St. Vincent and The Grenadines: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know St. Vincent & The Grenadines is made up of 32 islands and cays, yet only 9 are inhabited? This Caribbean archipelago holds secrets and adventures far beyond what appears on most maps. From the volcanic majesty of La Soufrière to the pristine waters of Tobago Cays Marine Park, this nation of islands offers experiences that range from exhilarating to utterly tranquil.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Argyle International Airport (SVD) on St. Vincent is the main gateway to this island paradise. Direct flights are available from Miami, New York, and Toronto, with seasonal routes expanding each year. For travelers coming from Europe, connecting flights through Barbados or Puerto Rico are common options.

Smaller airports on Canouan, Mustique, Union Island, and Bequia provide convenient access to the Grenadines for those who prefer to skip the ferry system. These smaller airports typically connect through Barbados or St. Vincent.

For cruise enthusiasts, Kingstown is a port of call for several Caribbean cruise lines, offering a taste of the islands even if just for a day.

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Best Time to Visit St. Vincent & The Grenadines

The ideal time to visit St. Vincent & The Grenadines is during the dry season from December to April. During these months, temperatures hover pleasantly around 26°C (80°F) with minimal rainfall and lower humidity. This period also offers the calmest seas, making it perfect for island hopping and water activities.

May and June represent a good shoulder season with fewer tourists and slightly lower prices, though occasional showers become more frequent.

The rainy season runs from July through November, with September and October being the peak hurricane months. While prices are at their lowest during this period, there’s a higher risk of storms and some businesses may operate with limited hours.

Getting Around Locally

Island hopping is an essential part of experiencing St. Vincent & The Grenadines, and the ferry system is the backbone of inter-island transportation. The Jaden Sun Fast Ferry and Bequia Express connect St. Vincent with Bequia, Canouan, Mayreau, and Union Island on regular schedules.

On St. Vincent itself, taxis are the most convenient way to navigate the winding mountain roads. Drivers are knowledgeable and can double as informal tour guides. For adventurous travelers, rental cars are available, but be prepared to drive on the left side of the road and navigate steep, sometimes challenging terrain.

Water taxis offer flexible transportation between islands and to secluded beaches that aren’t accessible by road. These can be arranged through your accommodation or at local harbors.

Where to Stay

Accommodations in St. Vincent & The Grenadines range from ultra-exclusive private island resorts to charming locally-owned guesthouses. The archipelago caters to both luxury travelers and those seeking authentic Caribbean experiences on a moderate budget.

Luxury Resorts

The new Sandals St. Vincent and The Grenadines has put the main island on the luxury map with its overwater bungalows and all-inclusive offerings. In the Grenadines, Mandarin Oriental Canouan and Petit St. Vincent offer exclusive private island experiences with impeccable service.

Boutique Hotels

Young Island Resort, just off St. Vincent’s coast, offers a boutique private island experience with 29 cottages. On Bequia, the Bequia Beach Hotel and Bequia Plantation Hotel provide charming accommodations with local character.

Budget-Friendly Options

Beachcombers Hotel on St. Vincent and Gingerbread Hotel on Bequia offer comfortable accommodations at more accessible price points without sacrificing Caribbean charm or beach access.

Dining & Local Cuisine

The culinary scene in St. Vincent & The Grenadines reflects its rich cultural heritage with influences from African, European, and Indigenous traditions. Fresh seafood naturally dominates menus across the islands, often prepared with local spices and served with “provisions” (root vegetables).

Must-Try Local Dishes

• Roasted Breadfruit – A starchy staple often served alongside fish or meat dishes
• Callaloo Soup – Made from leafy greens similar to spinach, often with crab or other seafood
• Fish Tea – A light, flavorful broth made with local fish and vegetables
• Conch – Prepared in various ways from fritters to stews
• Coconut Dumplings – Sweet or savory dumplings often served with fish

Top Dining Spots

On St. Vincent, try French Verandah at Mariners Hotel for upscale dining or Wallilabou Anchorage for a meal with Pirates of the Caribbean history. Bequia offers excellent dining at Mac’s Pizza & Kitchen and the highly regarded Laura’s Restaurant. For a truly special experience, the restaurant at Petit St. Vincent serves exceptional cuisine in an unforgettable setting.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit local markets, especially the Kingstown Produce Market on St. Vincent, where you can sample fresh tropical fruits and local snacks.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

St. Vincent Highlights

The main island offers dramatic landscapes dominated by La Soufrière volcano (1,234 m or 4,048 ft). Hiking to the crater is a challenging but rewarding experience that requires a guide. The Vermont Nature Trail provides an easier alternative with opportunities to spot the rare St. Vincent parrot.

History buffs should visit Fort Charlotte, built in the 1800s, which offers spectacular views over Kingstown and insights into the island’s colonial past. The Botanic Gardens in Kingstown, established in 1765, are among the oldest in the Western Hemisphere.

