Grenada is a tri-island state located north of Trinidad & Tobago in the Caribbean. Oh yes, you’ve read that right – the Caribbean! There is no doubt that coming here will be a fantastic move because you will be able to enjoy an incredible vacation, but there is so much more to Grenada than just sunshine and the ocean. Even if you have just one day to spend here, you can come up with an itinerary that will make sure you have an amazing time and discover plenty of fascinating places. Here’s how you can do it!
What’s The Best Time To Visit Grenada?
The best time to visit Grenada is between the months of December and April. During this period, the island receives its lowest levels of rainfall and hence visitors may enjoy sunnier days.
Furthermore, the Caribbean region is affected by the hurricane season which begins around June 1 and ends around November 30 every year.
And even though Grenada is located outside of the hurricane belt, it has experienced direct hits from hurricanes in the past, the most recent major hurricane to make landfall in Grenada being hurricane Ivan in 2004.
The months of September and October provide the greatest opportunities for budget-friendly travels to the island with flights and hotels being a bargain since this is the peak period of the hurricane season. So, if you feel adventurous and want to save money, go for it.
But remember – it is prudent to consider travel insurance if you decide to visit Grenada during the hurricane season in the event of travel disruptions and delays.
A Few Facts About Grenada
Grenada is often confused with Granada, a city in Spain’s Andalusia region. The island covers 134.6 square miles with the capital city in the southern end called St. George. Grenada’s two dependencies are called Carriacou and Petite Martinique, respectively.
The island is commonly referred to as the Isle of Spice as it is the second-largest producer of nutmeg in the world after Indonesia.
Grenada is also a part of the Commonwealth of England and as such, the head of state is formally Queen Elizabeth II. The local Governor-General is the Queen’s representative.
The official currency of Grenada is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), and this currency is also used by seven other Eastern Caribbean islands with a Central Bank based in St. Kitts & Nevis.
US banknotes are widely accepted around the island. However, these must be in proper condition as banks will not accept notes that are worn, torn, or damaged. US coins are usually rejected. Because of that, it is best to carry notes of smaller denominations, and change is usually given in local currency.
One Day Itinerary In Grenada
Grenada is a relatively small island and as such one can cover a lot of ground in a day. The island is extremely safe so feel free to ask for directions if you need guidance. Your one day in Grenada can therefore be full of exploration and discoveries, but the following things really are a must when you visit.
Visit the House of Chocolate
Start the day off in St. George, the country’s capital. In the heart of the city is a great reason for that – the House of Chocolate. While in this great museum, you can enjoy tea made from local home ground chocolate and pastries in the café that’s also a part of the place.
The museum will show you how cocoa is processed and the history of chocolate through the ages. Definitely a great starting point for your day in Grenada.
Climb to the top of Fort George
Fort George is very close to the House of Chocolate and there are two main reasons why you should climb it. First, it has a huge historical value, given that it was built more than 300 years ago. Second, the view from this place is absolutely amazing.
Believe it or not, the fort is still in use today as police headquarters. How cool is that?! Even the old cannons still work and are used for salutes on special occasions. Therefore, coming here and spending some time at Fort George is most certainly going to be worth it.
Go see the cathedral
Close to the House of Chocolate and Fort George is another main sight of the city, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral. While relatively modest compared to some European cathedrals, this is nevertheless one of St. George’s most important symbols. It was completed in 1884, and since it’s on a hill, climbing the tower will give you quite a view.
Stroll, Swim & Sunbathe at Grand Anse Beach
After all that sightseeing, time to soak in the sun. Grand Anse beach is an award-winning beach located in the south of the island and is also the most popular beach on the island. This two-mile stretch of powdery white sand is easy to access from the city center by taking bus #2 from the terminal.
Grand Anse is very long and the end of the beach near the Catholic church tends to be the calmest. There is no fee to enter and lifeguards are stationed for added safety. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, so you can thoroughly relax and enjoy.
Admire Concord Waterfalls
In the afternoon, you might want to think about a little trip. Concord Waterfalls, located on the western side of the island in the parish of St. John, is just the place for that. There are three waterfalls in the area and the first one is visible by standing on a platform at this attraction.
