Why Not Go to Grenada

In the stunningly blue waters of the Caribbean Sea lies the island nation of Grenada, three small islands that join together to create a tropical vacation destination. The locals are laid back and friendly, the beaches are breathtaking, and the natural attractions are like nowhere else.

Geography and Weather

Grenada is located in Eastern Caribbean, and is the most southerly of the Windward Islands. The nation is comprised of three islands, Grenada, Carriacou, and Petit Martinique, and in total encompass 133 square miles of land. Volcanic in origin, Grenada is mountainous and filled with fertile lands. The tallest point on the island is Mount Saint Catherine, which reaches 2,757 feet above sea level. Surrounding the island are miles of beaches, with both black and white sand enticing vacationers to the shores. The island's soil is extremely fertile, and Grenada is known as the “Spice Island” for growing more spices per square mile than anywhere else in the world. Nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger are among the spices grown here.

The weather in Grenada varies depending upon altitude. Though the average annual temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with highs of about 86 and lows of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, the outer ring of the islands tend to be more hot and humid. Grenada's rain season lasts from June to December, and those visiting the islands during these months should arrive prepared to get wet.

Around the Islands

The three islands of Grenada offer different experiences for travelers. Tourism is typically centered on Grenada, the largest island, and even more concentrated in the city of St. George's. This is where the airport, numerous resorts, and large shopping centers are located, not to mention what is considered one of the most picturesque harbors in the West Indies. Interestingly, St. George's, which is Grenada's capital city, is actually situated in the crater of a long extinct volcano.

Historic buildings such as Fort George and the old Anglican church are popular attractions in St. George's, but there is plenty to see for those who venture outside of the city. At the heart of Grenada is Grand Etang National Park, a park and forest reserve with hiking trails and hundreds of species of plants and animals. Along the coast, vacationers will find 45 beaches. The one to look out for is most definitely Grand Anse Beach, which is often listed as one of the top beaches in the world. Other places of interest on the island of Grenada include River Salee Boiling Springs, the West Indies Cricket Heritage Center, Grenada National Museum, and La Sagesse Nature Center. To really learn what keeps Grenada going, however, visit Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Cooperation where you can learn how spices are processed and watch islanders work. Along those same lines, River Antoine Rum Distillery is the oldest rum distillery in the world, and a great place to learn about the island's beverage industry.

Cariacaou is the largest of the three islands, though it isn't as widely visited as Grenada. Natural and historical attractions are what draw visitors here, from the beaches that circle the island to the numerous national parks, and underwater sites such as Kick-em Jenny, an active volcano just off the coast. White Island Marine Park and Sandy Island Marine Park are underwater habitats, while land dwellers will feel more at home Belair National Park and High North Peak. Several historical sites are also worth visiting, including Gun Point and the Cariacaou Museum.

Meanwhile, Petite Martinique has less than one thousand permanent residents, and is very rarely visited by tourists. Those who do venture to the island do so to experience absolute privacy and solitude as they explore the island and lay on the beaches.

Visit any island during the second month of August, and you are in for a special treat. This is when the annual Carnival celebration is held, and during this time there is an extra bit of joyfulness in the air wherever you go. Carnival events include live music, parades, street parties, pageants, and features lots of food and drink.

Eat Up!

Speaking of food and drink, a trip to Grenada isn't complete unless you have sampled a bit of local fare. Because the land is so fertile, much of the food prepared here uses the finest fresh ingredients. Soups and stews start to meal, either vegetarian or with meats such as conch and oxtail. Grenada's national dish is called Oildown, and consists of root vegetables, dasheen, dumplings, breadfruit, and salted meat boiled in coconut milk. Seafood, curried meats, and tropical fruit are also popular at mealtimes. Wash down your meal with locally distilled rums or fruit punches. Click here to read more about the culinary styles of Grenada.

The islands of Grenada allow every type of traveler to experience the vacation of their dreams. For seclusion and privacy, visit Petite Martinique; for a livelier atmosphere and plenty of attractions, check out the main island of Grenada; and for something in between, there is Cariacaou. Clearly, you can't go wrong when you plan a trip to Grenada.