The Grenadines Must-Sees

The Tobago Cays Marine Park is the crown jewel of the Grenadines. This protected area encompasses five uninhabited islands surrounded by a horseshoe reef, offering world-class snorkeling and swimming with sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Bequia’s Admiralty Bay is one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque harbors, while the exclusive island of Mustique offers glimpses into the lifestyle of the rich and famous. Mayreau’s Salt Whistle Bay presents the rare opportunity to stand between the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean on a narrow strip of perfect beach.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

While St. Vincent & The Grenadines may not have the extensive museum collections of larger destinations, its cultural offerings provide authentic insights into island life, history, and traditions.

Museums & Historical Sites

The National Museum in Kingstown houses artifacts from the island’s Indigenous Carib and Arawak peoples, along with colonial-era exhibits. The Black Point Historic and Recreation Park features a tunnel built by enslaved Africans in the 1800s as part of a sugar plantation.

On Bequia, the Bequia Maritime Museum celebrates the island’s seafaring traditions, including its controversial but culturally significant whaling history.

Festivals & Events

Vincy Mas, held in late June and early July, is the nation’s vibrant carnival celebration featuring calypso competitions, colorful parades, and street parties. The Bequia Easter Regatta transforms the island into a sailing hub with competitive races and festive beach parties.

Blues and Rhythms Festival in May showcases local and international musicians, while the Nine Mornings Festival in December offers a uniquely Vincentian Christmas tradition with pre-dawn activities and celebrations.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Water Activities

The waters surrounding St. Vincent & The Grenadines offer world-class sailing, snorkeling, and diving. The Grenadines are considered one of the world’s premier sailing destinations, with protected anchorages and short island-to-island passages.

Snorkeling in the Tobago Cays brings you face-to-face with sea turtles, rays, and vibrant coral gardens. For divers, sites like Anchor Reef and Bat Cave on St. Vincent provide diverse underwater landscapes.

Hiking & Land Adventures

Beyond La Soufrière, St. Vincent offers numerous hiking trails through rainforest and along coastal cliffs. The Dark View Falls trail leads to a dramatic two-tiered waterfall with natural pools for swimming.

On Bequia, the trail to Hope Bay rewards hikers with spectacular views and a secluded beach, while Union Island’s Mount Taboi offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding Grenadines.

For a unique experience, visit the Montreal Gardens on St. Vincent, where meticulously maintained tropical gardens offer a peaceful retreat with stunning valley views.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

St. Vincent & The Grenadines is generally safe for tourists, though standard travel precautions apply. Petty theft can occur, so secure valuables and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas of Kingstown.

Cultural Considerations

• Dress modestly when away from beaches and resorts, especially when visiting churches or government buildings
• Ask permission before taking photos of locals
• Greet people with a friendly “good morning,” “good afternoon,” or “good night” (used after 6 PM)
• Tipping is customary (10-15% at restaurants)
• Same-sex relationships are legal but public displays of affection may draw unwanted attention

Health & Safety Tips

Tap water is generally safe on St. Vincent but may be questionable on smaller islands. Bottled water is widely available. Sun protection is essential, as the Caribbean sun is intense even on cloudy days.

Medical facilities are limited, with the best care available at Milton Cato Memorial Hospital in Kingstown. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Visitor Comments About St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Practical Travel Tips

Currency & Payments

The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are commonly accepted at resorts and larger establishments, but smaller businesses and remote islands may be cash-only. ATMs are available in Kingstown and Bequia but can be scarce on smaller islands.

Communication

Mobile coverage is good on St. Vincent and Bequia but can be spotty on smaller islands. Local SIM cards are available for purchase with identification. Many accommodations offer Wi-Fi, though connection speeds vary.

Packing Essentials

• Reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent
• Light, breathable clothing and a light raincoat
• Hiking shoes for volcano and nature trails
• Snorkeling gear (though rentals are available)
• Medication kit including seasickness remedies if you plan to island hop
• Cash in small denominations for smaller islands and local vendors

Ferry schedules can change seasonally and sometimes with little notice. Confirm departure times the day before travel and arrive at least 30 minutes before scheduled departures.

Your Caribbean Paradise Awaits

St. Vincent & The Grenadines offers a rare opportunity to experience the Caribbean as it once was—authentic, unhurried, and spectacularly beautiful. Whether you’re seeking adventure on volcanic slopes, tranquility on pristine beaches, or cultural connections in vibrant local communities, this archipelago delivers experiences that linger in memory long after your tan has faded.

The islands’ relative seclusion has preserved their natural beauty and cultural integrity, making them ideal for travelers seeking destinations that remain true to themselves rather than catering exclusively to tourism. As you plan your journey to this Caribbean gem, embrace the relaxed pace and be prepared to discover your own favorite spots among these 32 remarkable islands and cays.