St. George's Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay and more in St. George's, Grenada with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to St. George’s

St. George’s is the capital city of Grenada, an island in the Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles. It boasts a rich history and culture, natural beauty, and a vibrant food and drink scene. Visitors can explore historic forts, hike or bike through lush rainforests, lounge on sandy beaches, and indulge in the local cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in St. George’s

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Grenada National Museum: Explore Grenada’s history and culture through a collection of artifacts, exhibits, and photos.
  • Fort George: A historic fort that offers panoramic views of the city and the harbor. It is also a popular spot for watching the sunset.
  • Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park: A unique underwater park that features a collection of sculptures by British artist Jason de Caires Taylor.

Natural Attractions of St. George’s: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Grand Etang National Park and Forest Reserve: A lush rainforest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
  • Annandale Falls: A stunning waterfall that cascades into a natural pool, perfect for swimming.
  • Morne Rouge Beach: A secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and white sand.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. George’s

St. George’s offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, ranging from scenic strolls to challenging treks. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Mount Qua Qua Hike: A challenging trek that rewards hikers with stunning views of the surrounding forest and sea.
  • Laura’s Herb and Spice Garden: A leisurely walk through a lush garden that showcases a variety of herbs, spices, and medicinal plants.
  • Grand Etang Nature Trail: A moderate hike that takes visitors through the rainforest and offers glimpses of the island’s wildlife.

Best Things to Do in St. George’s: Activities and Tours

  • Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater world of Grenada with its vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and sea life.
  • Spice Tour: Discover the island’s rich agricultural heritage by visiting a spice farm and learning about the production of nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices.
  • River Tubing: Enjoy a thrilling ride down Grenada’s rivers on inner tubes.

Week-Long Itinerary for St. George’s

Day Activities
1 Explore St. George’s: Visit Fort George, the Grenada National Museum, and the Carenage
2 Grand Etang National Park: Hike the trails, visit the Grand Etang Lake, and check out the Visitor Center
3 Spice Tour: Visit a spice farm and learn about the production of nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices
4 River Tubing: Enjoy a thrilling ride down Grenada’s rivers on inner tubes
5 Beach Day: Hit the beach and relax at Grand Anse Beach
6 Underwater Adventure: Go scuba diving and explore the coral reefs and marine life
7 Island Excursion: Take a tour of the island and visit other sights such as Annandale Falls and Morne Rouge Beach

Food and Drink Scene of St. George’s

Must-Try Dishes

  • Oil Down: A hearty stew made with breadfruit, salted meat, coconut milk, turmeric, and other spices.
  • Callaloo Soup: A creamy soup made with callaloo leaves, okra, coconut milk, and various seasonings.
  • Roti: A flatbread that is filled with various curry and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Rum Punch: A classic Caribbean cocktail made with rum, lime juice, bitters, and grenadine.
  • Mauby: A refreshing drink made from the bark of the mauby tree, flavored with spices and sweetened with sugar.
  • Nutmeg Syrup: A sweet syrup made from nutmeg, sugar, and water, often used in cocktails and desserts.

Where to Stay in St. George’s: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

St. George’s offers a variety of accommodation options for every budget. Some of the top picks include:

  • Laluna Resort: A luxurious resort that offers private villas, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant.
  • Siesta Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel that is just a short walk from Grand Anse Beach.
  • True Blue Bay Resort: A charming boutique hotel with comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in St. George’s: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Nutmeg: Grenada is known as the “Isle of Spice” for its production of nutmeg, which can be purchased at Spice Markets.
  • Chocolate: Grenada produces high-quality chocolate and offers various chocolate tours and products.
  • Grenadian Art: Local art, including paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts, can be found at galleries and markets throughout St. George’s.

Local Culture and Customs of St. George’s

Grenada’s culture is a blend of African, European, and Caribbean influences. Some of the customs and traditions include:

  • Carnival: A colorful and lively festival that takes place in August.
  • Steel Pan Music: A unique musical style that originated in Trinidad and Tobago and is now popular throughout the Caribbean.
  • Spoken Word: Traditional storytelling, poetry, and music.

Best Time to Visit St. George’s

The best time to visit St. George’s is between December and April when the weather is sunny and pleasant. However, this is also the peak season, and prices can be higher.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. George’s

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Sample the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Wear sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

Don’t:

  • Wear camouflage clothing (it is reserved for the military).
  • Take photos of people without asking for permission.
  • Remove marine life from the ocean (it is illegal).

Safety and Health

Safety in St. George’s

St. George’s is generally safe, but visitors should take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in St. George’s

Visitors should be up to date on their routine vaccinations and take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses such as Zika, dengue fever, and chikungunya.

Getting to St. George’s: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near St. George’s

  • Maurice Bishop International Airport: The main airport serving Grenada, located just outside of St. George’s.

Bus Stations Near St. George’s

  • The main bus terminal is located in St. George’s and offers services to all parts of the island.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available in St. George’s and can be hired for short or long distances.
  • Rental Cars: Rental cars are available at the airport and in St. George’s for those who prefer to drive themselves.

How to Get Around in St. George’s

St. George’s is a small city that can easily be explored on foot. Taxis and buses are also available for longer distances or to explore other parts of the island.

Where to Go Next from St. George’s: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Grand Anse Beach: A popular beach that is just a short distance from St. George’s.
  • Carriacou: A small island that is part of Grenada and offers a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere.
  • Tobago Cays: A group of small islands that offer stunning beaches, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing.

Conclusion

St. George’s, Grenada, offers a truly unique Caribbean experience with its vibrant culture, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore historic sites, venture into the rainforest, lounge on the beach, and indulge in the local flavors. With options for every budget and interest, St. George’s makes for an unforgettable travel destination.

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