CORONIE

Quiet Charm, English Heritage & Coastal Nature

Coronie is often described as small but charming. It’s not the land that’s small, but the population — Coronie is the least populated district of Suriname. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in tranquility, history, and a uniquely rural atmosphere.

A Peaceful District with Old-English Character

Life in Coronie moves at a calm, unhurried pace. Along the road, fishermen stop for friendly conversations, cattle wander casually across the street, and small farmlands line the landscape.
What truly sets Coronie apart are its beautiful old wooden houses, built in the classic English architectural style — a rare sight in the region.

During the colonial era, planters from England and Scotland settled here. More followed when Suriname briefly came under British rule in the early 19th century. Their legacy lives on in the architecture, but also in place names like Totness (the capital), Friendship, Burnside, and Mary’s Hope, as well as in many surnames still found in the district.

Where Coronie Lies

Coronie sits between Nickerie and Saramacca, bordered by Sipaliwini to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the north.
Its name originates from the former military post “Corona,” once located in the area.

Coconuts, Honey & Local Craftsmanship

Long rows of coconut palms along the road hint at a once-booming coconut industry. Though that industry has faded, coconuts are still used today for handmade coconut oil.
Coronie is also known for its artisanal honey, made from the blossoms of the Parwa mangrove — a local specialty with a rich, natural taste.

Mangrove Museum & Coastal Protection

The district is home to the Mangrove Museum, which highlights the vital role mangrove forests play in protecting the coastline from erosion.

In 2018, Coronie opened a 14-kilometer sea dike, built to keep out the encroaching saltwater. While not long enough to protect the entire coast, it has become a popular attraction.

Every day, locals and tourists gather on the dike to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. The surrounding mangrove forests are home to many bird species — and sightings of Red Ibises and Flamingos flying along the coast are common.

Getting Around

Coronie is ideal for travelers seeking calm landscapes, historic charm, and fresh ocean air. A visit here offers a peaceful escape with a touch of English-Surinamese history and beautiful coastal nature.