grenada tourism info

Grenada   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Grenada

It isn't the cost of the airfare or the caliber of the hotel that you'll remember most about your trip to Grenada. It's the kaleidoscope of reds, yellows, and greens that characterize St. George's harbor (arguably the most beautiful in the Caribbean) and how they're reflected in the cerulean water. It's the sound of the waves lapping against Grand Anse 's soft sands that echoes in your ears long after the sun goes down. It's the aroma of nutmeg and vanilla that wafts through Market Square and throughout the islands' spice plantations . It's the warm sensation you feel in your stomach and on your tongue after sampling the River Antoine Distillery 's 150-proof rum. Grenada isn't just meant to be seen; it's meant to be savored.

Americans have long overlooked Grenada (pronounced gre-NAY-da), opting for showier, resort-laden islands. But Yanks, take a hint from the Brits who have spent many a winter here: Grenada is worth visiting. Sure, this part of the Windward Islands doesn't feature the sprawling all-inclusives or glitzy nightclubs of St. Lucia or Barbados ; in fact, you may even be hard-pressed to find a fellow American here. But that's the key to Grenada's charm.

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• # 6 in Best Cheap Caribbean Vacations
• # 9 in Best Caribbean Honeymoons
• # 10 in Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean for 2023

See All 6 Rankings

Best of Grenada

Best hotels in grenada.

• # 1 in Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel
• # 2 in Spice Island Beach Resort
• # 3 in Sandals Grenada - ALL INCLUSIVE Couples Only

Best Things to Do in Grenada

• # 1 in St. George's
• # 2 in Grand Anse Beach
• # 3 in Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve

Popular Tours

4-hour snorkel cruise to Underwater Sculptures with boat dogs

(178 reviews)

from $ 129.00

Full-Day Tour: Concord Waterfall, Chocolate Factory, Rum Distillery, Grand Etang

(561 reviews)

from $ 100.00

Coastline Explorer - Grenada ATV Adventures

(145 reviews)

from $ 110.00

Grenada Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Grenada is December. This single month is sandwiched between the departure of the rainy season and the arrival of the winter crowds, making this the best time of year to score both sunshine and sales. Like the rest of the Caribbean, Grenada experiences a surge in tourism from January through April, when the weather in the U.S. and the U.K. is at its gloomiest. You can expect both airfare and room rates to rise during this peak season. Summer and fall usher in regular rainfall and the constant threat of hurricanes, but if you're willing to risk a bout of bad weather, you'll find hotel rates discounted up to 40 percent.

Weather in Grenada

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Prepare to island-hop Several islands make up this independent Commonwealth realm. Though the island of Grenada steals most of the spotlight, the smaller islands of Carriacou and Petit Martinique do draw some crowds. The other, much smaller islands are only accessible by private boat.

Let old conflicts lie Yes, the U.S. did invade Grenada back in the 1980s, but Grenadians hold no grudge. Americans visiting Grenada will experience the same warm welcome as any other traveler.

Enjoy the rum while you can Once you've tasted the libations produced at the River Antoine Rum Distillery , you may be tempted to bring some back to the States. But if you do buy a bottle, you'll have to polish it off before you leave: This 150-proof alcohol has been deemed "too flammable" to carry on board.

How to Save Money in Grenada

Visit during the sweet shoulder season Winter and spring are too crowded, and summer is too rainy, but late fall is just right. For the best weather and the best rates, plan to visit Grenada in late October or November.

Stay along Grand Anse You can save big on transportation if you base yourself on Grand Anse Beach . Hotels here are within walking distance of the ocean, and minibuses serve this area (and St. George's ). Plus, if you visit during the off-season, you'll find these popular rooms discounted by up to 40 percent.

Indulge in local cuisine You won't cause too much damage to your pocketbook if you stick to local fare because so many ingredients are produced here. Be sure to save some room for an "oil down," an aromatic stew comprised of meat or seafood, veggies, spices, and coconut milk.

Culture & Customs

Grenada – once governed by France and Britain – today stands as an independent Commonwealth of the U.K. and is known for its laid-back attitude. Despite past diplomatic conflicts (President Ronald Reagan invaded the islands in 1983 to quell a Marxist coup), Americans will feel more than welcome here. English is the official language and is commonly used by public officials and members of the tourism industry. Some locals speak Creole English, a mixture of several African dialects, English and French.

Grenada's fusion of French, British, African and Caribbean cultures is due in part to its history of slavery. In the late 18th century, Britain began importing enslaved Africans to harvest crops across the island's plantations, including the Belmont Estate . Between 1795 and 1796, a plantation owner named Julien Fedon – the son of a freed Black slave and a French jeweler – formed a revolution, during which half of Grenada's 28,000 slaves openly fought for their freedom. Slavery in Grenada ended in 1834, though it took a few years for all slaves to be freed.

Visitors should feel relatively safe when exploring Grenada, although crimes against tourists – most notably robberies – do happen. To be safe, store your valuables in a secure place at the hotel and take taxis to avoid walking alone at night. If you're planning to rent a car, keep your wits about you on the road; there is a lot of pedestrian traffic, and car accidents are common.

The official currency in Grenada is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD), which is equal to roughly 40 cents in U.S. dollars (USD). However, U.S. dollars are widely accepted; just don't forget to check the currency being quoted before handing over your cash.

Getting Around Grenada

The best way to get around Grenada is by car. Unless you're planning to spend all of your time in Grand Anse Beach or St. George's , you'll need your own set of wheels. Public minibuses do provide transportation around the main island, but service is fairly limited. You can rent a car at Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND)—formerly Point Salines International Airport—on the southwestern tip of Grenada Island or at one of the agencies located in St. George's and around Grand Anse Beach. Taxis are also plentiful, but frequent use can leave a sizeable dent in your wallet.

Entry & Exit Requirements

American citizens will need a valid passport to enter Grenada. A visa is not required for stays up to 90 days. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department website .

St. George's is often described as one of (if not the ) most beautiful harbor town in the Caribbean.

Explore More of Grenada

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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It's not called the Spice Island for nothing – you really can smell the nutmeg in the air on Grenada. And it could be called the Fruit Island for the luscious bounty growing in the green hills. Then again, it could be called the Beach Island for the plethora of idyllic sandy strands. We could go on…

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Nutmeg Processing Cooperative

Grenada Island

On Gouyave's main road, you can literally smell one of the most important aspects of Grenada's heritage: nutmeg. This large nutmeg processing station is a…

Underwater Sculpture Park

An underwater gallery beneath the sea, just north of St George’s in Molinière Bay. The project was founded by British artist Jason de Caires Taylor and…

Fort Frederick

Constructed by the French in 1779, Fort Frederick was soon used – paradoxically – by the British in defense against the French, although it never fired a…

Levera Beach

Backed by low, eroding sea cliffs, Levera Beach is a wild, beautiful sweep of sand that gets few visitors. Just offshore is the high, pointed Sugar Loaf…

Sandy Island

Sandy Island, off the west side of Hillsborough Bay, is a favorite daytime destination for snorkelers and sailors. It’s a tiny postcard-perfect reef…

Grenada's main resort area is a lovely long sweep of white sand fronted by turquoise water and backed by hills. It has the highest concentration of big…

River Antoine Rum Distillery

River Antoine has produced rum since 1785 and still produces in the traditional way. Tours here cover all aspects of the smoky, pungent production process…

Paradise Beach

Carriacou's premier stretch of sand, Paradise Beach lives up to the name with a long stretch of white sand backed by palms and sea grape trees that fronts…

Latest stories from Grenada

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Dec 2, 2023 • 5 min read

Already a top spot, the Molinière Underwater Sculpture Park​​​ has new pieces to draw you back for more. Here's how to make a visit here happen.

Dec 9, 2020 • 2 min read

Nov 15, 2018 • 6 min read

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Grenada and beyond

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Grenada Is Great For

Hiking tours.

Sand & surf

Ports of Call Tours

Eat & drink

• Prickly Bay Marina
• Coconut Beach
• Beach Cabana at Mt. Cinnamon
• The Nutmeg Bar & Restaurant
• Rick's Cafe
• River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery
• Concord Falls
• Morne Rouge
• Royal Mount Carmel Falls
• Black Bay Beach
• Full-Day Tour: Concord Waterfall, Chocolate Factory, Rum Distillery, Grand Etang
• 4-hour snorkel cruise to Underwater Sculptures with boat dogs
• Coastline Explorer - Grenada ATV Adventures
• Half-Day Concord Waterfall and Chocolate Factory Tour
• Sunset & Champagne Cruise on a Classic Schooner with boat dogs

Grenada Travel Guide

Your ultimate grenada travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in grenada. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Head south of the Caribbean Sea and you will find Grenada, an island nation made up of one main island and six surrounding islands.

Dubbed the “spice of the Caribbean,” Grenada has plenty to offer.

With roots in history, natural wonders like lakes and waterfalls, tropical animals, tasty cuisine, and white-sand beaches, Grenada has something for everyone.

This Grenada travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular Guides

20 of the Best Things to do in Grenada

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Grenada

• Power voltage is 230 V at 50 Hz.
• The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar and 1 Eastern Caribbean Dollar is equal to 0.37 USD.
• The best way to get around is by car.
• To enter, you will need a U.S. passport. You do not need a tourist visa as long as your stay is under three months.
• Digicel and Flow are the main mobile providers, and a prepaid SIM card can be purchased through any of them. For the SIM card to work, you must have a phone that is unlocked and is compatible with a GSM international cell phone.
• The sales tax rate is 15%.

