Things to Do in Canouan

Canouan sits like a well-kept secret in the southern Grenadines, a crescent-shaped island that's managed to balance exclusivity with Caribbean authenticity. The island stretches just 3.5 miles long, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in dramatic beauty - think rolling hills that drop into powdery white beaches and some of the clearest turquoise water you'll find anywhere in the Caribbean. While luxury resorts have certainly found their way here, Canouan retains a laid-back village atmosphere where you're more likely to chat with local fishermen than fight crowds for beach space. The island's geography creates natural drama everywhere you look. Mount Royal rises 900 feet above sea level, offering panoramic views that stretch across the Grenadines chain, while the western coastline unfolds in a series of protected bays perfect for swimming and snorkeling. What's particularly appealing about Canouan is how it feels both refined and unpretentious - you can spend the morning hiking through relatively untouched terrain and the afternoon lounging on beaches that rival any in the world, all without the overwhelming development you'll find on larger Caribbean islands.

Canouan's dining scene reflects its size but offers surprising variety for such a small island. The luxury resorts serve excellent international cuisine, though you'll pay resort prices for the privilege. In Charlestown Bay, you'll find several local restaurants serving fresh seafood and Caribbean specialties at much more reasonable prices - the grilled fish and lobster are particularly good. Many places don't have extensive menus but instead offer whatever's fresh that day, which usually means excellent quality. For a real local experience, ask about Friday night fish fries or weekend barbecues, where you'll get authentic food and a chance to mingle with residents.

Canouan enjoys fairly consistent weather year-round, but the dry season from December through April offers the most reliable sunshine and the calmest seas for boating and snorkeling. This is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowded beaches. The shoulder months of May and November can offer excellent value with still-good weather, though you might encounter occasional showers. Hurricane season officially runs June through November, but Canouan sits relatively far south and historically sees fewer direct hits than islands further north. That said, weather can still be unsettled during these months, and some businesses may close for maintenance.