Georgetown

Georgetown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Complete Travel Guide

Georgetown, the charming capital of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, is a picturesque Caribbean port town nestled between rolling hills and the sparkling waters of Kingstown Bay. This compact city serves as the economic and cultural heart of the island nation, featuring a delightful blend of colonial architecture, vibrant local markets, and stunning Saint Vincent that date back to the 18th century. The city's waterfront bustles with activity from cruise ships and inter-island ferries, while its narrow streets are lined with colorful buildings housing everything from historic churches to modern shops. Despite its small size, Georgetown offers visitors an authentic Caribbean experience with easy access to both cultural attractions and natural wonders. The city serves as an excellent base for exploring the island's volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and the famous Grenadines archipelago. With its friendly locals, rich history spanning indigenous Carib heritage to colonial influences, and proximity to some of the Caribbean's most beautiful sailing waters, Georgetown provides an intimate and genuine island experience away from the crowds of larger Caribbean destinations.

Top Georgetown

Botanical Gardens Tour

Explore one of the oldest Saint Vincent in the Western Hemisphere, established in 1765, featuring rare tropical plants, medicinal herbs, and historic trees. The gardens showcase indigenous Caribbean flora alongside exotic species from around the world, including breadfruit trees descended from those brought by Captain Bligh. Visitors can learn about the island's agricultural history and conservation efforts while enjoying peaceful walks through beautifully maintained grounds.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $5 USD, and guided tours are available for $10-15 per person. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos. Look for local guides who can provide insights into medicinal plant uses and historical significance.

La Soufriere Volcano Hiking

Embark on a challenging hike to the active La Soufriere volcano crater, one of the most rewarding adventures in the Caribbean. The trek takes you through diverse ecosystems from tropical rainforest to alpine vegetation, culminating in spectacular views of the crater lake and surrounding islands. This full-day adventure offers incredible photo opportunities and the unique experience of standing on an active volcanic rim.

Booking Tip: Guided tours cost $80-120 per person including transportation and lunch. Book with certified local guides who provide safety equipment and know current volcanic conditions. Best attempted in dry season (December-May) with good fitness level required.

Grenadines Island Hopping

Discover the pristine beauty of the Grenadines archipelago through organized boat tours or ferry services to islands like Saint Vincent, Saint Vincent, and the Tobago Cays. Each island offers unique attractions from secluded beaches and snorkeling spots to charming local communities and luxury resorts. The journey itself provides stunning views of turquoise waters, coral reefs, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Booking Tip: Day trips range from $60-150 per person depending on destinations and inclusions. Ferry services are cheaper ($20-40) but less flexible. Book catamaran tours that include snorkeling equipment, lunch, and multiple stops for best value.

Snorkeling and Diving Excursions

Experience world-class underwater adventures in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Saint Vincent, featuring vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and several accessible shipwrecks. Popular sites include the coral gardens at Young Island and the dramatic wall dives along the Caribbean coast. Both beginners and experienced divers will find suitable spots with excellent visibility and abundant tropical fish species.

Booking Tip: Snorkeling trips cost $40-70 per person, while diving excursions range from $80-120 for two dives. Choose PADI-certified operators with good safety records and well-maintained equipment. Morning trips typically offer better visibility and calmer seas.

Cultural Heritage Walking Tour

Immerse yourself in Georgetown's rich history through guided walks that showcase colonial architecture, historic churches, and significant cultural sites including Fort Charlotte and the Old Public Library. Learn about the island's complex past involving indigenous Caribs, European colonization, and the African diaspora while exploring colorful markets and traditional neighborhoods. The tour provides insights into contemporary Vincentian culture, music, and daily life.

Booking Tip: Walking tours cost $25-40 per person and typically last 2-3 hours. Book through local tour operators or your hotel concierge for authentic experiences. Early morning or late afternoon tours are most comfortable due to tropical heat.

Getting There

Georgetown is accessible primarily through Argyle International Airport (SVD), located about 30 minutes from the city center, which opened in 2017 and handles international flights from North America, Europe, and other Caribbean islands. Major airlines serving the destination include Caribbean Airlines, LIAT, and seasonal charter flights. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Barbados or Saint Lucia and take connecting flights or ferry services. The city's port also welcomes cruise ships and private yachts, making it a popular stop on Caribbean sailing itineraries.

Getting Around

Georgetown is compact and easily walkable, with most attractions within a few blocks of each other and the waterfront. Local transportation includes colorful minibuses that run regular routes around the island for about $2-5 USD, though they can be crowded and follow flexible schedules. Taxis are readily available and rates should be negotiated beforehand, typically costing $10-20 for city trips and $30-50 for longer island excursions. Car rentals are available from several agencies and provide the most flexibility for exploring the island, though roads can be narrow and winding in mountainous areas.

Where to Stay

Villa/Young Island area

Georgetown city center

Indian Bay

Calliaqua

Ratho Mill

Arnos Vale

Food & Dining

Georgetown's dining scene reflects the island's multicultural heritage with a focus on fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Caribbean flavors. Local specialties include roasted breadfruit, callaloo soup, and fresh catch prepared with local spices and coconut. The city center features several casual restaurants and local eateries where visitors can try authentic Vincentian cuisine at reasonable prices ($10-25 per meal). For upscale dining, head to the resort areas around Young Island or Indian Bay where international cuisine is available alongside Caribbean fusion dishes, though prices are higher ($30-60 per person). Don't miss the local markets for fresh fruits, spices, and street food experiences.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Georgetown is during the dry season from December to May when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are slightly cooler with constant trade winds. This period offers the best conditions for outdoor activities, hiking, and water sports, though it's also the busiest and most expensive time. The shoulder months of November and June can provide good value with decent weather and fewer crowds. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with September and October being the peak months to avoid, though Saint Vincent is located relatively far south and experiences fewer direct hits than northern Caribbean islands.

Insider Tips

Visit the local Kingstown Market early Saturday morning for the best selection of fresh produce and authentic cultural experience with locals

Take the ferry to Saint Vincent instead of expensive day tours - it's cheaper and allows you to explore at your own pace

Bring cash in small denominations as many local establishments don't accept cards and ATMs can be limited outside the city center