, volcanic coastlines, St Helena has it all. One day, I might find myself hiking through dense forest, and the next, I’m down by the sea surrounded by rocky cliffs that look like they belong on another planet.
The wildlife here is amazing, too. You’ll see unique plants, birds, and maybe even our rarest species, the St Helena wirebird, which has become a bit of a local celebrity. It’s an island of hidden treasures, and every time I set out on a walk, I find something new.
Friendly Faces Everywhere
One thing that sets St Helena apart is the friendliness of the people. I genuinely can’t imagine a more welcoming place. People here look out for each other, and visitors are treated like extended family. If you visit, don’t be surprised if a local invites you over for a cup of tea or offers to show you around. Living here, I’ve learned that we’re all connected, and we take pride in sharing our little slice of paradise with those who make the journey to see it.
Top Places to Visit (From a Local’s Perspective)
When you come to St Helena, there are a few places I’d say are absolute must-sees:
Jamestown: This is our capital, and it has so much character. With its narrow streets and 17th-century architecture, it feels like stepping back in time. Don’t miss the Museum of St Helena for a dive into our history, and, if you’re up for it, tackle Jacob’s Ladder—699 steps straight up the hillside. I do it whenever I’m feeling energetic, and the view from the top is worth every step!
Longwood House: As a local, I sometimes forget how fascinating this place is to visitors, but it’s truly remarkable. Napoleon Bonaparte lived here during his exile, and wandering through Longwood House is like traveling back to his era. The house is full of original furnishings, and you can almost imagine him pacing the rooms, thinking about home.
Diana’s Peak National Park: I can’t talk about St Helena without mentioning Diana’s Peak. It’s the highest point on the island, and the hike is something I do often just for the incredible views. On a clear day, you can see the entire island, and the trail is filled with beautiful plants and unique species. It’s a spot I’ll never get tired of visiting.
Plantation House: Our governor’s residence is lovely, but the real star here is Jonathan, the world’s oldest tortoise. He’s 190 years old and still loves basking in the sun. I often take friends here just to say we’ve met him!
Sandy Bay Beach: If you’re craving some time by the sea, Sandy Bay is one of my favorite places to relax. It’s surrounded by rugged volcanic cliffs and has a sort of raw beauty that’s hard to find anywhere else. There’s no place quite like it.
Peacefulness
Peacefulness is what makes St Helena unique
The Post Box Walks: My Favorite Trails on the Island
For anyone who loves hiking, the Post Box Walks are the best way to experience St Helena’s diverse landscapes. These trails are all over the island, each offering something unique. Here are a few of my go-to routes:
Lot’s Wife’s Ponds: This is a challenging walk, but the reward is a set of natural tidal pools where you can swim right by the ocean. It’s one of those spots that makes you feel like you’ve truly discovered something special.
Blue Hill: This walk offers some of the best views of the central ridge and Diana’s Peak. The scenery is unbeatable, and it’s common to spot endemic plants and birds along the way.
Diana’s Peak Trail: If you want to reach the highest point on the island, this is the trail for you. I always feel a sense of peace at the top, surrounded by mist and looking down at the island. It’s breathtaking.
Heart-Shaped Waterfall: For a shorter, easier walk, Heart-Shaped Waterfall is a favorite. It winds through forests and fields, ending at a waterfall that’s perfectly heart-shaped—a great spot for photos and just taking in the beauty of nature.
Why St Helena is Special to Me—and Why You’ll Love It Too
St Helena might be remote, but that’s what makes it so incredible. Life here is simple, peaceful, and in many ways, timeless. I’m proud to call it home, and whether you’re here to see the landscapes, learn about our history, or just experience the slower pace of island life, I think you’ll find something truly special.
For me, St Helena isn’t just a place; it’s a part of who I am. I hope that through my stories and tips, you’ll feel inspired to experience it for yourself. Whether you’re exploring our hikes, chatting with the locals, or just watching the waves crash against the cliffs, St Helena has a way of staying with you.
So, if you’re up for an adventure, come visit my island—you won’t regret it.
PostBox Walks
St Helena’s Hikes are called PostBox Walks, there are 21 to complete.
