In the middle of the Caribbean Sea, in the Antilles, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the idea we have of a little paradise on earth! Between fine sandy beaches, transparent waters, navigation at sea, diving in coral reefs and hiking in the middle of volcanic landscapes, this destination is a real treat for travelers passing through.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is composed of a main volcanic island, Saint Vincent, but also from the little islands of the Grenadines archipelago. The part on the Atlantic side is composed mainly of rocky cliffs, but the side on the Caribbean sea has more of the wonderful sandy beaches, bays and coral reefs. These islands are a haven for boaters. To give you an idea of these islands, take a look to the movie Pirates of the Caribbean that was filmed on these islands.
Things to do in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Saint-Vincent***
Saint Vincent is the main island and also the biggest of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The island is composed of absolutely beautiful forested volcanic mountains.
La Soufrière volcano***
The La Soufriere volcano, with its 1 219 m (3 999 ft) height, is the highest point of the island and also the only active volcano on the island. It is very fascinating to explore this summit for the view of the crater and its point of view on the island and its bays, which is worth the trip.
Kingstown***
The capital city, Kingstown is located on the Saint Vincent island. This colonial city is dominated by the Ford Charlotte, a 19th century military building, built by the English on the top of a cliff. Observe also the Botanical Garden (the oldest of the Western Hemisphere), this park of 8 hectares is home to an impressive number of palm trees, tropical plants, flowers and trees, some of which have been there for centuries. Discover also important religious monuments, such as the St George’s Anglican Cathedral and the St Mary’s Cathedral. The Kingstown market is also impressive. Explore also the wonderful beaches, such as the Blue Lagoon, filled with palm trees, or also the Villa Beach.
The Falls of Baleine**
The Falls are among St. Vincent’s most splendid natural wonders. They are located in a very isolated environment in the north of the island. There are even no roads to bring you to this falls, but there is a well-marked path to reach it. It is also possible to navigate by boat to the site. The 18 m (59 ft) high waterfall forms a pool, perfect for swimming. Like most visitors, take the opportunity to take a refreshing bath.
Dark View Falls**
These falls are located around 40 km (25 mi) north of Kingstown and it is a must see in the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The falls are falling impressively above a narrow rocky cliff. The path to get there through lush forest and a bamboo bridge makes it feel like an adventurer. At the end of the walk (which lasts about 20 minutes), you can cool off in the natural pool formed by the falls.
Bequia Island***
This island is the largest of the Grenadines archipelago and it is composed of postcard landscape of wooded hills and idyllic bays. But because of its seabed, the most beautiful in the world, we recommend that you take a dive to see an incredible spectacle.The island is also known for its turtle sanctuary. While visiting the island, take a stop the nice little town of Port Elizabeth with a walkway running along the waterfront on the south side of the town with restaurants and quaint little shops. Stop also by the Bequia Heritage Museum to learn more about the whales hunting history of the island.
Tobago Cays***
This location is a place to visit for postcard landscape lovers. It is composed of 6 uninhabited islets, rich in marine life and with crystalline color waters. It attracts all travelers to practice snorkeling and diving. Snorkelers and divers can spot turtles, stingrays, barracuda and shoals of reef fish. This area has been declared a biosphere reserve in order to offer greater protection to this wonderful ecosystem.
Salt Whistle Bay on Mayreau island***
It is a very small private island of 2.5 km² (1 sq mi) owned by a local family. This island has one of the most beautiful Caribbean’s bays, the Salt Whistle Bay.
Mustique Island**
This small private island is only 3 by 5 km (2 by 3 mi) and it is composed of dream beaches with sandy coves bathed in translucent waters and coral reefs. This island is for privileged visitors. If you want to get away from the mass of people seen on other beaches, you are welcome here. You will stay in a unique and very elegant environment. You will take superb walks, picnicking on the sand at Mararoni Bay or Lagoon Bay and taking part in scuba diving, mini catamarans and windsurfing.
Canouan Island**
This small island of 5.5 by 2 km (3.5 by 1 mi) is only populated by real Vincentians and it is famous for its golf course and its coral reef.
Union Island**
This island of 5 by 2 km (3 by 1 mi) is the most rugged of the archipelago. Its white sand beaches bathed in turquoise waters and is protected by reefs. The island offers also a nice market and hiking possibilities
Palm Island**
This tiny private island is covered with palm and coconut trees and it is a real temple of relaxation and luxury with its small tourist complex. This island is located at a short boat distance from Union Island.
Petit Saint Vincent Island*
This tropical paradise island is located at the south of the archipelago and is also known as “PSV”. This private island is the home to the Petit St Vincent Resort, where guests stay in secluded ocean-view villas scattered around the hills and bays. This island is one of the top luxury all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and it is also a favorite honeymoon destination.
Mopion Island*
It is a tiny sand island with a single umbrella lost in the ocean, surrounded by coral reefs and whose contours vary with the rhythm of the tides.
Best time to visit Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
The minimum and maximum temperatures are relatively constant all the year with minima around 22°C (71.5 °F) and maxima around 30°C (86°F). But for the rainfall there is a big variation during the year, with high precipitation from May until January. So the best period to visit Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the dry season that goes from February until April.