Grenada is a captivating Caribbean island where rich history and vibrant culture meet powder-soft beaches, lush mountains and spectacular waterfalls. Known as the ‘Spice Island’, it’s also one of the friendliest destinations in the Caribbean, with locals who are immensely proud of their home and eager to share its beauty, flavours and stories with visitors.
For those looking for more than simply relaxing on a beach, Grenada delivers in abundance. From waterfalls and colourful markets to chocolate, rum, underwater adventures and unforgettable sunsets, there’s an incredible amount to discover. To get a taste of what makes this island so special, here’s how to spend an action-packed day in Grenada – although, ideally, travellers should stay much longer!
Start with a refreshing dip at Annandale Falls
After a restful night and a hearty breakfast at Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa, the day begins with a 30-minute drive into Grenada’s lush interior to Annandale Falls.
Tucked among tropical ferns and dramatic volcanic boulders, this beautiful waterfall is the perfect place to cool off. For the more adventurous, some thrill-seeking locals will even dive from the rocks into the pool below for a small fee. The more cautious can simply take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water instead and, according to local legend, the magical waters are said to make anyone who takes a dip look 10 years younger!
With body clocks suitably turned back, it’s time to head to the capital.
Discover colourful Saint George’s
Grenada’s capital, Saint George’s, is one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque towns. Colourful buildings cascade down the hillside towards the pretty marina, creating a wonderfully vibrant backdrop for an afternoon of exploring.
A wander through the local market offers the chance to sample fresh tropical fruit and vegetables while browsing stalls piled high with Grenada’s famous spices. Nutmeg, cinnamon and other fragrant treasures make excellent souvenirs and provide a delicious reminder of the island long after the holiday is over.
No visit would be complete without sampling some local rum. A stop at one of the island’s rum shacks reveals a particularly intriguing drink: the ‘Under the Counter’ rum. This punchy spirit is infused with a secret blend of spices and, as the name suggests, is kept under the counter for special occasions. It’s certainly not your average rum tasting!
Indulge in Grenada’s chocolate
Grenada’s flavours extend far beyond rum and spices. Cocoa is widely grown across the island and is one of its major exports, alongside nutmeg and bananas.
From Saint George’s, it’s easy to take a short walk to the House of Chocolate museum, where passionate local staff demonstrate how cocoa beans are transformed from bean to bar. Of course, the best part is getting to sample the results – and the delicious chocolate rum is particularly hard to resist.
Take in the views from Fort George
Next comes a climb to the top of Fort George, a historic fortress originally built by French soldiers and now home to the Royal Grenada Police Force.
Along the way, plaques reveal fascinating details about the fort and its history, while the original cannons remain in place. At the top, the reward is even better: sweeping views across Saint George’s, the harbour and the Caribbean Sea. It’s a spectacular spot to pause, take in the scenery and capture a few photographs.
Dive into Grenada’s underwater world
Back on the coast, the adventure continues on the water. A boat trip along Grenada’s coastline offers a different perspective of the island, with the crew pointing out interesting landmarks and hidden corners along the way.
The boat then anchors beside one of Grenada’s most extraordinary attractions: the Underwater Sculpture Park.
After plunging into the warm Caribbean Sea, visitors can swim among a collection of striking underwater installations. Perhaps the most famous is the circle of children holding hands, cast from local children and symbolising their adaptability as coral gradually grows over the sculptures in their new underwater environment.
Exploring the sculpture park feels like discovering a hidden world beneath the waves, with colourful marine life and coral adding to the experience. Then, as the afternoon draws to a close, it’s time to climb back aboard, glass of bubbly in hand, and watch the sun sink dramatically over the Caribbean Sea.
Finish the day with dinner and drinks
After a day packed with adventure, there’s only one thing left to do: eat!
Dinner at Rhodes Restaurant at Calabash is the perfect way to round off the day. Guests don’t need to be staying at the hotel to dine here, but booking ahead is highly recommended. Set beneath an elegant pergola, the restaurant provides a beautiful and romantic setting, while the food is fresh, vibrant and packed with flavour.
And for those who aren’t quite ready to call it a night, the evening can continue at the West Indies Beer Company, just a short walk from Calabash. This lively local brewery offers an impressive selection of real ales and ciders, alongside great music and a wonderfully relaxed Caribbean atmosphere.
It’s the perfect final stop after a day that showcases just how much Grenada has to offer – and a pretty compelling reason to stay for more than just one day!
Feeling inspired? Get in touch with one of our Caribbean specialists today!
