A Travel Guide to Grenada: Things to See, Do, Experience
Grenada wasn’t just my 70th country. It was one of the most refreshing, colourful, and culture-rich destinations I’ve visited in the Caribbean. Known as the “Spice Island,” Grenada gives you warm people, postcard-perfect beaches, hidden waterfalls, flavourful food, and some of the most unique experiences you can have in the region. Welcome to my Travel Guide to Grenada: Things to See, Do, Experience
Whether you’re planning a weekend visit or a full Caribbean escape, here’s my complete guide. Where to stay, what to do, what to eat, and everything in between.
Quick facts about Grenada
- Location: Southern Caribbean
- Best time to visit: December to April (dry season). Although I went in November and it was still sunny but with light showers.
- Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$)
- Language: English
- Famous for: Spices, chocolate, beaches, waterfalls, and warm hospitality
Do these before you go
- Download an eSim so you have internet access throughout the island. I got Airalo as usual and it worked so seamlessly everywhere. Here is a link to get yours. Use code JESSIC6325 when you sign up or check out for some complimentary credits.
- Buy travel insurance. Grenada is safe but you still need to be prepared and protect yourself. In general, don’t travel anywhere without travel insurance, including on your trip to Grenada. Here’s the travel insurance I use.
Getting to Grenada
From Toronto, Canada where I live, I took a short five-hour direct flight to Grenada with Air Canada. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Air Canada has direct routes to Grenada every Wednesdays and Fridays. This means that in five hours you can go from the cold to warm sunny weather. There are lots of direct flights from many US cities also. The airport to fly into is the Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND).
Things to Know Before You Go to Grenada
1. Entry Requirements
- Passport validity: Must be valid for the duration of your stay (though 6 months validity is always safest).
- Visa: Most nationalities, including Canada, the US, and the UK, get visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
- Arrival card: You’ll fill out a simple immigration form on arrival.
2. Best Time to Visit
- Dry season: December to April — best weather, calm seas, great for beach days.
- Wet season: June to November — more rain, but still warm.
- Grenada is outside the main hurricane belt, but tropical showers are common.
3. Getting Around
- Water taxis run between beaches like Grand Anse and BBC Beach.
- Taxis are widely available and safe.
- Car rentals are an option, but note: they drive on the left. If able, I recommend renting a car.
- Many attractions require driving through hilly, narrow roads. Hiring a driver is common and stress-free. Feel free to email me theufuoma@gmail.com and I will send you my driver’s contact.
4. Money & Payments
- Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$).
- USD is accepted almost everywhere, but you’ll get change back in EC$.
- Cards are accepted at most hotels and major restaurants, but carry cash for markets, beach bars, and small vendors.
- ATMs are available around St. George’s and Grand Anse.
5. Safety
Grenada is generally very safe for tourists. I felt completely safe. Completely.
Common-sense rules apply:
- Don’t leave valuables on the beach.
- Avoid isolated areas late at night.
- Use registered taxis or your hotel-arranged transportation.
Overall, Grenada is known for its warm, welcoming people.
6. Sunday Slowdown
Sundays are very quiet on the island as it is very religious and many people go to church and take the day off. Shops may be closed, beaches will be calm, and nightlife slows down. Be sure to plan accordingly. I was there on a Sunday and many shops were closed.
Where I Stayed: Mount Cinnamon Resort
For my trip to Grenada, I stayed at the Mount Cinnamon Resort and it was the best experience ever. Nestled on a lush hillside overlooking Grand Anse Beach, Mount Cinnamon feels like an escape within an escape. It’s quiet, peaceful, and perfect if you want a mix of nature, ocean views, and total relaxation.
If you want a resort that feels intimate and serene, this is a great choice.
My Grenada Itinerary
This is exactly how my trip unfolded, with notes + tips from me.
DAY 1 — Arrival + Dinner on the Beach
- Arrival to the GND airport.
