Fans of Pirates Of The Caribbean need no introduction to this tropical wonderland. For the uninitiated, the islands of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) are a stunning Caribbean destination promising sapphire waters, sun-kissed volcanic islands, and beautiful white and black sand beaches. Set against the vibrant blue backdrop of the Caribbean Sea, this country consists of Saint Vincent as the main island, with a collection of smaller islands in the South known as the Grenadines.
With a vibrant mix of European, African, and Caribbean cultures, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines offer a heady mix of tropical island experiences. Sun, sand, and sail – let’s explore the best places to visit and things to do in SVG.
Reaching Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Argyle International Airport is the main international airport for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. It is a primary getaway for both regional and international airlines. However, getting to this Caribbean island is a long journey due to limited direct flights. There are some direct flights from Miami, USA, but from the UK or any South Asian country, you will need a connecting flight to major international hubs like London, Miami or New York.
The best time to visit
This island country experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The ideal time to visit Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is from December to May. Considered the peak season, this period will guarantee good weather for enjoying the beach and water activities. Avoid travelling from August to October due to the high risk of hurricanes.
Budget to visit Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
The cost of a vacation to SVG can vary significantly based on your travel choices. Factors such as your origin country, travel time, and the nature of your preferred experiences will have a major say on your travel budget to this island.
Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs for a vacation to SVG.
- Flights: From South and SoutheastAsia (Hong Kong, India, Singapore, and beyond), the flights cost approximately HKD 18,600. The starting price is USD 500 (HKD 3,900) for flights from the US, while from Europe (London and beyond), the flight prices start at EUR 500 (HKD 4,320).
- Accommodation: Budget options start at HKD 350. Luxury resorts cost more.
- Food: About HKD 70 per meal.
- Water activities and sports: Approximately HKD 2,400.
SVG visa policy
Barring a few countries listed on their official page, most countries (including South Asian, European, and American countries) enjoy visa-free entry and 30-90 days stay. Make sure you check for updated information while booking your tickets.
Top tourist places to explore in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
From island-hopping fun and exploring SVG’s underwater life to experiencing the rich Caribbean culture and history – the islands of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are the perfect destination for people who love the sea and the beach.
- Wallilabou Bay: One of the most popular tourist destinations and a celebrated spot in SVG surrounded by turquoise blue waters and lush green hills. This natural wonder gained immense popularity as a filming location for Pirates of the Caribbean and is a great spot for kayaking, snorkelling, and swimming. The Wallilabou Waterfalls nearby are good for calm swimming.
- Vibrant Kingstown: The capital city of Kingstown can be best described by its pastel-hued charming buildings, hustling streets, and beautiful architecture. Visit the Kingstown market for a great introduction to the country, followed by the St George’s Cathedral and St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral to admire Colonial-era architecture.
- Crater of Soufriere Volcano: A hike to the crater of Soufriere Volcano is one of the best walking trails in SVG, rewarding you with dramatic views of the rugged volcanic landscape featuring bubbling fumaroles and hot springs. Standing at approximately 4,000 feet above sea level, the hike passes through a lush rainforest, making your journey memorable.
- St Vincent Botanical Gardens: One of the oldest botanical gardens in the Western Hemisphere, this 20-acre natural retreat is home to an array of exotic tropical plants. A guided tour is recommended to understand the island’s botanical history and diverse plant collection. You can also visit the garden for a leisure walk or a picnic.
- Owia Salt Pond: Another tourist magnet, this salt pond is known for its therapeutic baths in the mineral-rich waters. Formed from the cooled-off lava from the Soufriere volcano, this pond is surrounded by a rugged coastline and lush greenery. It offers a truly rejuvenating experience.
- Dark View Falls: A highly recommended site, Dark View is a beautiful waterfall on the foot of the Soufriere Volcano. Surrounded by a verdant landscape, the waterfall leads to a small natural pond where you can swim. It’s accessible by a quick 15-minute hike from the parking area.
Things to do in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Beach hopping: With a good mix of white sand and volcanic black beaches in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, beach hopping rewards you with a true Caribbean experience. Top recommendations include Indian Beach, Richmond Beach, Fort Charlotte Beach, and Princess Margaret Beach.
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- Exploring marine life: SVG is a great destination for water lovers. Go for exciting snorkelling and scuba diving to explore rare underwater creatures, vibrant coral reefs, and tropical fishes. You can rent snorkelling gear locally.
- Sailing/Cruising Away: One of the best ways to explore Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’s crystal waters is through boat or ferry tours, cruises, kayaking or simply sailing away. You can opt for a luxury yacht for an extravagant experience, an evening boat tour to watch a beautiful sunset, or book island hopping tours to explore multiple islands. One popular recommended experience is a ferry tour to Bequia, an island known for its ship-building tradition and lively yacht community.
- Visiting historic monuments: After enjoying the natural beauty, explore SVG’s rich history. Start with Fort Charlotte perched on top of Kingstown to understand the island’s defence history, see canons, and enjoy the panoramic views. Other places to visit are St George’s Cathedral, the National Museum of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Richmond Hill, and The Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary.
