The central and southern portions of the parish constitute Saint Kitts' South East Peninsula, and has a strikingly contrasting arid climate.

The rich agricultural lands surrounding Basseterre are heavily cultivated, mainly with fruits and vegetables for local consumption as well as for sale to cruise ships and hotels.

Being home to all of St. Kitts' white sand beaches, the South East Peninsula in Saint George Basseterre is the centre for the island's tourism industry.

The many hotels and resorts in Frigate Bay also are responsible for a lot of the islands' employment and foreign exchange earnings.

Gut O'Rama is an annual festival held in Central Basseterre, with most activities located in the Westbourne Ghaut area (thus the name).

The bulk of the Eastern section of the Basseterre Valley (about 2 square miles) is to be developed into a large national park, in attempt to protect the aquifer system beneath it.

Villa developments are also in the works on various hills and ridges on the peninsula, as well as a dolphin park on South Friar's Bay.