Things to See and Do in Grenada

• Grenada National Museum:  Travel back in time with artifacts and exhibitions to learn about the cultural heritage and history of Grenada, from the early days of the Kalinago inhabitations up to the 20 th  century. Admission is 5 European Caribbean Dollars for adults and 2.5 for children.
• Grand Etang National Park:  Make a day trip out of this national reserve. Hike through nature trails and see lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife like armadillos, Mona monkeys, and tropical mockingbirds.
• Fort George:  If you like history, stop by this historic fortress. Built in the 18 th  century, this fortress can be reached by taking a hike up the hill to see the fortress up-close, as well as great views of the harbor and city below.
• Annandale Falls:  If you love waterfalls, come see this great waterfall. Stroll through a short nature trail and see vegetation and natural beauty before getting to the waterfall, which has a beautiful pool of water at the base. Make sure to bring a camera.
• Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park:  Diving fans will love this underwater sculpture park.One of National Geographic’s 25 Wonders of the World, you can dive, snorkel, or take a boat down into the bay to see wondrous artistic sculptures.

Grenada Travel Guides

Accommodation.

Budget:  You can find prices for budget hotels in the range of 150-320 Eastern Caribbean Dollars per night. Enjoy private rooms, free Wi-Fi, good locations, an outdoor pool, free breakfast, and a hotel restaurant.

Mid-Range:  For mid-range hotels and resorts, expect to pay between 400-700 Eastern Caribbean Dollars per night. These hotels typically come with private rooms with tea and coffee makers and minibars, a hotel restaurant, an outdoor pool, fitness centers, and great locations to nearby beaches.

High-End:  Upscale hotels and resorts can range from 950-5,500 Eastern Caribbean Dollars and beyond. Take in the best with private suites and villas, multiple hotel restaurants, spa services, beach clubs, tennis courts, scuba diving facilities, live entertainment, and more.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Food : The national dish is Oil Down, a meal made from salted meat, chicken, dumplings, breadfruit, callaloo (taro leaves), and is stewed in coconut milk and spices. Seafood is popular in Grenada. When out and about, look for treats like cocoa tea (like hot chocolate, with bay leaves and cinnamon), roti (wraps with meat or vegetables), or Grenadian spice cake. In total, expect to pay around 140 Eastern Caribbean Dollars per day for food.

The Best Ways to Get Around Grenada

Getting to grenada:.

Getting to Grenada:  The main airport to fly into is the Maurice Bishop International Airport. It is located 5 miles from St. George’s, Grenada’s capital.

Flights:   You can check for the best flights on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Train:  Grenada has a Discovery Train that is built for tourists and can take you around St. George’s in 45 minutes, with stops at destinations like the museum and Fort George.

Ferries:  Taking a ferry is the best way to get to the surrounding islands of Grenada. Go from the main island to Carriacou in 90 minutes for 80 Eastern Caribbean Dollars.

Bus:  Buses are a cheap way to get around, with a typical fare being 2.50 Eastern Caribbean Dollars. The buses in Grenada are minibuses and run most days, except Sundays. You can catch one by waving it down or going to a bus stop.

Taxis:  Taxis are a good way to get around. Taxis have flat rates instead of meters, so always double check what the price will be before getting into a cab. Go from the Maurice Bishop airport to St. George’s, for example, for about 30 Eastern Caribbean Dollars. As with the bus, look for a license plate that starts with an H, so you know it’s official.

Rent a car:  To rent a car, you need to be 25 years old and have a U.S. driver’s license, as well as a local Grenada driving permit (which cost 60 Eastern Caribbean Dollars). Prices for car rentals start at 135 Eastern Caribbean Dollars per day. You can also compare  prices here

When to go To Grenada

The best time to go is December. During this month, the rainy season has mostly ended, and you can beat some of the tourist crowds (the most popular time to visit is between January and April).

If you want to reduce hotel rates, you can travel between May and November, though be aware this is Grenada’s rainy season and there can also be a chance of hurricanes.

Where to Stay in Grenada

Deyna’s City Inn :  For those on a budget who still want to experience a great stay, Denya’s City Inn is the place to be. Located in the town center of St. George’s, the inn is a short walk to Fort George and the Grenada museum. When you’re done exploring, come back to the hotel for air-conditioned rooms with sea views and the hotel restaurant and bar.

True Blue Bay Boutique Resort :  Whatever your budget, this hotel in St. George’s is a great place to stay. Choose from a variety of rooms, from standard all the way up to suites that come with whirlpool tubs and living rooms. All rooms are equipped with a kitchen and the hotel also offers an indoor and outdoor pool, a golf course, a hotel restaurant and bar, a fitness center, room service, and shuttle to the airport. This hotel is both kid and pet friendly. Grand Anse Beach is just 5 minutes away.

Spice Island Beach Resort :  Come stay at this luxury 5-star all-inclusive beach resort to see some of the best of Grenada. Rooms come with LED TVs and furnished balconies and you can enjoy numerous amenities like massage services,an outdoorpool and relaxing lounge area, room service, ocean kayaking, beachside yoga, and more.

What to Pack for Grenada

• Sunscreen:  Protect your skin from the beautiful sun with some sunscreen.
• Bathing Suit:  With so many beaches to explore, don’t forget to bring a swimsuit.
• Lightweight Clothing:  As the weather is beautiful year-round, bring clothes that aren’t too heavy.
• Sarong – We always pack sarongs, especially in the tropics. Read why here.

See our packing tips:  packing tips

Grenada Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Grenada Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Grenada Click Here.

• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Climate
• 2.3 Geography
• 2.4 Culture
• 2.5 Visitor information
• 4.1 Entry requirements
• 4.2 By plane
• 4.3 By boat
• 5 Get around
• 9.2 Shopping
• 13 Stay safe

Grenada (pronounced grih-NAY-duh) is a group of three larger islands ( Grenada , Carriacou , and Petite Martinique ) and several tiny islands in the Caribbean, or West Indies . It lies just north of Trinidad and Tobago , and southwest of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines . It's known as the "Spice Isle", being a major source of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, vanilla and cocoa. In 2022 the population was 125,000, heavily concentrated in the southwest of Grenada main island.

Islands [ edit ]

• Ronde is the largest of the string of islets between Carriacou and main island.
• Kick 'em Jenny is an active undersea volcano 5 miles west of Ronde.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ]

The Caribbean Plate is a tectonic structure stretching 2000 km east from the Pacific coast of Central America. For the last 80 million years it's been shifting east at 10 mm a year, compressing the Atlantic ocean floor beneath it, and this has thrown up an arc of volcanic islands along the boundary. Grenada arose maybe two million years ago, and volcanic activity continued on the main island until 12,000 years ago, blasting out the craters (now flooded) of St George's carenage, Grand Etang, Levera and St Antoine. Mount St Catherine the highest mountain is dormant but by no means extinct, with geothermal hot springs, and the wonderfully-named "Kick 'em Jenny" is an active underwater volcano ten miles north of main island.

The legacy of this is rugged terrain with mountains that draw clouds and rain, reasonably fertile volcanic soil, a great natural harbour, and lush scenery. Land animals were from time to time able to migrate here, and humans could island-hop along the chain from South America by canoe. The standard story is that the first settlers were Arawaks, then in the centuries before European contact they were attacked and subjugated by Caribs. But this doesn't square with the linguistic, genetic and cultural record, and the Spanish used "Arawak" to mean indigenous people friendly to them, while "Caribs" were hostile and therefore to be demonised and slaughtered.

The first European to sight Grenada was Christopher Columbus in 1498. He didn't land, but named it Concepción, which didn't catch on. The Andalusian city of Granada symbolised the ascendancy of Spain after its recapture from the Moors in 1492, and "La Granada" was how the island became shown on maps. However for the next 150 years its inhabitants repelled colonisation, until in 1649 the French got a grip, fortified the harbour and subdued the island. Legend holds that in 1652 the last of the Caribs leapt to their deaths from the cliffs, at the north point now called Sauteurs. The island was then a private possession, a piece of real estate to be traded, until 1674 when it was constituted as a French colony governed from Martinique. Grenada was profitable for its indigo, cotton and sugar, with a large African slave population imported to harvest these. In British eyes, it was far too good to be wasted on the French, and the power of their Royal Navy was growing.

Grenada like other Caribbean islands was then a pawn in wider conflicts. It was captured by the British during the Seven Years' War (1756–63), but during the American Revolutionary War, France joined the United States against Britain and recaptured Grenada in 1779. They hurriedly built forts against counter-attack, only to see these handed over when Grenada was re-assigned to Britain by the treaty of 1783. France then became roiled by revolution, and could never again exert colonial power in this section of the Caribbean. Its rhetoric was echoed by Julien Fédon, a mixed-race landowner who in 1795 launched a rebellion that lasted 15 months until crushed; his fate is unknown.

Grenada was a colony of Britain for almost the next 200 years, along with other islands in the loose entity known as the British Windward Islands Administration. Slavery was abolished in the 19th century, but the island remained under the thumb of (and governed for the benefit of) the colonists, with only token Grenadian electoral power and representation even after reforms in the 1920s. Universal adult suffrage came in 1951, when Eric Matthew Gairy and his Grenada United Labour Party swept to power. A "wind of change" gathered strength throughout the Empire, and Britain's response was to form a Federation of the West Indies with considerable home autonomy but with defence and other functions retained by the UK. The Federation proved quarrelsome and short-lived, and full independence came on 7 Feb 1974 with Gairy as the first prime minister.

Gairy's re-election in 1976 was considered by many to be fraudulent, and there was growing agitation and paramilitary activity by the "New Jewel Movement". This was led by a lawyer called Maurice Bishop, and proclaimed itself Marxist-Leninist. It seized power in a coup d'état in 1979 and sought assistance from Cuba, whose workers began building the present airport at Point Salines, which the US squealed might be used as a launchpad against America. The flashpoint was in 1983 when Bishop was overthrown by a hardline faction of his own party, and he and his colleagues were shot by firing squad. All this played into US President Ronald Reagan's worst nightmares of what a communist regime might do, he badly needed a quick win after the attack on the Marines base in Beirut, and he launched "Operation Urgent Fury". The invasion force of some 7600 soon routed the hardliners and Cubans, and next year a general election re-established democratic government.