- Embark on verdant trails: When in SVG, be prepared to be captivated by some of the prettiest and vibrant green hiking trails. Cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, and chirping birds – every island has trails leading to picture-perfect views. Vermont Nature Trail, Brandy Hill Trail, Mount Pleasant Trail, Macaroni Beach Trail, and hike to the top of Mount Taboi are some options you can explore.
Also, check out our guide to the most incredible hiking trails around the world.
Local food and cuisines
A stroll through the streets of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will envelop you in the aroma of freshly roasted breadfruit, a nutty and sweet fruit. A trip to SVG is incomplete without tasting this crispy delicacy. Breadfruit along with fried jackfish is the island country’s national dish. Another hearty meal you can enjoy is Callaloo Soup, a creamy stew made from coconut milk and Callaloo (a leafy vegetable). For a savoury snack, you can opt for another local delicacy called Madongo dumplings. Other must-try local dishes include Guinness Bottle Chicken Stew (a chicken dish made with beer), Buljol (salad made from cod or saltfish), Banana Fritters, Pepper Pot (a spicy dish made from different meats), and Blaff (a fish dish).
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If you have a sweet tooth, do try Ducana, a popular local dessert made from sweet potatoes and coconut milk, with a hint of spices. Do not forget to taste the coconut macarons and tamarind balls.
Fancy a cold drink while chilling on the beach? From natural coconut water to local ginger beer, there are numerous options. Sunset Rum and Carib Beer are popular local brands you can give a shot. Rum Punch, Sorrel Drink, Ti’ Punch, Daquiri and Punch de Creme are some recommended fruit-based cocktails.
Also read | Most Expensive Cocktails In The World That You Must Try At Least Once
Best restaurants in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
From local staples and street food to fine dining, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines offer a diverse range of gastronomic options.
- Fine dining: Flow Wine Bar and Kitchen, Basil’s Bar, Firefly Bequia Bar and Gingerbread Restaurant.
- Beach-front restaurants: Young Island Resort Restaurant, Sugar Reef Café, The French Verandah Restaurant, Jack’s Beach Bar and Flowt Beach Bar.
- Local eateries: Vee Jay’s, Mac’s Pizza & Kitchen, Wallilabou Anchorage and Bamboo Bar & Restaurant.
- Desserts: A Plus Pastry Shoppe, Frisko Ice Cream, Lynette Belle Desserts, Xanaris, Pastry Paradise and Food Basket Bakery.
- Drinks: Happy Island, The Corner Bar, Dawson’s Waterfront Bar, The Loft Restaurant and Bar, Fay’s Bar and Official Pirate’s Pub.
Best hotels in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
From cosy boutique hotels to opulent luxury resorts, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines offer stunning properties with breathtaking views and exquisite dining. Whether you’re seeking a homely stay or a lavish escape with world-class amenities, the islands provide a range of options to suit every pocket. Some recommended properties are the Beachfront Hotel, The Cobblestone Inn, Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Bequia Beach Hotel, Bequia Plantation Home, The Cotton House, Pink Sands Club, The Liming, Bequia Plantation Home, Young Island Resort, Stonefield Villa Resort, Petit St. Vincent Resort and Mandarin Oriental Canouan.
Book your stay at Bequia Beach Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at Bequia Beachfront Villas via Agoda.com
Shopping in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
For a shopping spree, visit Kingstown Market, Botanical Gardens Gift Shop, Rasta Market, Basil’s Bazaar, St Vincent Craftsmen’s Centre, Pink House Mustique, Sargeant Brothers Model Boat Shop, Bequia Bookshop, Port Elizabeth Market and Union Island Market. While picking souvenirs, you can look for modelled boats, Caribbean spices, woven bamboo baskets, local rum and beer, wooden figurines and carvings, handmade jewellery, and traditional pottery.
Tip: Do not hesitate to bargain while shopping at the local markets. It’s always a good idea to keep some cash in the local currency handy as some shops might only accept cash.
Fun fact: Before Cristopher Columbus spotted this island in 1498, this island was called Hyrun or “the land of the blessed”.
shop the best travel experiences here
(Feature Image Credit: George Apodaca/Unsplash)
Related: 25 Most Beautiful Places In The Caribbean — From Emerald-Coloured Sinkholes To Private Islands
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
All currency conversions were done at the time of writing.
We may earn an affiliate commission when you shop through links on our site.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
For local travel, you can use taxis and buses or rent a scooter/car. For inter-island commutes, ferries and boat tours are the best options.
The official currency used in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
The official language in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is English, so handling linguistic differences will be a cakewalk.
The Cotton House, Pink Sand Club, Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, LaVue Boutique Hotel & Beach Club and Petit St Vincent Resort are the most luxurious hotels in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
When in a religious or a place of cultural importance, it’s important to be respectful of the local customs and dress modestly.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is famous for being the shoot location of the blockbuster movie - Pirates of the Caribbean.
Salt Whistle Bay Beach, Chatham Beach, Friendship Bay, Macaroni Beach, Princess Margaret Beach and Young Island Beach are the best beaches in SVG.
Seven to two weeks are enough to explore Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Written By
Shaili Shah
An ailurophile, a full-time snacker, an emoji fanatic, and secretly a pahadi - Shaili is mostly found ..Read More
