Grenada

Discover the Spice Isle's Lush Beauty & Warm Heart

Your Guide to Grenada

Imagine breathing in the sweet scent of nutmeg and cinnamon carried on the warm Caribbean air. Picture verdant, rainforest-clad mountains tumbling down to meet pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Grenada, known globally as the "Spice Isle," offers exactly this – a sensory delight wrapped in stunning natural beauty. It’s an island nation (including the charming smaller islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique) that prides itself on its agricultural heritage, its incredibly friendly people, and a more laid-back, authentic Caribbean atmosphere compared to some of its neighbours.


For first-time visitors, Grenada offers the perfect blend of relaxation on world-class beaches like Grand Anse, exploration of the picturesque capital St. George's, and fascinating insights into the world of spices. For returners, the island reveals deeper treasures: challenging hikes through the Grand Etang rainforest to hidden waterfalls, diving adventures on vibrant reefs and shipwrecks, exploring the unique culture and boat-building traditions of Carriacou, or simply soaking up the local vibe at a village rum shop or festival. Grenada truly captivates the heart.

Airports in Grenada

A silhouette of an airplane taking off from an airport runway.

Grenada and its sister islands are served by one main international airport:


Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) on Grenada: Located conveniently in the southwest of the main island, close to St. George's (the capital) and the popular Grand Anse beach hotel area. All international flights, including direct services from the UK (usually London Gatwick), arrive here.


Access to the sister islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique is via ferry or small plane from Grenada.

Transport options in Grenada

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Authorised Taxis, Rental Cars, Local Buses (Minibuses), Ferries to the islands

Official Spoken Languages

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The official language is English, spoken clearly and universally, making communication straightforward for UK visitors.


You will also hear locals speaking Grenadian Creole English, a dialect with its own unique vocabulary and rhythm, and occasionally traces of Grenadian Creole French, reflecting the island's history.

Weather & Climate

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For the driest, sunniest weather, aim for the Dry Season (Jan-May). For better value, lush landscapes, and fewer fellow tourists (accepting the higher chance of rain and the low background storm risk), consider the Wet Season (Jun-Dec).

Must-Do Expereinces in Grenada

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Explore St. George's & the Carenage

Wander through one of the Caribbean's prettiest capital cities. Admire the colourful colonial-era buildings clinging to the hillsides surrounding the harbour. Explore the lively Market Square (especially vibrant on Saturdays), visit historic defences like Fort George for panoramic views, and take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful horseshoe-shaped inner harbour, the Carenage, watching fishing boats and yachts. It's the vibrant heart of the island.

A waterfall in the middle of a lush green forest surrounded by palm trees.

Follow the Scent to a Spice Plantation

You simply must experience Grenada's "Spice Isle" identity firsthand! Visit a traditional working estate like the Dougaldston Spice Estate or the Belmont Estate (which also offers chocolate tours and a restaurant). See nutmeg trees (with their red mace covering), cinnamon bark, cloves, vanilla beans, and more. Learn how these valuable spices are grown, harvested, and processed using traditional methods. The aromas are incredible, and it's a fascinating insight into Grenada's heritage. Stock up on fresh spices!

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Waterfalls Grand Etang National Park

Escape the coast and head inland to the cool, lush rainforest of Grand Etang National Park. Centred around a volcanic crater lake, the park offers hiking trails through dense tropical vegetation – keep an eye out for playful Mona monkeys! Discover stunning waterfalls like the easily accessible Annandale Falls (popular for a refreshing swim), the three-tiered Concord Falls (requires some hiking for the upper falls), or the beautiful Seven Sisters Falls (a rewarding guided hike). A must for nature lovers.

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Relax on Grand Anse Beach

Grenada is blessed with beautiful beaches. Grand Anse Beach is the most famous – a magnificent two-mile sweep of soft white sand and calm, clear turquoise water in the southwest. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, watersports, or enjoying a drink at a beach bar. But don't miss other gems like the adjacent, often quieter Morne Rouge Beach (BBC Beach), or the wilder beauty of Levera Beach in the north (great views, important turtle nesting site May-Sept). On Carriacou, don't miss the aptly named Paradise Beach.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Grenada's beauty comes with topography! The island is volcanic and mountainous, meaning roads (especially inland) are often narrow, steep, and very winding. Whether you're driving yourself or taking taxis/buses, journeys can take longer than the map suggests. Enjoy the incredible views, drive carefully, and perhaps pack travel sickness tablets if needed!

Be Ready for Hills & Winding Roads

Dive into the local cuisine by trying Grenada's national dish, Oil Down. It’s a hearty, flavourful, one-pot coconut milk stew typically made with salted meat (like pigtail) or fish, breadfruit (a starchy staple), dumplings, callaloo (dasheen leaves), turmeric for colour (locally called saffron), and various ground provisions (root vegetables). It might sound unusual, but it's delicious, filling, and the ultimate comfort food. Ask at local restaurants or look for it on Fridays.

Dare to Try 'Oil Down'!

Just off Grenada's west coast lies a unique attraction – the Molinere Bay Underwater Sculpture Park. Created by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, these submerged statues (including the iconic 'Vicissitudes' circle of figures) act as an artificial reef, attracting marine life while creating hauntingly beautiful underwater scenes. Accessible via snorkelling and diving boat trips from the St. George's/Grand Anse area.

Snorkel or Dive the Underwater Sculptures

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD or EC$), pegged to the US Dollar (around US$1 = EC$2.70). While US Dollars are widely accepted, especially for tourism services (hotels, tours, taxis - often quoted in USD), using EC$ often works out better for smaller local purchases like bus fares, market shopping, or buying snacks from vendors. Using EC$ shows respect too. ATMs dispense EC$. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.

EC$ Preferred Locally, US$ Widely Accepted

Grenada: The Authentic Heart of the Caribbean

Grenada, the Spice Isle, offers a wonderfully rich and authentic Caribbean experience. Its intoxicating blend of fragrant spice plantations, lush rainforests dotted with waterfalls, beautiful uncrowded beaches, and the picturesque harbour of St. George's creates a truly captivating destination. Add the genuine warmth and friendliness of the Grenadian people, and the laid-back charm of sister islands Carriacou and Petite Martinique, and you have an unforgettable escape.


With easy travel from the UK and English widely spoken, Grenada welcomes visitors looking for relaxation, natural beauty, adventure, and a connection to local culture. Prepare to have your senses awakened and your heart warmed by this special corner of the Caribbean!