The bonus was that Grenada acquired its modern airport, just in time to take advantage of larger aircraft bringing the island within range of middle-income tourists across Europe and North America. Grand Anse beach burgeoned into a hotel strip. The major set-back came in 2004: Grenada hadn't suffered a hurricane for 50 years then was devastated by "Ivan", then again by "Emily" in 2005. By then the global financial crisis was afflicting public and private finance, impeding re-construction, and there are still many gap sites and shells of wrecked buildings today.

Climate [ edit ]

Grenada has a tropical, hot and humid climate that doesn't vary much year-round. Temperatures are always close to 27°C / 80°F, and the humidity is tempered by the refreshing trade winds. January to April are slightly drier and cooler, there's not much in it, and even during the rainy season it seldom rains for more than an hour at a time. The last hurricane was Emily in 2005.

Geography [ edit ]

Grenada is the southernmost island nation of the north-south direction of the Lesser Antilles arc. A total of 344 sq kms, Grenada includes three key islands including its main island. Offshore are a variety of ecosystems within the country's three MPAs.

Culture [ edit ]

Grenada has the same problems of unemployment and economic downturn as other Caribbean nations yet the visitor is struck by how they shine above it. To a remarkable degree, they are law-abiding, courteous and with a strong work ethic. Away from the beach they dress conservatively; traders may solicit but rarely hustle. You'll be alright in town in shorts, shirt and trainers, but won't get served in beachwear.

Feb 7 is Independence Day, a public holiday with parades and ceremonies. As this is close to the usual date of Mardi Gras, the latter is not a big thing on Grenada.

Visitor information [ edit ]

Pure Grenada (+1 473 440 2001) is the tourist agency.

For local news read NOW Grenada , The New Today , Grenada Informer , Grenadian Voice and The Barnacle .

Talk [ edit ]

Standard British English is the official language and universally understood. Between themselves, locals speak an English dialect which is rapid and hard to understand, mainly because outsiders aren't meant to — anyone in a public-facing role won't use it. Even in standard English however, the diction is often low and flat, almost a self-effacing mumble, which will take you a while to tune into. French persists only in place names and Creole has practically died out.

Get in [ edit ]

Entry requirements [ edit ].

You need a passport valid for at least six months and a return or onward ticket. As of 2019, and still applicable in Jan 2023, visas are not required from citizens of the USA, Canada, United Kingdom and its dependencies, British Commonwealth countries, Caribbean countries, Venezuela, Brazil, European Union countries and their dependencies, Norway, Japan, South Korea, India, Israel, China, Hong Kong, Macau and Russia.

Duty-free allowances: Personal items, one quart in total wines and spirits, half-pound tobacco or 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes. No restrictions on the amount of money that can be brought in. Restricted items are fruits, vegetables, meat, soil, illegal drugs, firearms and ammunition.

By plane [ edit ]

Maurice Bishop International Airport ( GND  IATA ) is on the southwest tip of the main island of Grenada, 8 km from the capital. It's the principal point of arrival in Grenada, with long haul flights from North America and Europe, and inter-island short hops. See Grenada (island)#Get in for connections, airport facilities and onward transport.

Lauriston Airport ( CRU  IATA ) is a small airstrip on the island of Carriacou. As well as daily flights from Maurice Bishop, it has direct flights from Saint Vincent , with connections from Barbados and other islands. See Carriacou#Get in for practicalities.

By boat [ edit ]

• Cruise ships dock in St George's, and October to May there are usually a couple in port - there's room for five. See Grenada (island)#Get in for practicalities.
• Carriacou has no dock for large ships, but these sometimes park offshore and bring passengers in by tender.
• Osprey foot-passenger ferries ply between the islands of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
• There is a small passenger ferry connecting Carriacou and Union Island on Mondays and Fridays.
• Private vessels must clear immigration and customs at St George's or Prickly Bay on Grenada island, or at Hillsborough on Carriacou. Petite Martinique has no "Port of Entry".

Get around [ edit ]

Minibuses are the staple public transport, see Grenada (island)#Get around . Eight routes fan out from St George's bus terminal next to the cruiser dock, very frequently along Route 1 to Grand Anse and Calliste. Route 9 crosses the top of the island between Grenville and Sauteurs. On Carriacou they radiate from Hillsborough and on tiny Petite Martinique you just walk.

A water taxi plies between St George's cruiser dock and Grand Anse beach.

Taxis carry an "H" on their licence plates. There are ranks at the bus terminal and airport, else just flag them on the street. Hiring a cab for the day is for most visitors a much better way to tour the island than self-drive, as the drivers know the poorly-signposted turn-offs, and the worst of the potholes, police traps and landslips.

Car rentals are available from a few international companies - the advantage of these is that they can issue a temporary Grenada driving permit on the spot, so you can drive straight off. There are also some two dozen local operators, but you may need to factor in a two-hour visit to the local police station to have your permit issued.

Cycling is not much fun on the busy narrow roads of the main island, with frequent gradients, humid tropical weather, and the stiff Atlantic breeze somehow always against you. It's less daunting on the quieter, smaller island of Carriacou.

See [ edit ]

• St. George's is an interesting old town, with the natural harbour of the carenage, Fort George on the knoll above it, and the historic Church Street district. But many buildings are dilapidated or still wrecked from the 2004 hurricane. The inland streets are steep so consider taking the little "tourist train".
• Beaches: Grand Anse is the one in all the tourist brochures, a classic sweep of palm-fringed sand. But it's narrow, having suffered erosion, and waves may break right over it. All the water sports facilities are based here. Beyond the headland west are the much quieter BBC or Morne Rouge Beach, then Paradise Bay towards Sandals resort. Small sandy coves are found right round the island though the coast is mostly rugged, and the east is exposed to the Atlantic. Black beaches are made of volcanic sand, for instance Black Bay near Concord on the west coast.
• Grand Etang is a crater lake and nature reserve mid-island, with Mona monkeys, birdlife and tropical flowers. Mount Qua Qua stands above it. Waterfalls tumble down the slopes: best known are Annandale west side, and Seven Sisters and Honeymoon Falls east side. Other crater lakes and parks are at Antoine to the northeast and Levera to the north.
• Plantations: see below for rum distilleries. Spice plantations include Dougladston Estate and Gouyave Nutmeg Factory both near Gouyave, and Belmont to the north processes cocoa beans for chocolate. Carriacou has several atmospheric ruins.
• Tibeau on the east coast of Carriacou has a macabre beach where an old cemetery is being washed away by the sea.

Do [ edit ]

• Scuba diving and snorkelling are on the reefs a mile or two west of Grenada island and Carriacou. Dive shacks are concentrated in Grand Anse and offer training, with the dive sites just a 5-10 minute boat ride away. The shallower reefs have soft coral within snorkelling depth and the usual cast of Caribbean critters. There's usually a current so dives are drifts. The signature dive is Bianca C, a 600-ft cruise ship which caught fire and sank in 1961, now lying in 90-160 ft depth.
• Surfing: not on the sheltered west coast. Prickly Bay south of Grande Anse often has surfable waves, as do the exposed Atlantic beaches facing northeast.

• Cricket: the National Stadium in St George's hosts the national team and often the combined West Indies team for "Test matches" - internationals. The domestic playing season is the drier months of Dec-May. Soccer and athletics are staged at the adjacent Kirani James stadium. NFL (American football) is not regularly played, but Grenada is seeking to boost sports tourism, for example by re-starting their rugby sevens tournament in 2022.
• Hashing: running trails are set up at varied spots around the main island, usually on Saturday afternoon. Enjoy the brutal slopes, muddy footing and scratchy bush, then undo the damage with copious draughts of rum.
• Sailing . Day sail charters are available from various companies; dingy tours are also possible by renting your own dingy.
• Get married: you need your passport, birth certificate, evidence of single status, and a stay in Grenada of at least three working days. Specialist overseas wedding companies can arrange the whole show. But this isn't Reno, it's not a quickie-divorce centre, so if you have to dissolve an existing marriage to be free to re-marry, you should do so before arrival and have the documents to prove it. And yes, it will help a lot if one of you is male and the other female, as homosexual acts are still prohibited here.
• Christmas: Celebrated as an ample public holiday by many Grenadians. One of its traditions includes a colorful masquerade performance and street parties that typify the festive season. The spirit of Christmas in Grenada makes it a perfect place to relax on the beach during Christmas Day.

Learn [ edit ]

St George's University , opened in 1977, is a private university with courses in medicine, veterinary medicine and other arts and sciences. As well as their undergrad and postgrad programmes they offer summer schools and short courses. Many US students study here and in 1983 their wellbeing was one of the reasons for the US invasion. The main campus is on Grand Anse beach, with another just east of the airport.

University of West Indies don't have a physical base on Grenada but their Open Campus supports distance learning.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

The East Caribbean dollar , denoted as $ or EC$ (ISO currency code XCD ), is the currency of Grenada and seven other Caribbean countries: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The EC dollar is subdivided into 100 cents. Banknotes circulate in denominations of 10, 20, 50, and 100 dollars, and coins of 1, 2, 5, 10 and 25 cents and 1 dollar.

The EC dollar is pegged to the United States dollar at a fixed exchange rate of US$1 = EC$2.70. US dollar bills are universally accepted on Grenada but not coins; they might give change in EC cents or just round up the tab.

It is difficult to exchange EC$ outside the Caribbean and there is no exchange at the airport. So unless you're arriving from another EC$ country (which Barbados and Trinidad & Tobago are not) then bring enough US$ to last until you can reach a bank, bearing in mind that small businesses such as taxi drivers seldom take cards. And don't be left with any EC$ when you leave.

There are several banks in St George's and Grand Anse, with exchange desks open M-F 8AM-2PM.

