Grenada Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Known as the “Spice Island,” Grenada blends natural beauty with authentic charm. Luxury villas in Grenada set in the hills above Grand Anse or along quiet beaches, offering open-air pavilions and tranquil pools. Villa rentals in Grenada invite slow living and barefoot sophistication.

Why Grenada?

  • Grenada is the world's second-largest producer of nutmeg.
  • Grenada is home to the only known population of the critically endangered Grenada Dove.
  • Grenada is the only Caribbean island to have a railway.
  • Grand Anse Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
  • Grenada is home to the world's first underwater sculpture park.
  • Browse our Grenada vacation rentals.

Grenada Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
80.0° F
° F
February
80.4° F
° F
March
83.6° F
° F
April
85.0° F
° F
May
86.1° F
° F
June
87.8° F
° F
July
88.0° F
° F
August
87.7° F
° F
September
86.0° F
° F
October
84.0° F
° F
November
82.0° F
° F
December
80.2° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
1.34
February
0.65
March
0.52
April
0.83
May
0.92
June
3.33
July
3.34
August
3.35
September
2.71
October
3.28
November
4
December
2.52

History

Grenada is a small island republic in the Caribbean Sea with a rich and varied history spanning more than a millennium. Indigenous groups, namely the Arawaks and Caribs, were the island's first inhabitants and named it Camerhogne.

Christopher Columbus, a European explorer, first landed on the island in 1498 and staked a claim for Spain. Spain's colonisation efforts, however, were met with stiff opposition from the Caribs. The French succeeded in establishing a settlement on Grenada in 1650 and initiated sugarcane farming, utilizing African slaves for the labor. Although the British were also on the island, they did not gain possession of Grenada until the Treaty of Paris in 1762.

The island's economy flourished under British rule, mostly as a result of the production of sugarcane, cocoa, and spices. However, the use of slave labor and the difficult working conditions led to many uprisings, such as the famous Bussa Rebellion in 1816. When the British finally outlawed slavery in 1834, the sugarcane sector suffered and indentured labor from China and India was used.

Grenada joined the Federation of the West Indies in 1958. However, the federation broke up in 1962 due to disputes between the larger and smaller islands, including Grenada. In 1974, Grenada gained full independence from Britain, and Sir Eric Gairy became its first prime minister.

In the following years, Grenada was beset by political turmoil and economic hardship. The Marxist-Leninist revolutionary Maurice Bishop staged a coup d'état, founding the People's Revolutionary Government in 1979. Seen as a regional risk to their interests by the United States, this move sparked global controversy.

In 1983, internal government tensions culminated in a power struggle between Bishop and his second-in-command, Bernard Coard. On October 19th, a military coup led by Coard culminated in Bishop's execution along with several of his government colleagues. This incident, recognized as the Grenada Revolution, triggered a US-led intervention named Operation Urgent Fury, which toppled the Coard regime and reinstated order on the island.

Since those events, Grenada has shifted to a democratic government and witnessed economic advancement, powered by tourism, agriculture, and spice exports including nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. The island has also battled natural disasters, including hurricanes and a catastrophic category 4 hurricane in 2004, demonstrating resilience and recovery.

Presently, Grenada is a flourishing island nation, showcasing a distinctive mix of Caribbean, African, and European influences. Its history stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of its people, overcoming hardships and adversities to build a vibrant and varied culture.

Transportation on Grenada

Getting to Grenada and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa: Not required for UK citizens and most other nationalities for stays of up to 90 days.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from Grenada is required.
  • Travel Authorization: As of 2024, most visitors to Grenada may be required to complete a travel declaration or health form, depending on current regulations.

Departure Tax

A departure tax of US$35 is typically charged at the airport for international departures.