If you want to view the other falls, hiking is required. Due to the terrain, it is advisable that you hire a guide for this experience.
Visit Grand Etang Lake
Another incredible feat of nature is Grand Etang Lake, a part of the Grand Etang Forest Reserve about 1,740 feet above sea level.
The Grand Etang Forest Reserve is actually a very popular spot for hiking on the island and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. It is also the area where the mona monkey lives.
Dive Into Grenada’s History At Leapers Hill
Traveling along the western side of the island will take you to the parish of St. Patrick, and one of the historical sites there is Leapers Hill.
When the French colonized Grenada, they met the indigenous people living on the island. They gave the natives brandy and trinkets in exchange for Grenada. However, as time passed, the Caribs were not satisfied with this agreement so they attacked and killed the French who retaliated.
The Caribs refused to surrender to the French and jumped to their deaths. The French called this location Le Morne De Sauteurs or Leapers Hill.
Britain ultimately gained control of Grenada in 1783. Nevertheless, the French influence on the island is still very much visible today, especially in the names of communities on the island. Perdmontemps, Morne Jaloux, and Morne Delice are just a few of the villages in Grenada with French names.
Enjoy Chocolate & Local Delicacies At Belmont Estate
A visit around the island would not be complete without stopping at Belmont Estate in the parish of St. Patrick. This prestigious tourist attraction covers 400 acres and is a 300-year-old plantation where cocoa is manufactured and turned into world-class dark chocolate. Tastings are available as well as many different local dishes at the restaurant.
Where To Stay In Grenada
The Southern part of the island is the hub of commercial and economic activity and hence it is the best area to stay for easy access to the top amenities and facilities on the island. Areas such as Grand Anse and True Blue are prime places to stay.
If you plan on relying on public transportation, Grand Anse is on the bus route. However, True Blue is not on the main bus route and it may be more convenient to consider renting a car.
The following are some of the places that are excellent to stay at while in Grenada:
True Blue Bay Resort
Grand Anse, 00000 Saint Georgeʼs, Grenada
This is a popular hotel to the South of the island located near St. George’s University. True Blue Bay Resort is approximately 7 to 10 minutes from the airport and is home to the restaurant Dodgy Dock. Every Wednesday, there is a Street Food Night that features many local dishes from around the island. This event is a great way to meet and interact with locals. There is no public transportation in this area. Visitors to this hotel will need to walk about 5 to 7 minutes to access the main bus route.
Spice Island Beach Resort
PO Box 6 Grand Anse Beach, Grenada Saint Georgeʼs, Grenada
Spice Island Beach Resort is an award-winning all-inclusive resort located on the finest beach in Grenada called Grand Anse Beach. This hotel is located about 10 to 15 minutes away from the Maurice Bishop International Airport. Additionally, one of the popular beach bars named Umbrellas is located a few steps away from this hotel. On the opposite end of the beach, is the Grand Anse Craft & Spice Market where vendors sell a variety of souvenirs and local spices. One main advantage of choosing this resort is its location. Spice Island Beach Resort is 2 minutes from Spiceland Mall which is the largest mall on the island. Visitors can find banking facilities and an IGA supermarket there. Additionally, it is easy at this hotel to access public transportation into the city center which costs $1 at the time of writing.
Bougainvillea Apartments
Grand Anse, Saint Georgeʼs, Grenada
Bougainvillea Apartments is an apartment complex that offers a great ratio of quality and price. The place is located within walking distance from Grand Anse Shopping Centre and Spiceland Mall. Banks, ATM machines, restaurants, and Grand Anse beach are approximately five to seven minutes away.
Extra Tips For Visiting Grenada
– The best way to explore the city is by walking. Due to the island’s hilly terrain, it may be prudent to wear comfortable shoes.
– During the rainy season, there are many mosquitoes, so if you are traveling during these months, it is advisable to carry insect repellent.
– Due to traffic jams, if you are visiting the Grand Anse area on a Friday and you need to return to the city center, make sure you give yourself plenty of time.
The island is extremely safe and a perfect vacation spot for solo female travelers.
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