Shopping [ edit ]

• Spices are the main draw and are usually okay for import if fully-sealed. Nutmeg and vanilla are the chief offering, others are mace, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and turmeric.
• Chocolate is high standard, if you can keep it cool until your return.
• Rum, but beware the strength - an "export-strength" product may count as two bottles within your personal allowance.
• Supermarkets in St George's and Grand Anse may undercut the "duty-free" offerings in the tourist-trappy mall by the cruiser terminal.

Eat [ edit ]

• Fish and chicken are the staple offerings, well-seasoned with island spices.
• Grand Anse hotels have the best dining and mostly cater to non-residents.
• St George's is geared to quick lunches for people with business in town, and they close early.

Drink [ edit ]

• Water is always a good choice in the tropical heat. Tap water is safe and pleasant to drink, as it runs off the rain-lashed mountains and only needs to be lightly treated. Restaurants serve it on request without sulking. Bottled water is also available.
• Rum is made at three distilleries on the main island, Clarke's Court and Westerhall to the south and River Antoine north, and tours are available. The other islands have no distilleries but cheerfully assist in consuming the main island's products. Beware very high strength rum served in local bars.
• Breweries: there are two near Grande Anse.

Sleep [ edit ]

• Grenada island accommodation is concentrated in Grand Anse near the airport. Rooms are expensive, but long-distance fly + stay packages cost little more. There's very little in the capital St George's.
• Carriacou has small mid-range places, mostly in Hillsborough with a few southwest in Tyrell Bay.
• Petite Martinique accommodation in 2023 has yet to re-open after Covid.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Grenada is a safe country and enjoys the lowest crime rate in the Caribbean region. Please keep it that way by safeguarding valuables and not flashing bling.

Beware of the sun. Grenada is only 12 degrees north of the equator and you can burn quickly even if it's cloudy and the breeze is keeping you cool. Seek the shade, use a parasol, wear a wide-brimmed hat and long clothing and slap on high-factor sun-block. Minimise outdoor activity from noon to 3 pm when there's maximum UV and heat.

Allow for the high humidity: it can top 90%, and anything above 60% is unpleasant. Drink plenty of water (the tap water is safe), though on humid days your sweat cannot evaporate quickly to keep your body cool.

Mosquitoes are more of a nuisance than a danger: it's rare for them to carry serious diseases such as malaria. You don't need anti-malarials, just standard anti-mozzy precautions - they get busy after sundown, so spray on a repellent before heading out for al fresco dining. Dengue Fever, Zika and Chikungunya Virus are likewise rare.

Your accommodation will know of local primary care doctors available to make house calls. There's a hospital in St George's, a smaller one at Mirabeau to the east and another on Carriacou. All treatment must be paid for, and anything serious might mean an airlift to the US mainland, so you must have adequate health insurance.

Connect [ edit ]

Almost everywhere on the three islands has 4G from Flow and Digicel, with only a few dead spots in the mountains. As of Jan 2023, 5G has not rolled out in Grenada.

Go next [ edit ]

• By cruiser, you'll go wherever your itinerary is next heading, and by air you could soon be anywhere.
• Saint Vincent is the nearest onward destination. It could be described as "unspoilt", meaning it has few visitor facilities.
• Good choices for a future trip to this region are Barbados , Saint Lucia and Tobago .

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The Ultimate First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Grenada

Not only is the landscape refreshingly diverse, with top-rated beaches, rainforests, and mountains, but also a rich culture and fascinating history. Best of all – Grenada is not overrun with tourists. The vibe is super chill and relaxed – more than any other island I’ve been to. 

I created this guide after a frustrating experience planning my first trip to Grenada. The information I found was either outdated or non-existent. This guide is geared toward first-time visitors to Grenada and intended to provide basic and essential information to easily plan and experience your first visit to the island. I say “first visit” because I’m confident once you arrive, you’ll start planning your next visit. 

Everything you need to plan your first trip to Grenada is included here in The Ultimate First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Grenada.  Topics include: 

• How much it costs
• How to get there
• Where to stay
• How to get around
• Things to do 

Safety & Security

There is so much information I could share, but in my opinion, it would be overwhelming and unnecessary to planning your initial visit. Once you’re in Grenada, you’ll discover more things to do, places to stay, and places to eat that suit your preferences. But you have to get there first, right?

Happy Planning!

Ralf Stefan

www.caribbeanauthority.com

When to go to Grenada

Grenada is one of the southernmost Caribbean islands, allowing for amazing year-round temperatures. On average, you can expect 83 Fahrenheit every month. Because of Grenada’s proximity, it rarely is hit by hurricanes. Even more, the reason to visit any time of year.

Note: Grenada is hit by hurricanes far less than other Caribbean islands, but it has still been hit. 

With that said, the island does experience a rainy season. Grenada’s rainy season starts in June and lasts until December and is characterized by frequent thunderstorms and downpours, which are short-lasting but very intense and typically followed by plenty of sunshine.

Of course, weather is not an exact science. Lately, it seems like no matter where you are in the world; you’re experiencing “unseasonal weather”. I point this out because although no time of year is guaranteed warm and sunny days in Grenada, your chances are more likely outside the rainy season.

Whether your travel goals are to get out and experience activities on the island, attend a particular event (like Spice Mas in August!) or save money on your trip, the chart below should help you determine when to visit. 

$$ – Average cost $ – Below average cost

How much does it cost to travel to Grenada

How much you will spend to travel to Grenada is somewhat subjective. It’s totally dependent on your travel style. To provide some idea of the cost of travel to Grenada, I’ve established three different travel styles – average, luxury, and budget- and the cost of each style’s main expenses – airfare, hotel, food, and transportation. I’m an average traveler, so the costs associated with the average traveler below are actual costs from my recent trip to the island. 

Cost for an Average Traveler

The average cost to travel to Grenada for 2 people for 7 nights is estimated to be $1,964.34 per person. Here’s the breakdown.

Cost for A Luxury Traveler

The cost for a luxury trip to Grenada for 2 people for 7 nights is estimated to be $4,042.55 per person. Here’s the breakdown.

Cost for a Budget Traveler

The cost for a budget trip to Grenada for 2 people for 7 nights is estimated to be $1,262.00 per person. Here’s the breakdown.

Cost for Groceries

Regardless of travel style, many people like to have groceries on hand to cook meals or snacks on. Below is a sampling of groceries and the price you can expect to pay in Grenada, just to give you an idea.

For a more extensive list of groceries and costs in Grenada check out The Cost of Food in Grenada & How to Avoid Busting your Food Budget .

• Fodor’s Travel Guides (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 960 Pages – 09/06/2022 (Publication Date) – Fodor’s Travel (Publisher)

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Cost for Dining Out

You’re on vacation, so of course, you’ll want to dine out occasionally. Even luxury travelers staying at an all-inclusive may want to duck out for some local fare at some point. 

Obviously, you’ll pay more for food when dining out versus buying and cooking your own meals. Below is pricing for dining out at various restaurant types in Grenada. You’ll notice the cost is relatively close to US restaurants, which seems high, considering the overall pricing and standard of living on the island.

Cell Service

To avoid exploding your cell bill when traveling to Grenada? You can: 

• Purchase a SIM card from a local carrier like Digicel or Flow;
• Purchase an international day pass or cell plan from your cell provider (if offered);
• Turn your phone on airplane mode and only use wifi when it’s available.

Everything you need to know about paying for things in Grenada is below.

• The EC$ (Eastern Caribbean dollar) is the standard form of currency, but the US$ (US dollar) is widely accepted.
• Bring crisp US dollars, not ripped or wrinkled ones, as they’re likely to be rejected.
• Major credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, stores, and tour operators. One exception – American Express is often not accepted. 
• Have cash available for taxis, market vendors, water taxis, ferries, and independent guides. Unless you pay the exact amount you will likely receive a change in EC$.
• Unless you want to come home with a wallet full of EC$, bring lots of $1 and $5 bills with you to pay for cash items.
• There are several banks on the island with ATMs available for cash withdrawal, but be aware they are closed on weekends and holidays.

How to get to Grenada

Entry Requirements 

• A valid passport book and evidence of return/onward travel arrangements are required to enter Grenada. 
• A valid passport means it doesn’t expire at least 6 months after your return date.  
• You can stay for a max of 90 days without a VISA.

Flight Information

When planning my first trip to Grenada, I was surprised at how difficult it was to find flight information. It was a challenge to learn which US airlines flew to Grenada, what days of the week they flew there, and which times of the year.  Sure, you could use Skyscanner, but without knowledge of the days the airlines fly to Grenada, you’re often left with a flight adventure”. What’s a “flight adventure”?

Flight adventures are a combination of several stops &/or layovers and take more than a day to get to your destination. They are a long, tiresome, and inefficient way to get to your destination. -Ralf Stefan, Caribbean Authority

Since airfare information was not readily available, I spent a ton of time digging online and calling airlines. I fly from the US, but I know many of you are coming from Canada, the UK, and other countries, so I gathered flight information from those countries as well so you don’t have to go through the same rigamarole I did.

Fly to Grenada From the US

Three airlines fly direct from the US to Grenada:

• JetBlue flies directly to Grenada from New York. Flight time is 4 hours 50 minutes.
• American Airlines flies direct to Grenada from Miami & Charlotte. Flight time is 3 hours 31 minutes from Miami and 4 hours 15 minutes from Charlotte.
• Delta Airlines flies direct to Grenada from Atlanta. Flight time is 4 hours 34 minutes.

Fly to Grenada From Canada

Two airlines fly direct from Canada to Grenada:

• Air Canada flies directly to Grenada from Toronto
• Sunwing Airlines flies directly to Grenada from Toronto
• Flight length is 5 hours and 15 minutes.

Fly to Grenada From the UK

Unfortunately, there aren’t any airlines that fly direct to Grenada from the UK. However, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic both have near-direct options since they both fly from London to Grenada with only one short stopover in St. Lucia.

