Underwater Sculptures and Colorful Reefs
Bring an underwater camera, or no one will believe you when you tell them you saw a mermaid, much less a bicyclist touring the reef... or a man working at his desk 25 feet under the sea. Grenada captured the world's attention when it became the home of the world's first underwater sculpture park, and this site remains a must-do for snorkelers. But there's much more to discover in the coral gardens that surround this island of spices. Some reefs are decorated in multi-hued sponges and soft corals. Others provide branching hard coral formations that harbor shy marine life. All this and more are found close to shore in calm water, making explorations not only enjoyable but easy.
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
Snorkeling in Grenada Overview
Most all of Grenada's snorkel tours take place in sheltered waters near the island's southwestern tip, with occasional trips made to southern and southeastern sites when seas are calm. Prime reefs and the underwater sculpture park are found within the Molinere Beauséjour Marine Protected Area, which is located just over a mile north of the harbor at Fort George.
Snorkeling in Grenada Tips
Two common problems beginners encounter with snorkel masks are fogging and leaking. A thin coat of defogging solution—usually provided on the boat—solves the first problem. To prevent leaks, make sure there is no hair stuck under the mask skirt, and don't over-tighten the mask strap, as this not only causes discomfort but also flattens and deforms the skirt, preventing it from creating a proper seal.
Best Places for Snorkeling in Grenada
The Molinere Beausejour Marine Park is home to the world's first underwater sculpture park, with dozens of original artworks clearly visible from the surface. Seahorses and pipefish hide among the elkhorn coral formations at Flamingo Bay. Happy Valley is known for the prolific sponge and soft coral growth, and for sightings of French angelfish and grouper. Look close to find octopus and lobster hiding in the reef crevices at Dragon Bay. Stingrays and eagle rays are often sighted in the shallows waters around Glover
What to Pack for Snorkeling in Grenada
Bring an underwater camera or waterproof smartphone case to take selfies with the underwater statues. Buy a waterproof fish I.D. slate for fish watching trips to the reef. Wear a rash guard or thin wetsuit to provide sun protection for an exposed back. Use a soft pack or mesh bag to keep personal items organized while onboard.
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).