Holidays to Grenada: The Ultimate Caribbean Escape
If you’re looking for a sun-soaked island retreat where verdant mountains meet turquoise waters, Grenada should be at the top of your travel itinerary. Grenada, known as the “Spice Isle” in the Caribbean, has nutmeg and cinnamon-scented air, powdery soft beaches, and friendly locals. Grenada is an ideal destination for a romantic break, a family vacation, or a calm solo retreat, since it combines adventure, culture, and tranquility.
This travel guide will help you plan the ideal vacation to Grenada, with insider suggestions on when to go, what to do, where to stay, and how to make the most of your Caribbean experience.
Why Visit Grenada?
Grenada is more than just another tropical island; it’s a hidden gem that retains its authenticity and natural beauty. Unlike several of its Caribbean neighbors, Grenada is refreshingly devoid of overtourism. You can wander through bustling marketplaces, trek to gushing waterfalls, or relax on world-famous beaches away from the crowds.
Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique are the three main islands that comprise the Windward Islands of the southern Caribbean. Its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and relaxed lifestyle make it ideal for anybody looking for a true Caribbean experience.
Best Time to Visit
Grenada has a tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures of 28°C (82°F). The dry season, which runs from December to May, is the most popular time to visit. Expect sunny skies, calm seas, and a light trade wind, ideal for beach days and island expeditions.
Consider going during the wet season (June to November) for fewer tourists and better hotel bargains. While there may be occasional showers, they are usually brief, and the island is at its greenest and most picturesque.
Spicemas, Grenada’s colorful carnival festival in August, is a particularly lovely time to visit. It’s a vibrant blend of music, dancing, parades, and pageantry that encapsulates the island’s upbeat attitude.
Top Things to Do in Grenada
1. Relax on Grand Anse Beach
No trip to Grenada is complete without a visit to Grand Anse Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the Caribbean. Stretching for two miles along the southwest coast, it’s the perfect spot to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a sunset cocktail at one of the beachfront bars.
2. Explore St. George’s
Grenada’s capital, St. George’s, is a charming harbor town with colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and panoramic views from Fort George and Fort Frederick. Don’t miss the Carenage, a lively waterfront area where you can watch fishing boats and yachts glide through the bay.
3. Discover the Underwater Sculpture Park
Located in Molinière Bay, this one-of-a-kind attraction is the world’s first Underwater Sculpture Park. Created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, it features a collection of eerie yet beautiful statues submerged beneath the sea. Snorkelers and divers can explore these coral-covered artworks while enjoying marine life all around.
4. Chase Waterfalls
Grenada’s lush interior hides countless waterfalls. The most popular is Annandale Falls, just a short drive from St. George’s. For a more adventurous hike, head to Seven Sisters Falls in Grand Etang National Park. Cool off in the crystal-clear pools surrounded by tropical rainforest.
5. Tour the Spice Plantations
True to its nickname, Grenada is famous for its spices. Visit Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station or Belmont Estate, a working plantation where you can learn how nutmeg, cocoa, and cinnamon are harvested and processed. The scent of freshly ground nutmeg will stay with you long after your visit.
6. Sail to Carriacou and Petite Martinique
For a quieter island experience, take a ferry or short flight to Carriacou. Known for its pristine beaches and traditional boat-building heritage, it’s perfect for snorkeling and sailing. A quick hop from there brings you to Petite Martinique, a tiny island with stunning sea views and a peaceful charm.
Taste of Grenada
Grenadian food is a delightful fusion of Caribbean, African, and Indian influences. The island’s national dish, Oil Down, is a hearty one-pot meal made with breadfruit, coconut milk, turmeric, and salted meat or fish.
Don’t miss the chance to try:
- Roti – a flavorful wrap filled with curried chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
- Callaloo soup – a rich green soup made from dasheen leaves and coconut milk.
- Fresh seafood – grilled lobster, snapper, and tuna are local favorites.
- Chocolate – Grenada is known for its organic cocoa farms and artisan chocolate. Visit the Grenada Chocolate Company for a delicious tour.
Pair your meal with a glass of Grenadian rum or a refreshing Carib beer, and you’ll be eating like a local.
1 Bedroom Vacation Rental – Spice Cozy Suite
The dark wood panelling and furnishings, red-draped fourposter bed, and black stone bathroom evoke the charm of a secluded Sierra Nevada.
Where to Stay
Grenada offers a wide range of accommodation options—from luxury beachfront resorts to affordable guesthouses and vacation rentals.
If you prefer convenience and independence, consider booking a furnished apartment or villa in St. George’s or Grand Anse. These are perfect for travelers who want a “home away from home” experience with kitchen facilities, privacy, and great value for money.
For luxury travelers, top-rated resorts like Silversands Grenada, Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel, and Mount Cinnamon Resort & Beach Club offer world-class amenities and breathtaking ocean views.
Getting Around
Grenada is small enough to explore easily. You can:
- Rent a car for flexibility (just remember to drive on the left!).
- Take local minibuses, which are affordable and a fun way to experience daily life.
- Book guided tours for island highlights like waterfalls, spice estates, and historic forts.
Travel Tips for Your Grenada Holiday
- Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), though US dollars are widely accepted.
- Language: English is the official language, and locals speak with a warm Caribbean lilt.
- Electricity: 220V-240V, UK-style three-pin plugs.
- Safety: Grenada is one of the safest Caribbean destinations. Still, take standard travel precautions.
- Local Etiquette: Grenadians are friendly and polite. Greet people before asking for directions or making requests.
Planning Your Holiday to Grenada
Whether you’re arriving by air at Maurice Bishop International Airport or by cruise ship into St. George’s Harbour, you’ll be welcomed with genuine island warmth. Most major airlines offer direct flights from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., making it easy to plan your dream getaway.
Grenada’s combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and easygoing lifestyle makes it one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets. Once you’ve visited, you’ll understand why travelers keep coming back year after year.
So pack your swimsuit, grab your sunglasses, and get ready for an unforgettable holiday to Grenada—where every day feels like paradise.
