The Grenadines

The Grenadines are the several hundred islands in the Caribbean that are divided between the nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. Many of these islands are inhabited, while others are not, making a great getaway for travelers able to make the trip. The major islands of the chain include Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, Tobago Cays, Palm Island, Petit St. Vincent and Union Island.

Language

English is the official language on the islands, in both the St. Vincent and the Grenada portions.

Money

The official currency of the islands is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar. To find out about the conversion rates, visit our currency converter.

Accommodations

Accommodations vary on each island. Check your specific destination for more information.

Food and Drinks

Restaurants will vary based on your destination.

Getting There & Around

Ferries from St. Vincent are available for trips to Bequia, Mustique, Canouan and Union Island. Otherwise, anchorage is available in most places to private boats.

Electronics

With the exception of Petit Martinique which uses the U.S. standard, electricity on the islands is generally 220/240 volt, 50 cycle. Many hotels have 110 volt shaver outlets in which you can use your U.S. made appliances. Be sure to check with your hotel before you leave.

Things to Do

Bequia – Bequia is the largest of the Grenadines, located a short 9 miles from the shore of St. Vincent. It is a tiny, sparsely populated island where you can relax on the white sand beaches away from the crowds. Sailing, fishing and diving are popular in the surrounding waters and you can easily navigate the island on foot. There are plenty of places to sleep on the island and you won’t go hungry with the plethora of dining options.

Mustique – Mustique is the next island of any significant size as you travel south from St. Vincent. It is a whopping 3 miles long and 1.5 miles at its widest. The focal point of the island is the fishing village of Brittany Bay. Moorings are heavily regulated, and ships with more than 25 persons are prohibited. Mustique is a private island, and your only lodging choices are the villas run by Mustique Company. Yes, they are for rent.

Canouan – Canouan has its own airport, with flight connecting from St. Vincent or Barbados. It is a private island as well, with a range of upscale accommodations for those of you willing to fork out the dough. Pristine beaches, world class golf and lazy days are the name of the game on this island hideaway.

Mayreau – Mayreau is the smallest of the Grenadines, at a teency 1.5 square miles. The island is only accessible by boat and is rimmed with beautiful beaches and clear water. With a population of approximately 250, you won’t have to worry about crowds. There are few accommodations on the island, but the prices aren’t bad at all. Hiking is nice and there are four whole bars and restaurants to quench your hunger and thirst in the islands’ one village.

Tobago Cays – The Tobago Cays are five gorgeous, uninhabited islands in the Grenadines. These islands are a wildlife reserve. Visitors should go by the classic rules of “Leave nothing behind and take nothing but pictures” on the islands. Private boat is the only way to get here, but worth every penny. Snorkeling is great in the shallow waters, protected by the horesehoe reef.

Palm Island – Palm Island is a private, all-inclusive resort island. There are five sandy beaches surrounding the island, which is reached by boat from neighboring Union Island. Visitors may stop by for lunch, but reservations are essential. All of the standard all-inclusive activities are included, like snorkeling, catamarans, tennis and golf.

Petit St. Vincent – Petit St. Vincent is another private island in the Grenadines. You can spend your time snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, water skiing, and fishing or just relaxing on the pristine beaches. To take some time off the water, hiking and tennis are available as well. Most people make the trip to the island from Barbados.

Union Island – Union Island is halfway between St. Vincent and Grenada. There is a fort, hiking and several beaches around the island. The island is home to several festivals, including the Maroon Festival, Easterval and The Cake Dance. Flights are available to and from St. Vincent, Barbados, Carriacou, Grenada and Martinique.