Things to Do in Saintvincentandthegrenadines

About Saintvincentandthegrenadines

Where volcanic peaks meet pristine Caribbean waters, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines exists as a constellation of 32 islands that have largely escaped mass tourism's homogenizing touch. This is a destination where authenticity still reigns—where local fishing boats outnumber cruise ships, verdant rainforests cascade down to secluded coves, and the rhythm of island life moves to its own unhurried tempo. Here, the Caribbean reveals itself as it once was: raw, genuine, and breathtakingly beautiful.

Travel Tips

• Island-Hopping Transportation: Book ferry tickets with companies like Bequia Express or Jaden Sun in advance during peak season (December-April), as inter-island ferries can fill up quickly, and confirm schedules the day before as weather conditions often cause delays or cancellations.

• Currency and Cash: While the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is the official currency, U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but bring smaller bills as change is often given in EC dollars at unfavorable rates, and ATMs are scarce outside of Kingstown and main islands like Bequia.

• Hiking Mt. Soufrière: If planning to hike the active La Soufrière volcano on St. Vincent, hire a licensed guide (required) through the tourism office, start your trek by 6 AM to avoid afternoon clouds obscuring the crater views, and wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail is steep and often muddy.

• Water Taxi Etiquette: In the Grenadines, water taxis are the primary transport between islands and to remote beaches; negotiate and agree on the round-trip price before departing, including waiting time, and always arrange a specific pickup time rather than assuming they'll wait for you.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is December through May, when daytime temperatures hover between 24-28°C (75-82°F), rainfall is minimal (averaging 50-100mm monthly), and trade winds keep humidity comfortable, though this peak season brings higher accommodation rates—sometimes 40-50% more expensive—and advance bookings are essential, particularly around Christmas, New Year's, and the Easter Regatta in April which transforms Bequia into a sailing spectacle. June through November constitutes the Atlantic hurricane season, with September and October presenting the highest risk of tropical storms and intense rainfall exceeding 200mm monthly, making these months challenging despite rock-bottom prices and near-empty beaches; however, early December and late May offer sweet spots with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and moderate pricing. Carnival in late June/early July (Vincy Mas) showcases the islands' vibrant culture with steel pan competitions, calypso shows, and street parties, though visitors should expect temperatures around 29-31°C with 70-80% humidity and occasional afternoon downpours. February through April represents the absolute premium period for sailors and divers, with crystal-clear visibility reaching 30+ meters, calm seas, and the Mustique Blues Festival in late January/early February, but budget travelers should target early December or May when weather remains excellent while prices drop 20-30% from peak rates.