Driving

  • License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver's license for up to 3 months.
  • Permit: A temporary driving permit is required, obtainable at the airport or local police stations.
  • Driving Side: Left-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Generally good, with paved roads in urban areas and some unpaved roads in more remote regions.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 25-40 mph (40-64 km/h) in urban areas, and higher speeds on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be mindful of all traffic signals, pedestrians, and local driving customs.

Local Transportation

1. Public Buses: Grenada has a reliable and affordable public bus system that operates throughout the island. These buses run on fixed routes and are a popular mode of transportation for locals and tourists alike.

2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Grenada and can be found at designated taxi stands or hailed on the street. They are a convenient and comfortable way to get around the island, but they can be more expensive than other modes of transportation.

3. Rental Cars: Renting a car is a great way to explore Grenada at your own pace. There are several rental car agencies located at the airport and in major tourist areas. Keep in mind that in Grenada, cars drive on the left side of the road.

4. Water Taxis: For those looking to travel between the islands of Grenada, water taxis are a fun and scenic option. They can be arranged through tour companies or at the main marinas.

5. Scooters and Bikes: Scooter and bike rentals are available in Grenada and are a popular mode of transportation for short trips around the island. However, be cautious when riding on the roads as they can be busy and winding.

6. Private Transfer Services: Private transfer services offer a more luxurious and personalized way to get around Grenada. These services can be booked in advance and include options such as private cars, vans, and limousines.

7. Walking: Many areas in Grenada are easily walkable, especially in the main towns and tourist areas. Walking is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the island and is also a good option for short distances.

8. Hitchhiking: Hitchhiking is not a common mode of transportation in Grenada, but it is possible. It is important to use caution and common sense if choosing to hitchhike.

9. Tour Buses: There are several tour companies in Grenada that offer guided tours of the island. These buses often include transportation to popular attractions and provide a great way to learn about the history and culture of Grenada.

10. Bicycle Taxis: In some areas of Grenada, bicycle taxis (also known as "bici-taxis") can be found. These are small, open-air vehicles powered by a bicycle and are a unique way to get around.

Know Before You Go...® - Grenada Travel Tips

Before making their way to Grenada , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Grenada even more relaxing.

Capital: Saint George's
Population: 120,000 (estimated)
Size: 133 square miles
Electric Current: 230
Time: Timezone: AST, 2026-06-09 02:51:03
(GMT Offset: -4 hours, DST: No)
Official Language: English is the official language of Grenada, with a local dialect of Grenadian Creole also spoken.
Currency:
  • The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted, especially in tourist areas.
  • ATMs: Available in major towns and tourist areas.
  • Credit and Debit Cards: Major cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted at most establishments.
  • Contactless Payments: Increasingly common in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. It is customary to leave 10-15% in restaurants, and small tips are often given to taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides.
  • VAT (Value Added Tax): 15% is typically included in displayed prices for goods and services.
Dress Code: Grenada has a laid-back dress code ideal for its tropical climate. Lightweight, breathable clothing is suitable for daytime activities. Swimwear is appropriate at the beach but should be covered when away from the shore. Smart casual attire is recommended for dining at upscale restaurants or resorts.
Topography: Grenada, known as the 'Spice Island,' is famous for its lush, mountainous landscape, featuring dense rainforests, spice plantations, and beautiful beaches. The island is dotted with volcanic craters and has a coastline lined with white-sand beaches.
Telephone: * Country Code: +1-473 * Area Code: 473 * Mobile Networks: Widely available across the island. * Wi-Fi: Accessible in most hotels, resorts, and public spaces.

Grenada Weddings and Honeymoons

In Grenada, the process of getting married is relatively simple and popular among foreign couples. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local registry office. Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in Grenada (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs approximately XCD 150 (about US$55). For weddings outside of the registry office, additional fees for the officiant apply, ranging from XCD 250 to XCD 500 (approximately US$90 to US$185). It is recommended to apply for the license at least 2 days before the intended wedding date.

See our favorite Grenada villas for weddings.

See all our luxury villas in Grenada