Barrouallie

Barrouallie, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Complete Travel Guide

Barrouallie is a charming fishing village located on the leeward coast of Saint Vincent, approximately 45 minutes north of Kingstown. This authentic Caribbean community offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Vincentian life, with colorful wooden houses dotting the hillsides and local fishermen bringing in their daily catch along the black sand beaches. The village serves as an excellent base for exploring the western coastline and experiencing genuine Caribbean hospitality away from the typical tourist crowds. The town's name, derived from French colonial origins, reflects the rich cultural heritage that permeates daily life here. Barrouallie maintains its role as an important fishing center while welcoming visitors who seek authentic cultural experiences, stunning coastal scenery, and access to some of Saint Vincent's most pristine natural attractions. The community's warm residents, traditional architecture, and proximity to both mountain and marine adventures make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to connect with the real Saint Vincent.

Top Barrouallie

Deep Sea Fishing

Join local fishermen or charter operators for world-class deep sea fishing in the Caribbean waters off Saint Vincent's leeward coast. The waters around Barrouallie are renowned for marlin, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and yellowfin tuna, offering both novice and experienced anglers exceptional opportunities.

Booking Tip: Charter a boat through local operators for $300-600 per day depending on boat size and duration. Best fishing is typically early morning (6-10 AM) or late afternoon. Look for operators with proper safety equipment and local knowledge of fishing grounds.

Black Sand Beach Exploration

Discover the unique volcanic black sand beaches that characterize Saint Vincent's coastline. These dramatic shores offer excellent swimming, beachcombing, and photography opportunities while providing insight into the island's volcanic origins.

Booking Tip: No booking required for beach access. Visit during weekday mornings for the most peaceful experience. Bring reef-safe sunscreen as the dark sand can get very hot, and water shoes are recommended for comfort.

Village Cultural Walking Tour

Explore Barrouallie's authentic Caribbean village life through guided walks that showcase traditional architecture, local markets, and community gathering spots. Learn about the fishing industry, local customs, and the area's French colonial and African heritage.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local guesthouses or community guides for $20-40 per person. Morning tours (8-10 AM) are ideal when the village is most active. Look for guides who are longtime residents with deep community knowledge.

Snorkeling and Diving

Explore the pristine coral reefs and marine life along Saint Vincent's leeward coast, where calm waters and excellent visibility create ideal conditions for underwater exploration. The area features diverse coral formations and abundant tropical fish species.

Booking Tip: Book with certified dive operators in nearby towns for $45-80 for snorkeling, $80-120 for diving. Equipment rental typically costs $15-25 extra. Best conditions are usually morning dives with 60-100 feet visibility.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Trek through the lush tropical landscapes surrounding Barrouallie, including trails that lead to scenic viewpoints overlooking the Caribbean Sea and neighboring Grenadine islands. The area offers diverse flora and fauna typical of Saint Vincent's ecosystem.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides for $30-50 per day for safety and plant/wildlife identification. Early morning hikes (6-9 AM) avoid midday heat and offer best wildlife viewing. Bring plenty of water, insect repellent, and sturdy hiking shoes.

Getting There

Barrouallie is accessible by road from Argyle International Airport (SVD), which is approximately a 90-minute drive via Kingstown. Most visitors rent a car or arrange airport transfers through their accommodation, with taxi fares typically costing $60-80 USD. The scenic coastal drive north from Kingstown takes about 45 minutes and offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Public buses (locally called 'route taxis') also serve the route from Kingstown to Barrouallie for around $3-5 USD, though they can be crowded and operate on flexible schedules.

Getting Around

Barrouallie is a compact village easily explored on foot, with most attractions, restaurants, and accommodations within walking distance of each other. For exploring the surrounding coastline and attractions, rental cars are the most convenient option at $40-60 per day, though the roads can be narrow and winding. Local taxis are available for short trips and can be arranged through accommodations. Some visitors enjoy renting scooters or bicycles for short-distance travel, though the hilly terrain can be challenging.

Where to Stay

Village Center

Coastal Road

Hillside Residences

Beachfront Area

Fishing Harbor District

Upper Village

Food & Dining

Barrouallie's dining scene centers around fresh seafood and traditional Caribbean cuisine, with several local restaurants and rum shops serving authentic Vincentian dishes. The daily catch often includes red snapper, kingfish, and lobster prepared with local spices and served with provisions like breadfruit, plantains, and ground provisions. Small family-run establishments offer home-style cooking featuring curried goat, stewed chicken, and fresh fish, typically priced between $10-25 USD per meal. Many accommodations can arrange meals with local families for an authentic cultural dining experience, and the village's small shops stock basic groceries for those preferring to self-cater.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Barrouallie is during the dry season from December to April, when rainfall is minimal and trade winds provide comfortable temperatures averaging 75-85°F (24-29°C). This period offers the calmest seas for fishing and water activities, though it's also peak tourist season with higher accommodation rates. The shoulder seasons of May-June and November can offer good weather with fewer crowds and better prices, while July through October brings higher humidity, more rainfall, and potential hurricane activity, though rates are lowest during this period.

Insider Tips

Visit the fish market early morning (6-8 AM) when fishermen return with their catch to experience authentic village life and potentially purchase ultra-fresh seafood

Learn a few basic phrases in the local Vincentian Creole - residents appreciate visitors who make an effort to engage with the local culture

Pack reef-safe sunscreen and bring cash in small bills, as most local businesses don't accept credit cards and ATMs may be limited in the village