Visiting Grenada: Plan the Ultimate Grenada Vacation

Thinking about visiting Grenada? Keep reading for what you need to know to plan the ultimate Grenada vacation. 

About 100 miles off the coast of the South American mainland you’ll find the stunning island nation of Grenada. This somewhat unassuming destination is actually a secret gem of the Caribbean. 

On my trip there, I was pleasantly surprised by how clear the water was and the number of activities Grenada offered. In this post, I’m more than excited to spill the details! I’ll share with you my ultimate Grenada travel guide, including comprehensive info on where to say, what to do, packing advice, travel tips, and anything else you’ll need for the perfect vacation. 

Let’s dig in!

Is Grenada Worth Visiting?

Right off the bat, let’s talk about what exactly makes Grenada so special. Also known as the “Spice Isle,” this small island is packed full of natural beauty, rich culture, and thrilling adventures. To keep things simple, here’s a quick list of reasons to add Grenada to your Caribbean bucket list (if you’re still on the fence):

• Unspoiled Beaches: Grenada holds some of the purest and most stunning beaches in the Caribbean. From the famous Grand Anse Beach with its white sands and crystal-clear waters to the secluded La Sagesse Beach, there’s a beach for every type of traveler. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. 
  
• Rich Culture and History: Immerse yourself in Grenada’s vibrant culture and history. Explore historic forts like Fort George and Fort Frederick, visit the Grenada National Museum, or take a stroll through the colorful streets of St. George’s, the capital city.
  
• Diverse Cuisine: Grenadian cuisine is a delightful mix of African, Caribbean, and European influences. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the national dish and a local favorite, “Oil Down,” a hearty one-pot meal made with breadfruit, salted meat, coconut milk, and various vegetables, herbs, and spices. Other island specialties include roti, callaloo soup, crab back, curried goat, and the famous Grenadian “fine” chocolate. 
  
• Spice Plantations: As the “Spice Isle,” Grenada is renowned for its spices, particularly nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and ginger. Visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation and processing of spices and sample fresh, aromatic spices.
  
• Nature and Outdoor Adventure: Grenada is simply a nature-lovers paradise – hike picturesque trails, swim in crystal clear water, snorkel among colorful fish, admire stunning waterfalls, dive deep among the stunning coral reefs – you name it! As a waterfall chaser, I was shocked by the number of waterfalls in Grenada. I was able to visit multiple waterfalls in one day—it’s like I was back in Kauai, Hawaii.
  
• Warm and Welcoming Locals: One of the highlights of visiting Grenada is the warm hospitality of its people. The locals, known as Grenadians, are friendly, welcoming, and always ready to share their culture and traditions with visitors.
  
• Safety and Security: Grenada is known for being one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean (just as safe as Aruba). The island has a low crime rate, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a peaceful and secure vacation.

On top of all of this, I would say Grenada is fairly easy for Americans to visit. Not only does everyone speak English, but USD is widely accepted (which eliminates a lot of the barriers to traveling to other countries). 

Packing Tips for Grenada

Grenada packing list

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Packing for a trip to Grenada is a lot like packing for a trip to Aruba or deciding what to wear in Miami. Prioritize lightweight and breathable clothing such as cotton or linen outfits to stay cool in the tropical climate. Bring several swimsuits for the beaches and water activities, along with comfortable sandals, flip-flops, and sturdy walking shoes for exploring the island. A wide-brimmed sun hat and UV-protective sunglasses are essential for shielding yourself from the strong Caribbean sun, while a lightweight rain jacket can be handy for sudden tropical showers.

Include reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the marine environment, insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes, and aloe vera gel for soothing any potential sunburns. A waterproof phone case can be useful for beach outings and water-based adventures, and a small backpack will help carry your essentials during day trips.

Don’t forget your travel insurance documents and copies of important papers like your passport, ID, and travel itinerary. Bringing a camera or a good smartphone will ensure you can capture the stunning scenery and maybe even some Insta-worthy moments! With these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy everything Grenada has to offer.

