Things to Do in Salt Whistle Bay, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Salt Whistle Bay is a pristine crescent-shaped beach located on the uninhabited island of Mayreau in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This secluded paradise features powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees that create the quintessential Caribbean postcard setting. The bay is accessible only by boat, making it a peaceful escape from the crowds and a favorite anchorage for sailing enthusiasts exploring the Grenadines. Despite being on an uninhabited island, Salt Whistle Bay offers basic amenities including a small beach bar and restaurant that serves fresh seafood and local specialties. The surrounding waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and various water sports, while the beach itself provides ample space for relaxation and beachcombing. The bay's protected location makes it an ideal spot for both day trips and overnight stays aboard chartered boats or private yachts.

Top Things to Do in Salt Whistle Bay

Snorkeling and Swimming

The calm, clear waters of Salt Whistle Bay offer excellent visibility for snorkeling, with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish just offshore. The protected bay provides safe swimming conditions for all skill levels. The underwater landscape features healthy coral formations and diverse marine life including parrotfish, angelfish, and sea turtles.

Booking Tip: Bring your own snorkeling gear or rent from tour operators in Union Island or Canouan for $15-25 per day. Best visibility is typically in the morning hours before 11 AM when waters are calmest.

Beach Relaxation and Sunbathing

Salt Whistle Bay's crescent-shaped beach offers pristine white sand and plenty of space to spread out and relax. The beach is lined with coconut palms providing natural shade, and the gentle curve of the bay creates a sense of complete seclusion. The soft sand and calm waters make it perfect for a full day of tropical relaxation.

Booking Tip: Arrive early in the day to secure the best spots under palm trees. Beach chairs can sometimes be rented from the beach bar for $10-15 per day, but bringing your own beach equipment is recommended.

Sailing and Yacht Charter

Salt Whistle Bay is a premier sailing destination in the Grenadines, offering excellent anchorage and stunning scenery. Many visitors arrive as part of multi-day sailing charters that island-hop throughout the region. The bay's protected waters make it ideal for both experienced sailors and beginners looking to explore the Caribbean by boat.

Booking Tip: Charter costs range from $300-800 per day depending on boat size and season. Book sailing charters 2-3 months in advance, especially for December-April peak season. Look for operators based in Union Island or St. Vincent.

Beachcombing and Photography

The isolated nature of Salt Whistle Bay makes it excellent for beachcombing, with interesting shells, coral pieces, and sea glass often washing ashore. The bay's dramatic scenery, with its perfect crescent shape and surrounding hills, provides endless photography opportunities. Sunrise and sunset shots are particularly spectacular from this vantage point.

Booking Tip: Bring a waterproof camera case and extra batteries as there are no facilities to charge equipment. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting conditions for photography.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

The calm waters of Salt Whistle Bay are perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, allowing visitors to explore the coastline at their own pace. Paddle around the bay to discover hidden coves and get different perspectives of the stunning scenery. The protected waters make these activities suitable for beginners and families.

Booking Tip: Rent equipment from tour operators in Union Island for $25-40 per day, or some sailing charters include kayaks. Morning hours offer the calmest conditions before trade winds pick up in the afternoon.

Getting There

Salt Whistle Bay is accessible only by boat, as Mayreau is an uninhabited island with no airport or regular ferry service. Most visitors arrive via day trip boats from Union Island, Canouan, or as part of sailing charters exploring the Grenadines. Water taxis can be arranged from Union Island for approximately $40-60 per person round trip, or you can join organized day trips that typically cost $80-120 per person including lunch and snorkeling equipment. Private boat charters are also available for those seeking a more exclusive experience.

Getting Around

Once at Salt Whistle Bay, getting around is simply a matter of walking along the beach, as the bay area is relatively small and easily explored on foot. The beach stretches for about 400 meters, and all facilities including the beach bar and restaurant are within easy walking distance. There are no roads, vehicles, or other transportation on this part of Mayreau - the pristine nature of the location means everything is accessed by foot along the sandy beach and coastal paths.

Where to Stay

Union Island (closest inhabited island)

Canouan Island resorts

Private yacht charter

Bequia guesthouses

St. Vincent mainland hotels

Mustique luxury villas

Food & Dining

Dining options at Salt Whistle Bay are limited but charming, centered around the small beach bar and restaurant that operates during daylight hours. The establishment serves fresh seafood including grilled fish, lobster (in season), and conch, along with traditional Caribbean dishes like rice and peas, plantains, and local vegetables. Cold drinks, tropical cocktails, and fresh fruit are also available. Many visitors bring picnic lunches as part of their day trip packages, and those arriving by private yacht often prepare meals onboard. It's advisable to bring snacks and plenty of water, as options are limited and prices reflect the remote location.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Salt Whistle Bay is during the dry season from December to May, when rainfall is minimal and trade winds provide comfortable temperatures. January through March offers the most stable weather conditions with calm seas ideal for swimming and water sports. The wet season from June to November brings higher humidity, occasional rain showers, and potential for tropical storms, though prices are lower and crowds are thinner. Hurricane season officially runs from June to November, with September and October being the highest risk months when some tour operators may suspend services.

Insider Tips

Bring reef-safe sunscreen and plenty of water as there are limited facilities and environmental protection is crucial in this pristine location

Visit on weekdays if possible to avoid cruise ship day-trippers who typically arrive on Wednesdays and Thursdays

Pack everything you need in a waterproof bag as you may need to wade through shallow water to reach the beach from your boat

Things to Do in Salt Whistle Bay