• British Airways flies from Gatwick Airport to St. Lucia, then on to Grenada. The flight to St. Lucia is 8 hours 45 minutes. 
• Virgin Atlantic flies from Manchester Airport in St. Lucia, then on to Grenada. The flight to St. Lucia is 9 hours 5 minutes.
• The flight from St. Lucia is provided by Liat (airlines) and is a 55-minute flight.

Packing Tips

I don’t mind packing for vacation, but many people hate it! I think this loathing comes from the travel experts’ advice to “pack light,” which creates anxiety, resulting in overwhelm and, ultimately, procrastination to begin the task of packing. I love packing a big-ass suitcase and think everyone should do it.

If you want to learn how to fall in love with packing – or at least stop hating it – check out my article Why you hate packing for Vacation and What to Do About It .  If not, here are the cliff notes: grab a big-ass suitcase, create a list of essentials, start throwing stuff into the suitcase a week before, and pack the suitcase the night before.

Download my handy-dandy packing list and customize it as needed. 

How long Should You stay in Grenada?

If you’re traveling from the US, Canada, or the UK, you’ll need at least 2 days for travel. From there, determine how many days you need to rest & relax, explore, and generally just chill out. 

Of course, how long to stay on vacation is a personal decision dependent on many factors, such as your available vacation time from work, home & work commitments, and, of course, flight schedules. 

The max you can stay in Grenada without a visa is 30 days.

Where to Stay in Grenada

Grenada offers an array of accommodations, including hotels, resorts, Airbnb, apartments, and even just a room. This guide is geared toward a typical traveler  (vs. backpacker), so I’ll assume you’re interested in a hotel or resort-type accommodation. 

Below, I’ve listed high-rated accommodations by price point in the St. George’s area. You can get more information about each property and check the pricing by following the link. 

Luxury All-Inclusive Accommodations ($1,000+ per night)

Sandals Grenada – Check out pricing for Sandals Calabash Hotel – Check out pricing for Calabash Hotel Mount Cinnamon – Check out pricing for Mount Cinnamon

Affordable Luxury Accommodations (Under $250 per night)

Blue Horizons Garden Resort – Check out pricing for Blue Horizons Garden Resort . Check out my review of this resort at Blue Horizons Garden Resort Review True Blue Bay Boutique Resort – Check out pricing for True Blue Bay Boutique Resort Radisson Grenada Beach Resort – Check out pricing for Radisson Grenada Beach Resort

Budget Accommodations (Under $100 per night)

Siesta Hotel – Check out pricing for Siesta Hotel La Heliconia – Check out pricing for La Heliconia Grooms Beach Villa & Resort – Check out pricing for Grooms Beach Villa & Resort .

Things to Do in Grenada

I could fill this guide with fun and amazing things to do in Grenada, but you wouldn’t be able to get to all of them on your first trip, so I opted to list only the top 3 by interest. Click the link for more information about each attraction.

• Grand Anse Beach
• Morne Rouge Beach
• Levera Beach

History Buffs

• Fort George
• Dougaldston Estate
• Fort Frederick

Scuba & Snorkel Enthusiasts

• Underwater Sculpture Park
• Bianca C Shipwreck
• Flamingo Bay Reef

Cultural Connoisseurs

• River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery
• Belmont Estate
• Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station

Nature Lovers

• Mount Qua Qua
• Royal Mount Carmel Waterfalls
• La Sagesse Nature Center

Ecotourism Fanatics

• Saddleback Sea Turtles
• Grand Etang National Park
• Levera National Park

Festival Junkies

• Grenada Carnival ‘Spice Mas’ (August) 
• Carriacou’s Carnival (February)
• Grenada Chocolate Festival (May)

How to get around in Grenada

Grenada’s bus system consists of minibusses that transport people all over the island. It’s an amazing way to get around while getting to know the locals and learning about the country. And, you know your life is in the hands of an expert – they drive those roller-coaster roads every day so have developed the skill.

Things you should know about riding the bus in Grenada

• Hours: Weekdays 7AM – 7PM (Not all buses run on weekends)
• Fares are cheap! Depending on the destination expect to pay $1 – $6 EC each way. Be sure to ask the driver to confirm the cost beforehand. 
• There are 9 zones with one or more routes per zone. 
• Each bus displays the route number in the windshield.
• Each route is a loop ending at the same location it starts.
• Some buses can get quite crowded as its the main transportation for many residents. Don’t worry – hop on and room will be made for you.

Grenada Bus Routes

Taxis are widely available throughout the island and cost more than a bus but offer privacy and convenience especially on weekends when buses can be scarce.

Things you should know about taking a taxi in Grenada:

• Taxis are licensed by the government and should prominently display their official credentials. They don’t run meters, instead, because they are licensed by the government, there are set rates.
• Hotel and airport taxis are price-fixed by the government. To give you an example, the price for a taxi from the airport to the St. George’s area is $16. That’s total, not per person.
• Fares to and from the airport are set by the government. In March I paid about $16 US each way to my hotel.
• Be sure to confirm the fare with your driver, and whether it’s in US$ or EC $, before setting off on the journey. Often the rate can be negotiable. 
• Many travelers have been known to hire a taxi for a day to explore the island.

I don’t recommend renting a car unless you’re accustomed to driving on the left with the steering wheel on the right and willing to put up with certain challenges including Narrow, steep & windy roads, pedestrians walking across the street paying no attention to traffic, and drivers that don’t use turn signals and drive very fast. 

Things you should know about renting a car in Grenada

• It cost about $70 US per day to rent a car. 
• The government requires a visitor’s temporary driver’s license, which you can easily obtain by showing the rental company your regular driver’s license and paying for a Grenadian one. The cost is about $25 US.
• You can rent a car at AVIS in St. Georges. 

Is Grenada Safe?

Grenada is very safe but it’s always sensible to exercise caution regardless of where you’re traveling. Exercise these precautions while in Grenada (or any country your visiting for that matter):

• Leave your flashy jewelry, and clothes at home. 
• Stay in well lit and populated areas after dark. 
• Do not leave valuables such as money, credit cards, cameras and other electronic devices unattended – especially on the beaches or in vehicles.
• Most hotels provide a safe in the room. Lock your passport in it.

US travelers should always check the State Department’s Travel Advisory page to learn the current advisory level for the country they’re traveling to. Here’s a link to the state department’s information on Grenada .

Safety is a topic not to be taken lightly. If you’re concerned about the safety of Grenada check out my article Is Grenada Safe for Tourists? which takes a deep dive into why all signs point to it being a safe place to visit.

All US citizens should know where and how to reach the US embassy for the country they’re traveling to. Don’t make the mistake of waiting for an emergency to happen before you figure out how to reach the embassy. 

Not sure what the U.S. Embassy does? Check out my article Don’t wait for an emergency to find out where the US Embassy is located in Grenada

The U.S. Embassy in Grenada is located in the capital city of St. George’s, however, the U.S. Ambassador operates out of the U.S. Embassy located about 170 miles away in Bridgetown, Barbados.

US Embassy in Grenada Contact Information

What about the Water?

According to NAWASA (National Water & Sewerage Authority), the organization that treats Grenada’s water, Grenada’s water is “safe for human consumption”. Many in the hospitality field in Grenada will recommend you drink bottled water because visitors’ bodies are not accustomed to Grenada water. It’s up to you. I decided to boil water and drink bottled (Montezuma’s Revenge anyone?).

Travel Insurance

Things happen out of our control all the time, even when we have a vacation planned. (Coronavirus anyone?). Travel insurance not only prevents financial loss due to having to cancel your vacation but also provides peace of mind leading up to the trip. If you ask me, peace of mind is priceless. 

Get a free quote from World Nomads , the world-renowned and respected provider of travel insurance and plan your trip with peace of mind. 

Final Thoughts

Plan on falling in love with Grenada. I’m so confident you’ll love Grenada that I’m willing to bet your first trip will not be your last. With that, take your time and truly enjoy each experience while you’re there. Unlike other vacations you may have taken to popular Caribbean destinations like Jamaica, the Bahamas, and the Dominican Republic, there’s no sense of urgency to grab a beach chair, rush to the tour bus, or stand in line for a beer. The vibe is more chill in Grenada.

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Renting a Car in Grenada May Not be Your Best Option for Getting Around

2 thoughts on “the ultimate first-time visitor’s guide to grenada”.

This guide was so helpful. I am considering retiring to Grenada in another 12 years. However, I plan to visit the island long before then, hopefully in the next 2 years. You highlighted a lot of things that I hadn’t considered. Specifically, cell phone use, the water, and having a stack of $1 and $5 bills on me. Thanks so much!

You’re welcome!

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Grenada

Written by Karen Hastings Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Grenada offers an intoxicating taste of the Old Caribbean. Fragrant nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, and cocoa flourish in its fertile volcanic soil, earning it the name, "the Spice Island," and the island's rich culture makes it a top choice for tourists looking for an authentic Caribbean getaway .

Lushly cloaked mountains, rainforests, plantations, and colorful seaside villages provide picturesque photo ops , and you can bask on beautiful beaches framed by frangipani and flamboyant trees.

St. George's , Grenada's capital, is one of the prettiest cities in the Caribbean, its busy harbor of Carenage bristling with sailboats. You can even island hop in Grenada — the quieter islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique lie off the island's northeast coast.

Many visitors spend their time around Grand Anse Beach , one of the best beaches in the Caribbean . This is also where you'll find some of Grenada's best resorts.

Grenada offers more things to see and do than just basking on its sun-kissed sands. Waterfalls gush in the island's interior; hiking trails thread through the lush rainforest; and coral reefs rim the coast, where you can swim, dive, snorkel, and fish. History buffs will also enjoy exploring the country's forts and museums.

For ideas on the best places to visit, read through our list of the top attractions in Grenada.