👉Learn more about my favorite Travel Insurance 👈

Where to Stay in Grenada

Grenada offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels and eco-friendly lodges. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly retreat, Grenada has something for everyone.

On my visit to the island, I stayed at the Royalton Grenada – a very popular choice. Located just a few steps from Magazine Beach, in Bamboo, this place is a great option for anyone looking to stay close to the waves. Most of the resorts in Grenada are all-inclusive, including this one. Overall, I was impressed with the spacious rooms, stunning beachfront access, and wide range of resort activities. The food was lackluster in my opinion, but if you choose to stay here there are plenty of local restaurants nearby!

For those seeking luxury and relaxation, Grand Anse Beach is a great option, featuring high-end resorts with stunning ocean views and top-notch amenities. St. George’s, the capital city, offers a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences, with boutique hotels nestled in the heart of the city, providing easy access to local markets, restaurants, and attractions.

For a more tranquil and secluded experience, consider staying in the lush, green interior of the island, where eco-lodges and guesthouses offer a serene escape surrounded by nature.

Below are some of my recommended places to stay in Grenada:

Luxury Grenada Resort: Spice Island Beach Resort
🌟 8.4/10 Book Here

Spice Island Beach Resort is hands down one of the most luxurious resorts on Grand Anse Beach. This all-inclusive resort offers top-notch suites, some with private plunge pools. You’ll have everything you need here – including a full-service spa, beachfront dining, and a fitness center.  With its prime elegant design, panoramic ocean views, and exquisite dining, you’re bound to have a truly memorable experience.

Mid-Range Grenada Resort: True Blue Bay Boutique Resort
🌟 8.2/10 Book Here

For convenient and comfortable, yet still affordable, accommodations in Grenada – True Blue Bay Boutique Resort may be the option for you. This eco-friendly resort offers cozy, individually styled rooms and suites, some with kitchenettes and beautiful bay views. Guests can enjoy amenities like free Wi-Fi, multiple swimming pools, a dive center, a spa, and a fitness center. The resort’s Dodgy Dock Restaurant & Lounge Bar is a popular spot for delicious Caribbean cuisine and vibrant nightlife. Its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a perfect spot for a beautiful stay on True Blue Bay.

Planning your Grenada Itinerary

This unique Caribbean island is a treasure trove of thrilling activities and breathtaking sights. So to make sure you’re getting the best you can out of your trip, I would recommend creating at least a general Grenada itinerary for your trip. This will ensure you get to prioritize all of your top things to do in Grenada.

Stunning beaches, hiking trails, and marine life are given for any tropical island – but what about deep sea shipwrecks, massive waterfalls, and an underwater sculpture park? Experience it all in Grenada. Below, I’ll outline all of the best activities and attractions to help you choose exactly what to do on your dream Grenada vacation. 

Grenada Beaches

With the stark white sand and crystal clear waters, you can’t really go wrong with any beach on the island. Still, there are certain differences to make note of between locations. 

If you’re visiting Grenada as a family, be sure to pack all of my favorite kid’s beach essentials.

Grand Anse Beach

Let’s start out with a clear favorite among locals and visitors alike: Grand Anse Beach. Stretching over two miles along the southwestern coast, this is the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply getting lost in a good book.

One of the highlights of Grand Anse is the vibrant local culture. On the weekends, locals set up colorful stalls selling fresh fruit, drinks, and local crafts There’s also an abundance of different activities, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, jet-skiing, and beachfront dining. At the beach’s north end, explore the reef to find plenty of vibrant tropical fish, as well as sponges, sea urchins, and squid.

Morne Rouge Beach

Morne Rouge Beach, also known as BBC Beach (short for “Bathway Beach Club”), is another beautiful beach in Grenada located just south of Grand Anse Beach. With a horseshoe-shaped bay nestled behind hills, It’s a more secluded alternative to Grand Anse, offering a quieter and more relaxed Grenada Beach vibe. 

The beach is known for its soft white sand and calm, clear waters, making it ideal for safe and easy swimming. You may even choose to rent a kayak or some snorkels to take advantage of the occasion! 

Morne Rouge Beach is also home to several beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine and refreshing drinks. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Grenada, away from the crowds.

Magazine Beach

With stunning and exotic marine life like blue tangs, angelfish, and sergeant majors, Magazine Beach surely earns its nickname as ‘Aquarium Beach’. Not to mention the colorful coral reefs, sea fans, and sea rods. You won’t want to forget your snorkel!

In addition to its natural beauty and peaceful allure, Magazine Beach is a top choice for foodies. If you’re hungry you’ll have to make a tough decision between freshly caught seafood, juicy burgers, blazin’ jerk chicken, and tender ribs. Stop by on a Saturday to catch a BBQ lunch and live local music.

Bathway Beach

Pronounced ‘bat-way’ beach, this rugged spot is sure to leave you breathless. With crushing waves from the Atlantic, you’ll want to stay within the designated swimming area, protected by a natural rock ledge. From March to June, keep an eye out for leatherback turtles arriving to lay their eggs. In July to August, you just might catch sight of some hatching babies, if you’re lucky. Always be sure to keep your distance to not disturb the wildlife, of course.

Most of the time you’ll enjoy secluded luxury with few other visitors here. The only drawback is the lack of shops and restaurants nearby – so unless a food truck stops by, you’ll need to pack your own snacks and beverages.

Levera Beach

Last but not least, we’ll cover Levera Beach. Keep in mind, these aren’t the only beaches on the island, just some of the more prominent options to add to your Grenada vacation. 

On the northern tip of Grenada, Levera Beach sits as a picturesque stretch of white sand embraced by gentle azure waters. Backed by verdant hills and swaying palms, this secluded haven offers a peaceful retreat. The beach is part of the Levera National Park, known for its diverse birdlife. So for any birdwatchers reading this: don’t forget your binoculars!

I should mention that Levera Beach’s strong currents and crashing waves make it too dangerous for swimming. So take a swim at another Grenada beach and stop here for the views!

Grenada Waterfalls

Grenada is home to over a dozen waterfalls. You don’t need to see them all but you certainly need to see at least one! On my Grenada vacation, I visited Concord Falls and Annandale Falls – I would highly recommend either.

Located just a short drive from St. George’s, Annandale Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls in Grenada. To get to the waterfall itself, from the parking lot, you simply walk 5 minutes or so on a paved trail with lush greenery and flowers on either side.  

The waterfall cascades into a pool below, where visitors can swim and relax in the natural surroundings. You will find folks lined up to jump off a clip into the cool pool of water below. In addition, Annandale Falls has an onsite restaurant with tasty foods and adult beverages. If you’re looking for an easy option, this is your best bet.

Concord Falls, located in the hills of St. John, is a series of three waterfalls – Concord Falls, Au Coin, and Fontainbleu. Of the three, Concord Falls is the easiest to access with a simple walk down a series of steps. Here you can take a swim (be sure to bring your water shoes as it’s a bit rocky) or even jump off a cliff, if you’re adventurous. 

The other two waterfalls require about a 30-45 minute hike from Concord Falls. On your journey to Au Coin Waterfall, the trail will take you through a nutmeg plantation. Similarly, to reach Fontainbleu, the path leads you over multiple rivers. So be prepared to get a little wet and muddy. 

No matter which waterfall you choose at Concord Falls, it will be well worth the journey. 

Seven Sisters Falls, Mt. Carmel Waterfall, and Tufton Hall Waterfall are popular options to look into before making your final Grenada itinerary. Each waterfall is unique, offering a special experience, which makes them all worth a visit if you have the chance. Visit on your own terms or schedule a guided tour!

👉 Learn more about Concord Falls and Fontainbleu Waterfall Tour 👈

National Parks

Grand Etang National Park

Spend a day hiking through this lush rainforest park, home to the beautiful Grand Etang Lake, a volcanic crater lake. The park offers several trails, opportunities for birdwatching, and encounters with local wildlife like Mona monkeys. Plus, my kids love a good hike.

I was able to witness a mama carrying her baby. It was absolutely adorable!

The great thing about Grand Etang National Park is it’s in close proximity to some of the famous Grenada waterfalls. Therefore, several tours offer the option to do a waterfall and Grand Etang National Park on the same day. 

👉Learn more about Grenada Waterfalls and Grand Etang National Park Tour 👈

Levera National Park

Head to the northern coast to explore Levera National Park, known for its stunning beach, lagoon, and diverse birdlife. The park is also home to the Levera Pond, a great spot for birdwatching, and offers views of the nearby islands.

Daytime Grenada Activities

From boating adventures to chocolate tasting, there are plenty of daytime activities to choose from in Grenada.

Discover Grenada’s Agriculture and Rum Distillery

Experience Grenada’s agricultural heritage with a visit to Belmont Estate, a historic plantation. Take a tour to learn about organic farming, chocolate production, and the island’s colonial history. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the estate’s restaurant, featuring local cuisine.

Discover the traditional methods of rum production at the River Antoine Rum Distillery, the oldest functioning water-powered distillery in the Caribbean. Take a guided tour to see the process in action and sample some of the potent rum.

Visit the nutmeg processing station in Gouyave to learn about Grenada’s spice industry. In the evening, enjoy Gouyave’s Fish Friday, a lively street festival featuring fresh seafood, local music, and a vibrant atmosphere.

👉 Learn more about Grenada’s Spice Gardens, Rum, and Chocolate Tour 👈

Explore More of Grenada

Snorkel or dive at the Underwater Sculpture Park, located off the coast near Molinere Bay. This unique attraction features a collection of sculptures that have become artificial reefs, attracting a variety of marine life.

Take a ferry or a short flight to Grenada’s sister island, Carriacou. Explore its pristine beaches, visit the Carriacou Museum, and experience the island’s laid-back charm. Don’t miss the opportunity to snorkel or dive in the clear waters around Sandy Island.

👉 Learn more about Grenada’s Underwater Sculpture Park Excursion 👈

Transportation in Grenada

When exploring the beautiful island on your Grenada vacation, navigating transportation options is key to experiencing all it has to offer. Whether you prefer the freedom of a rental car, the convenience of taxis, or the adventure of public buses, Grenada has transportation choices to suit your needs. 

Here are your transportation options for getting around this stunning Caribbean destination:

• Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring Grenada. You’ll need a temporary Grenadian driver’s permit, which can be obtained from most car rental agencies for a small fee.

👉 Check rental car prices and availability 👈

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available and can be found at hotels, the airport, and popular tourist spots. It’s a good idea to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
  
• Private Driver: Private drivers are the best and most convenient way to see a lot of places in a limited amount of time, without the stress and responsibility of driving. I decided to go this route on my own Grenada vacation and found it to be the perfect choice during my limited time. (Thanks to my driver, Chis (+1-473-537-6581), who did a wonderful job!)
  
• Public Buses: Public buses are a budget-friendly option for getting around Grenada. They cover most of the island but can be crowded and may not run on a strict schedule.
  
• Bicycle Rentals: Some areas in Grenada, especially around St. George’s, are bike-friendly. You can rent bicycles from various rental shops.
  
• Water Taxis: Water taxis operate between certain points on the island, offering a scenic way to travel along the coast.

Grenada Vacation: What You Need to Know When Visiting Grenada

With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and thrilling adventures, Grenada is truly a paradise waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, dive into the crystal-clear waters, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Grenada has something for everyone. 

I personally can not wait to return with my husband and kids!