Union Island is home to the world’s smallest international airport runway, measuring just 600 meters (1,968 feet) long, making every landing an adventure in itself! This tiny gem in the southern Grenadines packs an incredible punch with its dramatic volcanic peaks, pristine beaches, and world-class sailing opportunities. As the gateway to the spectacular Tobago Cays Marine Park, Union Island offers travelers a perfect blend of laid-back Caribbean charm and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Reaching this Caribbean paradise requires some planning, but the journey is well worth the effort. Most international travelers will first fly into St. Vincent’s Argyle International Airport (SVD) before connecting to Union Island.
Closest Airports
- Union Island Airport (UNI) – The island’s small airport accepts flights from St. Vincent, Barbados, and other nearby islands. Remember its famously short runway!
- Argyle International Airport (SVD) – Located on St. Vincent, this is the main international gateway to the region with connections from Miami, New York, Toronto, and London.
- Canouan Airport (CIW) – Another option for regional connections, located on nearby Canouan island.
Ready to Book Your Flight?
Find the best deals on flights to Union Island and St. Vincent from major international destinations.
Ferry Connections
The Jaden Sun Fast Ferry connects St. Vincent to Union Island with stops at other Grenadine islands along the way. The journey takes approximately 3 hours from Kingstown, St. Vincent. Ferry schedules vary seasonally, so check the latest timetables before planning your trip.
For island hopping between Union Island and other Grenadines (Mayreau, Canouan, Bequia), local water taxis and smaller ferries are available. These can be arranged through your accommodation or at the Union Island harbor.
Best Time to Visit Union Island
Union Island enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but some seasons offer better conditions for visitors than others.
Recommended Months to Visit
- December to April – The dry season brings sunny days, lower humidity, and calm seas, perfect for sailing and water activities. Temperatures average 26-29°C (79-84°F).
- May to June – Shoulder season with good weather and fewer tourists. Occasional brief showers but still excellent for outdoor activities.
Months to Avoid
- September to November – Peak hurricane season brings higher rainfall and potential for tropical storms. Many businesses close during this period.
- July to August – Hot and humid with increasing rainfall, though still manageable for visitors.
Local Tip: If you’re a kitesurfing enthusiast, the windier months of December through March offer ideal conditions at Clifton Harbor.
Getting Around Locally
Union Island is small enough to explore easily, with most attractions accessible within a short distance. The island is roughly 5 km (3 miles) long and 2.5 km (1.5 miles) wide.
Transportation Options
- Taxis – Readily available in Clifton and can be arranged through your accommodation. Rates are typically negotiable, so agree on a price before departing.
- Rental Cars – Several local companies offer car rentals. An international driver’s license is required, and remember they drive on the left side of the road.
- Scooters & Golf Carts – Popular options for exploring the island at your own pace. Rentals are available in Clifton.
- Walking – The main town of Clifton is easily walkable, with most services within a 15-minute stroll.
- Water Taxis – Essential for visiting nearby islands or reaching secluded beaches.
Explore Union Island Your Way
Rent a car to discover hidden beaches and scenic viewpoints at your own pace.
Where to Stay
Union Island offers a range of accommodations from luxury resorts to charming guesthouses. Most options are concentrated in the two main settlements: Clifton on the eastern side and Ashton on the western coast.
Luxury Options
- Tenuta Chatham Bay – Secluded luxury resort on the island’s western coast with private cottages overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Features an excellent restaurant and infinity pool.
- Big Sand Hotel – Boutique property with spacious rooms and stunning views of the Tobago Cays.
Mid-Range Accommodations
- Anchorage Yacht Club Hotel – Centrally located in Clifton with comfortable rooms and a popular restaurant.
- Kings Landing Hotel – Family-run hotel with a friendly atmosphere and convenient location.
Budget-Friendly Stays
- Lambi’s Guest House – Simple, clean rooms at affordable rates in Clifton.
- Captain Gourmet Guesthouse – Basic accommodations with a great restaurant attached.
Find Your Perfect Island Stay
Browse and book the best accommodations on Union Island for every budget.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Union Island’s culinary scene reflects its Caribbean heritage with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and flavorful spices. Most restaurants are concentrated in Clifton, with a few options in Ashton and at resorts.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Lobster – Freshly caught and often grilled with local herbs and butter.