1. Grand Anse Beach

2. grenada underwater sculpture park, 3. st. george's, 4. carriacou, 5. fort george, 6. spice tours & tastings, 7. annandale falls, 8. grand etang national park & forest reserve, 9. carenage, 10. st. george's market square, 11. fort frederick, 12. morne rouge bay, 13. levera national park, 14. la sagesse, 15. petite martinique, map of tourist attractions in grenada.

Fringed by sea grapes, almond trees, and coconut palms, Grand Anse is Grenada's most famous beach. Cruise ship visitors flock to this three-kilometer arc of golden sand and gentle surf, as do families looking for a fun day at the shore.

Water hues range from clear turquoise in the shallows to deep cobalt blue, and the calm waters are perfect for swimming. Many hawkers patrol the sands, but a polite "No, thank you" will keep them at bay.

If you feel like indulging in a little shopping, midway along the beach is the Grande Anse Craft and Spice Market , another popular stop for cruise ship visitors who are searching for something special to take home.

Many of the best hotels in Grenada lie along the shores of Grand Anse. Steps from the sand, Spice Island Beach Resort is one of the island's most famous boutique hotels and one of the best luxury all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean.

Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park is a unique submerged gallery that also serves as an artificial reef in a marine protected area. It lies on the west coast of Grenada, a short drive north of St. George's at Moliniere Bay.

Created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, the sculptures range from Amerindian petroglyphs to life-size figures cast from local children.

Divers, snorkelers, and glass-bottom boat passengers can admire this underwater exhibition, although coming face-to-face with these sculptures below sea level is the best way to appreciate their artistry. Visiting this one-of-a-kind attraction is one of the most memorable things to do in Grenada. Be sure to pack a waterproof camera to get shots of the unique finds and colorful fish you'll see during your adventure.

One of the prettiest port towns in the Caribbean, St. George's curves along a horseshoe-shaped harbor backed by volcanic hills.

This colorful capital of Grenada is popular with boaters, who dock in the busy harbor, called the Carenage. Brick and stone buildings with red-tiled roofs line the streets, where locals sell spices and crafts.

Two of the main historical attractions in the city are Fort George , built by the French in the early 18th century, and Fort Frederick . Both offer beautiful views over the town and the sea.

Another one of the top things to do in St. George is visit the House of Chocolate . Here, you can browse exhibits on the local cocoa industry and sample decadent sweet treats. This is a must for chocoholics!

To soak up some local color and buy fresh tropical fruits and spices, stop by the popular Saturday morning market at St. George's Market Square .

While not technically on Grenada, the island of Carriacou (carry-a-cou), also known as the "Land of Reefs," is a beautiful day trip destination. This pretty isle lies just northeast of Grenada, an easy, 90-minute boat trip away. It is one of the most popular places to visit when on vacation in Grenada, which is why it makes our list of the area's best attractions.

Both white- and black-sand beaches fringe the coast, and coral reefs lie offshore with great opportunities for diving and snorkeling. Nearby Sandy Island , in a Marine Protected Area, is also excellent for snorkeling.

Carriacou has a number of small villages, but the main population center is Hillsborough. The Carriacou Museum here displays Carib, European, and African artifacts, and the island offers several hiking trails.

You can access Carriacou via high-speed ferry from St. George's Carenage (a 60- to 90-minute trip) or on flights from Grenada's Point Saline International Airport.

Built in 1705 by the French, Fort George lies on the promontory to the west of the harbor and is Grenada's oldest fort . It was built to protect the harbor, but stands mostly derelict today.

The main draw here is the spectacular 360-degree view across the town's red-tiled roofs and church spires to the harbor and sea beyond. You'll also spot a few of the original cannons, which are still fired on special occasions. The police headquarters currently sit on a section of the property.

Be prepared for a hot and steamy hike up a flight of stairs to reach the fort.

Address: Church Street, St. George's

Sampling fragrant spices is one of the most unique things to do in Grenada. You'll find plenty of interesting places to visit where you can learn about the spice industry and see how the plants are cultivated.

About an hour's drive from St. George's, the Belmont Estate offers a variety of tours that explore the organic farm and its tropical fruits and spices. At this 17th-century plantation, you can also learn about the cultivation of cocoa and how the fruit is made into chocolate (with tastings along the way). Serious chocoholics can sign up for a tour, which includes a scrumptious three-course lunch spotlighting chocolate in every course.

Other fun things to do here include browsing the small heritage museum and shopping for chocolate-related treats and local crafts. Children will enjoy the petting zoo and all the animal residents, including goats, donkeys, tortoises, and talking parrots.

Laura Herb & Spice Garden offers a more intimate experience. Your visit begins with a guided tour through the beautiful spice gardens, with tastings and tips on health benefits.

After all these tours, you can stock up on nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, and other goodies in the on-site gift shops.

Annandale Falls plunges 10 meters into a pool tucked amid tropical foliage. It's located in the mountains north of St. George's.

The short trail to the waterfall begins at the Annandale Falls Centre. Along the way, you'll see beautiful tropical flowers and foliage, like ferns and wild ginger.

One of the highlights of a visit is watching fearless local divers leap into the water from the top — but be prepared that they may ask for a donation. You can also swim at the base of the cascades, and change rooms are available.

If you're seeking a more peaceful waterfall experience, Royal Mount Carmel Falls , on the island's east coast, is worth visiting. The hike is only about 10 minutes, and you can slide down the rocks and cool off in the crystal-clear pools.

Grand Etang National Park offers some beautiful rainforest scenery and rewarding hikes. Travelers of all ages, from families toting young children to honeymooning couples can hike these trails, and the park hosts a rich diversity of plants and animals.

One of the focal points of the park is the beautiful crater-formed Grand Etang Lake. From the Grand Etang visitor center, several trails lead through the park, ranging from the 30-minute self-guided Morne LaBaye Trail , with many specimens of native plants, to the more challenging Concord Falls Trail , which passes a trio of cascades with swimming areas.

Other popular hikes include the Shoreline Trail around the Grand Etang Lake; the Seven Sisters Falls hike; and the Mount Qua Qua Trail, a three-hour uphill trek with views over the forest. Along the trails, you can spot many species of birds, orchids, and towering rainforest trees.

The inner harbor and anchorage, known as the Carenage, is the lively hub of St. George's. This horseshoe-shaped point of interest is a lovely place to wander along the waterfront and soak up daily life.

Watch fisherman unload their catch from colorful wooden schooners, spy locals haggling for the fresh catch of the day, and witness supplies being unloaded from container ships. There is a lot of action happening at this busy attraction.

You can also browse the shops, or relax at one of the restaurants selling fresh seafood and snacks. Wharf Road runs along the harbor offering great views of the area.

While you're here, look for the bronze Christ of the Deep statue. It was donated by the owners of a luxury liner in gratitude for local rescue efforts after the ship exploded off Grand Anse.

The best time to visit St. George's Market Square is on a Saturday morning, when the market really bustles. Set in the heart of downtown, a mere block from the Cruise Ship Terminal, Market Square is home to the region's best spice market and is considered one of the city's top attractions.

This is where you'll find heaps of fresh fruits and veggies overflowing their baskets in a kaleidoscope of colors. Bring your appetite, not to mention a camera, as you'll want to enjoy these local goods in every way possible.

The earlier you arrive, the more selection you'll have, but don't worry, there's no shortage of tasty and creative things on sale here. From spices to papaya to jewelry and touristy kitsch, you're sure to find something to excite your inner shopaholic.

Fort Frederick offers stunning views of St. George's and the sea. You'll find it at the end of winding hairpin turns atop Richmond Hill.

The fort has an interesting history. The French began construction of Fort Frederick in 1779, and the British then completed it in 1791. It is nicknamed the "backwards facing fort" because its cannons face inland instead of out to sea, thanks to the French who feared a surprise land attack after they used this successful strategy with the British. In 1850, the fort was abandoned completely until it was later occupied by the Grenadian military.

A small entrance fee gives you access to the site, but the views are worth it.

Morne Rouge Bay is usually a quieter alternative to Grand Anse Beach. It's located one bay south of Grand Anse, near the southern tip of Grenada. Calm, jade-green seas slosh upon this one-and-a-half-kilometer crescent of white sand making this one of the safest beaches in Grenada for swimming .

Bring the kids along for a family-friendly day by the sea or settle on the sand with your loved one for an amorous couples' day out. No matter who you're traveling with, you won't be disappointed by a few hours spent at this lovely beach!

Resort restaurants along the beach offer snacks, and the lush foliage fringing the beach provides plenty of shady areas to sit and relax. You can also rent sun loungers here, as well as paddleboards and snorkel equipment.

Levera National Park, on the northeastern shore of the island, offers some beautiful and dramatic scenery where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic.

You'll find some inviting, relatively undeveloped beaches here. Backed by cliffs, coral-sand Bathway Beach offers pretty views of the pointy-peaked Sugar Loaf (Levera Island) and other islands in the distance, while a natural offshore reef affords good protection for swimming. This means it's an ideal beach for families with young children to spend a day.

Levera Beach is also pretty, with less visitors than Bathway. Sea turtles frequently nest on the beaches here.

Also of interest is Levera Pond , a water-filled, ancient volcanic crater and an important habitat for birds such as black-necked stilts and herons.

Stop by the visitor center at the entrance to the park before you visit to find out more about these important habitats.

On the Atlantic side of the island, La Sagesse lies on the former estate of Lord Brownlow, Queen Elizabeth's cousin. His beachside residence has been renovated and turned into a romantic hotel and restaurant fronting a golden-sand beach, with great swimming in the protected bay.

The restaurant here is a lovely spot for lunch, with locally caught seafood dishes and produce plucked fresh from the organic garden. After lunch, you can explore the nature trails that lead up through the windswept hills, with pretty views over the ocean.

The area is also great for birding. Many avian species make their home in the area's scrub forests, mangroves, and salt ponds. This is a fun day trip far from the crowds on the well-trodden tourist track.