- Check-in at Mount Cinnamon Hotel
- Dinner at Dodgy Dock. I happened to be in Grenada on a Wednesday and this is THE place to be on a Wednesday night. Delicious buffet meals from various vendors and live music.
DAY 2 — Adventure Day
This was the most activity-packed day. If you’re someone who wants to “see it all,” this is the one.
Helicopter Tour with Dowden Aviation
A full aerial view of waterfalls, coastline, rainforest, and craters. So absolutely worth it. I believe it costs $250 USD per person for the full experience. Went through waterfalls, mountains and the city. Stunning views from above.
Clear Kayaking at BBC Beach
Kayaking on crystal-clear water where you can see straight to the bottom. Book with @cayakgrenada on Instagram.
Lunch at Umbrella’s Beach Bar
Casual, beachfront, great food and atmosphere.
Tour of St. George’s + House of Chocolate
A beautiful and historic capital city. I loved the House of Chocolate. It’s perfect for grabbing local chocolate gifts and make sure to try the nutmeg ice cream.
Grand Etang National Park + Annandale Waterfalls
A refreshing, lush, nature escape. The waterfall is an easy visit and very photogenic.
Dinner at Dexter’s Restaurant
Authentic Grenadian flavours in a home-style setting. Loved this.
DAY 3 — A Day Trip to Carriacou
If you want a getaway within your getaway, this is it. Only a 20 minute flight from Grenada and perfect for a day trip.
Day trip to Carriacou.
Activities included:
- Island tour
- Lunch at Paradise Beach Club
- Snorkeling at Sandy Island (stunning!)
Carriacou has calmer beaches, crystal-clear water, and island charm that feels untouched.
Dinner and bonfire at Savvy’s Restaurant, Mount Cinnamon Resort
Great energy, live entertainment, delicious food and bonfire by the beach. This happens every Fridays
DAY 4 — Grand Anse Beach & Spice Market
A slower day, and honestly one of my favourites.
- Beach day at Grand Anse Spice & Craft Market
- Try local spices, grab souvenirs, drink cocktails from Esther’s Bar
- Relax on one of the best beaches in the Caribbean
Dinner at Rhodes Restaurant
Elevated dining inside Calabash Hotel. Fresh ingredients, great ambiance. Probably my best eat of the trip.
DAY 5 — Leisure Day + Departure
My last morning was slow and peaceful. Breakfast at the hotel, lunch at the hotel’s beach cabana before heading to the airport.
Top Things to Do in Grenada
These are the activities I recommend doing especially if you have only 5 days to a week. I enjoyed doing all of these.
- Take a helicopter tour to see Grenada from the sky:
- Enjoy clear kayaking at BBC Beach
- Visit Grand Anse Beach (of course!)
- Shop for spices at the Grand Anse Craft Market
- Take a day trip to Carriacou
- Explore Annandale Waterfall
- Visit House of Chocolate
- Tour St. George’s
- Eat and drink your way through Grenada (so many good restaurants)
- Enjoy music, culture and nightlife at Dodgy Dock
What to Eat in Grenada
Even if you don’t try everything, here’s what you should look for:
- Oil down (You can’t visit Grenada without trying this)
- Beachfront lunches at Umbrella’s, Esther’s Bar, or Savvy Restaurant
- Fresh seafood
- The local beer Carib
- Grenadian cocoa + chocolate
- Nutmeg-infused everything (ice cream, drinks, desserts)
- Local rum
What to Pack
Grenada is hot, humid, and tropical. You’ll want:
- Light clothing
- Swimwear + aqua shoes
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen + hat
- Bug spray
- Camera with extra batteries
- A light cardigan for breezy evenings
- UMBRELLAS. Sometimes the rain comes out of NO WHERE lol.
Final thoughts
Grenada surprised me in the best ways. The warmth, the nature, the food, and how easy it was to connect with people. It’s one of those places that stays with you long after you leave.
If you’re looking for a Caribbean destination that feels authentic, peaceful, and full of culture, put Grenada at the top of your list.
I hope this guide helps you plan a wonderful trip to Grenada.