- Fish Soup – A hearty local specialty made with the catch of the day.
- Roti – Caribbean flatbread filled with curried meat, seafood, or vegetables.
- Callaloo Soup – Made from local leafy greens similar to spinach.
- Breadfruit – A starchy staple often fried or roasted as a side dish.
Top Restaurants
- Barracuda Restaurant – Seafood specialist with panoramic views in Clifton.
- Yacht Club Restaurant – Popular spot for both locals and visitors with international and Caribbean dishes.
- Ciao Pizza – Surprisingly good Italian fare with wood-fired pizzas.
- Happy Island – Unique bar built on a man-made island of conch shells just off Clifton Harbor. Famous for rum punches and sunset views.
- Tenuta Chatham Bay Restaurant – Upscale dining with fresh local ingredients and beautiful bay views.
Local Tip: Many restaurants close or operate on limited hours during the low season (September-November). Always call ahead to confirm opening times.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Despite its small size, Union Island offers diverse activities from relaxing on pristine beaches to hiking volcanic peaks and exploring vibrant marine life.
Top Beaches
- Chatham Bay – Secluded crescent-shaped beach on the western coast with calm waters and stunning sunsets.
- Big Sand Beach – Popular stretch of white sand with good swimming conditions.
- Belmont Bay – Quiet beach with excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Must-Visit Attractions
- Tobago Cays Marine Park – A short boat ride away, this protected area offers world-class snorkeling with sea turtles and vibrant coral reefs.
- Happy Island – Man-made island constructed from conch shells just off Clifton Harbor, now home to a popular bar.
- Fort Hill – Historic site with panoramic views of surrounding islands.
- Clifton Harbor – The island’s main port, bustling with yachts and local boats.
Experience the Best of Union Island
Book guided tours and activities to make the most of your island adventure.
Day Trips from Union Island
Union Island serves as an excellent base for exploring the southern Grenadines, with several spectacular destinations just a short boat ride away.
Popular Day Trip Destinations
- Tobago Cays – A protected marine park consisting of five uninhabited islands surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped reef. Famous for swimming with sea turtles and snorkeling among vibrant coral gardens. This is the most popular day trip from Union Island.
- Mayreau – The smallest inhabited island of the Grenadines, known for Salt Whistle Bay, often rated among the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches.
- Palm Island – A private resort island with a section of beach open to day visitors.
- Petit St. Vincent – Exclusive private island resort with a beach bar open to visitors.
- Mopion – Tiny sandbar with nothing but a single umbrella, offering a true desert island experience.
Booking a Day Trip
Several local operators offer day trips to these destinations. Most tours include transportation, snorkeling equipment, and lunch. Prices typically range from $60-150 USD per person depending on the destination and inclusions.
- Captain Yannis – Highly rated local operator offering Tobago Cays tours.
- Grenadines Tours – Various island-hopping options with knowledgeable guides.
- Union Island Tours – Customizable private tours to surrounding islands.
Explore the Southern Grenadines
Don’t miss the chance to visit the spectacular Tobago Cays and surrounding islands.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Union Island doesn’t have formal museums, its rich culture is expressed through community events, local crafts, and annual festivals.
Cultural Experiences
- Clifton Market – Local vendors sell fresh produce, spices, and handcrafted souvenirs.
- Union Island Environmental Attackers – Community organization that offers cultural tours and information about local conservation efforts.
- Captain Gourmet Cultural Center – Small display of historical artifacts and information about the island’s history.
Annual Festivals
- Easterval – Held annually around Easter, this week-long celebration includes beauty pageants, sports competitions, boat races, and street parties.
- Maroon Festival – Traditional celebration with drumming, dancing, and feasting that honors African heritage.
- Union Island Regatta – Sailing competition typically held in February, attracting participants from across the Grenadines.
Cultural Tip: When visiting local communities, it’s customary to greet people with a friendly “Good morning,” “Good afternoon,” or “Good evening” before starting a conversation.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Union Island’s dramatic landscape and surrounding waters make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Hiking
- Mount Taboi (The Pinnacle) – The island’s highest point at 305 meters (1,000 feet). The challenging 3-hour round trip hike rewards with 360-degree views of the Grenadines archipelago.
- Fort Hill – An easier hike suitable for most fitness levels, offering excellent views of Clifton Harbor.