Five kilometers northeast of Carriacou, Petite Martinique is even quieter than its neighbor and equally beautiful. Fishing is the mainstay of this tiny island, and you can watch the locals haul in their catch, or stroll along the beaches and chat with boat builders as they work.

This is truly an island getaway, with few tourist facilities except a couple of guesthouses and family-run restaurants, but you'll find plenty of local color. Many boaters stop here to dine at one of the island's restaurants or hike up the piton, the island's highest peak, for fabulous views.

From Carriacou, you can catch a ferry or water taxi across to the island.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Island Hopping : Want to combine a visit to Grenada with some other Caribbean islands? Just to the north of Grenada lies St. Vincent and the Grenadines , a spectacular chain of emerald islands, where sailing and other water sports are among the top things to do. North of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia is another classic Caribbean beauty, with lush volcanic peaks and luxury resorts.

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Grenada Tourism & Travel Guide

Information about our beautiful, unspoiled Caribbean Island called Grenada.

Grenada has many activities to offer visitors such as hiking, island tours, sailing, scuba diving and much more.

Helping you plan your vacation in our paradise!

Where is Grenada?

Grenada is the most southerly of the Windward islands in the Caribbean, and is a tiny point on most world maps with an area of only 133 square miles.

Grenada has a population of about 100,000 and is 21 miles long and 12 miles wide.

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Originally from Germany, Monja moved here in 1992 and met Neil, her husband and business partner. Monja worked in the tourism industry for a couple of years and started to develop the Grenada Explorer website as she saw that there was no comprehensive source of information for visitors to Grenada. Monja has seen many expats come and go over the years, and has a different perspective to newcomers to the island. You can see from the blog that she enjoys discovering new things about our island and sharing it with everyone. Monja loves hashing and hiking, exploring the island, trying out the tours, restaurants, and visiting the many beaches around the island.

Neil is Grenadian and Monja's partner and fellow hasher. Having grown up here, his point of view and pace of live is markedly different from what you would expect if you come from a more developed country. The way things are done can make most visitors throw up their hands in frustration and want to run around screaming... some do. Between Neil and Monja, you should get a more or less balanced view of life in Grenada! There is just no time to be bored here, too much to do and see.

Polly is the newest member of the Grenada Explorer team, but just as passionate about living in Grenada and experiencing everything that the island has to offer. She has lived in the West Indies since 2010 and couldn't imagine ever returning to England... why would you?! Polly loves to be out and about, exploring our beautiful island (above and below water) and meeting new people.

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Water Sports in Grenada From Scuba Diving to Kayaking!

Try scuba diving on Grenada's beautiful reefs, snorkelling over the world's first underwater sculpture park, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding around the thriving mangroves. Jet skiing, flyboarding or powerboat tours are thrilling too! Read More...

Grenadian Cuisine Grenada's Best Food To Try!

Grenada has a wonderful selection of traditional recipes to try, ranging from wholesome savoury dishes to sweet treats. Healthy and delicious, you’ll be drooling over the options available during your stay. Read More...

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Grenada is accessible from major international cities including Miami, New York, Charlotte, Toronto, London, Frankfurt and from the Caribbean. International flights land at Maurice Bishop International Airport. Visitors wishing to continue to the sister isle of Carriacou have a short trip by inter-island charter to Lauriston Airport or ferry ride. Many international cruise lines serving our islands depart from Florida and Puerto Rico.

Required Documents

  A valid passport and return ticket are required for all visitors. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from your arrival into the country. Proof of citizenship bearing a photograph is acceptable from British, Canadian and American citizens. As mandated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, all travellers from the USA must provide a passport to enter or re-enter the USA on vacation or business travel. A visa is not required for entry from citizens of the USA, Canada, UK and most European countries, British Commonwealth, most Caribbean countries, South Korea and Japan. Review the complete country visa requirements for Grenada.

TRAVELLING TO GRENADA BY AIR

International.

• JetBlue Airways operates a daily non-stop service from JFK, New York. A weekly (Saturday) direct flight from Boston starts November 4, 2023.
• American Airlines operates a daily non-stop service from Miami and a weekly direct flight from Charlotte (seasonal).
• Air Canada operates non-stop winter service from Toronto, 4 times weekly starting October 29, 2023.  
• Sunwing operates a non-stop weekly (Sunday) winter service starting November 5, 2023 

UNITED KINGDOM

• British Airways operates three weekly flights from London, Gatwick.
• Virgin Atlantic Airways operates two weekly flights from London, Heathrow Airport. 
• Condor operates a weekly flight (Sunday) from Frankfurt in the winter season (November to May).
• Caribbean Airlines offers daily flights between Grenada and Trinidad and Barbados. 
• interCaribbean Airways operates daily flights between Grenada and Barbados with connections in St. Vincent.  
• SVG Air operates between St. Vincent, through Carriacou, five times a week.
• LIAT provides flights into Grenada from multiple Caribbean islands.

Grenada's Jet Centre Facility

Visitors to the island now have the option of utilizing our jet facility at the Maurice Bishop International Airport catering to first class/premium passengers and business general aviation services. The luxurious 4,200 sq ft Jet Centre offers an elegant and purposeful mix of indulging comforts and VIP conveniences, from finely appointed lounge spaces, deluxe catering options and spa shower facilities to private Customs and Immigration processing, high-speed Wi-Fi, luxury golf cart transportation to / from your aircraft and state-of-art security screening.

• A modern purpose built terminal located close to the St. George’s Harbour caters for several cruise lines.

Colourful coral reefs, spectacular shipwrecks, exhilarating drift dives and a unique underwater sculpture park – Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique have it all.

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There are no special alerts at this time.

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• No Covid-19 testing required
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• No health declaration form required
• No quarantine on arrival required

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Grenada Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 17, 2023, grenada - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Grenada.   

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Grenada.

If you decide to travel to Grenada: 

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
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Granada is one of the most visited destinations in Spain because of the Alhambra , its museums and monuments , its cuisine , and its close ties to flamenco music. In this guide, you'll discover the exciting history of Granada and its Nasrid legacy, which can still be found all over the city.

GranadaTravel Guide

• General Information
• Attractions
• How to get to Granada
• Transport in Granada
• Where to stay in Granada
• Where to eat
• Granada in 24 hours

Why visit Granada?

Granada is the reflection of the splendor of the Nasrid period, present in many of its monuments and in its architectural jewel par excellence: The Alhambra . Considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world , this palace complex welcomes millions of tourists from all over the world every year.

Along with its undeniable heritage attraction, Granada offers three landscapes in one : beach, mountain, and city. On the same day, it's possible to ski in the Sierra Nevada , swim in the sea, and stroll through Granada's most popular neighborhoods: the Albaicin and Sacromonte .

Granada is also a paradise for art lovers, who'll encounter flamenco shows, historical monuments, and specialized museums . Moreover, Granada's "hippie" atmosphere is unlike any other city in Spain.

Where to start?

The most visited monument in Spain is the Alhambra , the symbol of Granada . It's the perfect place to travel back in time to the Nasrid period . Also, walking through neighborhoods such as the Albaicin , Sacromonte,  or Realejo is a great way to learn about the lifestyles of the different cultures that have co-existed in Granada throughout its history .

If you have limited time, we recommend you consult the itinerary we propose to see Granada in 24 hours . Also, you can't leave the city without sampling the best dishes of Granada's cuisine or without experiencing a flamenco show. 

Still haven't booked your hotel stay?

You can book all kinds of hotels at the lowest price possible by checking out the link below. Payment is made directly at the hotel, and discounts can reach up to 75%.

• Hotels in Granada - Book online at the best price.

top activities

Alhambra Private Tour Magnificent architecture, breathtakingly beautiful mountain views and legendary history: immerse yourself in the magic of the  Alhambra  on this private tour.

Alhambra Guided Tour Stunning gardens , historic buildings , and the most  breathtaking views Granada  the highlights of this Alhambra guided tour without access to the Nasrid Palaces.

Granada's Hammam Al Ándalus Arab Baths Unwind at the feet of the Alhambra, at Granada’s Hammam Al Ándalus, built on the ruins of an old 16th century Arab bath. An age-old tradition in Granada.

Jardines de Zoraya Flamenco Tablao Be enchanted by the passion of flamenco  in the Jardines de Zoraya restaurant, located in the heart of the Albaicín neighbourhood in Granada!

Granada Flamenco Show Experience the spirit of flamenco at this show in the center of Granada at La Alboreá. Let the song, dance & sound of the guitar take over your senses!

Offer: Alhambra + Albaicin & Sacromonte Guided Tour Make the most of your trip to Granada on this tour of the unique Albaicin and Sacromonte neighbourhoods, and a guided visit of the iconic Alhambra.

Flamenco Show at Tablao Casa Ana Experience the Casa Ana Tablao's flamenco show , an unforgettable performance that blends tradition , emotion , and passion - you won't regret it.

Private Tour of Granada Discover the hidden treasures and secrets of the magical city of Granada when you take our fantastic private tour , exclusively just for you and your part

Day Trip to the Alpujarras Lanjarón, Pórtugos, Capileira, Pampaneira & Trevélez star in this excursion to the villages of the Alpujarra . You can choose between two different routes.

Flamenco Show at Cueva Flamenca La Comino At this  flamenco show in Cueva Flamenca La Comino , you'll feel the  magic and power of Andalusian folklore in an  Arabic-style cave at the foot of the Alhambra .

Albaicin & Sacromonte Guided Tour History, tradition, legends, music... there's so much to be discovered on this Albaicin and Sacramonte tour , 2 of the most emblematic neighborhoods in Granada.

Free Walking Tour of Granada What better way to get to know Granada than on a free walking tour with a local guide?! On this tour you'll see the hisotric centre with a local expert .

Cordoba Day Trip Explore the most important Al-Andalus province with this Cordoba Day Trip. Discover flower-filled courtyards, Muslim arches and the mythical Mosque-Cathedral.

