Planning a trip to St. Vincent and the Grenadines and curious about the best places to visit? This beautiful southern Caribbean nation includes the main island of St. Vincent and a chain of smaller islands. With volcanic landscapes and lush forests, the real draw here is the breathtaking beaches. Whether you’re exploring these stunning islands by charter boat or on foot, you’ll quickly fall in love with St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Here are some top spots you shouldn’t miss!
Bequia:
Bequia is a small island located just south of the main island, St. Vincent. Covering 18 square kilometers, Bequia has a population of around 5,300 people. It’s well-loved by both cruising yachts and tourists, making it one of the top destinations in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Known for its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere, Bequia features lovely beaches, scuba diving shops, and a unique turtle sanctuary. At the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, you can see endangered hawksbill turtle hatchlings being raised and later released to help boost the population.
La Soufrière:
La Soufrière is an active stratovolcano on Saint Vincent Island, which is the largest in the nation. Standing at 1,234 meters, it is the highest peak in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The volcano has a crater lake, and when it’s inactive, you can hike through the rainforest to the summit to get a view of this natural wonder. However, you will need a guide for the hike. La Soufrière has erupted five times since 1718, with the most recent eruption occurring in 2021.
Tobago Cays Marine Park:
Tobago Cays Marine Park is a protected area that includes the five islands of the Tobago Cays archipelago and their coral reefs. Home to some of the best-developed coral reefs in the area, this marine park is a popular diving and snorkeling destination. Exploring these reefs, you can spot vibrant fish, sea turtles, sharks, and other fascinating marine life. Snorkeling with sea turtles here is a must-do activity.
Petit St. Vincent:
Petit St. Vincent is the southernmost island of St. Vincent’s Grenadines and also one of the smallest. This privately owned island functions as a luxury resort, featuring 22 villas scattered around the island. With no phones, TVs, or Wi-Fi, Petit St. Vincent offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, the island also has an untamed rainforest with several walking trails. While there, you can indulge in spa treatments and enjoy water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and scuba diving.
Kingstown:
Kingstown is the capital city of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the main port of entry for many tourists. It’s definitely worth spending a day exploring Kingstown. There are several attractions and activities to enjoy in the nation’s capital.
Union Island:
Union Island is a small, picturesque island with a volcanic silhouette and is capped by volcanic peaks. Known for its beautiful beaches and hiking opportunities, Union Island has two main towns: Ashton and Clifton. Ashton serves as a launching point for hikers, while Clifton, near the airport, offers shops, supermarkets, restaurants, and a marina. Chatham Bay Beach and Big Sands Beach are the island’s most popular and beautiful beaches.
Canouan:
Canouan is a tiny island covering 7.6 square kilometers and boasts some of the best beaches in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Known for its stunning white sand beaches and excellent snorkeling spots, Canouan’s surrounding reefs are among the best in the country. Mount Royal, the island’s highest point, offers breathtaking views that are well worth the climb.