Scientists at the MVO keep track of the volcano’s every belch and hiccup. At the interpretation center, an 18-minute documentary by local filmmaker David Lea includes riveting live footage of the eruptions and insight into the physical and social upheaval they caused. The terrace offers sweeping views of the volcano. The observatory is often included on tours of the Exclusion Zone.
Montserrat Volcano Observatory
Montserrat
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
Hilltop Coffee House & Family Center
1.9 MILES
A must-see on any Montserrat visit, this nonprofit cafe founded by filmmaker David Lea and his wife Clover does multi-duty as museum, art gallery,…
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4.13 MILES
Montserrat’s only white sandy beach is a lovely (though totally facility-free) crescent perfect for swimming, snorkeling and diving. It can only be…
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29.47 MILES
This long, sea-grape-shaded sandy ribbon has barbecue facilities, showers and toilets, and is popular with local families on weekends. Grab a cocktail in…
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2.51 MILES
After about a 3-mile drive south along the east coast (from where the main road reaches the coast), the badly battered road turns into the hills and leads…
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29.1 MILES
This road-adjacent swath of beige sand makes for a convenient swimming and snorkeling spot. The eponymous cafe here has a shower (US$1), changing rooms…
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0.67 MILES
Ghauts (pronounced 'guts') are steep ravines that send rainwater rushing down from the mountains into the sea. The most famous on the island is Runaway…
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3.62 MILES
This modest little museum presents exhibits on aspects of island culture and history from Amerindian times to the present, including photos and dioramas…
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1.23 MILES
About halfway down the western coast, this easily accessible dark-sand beach is often footprint-free but has little shade. A covered clifftop picnic area…
Nearby Montserrat attractions
0.67 MILES
Ghauts (pronounced 'guts') are steep ravines that send rainwater rushing down from the mountains into the sea. The most famous on the island is Runaway…
1.23 MILES
About halfway down the western coast, this easily accessible dark-sand beach is often footprint-free but has little shade. A covered clifftop picnic area…
1.38 MILES
Now buried under mud and volcanic debris, Belham Valley used to be home to an 18-hole golf course, a bridge and a three-story building. After heavy rain,…
1.5 MILES
This small beach at the mouth of the Belham River is great for swimming and is home to a popular beach barn and restaurant. It gets busy with locals on…
5. Hilltop Coffee House & Family Center
1.9 MILES
A must-see on any Montserrat visit, this nonprofit cafe founded by filmmaker David Lea and his wife Clover does multi-duty as museum, art gallery,…
2.51 MILES
After about a 3-mile drive south along the east coast (from where the main road reaches the coast), the badly battered road turns into the hills and leads…
7. National Museum of Montserrat
3.62 MILES
This modest little museum presents exhibits on aspects of island culture and history from Amerindian times to the present, including photos and dioramas…
4.13 MILES
Montserrat’s only white sandy beach is a lovely (though totally facility-free) crescent perfect for swimming, snorkeling and diving. It can only be…