Granada Tourist Train Discover Granada's most emblematic monuments and historic neighbourhoods in a fun and comfortable way: on a sightseeing tourist train!

Granada Cathedral & Royal Chapel Tour Discover two of Granada's most famous buildings on this tour . You'll visit the symbolic Cathedral and the Royal Chapel where the Catholic monarchs lie.

Granada: Historic Downtown Adventure Quest Check out this exciting clue game adventure in Granada . Engage in a captivating treasure hunt, where you'll explore the city while solving  riddles and puzzles .

Flamenco in Sacromonte Experiencing the art of flamenco is a must-do part of any trip to Granada. Enjoy this incredible display of Andalusian culture in a traditional Sacromonte cave.

Snowshoe Hike in Sierra Nevada Put on your snowshoes and explore the peaks of the Sierra Nevada. Discover the snowy landscapes of Granada on this guided hike!

Granada is a picturesque city full of history . On this segway tour, you'll see the most fascinating places and be able to choose from three different routes.

Cahorros de Monachil Hike This hiking route through the Cahorros de Monachil is one of the easiest yet prettiest treks just a few kilometres from the city of Granada.

Granada Cármenes Tour Our Granada Cármenes Tour is perfect for you if you're looking to learn more about the local culture in Granada. You'll walk through the Abaicín neighbourhood.

Flamenco Show at La Soleá Discover La Soleá, one of the most renowned tablaos in Granada, and be captivated by the mesmerising, passionate art of flamenco . Unmissable!

Sierra Nevada Day Trip The rugged white peaks in Granada have captivated travellers for centuries . Admire the region's impressive landscapes with this Sierra Nevada Day Trip.

Roman Villa of Salar Day Trip Travel back in time to the age of the Roman Empire on our day trip to the Roman Villa of Salar, a little-known archaeological treasure in Granada.

Caminito del Rey Day Trip Make the most of your stay in Granada to discover this unique path located 105 meters above the Gaitanes Gorge, with this Caminito del Rey Day Trip.

Granada Tapas Tour Come and discover the most authentic side of Granada in this tapas tour around the city . Immerse yourself in the culture and taste of this Andalusian gem.

This hike, known as the Gollizno Route Trail will allow you to discover an incredible natural landscape in the province of Granada packed with history .

Tabernas Desert & Fort Bravo Day Trip Travel back in time to the Wild West with our Tabernas Desert & Fort Bravo Day Trip. You'll discover one of Andalusia's most unique and arid landscapes.

Make the most of your time in Andalusia to explore the regional capital on this day trip to Seville from Granada . Discover the city's most iconic monuments.

Úbeda & Baeza Excursion Two Spanish Renaissance gems declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO await us on this excursion to Úbeda and Baeza from Granada.

Guadix & Gorafe Day Trip The Guadix cave houses and the Gorafe megalithic monuments are a must-see in the province of Granada. Discover them with this Guadix and Gorafe day trip .

Antequera Day Trip The Dolmens and the Torcal are two of the great treasures within this municipality of Malaga , discover them with this Antequera Day Trip from Granada.

Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco en Palacio Live a night full of magic by enjoying a flamenco show at the  Palacio de los Olvidados . You'll see the purest form of  Granadan art !

Granada Private Day Trips Discover the rich history of Seville, Malaga, Cadiz, Cordoba or Ronda. Explore these Andalusian cities with the Granada Private Day Trips with a private guide.

Granada Electric Bike Tours On this electric bike tour in Granada, we'll see nature, history and incredible viewpoints . Visit the Albaicín and Sacromonte or Dehesa del Generalife.

La Luna Ravine Hiking Tour Explore Granada's natural landscapes on this excursion to Lecrin Valley. You'll see enchanting Andalusian villages and hike the Barranco de la Luna ravine!

Granada's Arab Legacy Tour On this tour of Al-Andalus Granada , we'll visit the Dar al-Horra palace, the Maristan (old hospital), and El Bañuelo to learn all about the city's Arab legacy .

Sacromonte Abbey Guided Tour Discover the Sacromonte Abbey; the birthplace of Christianity in Granada. Discover the history and art of the abbey, including the symbolic Holy Caves.

Want to enjoy the best views of the Alhambra all lit up ? Explore the Albaicin neighborhood at nightfall and see the beauty of Granada from several viewpoints.

La Rijana Beach Snorkelling Experience Step away from the city for a day and come and snorkel with us! On our La Rijana Beach Snorkelling Experience, in the town of Gualchos, you'll swim peacefully.

Alhambra & Nasrid Palaces Tour Discover the incredible history and architecture of the impressive  Alhambra, the Generalife and Nasrid Palaces  thanks to your passionate and experienced guide.

Costa Granadina + Caves of Nerja Day Trip On this day trip to the Costa Granadina and the Caves of Nerja , discover the charms of Almuñécar and visit one of Malaga's natural marvels.

The best guide of Granada

Written by travelers for travelers, this guide to Granada offers useful information for tourists about the Alhambra and how to make the most of their time and money. Find out our Top 10 landmarks in Granada, discover its traditional cuisine , and find out the best places to stay in Granada.

The information in this guide to Granada has been compiled as of February 2024 . If you find any mistakes or find anything we should modify, please get in touch with us.

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Grenada PM wants more inclusion in Caribbean tourism industry

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada (CMC) — Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell Monday called for more inclusion of stakeholders within the region’s tourism industry,  warning that failure to do so could seriously hamper the development of the industry.

Addressing the opening of the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Caribbean Sustainable Tourism Conference (STC 2024), hosted by the CTO in partnership with the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), Mitchell told delegates that any discussion on sustainable tourism needs to take into consideration the partnerships with the various stakeholders.

“We cannot sustain ourselves,” said Mitchell, informing the conference that while he had prepared a speech for the event, he would not be delivering it.

“So it means that when we have our conversations, you probably have to be a little more inclusive and invite the farmers, the fishermen etc etc, the supply chain people to help sustain this tourism industry. which is our crown jewel in the Caribbean.”

Mitchell warned that failure to do so would result in a couple of things including “these people are not going to defend the tourism sector and it also makes it easier for the politician not to defend, the tourism sector”.

He told the conference having worked for a number of hotels in the past, he shared a view of the sector “that was pampered, treated quite well and to a large extent sort of treated our people by rewarding them with low paying unskilled jobs”.

“And there is some element of that, and so in Grenada’s case. Once upon a time there was a very deliberate public education campaign that tourism was every body’s business and the question is why did we have to do that?

“People did not believe that tourism is everybody’s business. They did not believe that tourism was good for them and good for the country. I think we have come a long way from that and that the average Grenadian, the average Caribbean person accepts, understand the importance of tourism.”

Mitchell said however that the tourism industry itself “needs to do a better job of making sure that it integrates, connects with, supports, encourages other sectors of society that needs to grow as quickly as tourism has grown to ensure that tourism remains sustainable.”

He said in Grenada for example, the government is under “severe pressure” to relax the rules as well as the concessions for the duties we pay for getting the food needed by the hotels into the island.

“Many of our hoteliers will tell you it is difficult to get the type of food in quantities and quality that they need to sustain and to remain competitive. But if the only solution is to import all of the food, I am guaranteeing you that the tourism will not be sustained and I think we know that and therefore we owe it to ourselves, our farmers, our fishermen, our agro-processors…to ensure to help them to be part of the solution that we need to make our food more sustainable, make our food healthier…”

“So if we are talking partnerships let us go beyond having a room where we are talking to ourselves and that we speak to the persons who could assist us with that partnership,” he said, making reference to the fact that there is also need for unity in dealing with other issues in the sector, including the provision of adequate supply of water and dealing with the problems associated with mosquitoes.

He said in the Caribbean, most of the water now comes from desalination plants “but the reality is…we have not planned for the growth in tourism by ensuring that we invest in water conservation and the smart use of water, in recycling the use of water etc etc etc”.

Centred around the theme of the 5 Ps – People, Planet, Prosperity, Purpose and Partnership, the CTO said that STC 2024 aims to address pressing issues facing the Caribbean tourism industry and foster collaboration among stakeholders to promote sustainable development.

“The conference is poised to deliver impactful discussions and initiatives that will drive positive change within the region’s tourism sector.”

In his address to the opening ceremony, the executive chairman of the Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart, acknowledged that the main problem facing the tourism industry in the region is understanding visitors who are representing a different generation than in the past.

Sandals International President Adam Stewart (Photo: CMC)

“There are multitudes of generations at any given time in any segment of tourism…and the magic is to figure out how to get them to come here continuously and on an ongoing basis and to widen that net of inclusivity,” said Stewart, who is also the ATL Group and Sandals Foundation president.

“Customers don’t owe us anything…they do not have the loyalty of the former explorers, they have the internet to guide them without ever leaving their rooms,” Stewart said, noting that the most powerful of the theme of the conference is that of partnership.

“The most powerful part of the five Ps is partnership, the public sector has a role, the private sector has a role to the degree to which those two things come together to determines your gains and your future,” he told the opening ceremony, adding that there has been more changes and advancements in tourism globally in the last decade than there have been in the last 50 years.

“Our job through my eyes in the short time I get to talk is unity, it’s for all of us to come together, it’s to stand together, to take head on the challenges that we face and to find a way to include everybody,” he said, recalling the problems faced by the industry due to the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“We as business leaders, we as policy makers in government have to dig deeper, we have to stop being reliable or stop saying this is government business or the private sector business. The sooner we come together with the collective to say that this is our own, that is Caribbean business, is the sooner we will get advancement,” Stewart said.

Focusing on the need for training for workers in the tourism industry, he said there are minimum standards that customers will not accept.

“So, we have to prepare, even if it is mother nature, for the arrival of the visitor that has the choice to go anywhere in the world but choose to come here in the region,” he said.

Dozens of speakers are scheduled to address the conference.

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