- Chatham Bay Trail – Scenic coastal path connecting Clifton to Chatham Bay.
Water Sports
- Kitesurfing – Union Island is becoming a kitesurfing hotspot, with consistent trade winds and a protected lagoon at Clifton Harbor. JT Pro Center offers lessons and equipment rental.
- Sailing – Charter a sailboat or join a day sail to explore surrounding waters.
- Snorkeling & Diving – Excellent spots around the island, with Dive Adventures offering guided trips and PADI certification courses.
- Paddleboarding – Calm bays perfect for SUP, with rentals available in Clifton.
Wildlife Viewing
- Bird Watching – The island’s diverse habitats support numerous bird species, including frigatebirds, brown boobies, and tropical mockingbirds.
- Turtle Watching – Snorkel with sea turtles in the Tobago Cays Marine Park.
- Marine Life – Spot rays, reef sharks, and colorful fish in the protected waters surrounding the island.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Union Island is generally safe for visitors, but as with any destination, it’s important to be aware of local customs and take basic precautions.
Safety Tips
- Health – There is a small medical clinic in Clifton, but serious medical issues require evacuation to St. Vincent or Barbados. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
- Water Safety – Be aware of currents when swimming, especially on the Atlantic side of the island.
- Valuables – Don’t leave valuables unattended on beaches or in vehicles.
- Sun Protection – The Caribbean sun is intense. Use high SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated.
Local Customs & Etiquette
- Dress Code – Casual beach attire is acceptable in most places, but cover up when away from the beach. Modest dress is appreciated when visiting churches or local communities.
- Greetings – A friendly “good morning,” “good afternoon,” or “good evening” is customary before starting a conversation.
- Photography – Ask permission before photographing local people, especially children.
- Tipping – 10-15% is standard for good service in restaurants and for taxi drivers.
- Island Time – Pace of life is relaxed. Services may not operate with the punctuality you’re accustomed to.
Important: Union Island has limited fresh water resources. Please be conservative with water usage during your stay.
Visitor Comments About Union Island
“We spent five unforgettable days on Union Island and used it as a base to explore the Tobago Cays. The hike up Mount Taboi was challenging but offered the most spectacular views I’ve ever seen. Don’t miss Happy Island for sunset drinks!”
“As an avid kiteboarder, Union Island was paradise. The consistent trade winds and protected lagoon at Clifton Harbor provided perfect conditions. The locals were incredibly welcoming, and the seafood at Barracuda Restaurant was the best I’ve had in the Caribbean.”
“Union Island exceeded all our expectations. It’s small enough to feel intimate but offers plenty to do. The day trip to Tobago Cays was magical – swimming with sea turtles in crystal clear water is an experience we’ll never forget. Chatham Bay was our favorite spot for peaceful beach days.”
Practical Travel Tips
Essential Information
- Currency – Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), though US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, but carry cash for smaller vendors.
- Language – English is the official language, with a local Caribbean dialect also spoken.
- Electricity – 220/240 volts, 50 Hz with UK-style three-pin plugs. Bring an adapter if needed.
- Internet & Mobile – WiFi is available at most accommodations and some restaurants. Local SIM cards can be purchased in Clifton.
- Banking – There’s one bank and ATM in Clifton. It’s advisable to bring sufficient cash as the ATM can occasionally run out of money.
Packing Essentials
- Reef-safe sunscreen – Protect both your skin and the fragile marine ecosystem.
- Insect repellent – Mosquitoes can be present, especially during and after rainy periods.
- Hiking shoes – For exploring the island’s trails and volcanic peaks.
- Snorkeling gear – While rentals are available, bringing your own mask and snorkel ensures a proper fit.
- Reusable water bottle – Help reduce plastic waste on the island.
- Cash – Small denominations of US dollars or EC dollars for local purchases.
Set Sail for Union Island
Consider arriving by cruise for a taste of this Caribbean paradise.
Your Caribbean Paradise Awaits
Union Island may be small in size, but it delivers an authentic Caribbean experience that’s increasingly hard to find in more developed destinations. From the dramatic silhouette of Mount Taboi to the pristine beaches and world-class sailing waters, this gem in the Grenadines chain offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re snorkeling with sea turtles in the Tobago Cays, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, or simply unwinding on a secluded beach, Union Island promises memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to discover one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets.
The above is subject to change.
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