Beaches, Bays and a Jungle River
The bright waters invite you to shove off and dip a paddle. You have choices: hug the beach, venture across a tranquil bay filled with anchored sailboats, or keep going around the headland to discover more of the island and maybe stop in at a local beach bar. Adventures can begin right from a resort beach, or as guided tour through mangrove forests and across coastal reefs, where tropical fish can be seen swimming in the clear water. For a refreshing change, join a float trip on a jungle river, where cool fresh waters flow through flumes and rapids and empty into inviting swimming holes.
Highlights
- Best for: Everyone, watersports enthusiasts
- Best season to visit: Year round
- Weather: Tropical climate with dry season from January-May, passing rain showers from June-December. Air temperatures range from 70s in winter to mid 80s in summer
Things to Do
Grenada Information
Paddle Sports in Grenada Overview
The best areas for paddling in Grenada are near the southern tip of the island, where the coastline is cut by a series of bays. Here, the surrounding points of land block ocean swell and surf to create calm water, and moderate the force trade winds into a refreshing breeze. Another unique activity done during the island's rainy season is a tube float through the rapids of the Balthazar River.
Paddle Sports in Grenada Tips
Most kayaks provided by resorts or tour companies are of the sit-on type. These boats are typically easier to balance and get in and out of than traditional sit-in kayaks. For longer tours, outfitters may supply a removable backrest for added comfort.
Best Places for Paddle Sports in Grenada
Tours through the mangroves of Benjy Bay also takes in turquoise shallows and a black sand beach. A paddle along the shore from Devil's Bay to Aquarium Beach leads to a shallow snorkeling reef. A headland shelters True Blue Bay from ocean swells. After crossing to Hog Island, paddlers can refresh at a local beach bar. Gravity does the work when tubing the flume-like rapids of the Balthazar River.
What to Pack for Paddle Sports in Grenada
A swimsuit is the best choice because you will get wet. Wear a broad-brimmed hat and water shirt for sun protection. Add polarized sunglasses to cut the glare, and put cameras and other items in a waterproof case or bag that either floats or are tethered to the kayak.
Resorts
Grenada
Coyaba Beach Resort
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Grenada
True Blue Bay Boutique Resort
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Passport and/or Visa Requirements
Entry Requirements: All U.S. citizens are required to present a passport, valid for 6 months past date of entry into the country. A visa is not required but proof of onward or return ticket is required.
Exit Requirements: All persons leaving the Grenada, pay a Government Departure Tax of approximately USD $22.
Immunizations
Vaccinations are not required for entry into the Grenada. Check with your doctor and the Centers for Disease Control on recommended vaccinations for travel at cdc.org.
Culture and Customs
Grenada embodies the full range of Caribbean stereotypes and imagery. Cannons line the ramparts of a coastal fortress, island traders tie to stone wharfs in a colorful harbor, waterfalls drop from green-clad volcanic heights, palm-fringed beaches overlook colorful reefs, and vendors hawk spices and fresh fruits at a colorful market square in a town of red-roofed colonial homes. French, British, African and East Indian influences blend in savory one-pot dishes such as Oil Down and in the spices that liven up curries and stews. Grenada is known as the Spice Island, and the air is often fragrant with the scent of flowers and exotic spices. The island is one of the world's leading producers of nutmeg, along with cinnamon, cloves, bay leaves, turmeric, ginger, and mace. At Belmonte Estate, visitors can discover the islands savory history while also learning the sweet science of cocoa production and chocolate making. Driving tours of the island take in scenic wonders such as jungle waterfalls, an alpine lake, spice farms and a historic distillery where waterwheel driven mills crush sugar cane that will be distilled into strong rums. A long-standing island tradition is the Friday fish fry at the village of Gouyave, where crowds from across the island gather to savor crispy golden-brown fish and cold beers to the accompaniment of steel drums or soca music.
Electricity, Phone and Internet Access
Electricity in Grenada is 220 volts, 50 cycles, which differs from 120V/60 cycles used in the USA. British 3 prong plugs are primarily used, not the same as the double blade single grounded pins in U.S. plugs so an adapter, converter or transfer may be required which your hotel may offer. The country/area code for Grenada is 473. Check with your service provider for long distance/roaming information and costs. Many hotels offer WiFi.
Water Quality
The tap water is safe to drink, but if preferred, bottled water is available for purchase.
Language & Currency
English is the official language, while the locals speak a Grenadian Creole, which is a melting pot of African Creole English and French Patois. The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$ or XCD) but U.S. dollars are accepted in most places. Check the currency rate here.
Time
Grenada is on Atlantic Standard Time (AST) and does not observe Daylight Savings Time. Grenada is 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-4 GMT).
Location, Size and Population
Grenada and her smaller islands are situated between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, at the southern end of the Grenadines. Grenada is northwest of Trinidad and Tobago, Northeast of Venezuela and Southeast of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Grenada is roughly 133 square miles, the main island of Grenada is 12 miles wide and 21 miles long and accounts for 120 of the total 133 square miles. Carriacou is approximately 13 square miles, while Petite Martinique is 486 acres.
The population of Grenada is 107,327 (2016).