The volcanic island of Saint Vincent is the largest of the Grenadines chan, with a 3000 ft volcano called Soufriere which erupted as recently as April 2021 which resulted in the evacuation of 20,000 residents. In stark contrast to the other islands of the Grenadines, you won’t find any white sand beaches here, but rather black sand. The absence of the typical touristy beaches makes this island unique, since the more commercial style of tourism has been kept at bay, and the interior of the island has stayed fairly underdeveloped.
The little island of Bequia is in fact the second largest island of the Grenadines, at only 7 square miles and with a population of around 5000. Here you will be spoiled by a relaxed atmosphere with friendly locals, unspoiled scenery and picture perfect beaches. The island’s Capital, Port Elizabeth, is the only commercial settlement on the island, where you can enjoy visiting touristy souvenir shops and relax with a cocktail at one of the lovely bars. For a fantastic sunset view, it is worth hiking up to Mount Pleasant or if SCUBA diving is your preferred activity, this area is another diving hotspot of the Caribbean. You will find plenty of dive sites here where you can spot hawksbill turtles, moray eels and lobsters. The Old Hegg Turtle sanctuary situated on the remote north-eastern side of Bequia, which has been working to protect the Hawksbill since 1995 is a great spot to learn more about these endangered species.
The exclusive island of Mustique is the perfect charter destination. With the island’s high security, it attracts only the sophisticated and discerning of visitors and is a firm favourite of the British Royal Family. Here you will find picturesque villages, with colourful fishing boats lining the shores, and splendid estates owned by the rich and famous. Britannia Bay and Endeavour Bay are teeming with underwater life, making them perfect for snorkeling.
Canouan, which means “turtle” in Carib, is best visited by yacht. This small hook shaped island lies half way along the Grenadines chain and is equipped with a modern ariport that can handle mid sized jets, a championship golf course, beautiful villas and a couple of luxury resorts making it the playground of billionaires. When all the luxury amenities become too tiring, there are plenty of isolated bays off which you can anchor and four pristine, pearly white, sandy beaches with turquoise waters to snorkel.
The tiny island of Mayreau, situated between Canouan and Carriacou, is the smallest populated island in the Grenadines chain, with around 500 residents. This idyllic island only received the luxury of electricity in 2002! Saltwhistle Bay is the spot for mooring your yacht whilst here. With such a small population and almost no infrastructure aside from a dozen bars to enjoy, you will feel like you have arrived on an island straight out of a novel.
The five, small uninhabited islands of the Tobago Cays (Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradol, Petit Tobac, and Jamesby) make for a lovely charter destination. The islands are a national marine park operated by the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Around the islands are breathtaking scuba diving and snorkeling areas which should not be missted! These coral reefs, along with their pure white beaches and beautiful bays will provide you with unforgettable memories.
Union Island is also known as the Tahiti of the West Indies due to its volcanic silhouette. Its highest point is Mt. Parnassus. Yachting and tourism make up the the island’s primary source of income. Clifton and Ashton are the island’s two main towns and here you will find small boutique stores as well as quaint bars and restaurants, all decorated in bright Caribbean colours.
Until recently The Grenadines were one of the Caribbean’s best kept secrets. Lead by St. Vincent, there are over 32 islands and cays, extending south to Union Island offering an incredible choice of island destinations. These idyllic islands offer everything from volcanoes to explore, tranquil beaches, peaceful anchorages in turquoise waters and picturesque villages.
