Prosperous Bay Plain
A remote British island in the South Atlantic, famed as Napoleon's final exile and offering rugged beauty and historical depth.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild climate, fewer crowds
Prosperous Bay Plain
Best Time
Mild climate, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote British island in the South Atlantic, famed as Napoleon's final exile and offering rugged beauty and historical depth.
"It seems like there's nothing we can do... but that's the charm!"
✈️ Book Flights Early
Flights to St. Helena are limited; book well in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Conquer Jacobs Ladder
Take on the 699 steps for epic views, but know there's a road option too! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jacobs Ladder
Jamestown
Conquer 699 steps for breathtaking views, or drive up for an easier ascent. A true island challenge!

Napoleon's Houses
Longwood House & The Briars
Step back in time at Napoleon's exile residences, offering a poignant glimpse into his final years.
Prosperous Bay Plain
South East St Helena
Discover the island's rugged beauty and historical significance at this remote, windswept plain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Isolation
Napoleon's Final Exile
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✈️ Book Flights Early
Flights to St. Helena are limited; book well in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Conquer Jacobs Ladder
Take on the 699 steps for epic views, but know there's a road option too! :athletic_shoe:
📜 Explore Napoleon's History
Visit Longwood House and The Briars for a deep dive into Napoleon's exile. :classical_building:
🚗 Rent a Car
Essential for exploring the island's remote areas like Prosperous Bay Plain. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
✈️ Book Flights Early
Flights to St. Helena are limited; book well in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Conquer Jacobs Ladder
Take on the 699 steps for epic views, but know there's a road option too! :athletic_shoe:
📜 Explore Napoleon's History
Visit Longwood House and The Briars for a deep dive into Napoleon's exile. :classical_building:
🚗 Rent a Car
Essential for exploring the island's remote areas like Prosperous Bay Plain. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often describe St. Helena as a place where 'there's nothing we can do,' highlighting its extreme remoteness and quiet nature. While some find this peaceful and perfect for relaxation, others may find the lack of typical tourist amenities and activities limiting. The island's beauty and historical significance, particularly Napoleon's exile, are consistently praised.
"I was only here for Napoleon"
Owen Lemieux
"There's nothing we can do... (im literally napoleon)"
Roberts Vītols
"It’s seems like there’s nothing we can do"
Luca Kriebitzsch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach St. Helena is by air via St Helena Airport (HLE), with flights typically operating from Johannesburg, South Africa. Due to limited capacity, booking flights well in advance is crucial.
Historically, the RMS St Helena was the main link, but it has been retired. Currently, air travel is the only regular public transport option.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the island at your own pace, especially for reaching more remote locations like Prosperous Bay Plain. Taxis are also available.
Due to its remote location and flight schedules, St. Helena is not suitable for a day trip. Most visitors plan for stays of several days to a week.
St. Helena uses its own currency, the Saint Helena Pound (SHP), which is pegged to the British Pound Sterling. British Pounds are also widely accepted.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Visa requirements vary by nationality. It's essential to check the official St. Helena government website or contact immigration services for the most up-to-date information before your travel.
There are admission fees for visiting Longwood House and The Briars. It's advisable to check the official St. Helena National Trust website for current pricing and opening hours.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the history of Napoleon's exile. Many local operators offer comprehensive tours that can be booked in advance.
Opening hours for attractions like Napoleon's houses can vary. It's best to consult the St. Helena National Trust or local tourism information for the most accurate times.
Jacobs Ladder itself is a public monument and does not require a ticket to access the steps. However, any associated visitor centers or historical exhibits might have entry fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond its historical significance, St. Helena offers beautiful natural landscapes for hiking, diving, and whale watching (seasonal). The beaches, like those near Prosperous Bay Plain, are also worth exploring.
Absolutely! St. Helena boasts unique flora and fauna, dramatic coastal scenery, and opportunities for bird watching and exploring its diverse terrain.
St. Helena has a small population, around 4,500 people, contributing to its peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere.
You might encounter various seabirds, dolphins, and during certain seasons, whales. The surrounding waters are also known for marine life.
St. Helena is generally considered a very safe destination with a low crime rate, making it suitable for solo travelers. The community is welcoming.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Local cuisine often features fresh seafood, including tuna and other fish. Expect influences from British and South African cooking, with some unique island dishes.
Dining options are more limited compared to larger destinations, but you'll find several restaurants and pubs, particularly in Jamestown, offering local and international fare.
While options might be less varied, many establishments can accommodate dietary needs if informed in advance. Fresh local produce is often available.
Dining out can be moderately priced. Given the import costs for many goods, prices might be higher than you expect for some items.
Look out for dishes featuring fresh fish, 'Tiddlywink' (a local pastry), and locally grown vegetables.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include Jacobs Ladder for panoramic views, the historic streets of Jamestown, Napoleon's residences, and the dramatic landscapes of Prosperous Bay Plain.
Yes, with patience, you can photograph seabirds and marine life. Whale watching tours offer excellent opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for landscapes and architecture. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the starkness of areas like Prosperous Bay Plain.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive landscapes, and a telephoto lens for wildlife.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be respectful when photographing private residences or sensitive historical sites.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking family-friendly tours that can adapt to younger attention spans. While there aren't typical theme parks, the novelty of an isolated island and the chance to see unique wildlife can be captivating. Ensure you pack essentials, as shopping options are limited.
🚶♂️ Solo Adventurers
Renting a car is highly recommended for maximum freedom to explore areas like Prosperous Bay Plain. Engaging with locals is easy and rewarding, offering insights into island life. The limited tourist infrastructure means you'll likely have many experiences to yourself, perfect for introspection and discovery.
🏛️ History Buffs
Consider hiring a local guide who can provide in-depth historical context. Explore Jamestown's colonial architecture and learn about the island's unique heritage, including its connection to the transatlantic slave trade, as highlighted by discoveries like the intact braid.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Napoleon Bonaparte
Visitors can explore Longwood House, where Napoleon lived for most of his exile, and The Briars, his initial residence. These sites are preserved as museums, offering a poignant glimpse into his daily life, his frustrations, and his declining health. The exhibits include furniture, personal belongings, and documents that bring his story to life.
Understanding Napoleon's presence on the island is key to appreciating St. Helena's unique historical context. It transformed the island from a mere strategic outpost into a location of global historical importance, drawing scholars and tourists interested in this pivotal period of European history.
Exploring Prosperous Bay Plain
This plain is significant not only for its natural scenery but also for its historical connections, including its role in the island's past and its potential for archaeological discoveries. The remoteness means it's less visited than Jamestown or the areas around Napoleon's residences, offering a sense of solitude and untouched wilderness.
Accessing Prosperous Bay Plain typically requires a rental vehicle due to its distance from the main settlements. The journey itself is part of the adventure, showcasing the island's varied topography. It's an ideal spot for those seeking quiet contemplation, photography of dramatic landscapes, or simply an escape to a less-trodden path.
The Challenge of Jacobs Ladder
Climbing Jacobs Ladder offers spectacular panoramic views of Jamestown and the surrounding coastline. It's a rewarding experience for those who complete the ascent, providing a unique vantage point of the island. However, for those who prefer to admire the view without the strenuous climb, there is a road that leads to the top.
This landmark is a must-do for active travelers and offers fantastic photo opportunities. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, especially on warmer days. The sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking scenery make it a memorable part of any St. Helena visit.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit