Did you know that Palm Island is actually five small islands merged into one through decades of sand accumulation and careful landscaping? This 135-acre private paradise was once called Prune Island until its transformation into the palm-studded sanctuary it is today. Located in the southern Grenadines, this exclusive retreat offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and authentic Caribbean experiences that make it one of the region’s most coveted destinations.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Reaching this secluded paradise requires some planning, but the journey is part of the adventure. Most international travelers first fly into Argyle International Airport (SVD) on the main island of St. Vincent. From there, you’ll need to take a short connecting flight to Union Island, followed by a 10-minute boat transfer to Palm Island.
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Alternatively, some travelers choose to fly into Barbados or St. Lucia, then connect to Union Island via regional carriers like SVG Air or Mustique Airways. For the ultimate luxury experience, private charter flights can be arranged directly to Union Island, minimizing travel time.
Best Time to Visit Palm Island
The ideal time to visit Palm Island is during the dry season from December to April when temperatures hover pleasantly around 28°C (82°F) with minimal rainfall. These months offer perfect conditions for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the island’s natural beauty.
Recommended Months
- December to April: Dry season with sunny days and gentle breezes
- May to June: Shoulder season with good weather and fewer visitors
- July to August: Slightly higher chance of rain but still excellent for vacationing
Months to Avoid
- September to November: Peak hurricane season with higher rainfall
- Late August: Increasing precipitation and potential storm activity
- October: Typically the wettest month in the Grenadines
Even during the rainy season, showers are typically brief and followed by sunshine. The island enjoys a year-round tropical climate with temperatures rarely dropping below 24°C (75°F), making it a potential destination any time of year if you’re willing to risk occasional rain showers.
Getting Around Locally
Palm Island’s intimate size makes it wonderfully easy to navigate. At just 135 acres, you can explore most of the island on foot within a day. Walking is the primary mode of transportation, with well-maintained paths connecting the resort, beaches, and hiking trails.
For those who prefer not to walk, the Palm Island Resort offers complimentary bicycles for guests, perfect for a leisurely ride around the island’s perimeter. Golf carts are also available for resort guests with mobility concerns or those who simply prefer a more relaxed exploration.
Need Transportation on the Main Island?
If you’re planning to explore St. Vincent before or after your Palm Island stay, secure your rental car in advance for the best rates.
For island hopping to nearby attractions like the Tobago Cays or Union Island, water taxis and boat excursions can be arranged through your accommodation. These typically depart from the main dock and can be scheduled through the resort’s concierge service.
Where to Stay
Palm Island is home to the exclusive Palm Island Resort & Spa, an all-inclusive private island retreat that offers the perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty. The resort features 43 rooms, suites, and villas, each designed to provide maximum comfort while maintaining a connection to the island’s natural environment.
Palm View Rooms
Set amidst the lush gardens, these rooms offer a peaceful retreat with private patios and are just steps away from the beach.
Beachfront Rooms
Located directly on the beach, these rooms provide stunning ocean views and immediate access to the white sand shores.
Island Lofts & Villas
For ultimate privacy, these spacious accommodations offer separate living areas and expansive terraces overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Secure Your Paradise Retreat
Book your stay at Palm Island Resort & Spa for an unforgettable Caribbean experience.
For those seeking an even more exclusive experience, private villa rentals are available on the island, offering full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and personalized service. These are ideal for families or groups looking for a more independent stay while still enjoying access to the resort’s amenities.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Palm Island offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the fresh flavors of the Caribbean. The Palm Island Resort features two main restaurants and a beach bar, each offering a unique dining atmosphere and menu.
Royal Palm Restaurant
The island’s main dining venue offers a changing menu of international cuisine with a Caribbean twist. Breakfast features tropical fruits and made-to-order specialties, while dinner showcases fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen. Don’t miss the weekly Caribbean night featuring authentic dishes like callaloo soup, grilled spiny lobster, and coconut-infused desserts.
Sunset Grill & Bar
Located right on the beach, this casual open-air restaurant serves lunch and afternoon snacks. The menu includes fresh salads, grilled sandwiches, and local specialties like conch fritters and Vincentian-style fish cakes. The beach bar offers refreshing cocktails, with the island’s signature “Palm Island Smile” (a blend of local rum, coconut cream, and tropical juices) being a must-try.
Don’t miss the chance to try the national dish of St. Vincent & The Grenadines: roasted breadfruit served with fried jackfish. This simple yet flavorful combination perfectly represents the island’s culinary heritage.
For a special experience, private beach dinners can be arranged, allowing you to enjoy a customized menu under the stars with the sound of gentle waves as your backdrop. The resort also hosts weekly manager’s cocktail parties where you can sample local rums and appetizers while mingling with other guests.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Palm Island may be small, but it offers a wealth of activities and attractions to keep visitors engaged. The island’s natural beauty is its primary draw, with five distinct beaches each offering a different experience.
Casuarina Beach
The main beach on the western side of the island features powdery white sand and calm waters perfect for swimming. Beach loungers and hammocks strung between palm trees provide ideal spots for relaxation.
Sunset Beach
As the name suggests, this western-facing beach offers spectacular sunset views. It’s a popular spot for evening cocktails and romantic strolls.
Explore Beyond the Island
Discover guided tours and excursions to nearby attractions like the Tobago Cays Marine Park.
Iguana Trail
This gentle hiking path winds through the island’s interior, offering opportunities to spot native wildlife including the island’s resident population of iguanas. The trail takes about 45 minutes to complete and provides excellent views from the island’s highest point (approximately 90 m or 295 ft).
Cactus Hill
For more adventurous visitors, a hike to Cactus Hill on the eastern side of the island rewards with panoramic views of the surrounding Grenadines. The terrain is more rugged, so proper footwear is recommended.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Palm Island itself doesn’t have formal museums, the cultural experience is woven into daily life and special events at the resort. To immerse yourself in the rich heritage of St. Vincent & The Grenadines, consider these cultural experiences:
Weekly Cultural Nights
The resort hosts regular cultural evenings featuring local musicians playing calypso, soca, and reggae music. These events often include demonstrations of traditional dance and storytelling that share the legends and history of the Grenadines.
Craft Demonstrations
Occasional visits from local artisans provide insight into traditional crafts such as basket weaving, wood carving, and jewelry making using local materials like coconut shells and black coral (though the latter is now protected).
Island Hopping Cultural Tours
Day trips to nearby islands offer opportunities to experience local culture more deeply. Union Island’s colorful market and Bequia’s whaling museum provide fascinating glimpses into the region’s heritage and traditions.
If your visit coincides with Vincy Mas (St. Vincent’s carnival celebration held in late June to early July), consider extending your stay to experience this vibrant cultural festival on the main island. The event features colorful parades, calypso competitions, and street parties that showcase the islands’ African and European influences.
For those interested in historical sites, a day trip to St. Vincent island can include visits to Fort Charlotte, built in the 18th century, and the St. Vincent Botanical Gardens, established in 1765 and considered the oldest botanical garden in the Western Hemisphere.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Palm Island is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island provide ideal conditions for a variety of water sports and activities.
Water Activities
The Palm Island Resort offers complimentary non-motorized water sports equipment including:
- Hobie Cat sailboats for exploring the nearby waters
- Kayaks for paddling along the coastline
- Paddleboards for a more active way to enjoy the calm bays
- Snorkeling gear to discover the vibrant underwater world
Snorkeling & Diving
The waters around Palm Island are home to colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. Snorkeling directly from the beach, you can encounter tropical fish, rays, and occasionally sea turtles. For certified divers, the resort can arrange diving excursions to nearby sites including the world-famous Tobago Cays Marine Park, where you can swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Fishing
Deep-sea fishing excursions can be arranged for those interested in catching mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, and other game fish. Local guides provide all necessary equipment and share their knowledge of the best fishing spots in the area.
Island Hopping
One of the most popular activities is exploring the nearby islands and cays. Don’t miss a trip to the Tobago Cays, a protected marine park consisting of five uninhabited islands surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped coral reef. This natural aquarium offers some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean.
Experience Island Hopping
Book a day trip to the stunning Tobago Cays and other nearby islands for an unforgettable adventure.
For land activities, the resort offers tennis courts, a fitness center, and yoga sessions on the beach. Nature walks around the island provide opportunities to spot native birds and wildlife while learning about the local ecosystem.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Palm Island is generally very safe, with the private nature of the island and resort providing additional security. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to take common-sense precautions and respect local customs.
Safety Tips
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen regularly – the Caribbean sun is stronger than you might expect
- Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially when engaging in outdoor activities
- Follow safety guidelines for water sports and never swim alone
- Be cautious of marine life when snorkeling – admire but don’t touch coral or sea creatures
- Secure valuables in your room safe when not in use
Etiquette & Customs
- Greet locals with a friendly “good morning,” “good afternoon,” or “good evening”
- Dress modestly when visiting local communities outside the resort
- Ask permission before taking photos of local people
- Tipping is appreciated for good service (10-15% is standard)
- Respect the natural environment and never remove shells, coral, or other natural items
Environmental Responsibility: Palm Island is committed to sustainability. Please use water responsibly, dispose of waste properly, and follow guidelines for interacting with wildlife. The resort has eliminated single-use plastics and participates in local conservation efforts.
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), but US dollars are widely accepted at the resort and on nearby islands. Credit cards are accepted at the resort, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for purchases on smaller islands or from local vendors.
Visitor Comments About Palm Island
“Palm Island exceeded all our expectations. The pristine beaches, attentive staff, and incredible snorkeling right off the shore made for an unforgettable honeymoon. We especially loved the sunset cruise around the neighboring islands – pure magic!”
“As someone who’s visited many Caribbean islands, I can confidently say Palm Island offers something truly special. The privacy, the natural beauty, and the genuine warmth of the staff create an atmosphere that’s both luxurious and authentically Caribbean.”
“Our family vacation to Palm Island was worth every penny. The kids loved spotting iguanas on the nature trails and learning to paddleboard in the calm waters. The all-inclusive aspect made everything stress-free, and the memories will last a lifetime.”
Practical Travel Tips
What to Pack
- Lightweight, breathable clothing and swimwear
- Reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent
- Waterproof case for phones/cameras during boat trips
- Comfortable walking shoes for island exploration
- Formal resort-casual attire for evening dining (collared shirts for men)
- Prescription medications (bring extra as pharmacies are limited)
Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available at the Palm Island Resort, though connection speeds may be slower than what you’re accustomed to at home. Mobile service is generally reliable, but international roaming charges can be high. Consider purchasing a local SIM card on Union Island or St. Vincent if staying for an extended period.
Health Considerations
No specific vaccinations are required for St. Vincent & The Grenadines beyond routine immunizations. The resort has basic medical facilities, but serious medical issues may require evacuation to St. Vincent or Barbados. Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended.
Complete Your Travel Plans
For a seamless vacation experience, consider booking accommodations, transportation, and activities in advance.
For those traveling with children, note that Palm Island Resort welcomes guests aged 12 and older. Families with younger children might consider nearby alternatives like Young Island or resorts on St. Vincent that cater to all ages.
Your Private Paradise Awaits
Palm Island offers a rare opportunity to experience the Caribbean as it once was – pristine, peaceful, and profoundly beautiful. Whether you’re seeking romantic seclusion, adventure on turquoise waters, or simply a place to disconnect and rejuvenate, this small island delivers experiences that far exceed its size. As you plan your journey to this exclusive paradise, remember that the island’s greatest luxury isn’t found in its amenities but in its natural splendor and the genuine warmth of its people. Palm Island isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that will call you back long after you’ve returned home.
The above is subject to change.
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