Saint Vincent Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and tips for staying safe in Saint Vincent. Plan your trip today!


Introduction to Saint Vincent

Saint Vincent is a lush, volcanic island in the Caribbean, located in the Lesser Antilles. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking a laid-back tropical getaway. Saint Vincent is the largest island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, a small country consisting of thirty-two islands and cays. English is the official language of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD) is the local currency.

List of Places to Visit in Saint Vincent

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Saint Vincent has a rich history and culture, which is evident in the numerous museums and historical sites scattered across the island. The following are some of the must-see culturally significant attractions:

  • The Botanical Gardens: Established in 1765, the Botanical Gardens in Kingstown is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Western Hemisphere and home to many species of exotic plants, including breadfruit trees, orchids, and hibiscus.
  • Fort Charlotte: Built in 1806, Fort Charlotte is a historical fort that offers stunning views of Kingstown and the Grenadines. It’s open to the public and features several cannons, a prison, and a museum.
  • St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Cathedral: This impressive cathedral is located in Kingstown and was built in the early 19th century. It features beautiful stained-glass windows and a stunning white exterior.

Natural Attractions of Saint Vincent: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Saint Vincent’s natural beauty is its biggest draw for travelers. The island boasts many stunning beaches, waterfalls, hikes, and dive sites. Some of the most popular natural attractions include:

  • La Soufrière volcano: This active volcano is the highest peak in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, standing at 4,048 ft (1,234 m). It last erupted in 1979, and visitors can take a guided hike to the summit to see its bubbling sulfur springs and panoramic views of the island.
  • The Falls of Baleine: Located on the northern coast of the island, this stunning waterfall drops over 60 ft (18 m) into a natural pool. It’s only accessible by boat or a challenging hike through the rainforest.
  • Bequia Island: A short boat ride from Saint Vincent, Bequia Island is a beautiful and peaceful island with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an unspoiled natural landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint Vincent

Saint Vincent offers a range of epic hiking and biking trails that are perfect for adventurous travelers. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The Vermont Nature Trail: This easy 2-mile trail is located in the Vermont Nature Park and takes visitors through a lush tropical forest, where they can spot birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.
  • The Mount Wynne Nature Trail: This moderate 3.5-mile trail takes hikers through the forest and up to a scenic lookout point with stunning views of the island’s east coast.
  • The Buccament Forest Reserve Trail: This challenging 10-mile trail takes hikers through the heart of Saint Vincent’s rainforest, where they can see rare species of plants and animals and soak up the island’s natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Saint Vincent: Activities and Tours

Saint Vincent offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the must-do experiences include:

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Saint Vincent’s coral reefs and crystal-clear waters make it a top spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can explore the underwater world and see colorful fish, turtles, and even shipwrecks.
  • Sailing: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines offer some of the best sailing in the Caribbean, with calm waters, steady breezes, and stunning anchorages.
  • Whale Watching: Between December and April, humpback whales migrate to the waters around Saint Vincent. Visitors can take a boat tour to see these magnificent creatures up close.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saint Vincent

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for those planning a trip to Saint Vincent:

Day 1-2: Kingstown and the Surrounding Area

Spend your first couple of days exploring the capital city of Kingstown and its surroundings. Visit the Botanical Gardens, Fort Charlotte, and St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Cathedral. Take a stroll along Kingstown’s waterfront and try some of the local cuisine.

Day 3-4: La Soufrière and the Northern Coast

Hike to the summit of La Soufrière volcano, and then visit the picturesque Falls of Baleine on the northern coast of the island.

Day 5-6: Bequia Island

Take a short boat ride from Saint Vincent to Bequia Island, where you can relax on stunning beaches and explore the island’s unspoiled natural beauty.

Day 7: Relax on the Beach

Spend your final day on Saint Vincent’s white-sand beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying the island’s laid-back vibes.

Food and Drink Scene of Saint Vincent

Saint Vincent offers a variety of delicious cuisine and local delicacies. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Callaloo soup: A popular soup made from leafy vegetables, coconut milk, and spices.
  • Roasted breadfruit: A starchy Caribbean fruit that’s roasted until crispy and served with butter or saltfish.
  • Fried jackfish: A local fish that’s seasoned with spices, breaded, and fried until crispy.

Local Beverages

  • Rum punch: A fruity rum-based cocktail that’s a favorite among locals and visitors.
  • Hairoun beer: A local beer that’s light, refreshing, and perfect for sipping on hot days.
  • Sorrel: A sweet, tangy drink made from hibiscus flowers and spices.

Where to Stay in Saint Vincent: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Saint Vincent offers a range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

  • Young Island Resort: This luxury resort is located on a private island off the coast of Saint Vincent and offers stunning views, white-sand beaches, and delicious cuisine.
  • Bequia Beach Hotel: Located on the beautiful island of Bequia, this elegant hotel features spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a pool with stunning views.
  • Barefoot Yoga Retreat: This eco-friendly retreat center offers yoga and meditation classes, as well as vegetarian meals and rustic accommodations in a beautiful natural setting.

What to Buy in Saint Vincent: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Saint Vincent offers a variety of unique and authentic souvenirs that make great gifts for loved ones or mementos of your trip. Some popular items to buy include:

  • Spices: Saint Vincent is known for its high-quality spices, including nutmeg, cinnamon, and bay leaves.
  • Local rum: Saint Vincent produces several types of rum, including the popular Sunset Very Strong Rum.
  • Handicrafts: Local artisans in Saint Vincent create beautiful handicrafts, including woven baskets, wooden carvings, and pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Saint Vincent

Saint Vincent has a rich cultural heritage that’s still evident today. The island’s people are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect the local customs and traditions. Some important cultural practices and customs to be aware of include:

  • Carnival: Carnival is a big part of Saint Vincent’s culture and takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent. It’s a time of dancing, singing, and celebrating, with parades, music, and colorful costumes.
  • Etiquette: Visitors should greet locals with a cordial “hello” or “good day” when entering a shop or meeting someone new. It’s also customary to say “excuse me” or “pardon me” when passing someone on the street or in a crowded area.
  • Religion: The majority of Saint Vincent’s population is Christian, and visitors should respect local religious traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Saint Vincent

The best time to visit Saint Vincent is between December and April, when the weather is dry and the temperatures are mild. The island can get quite hot and humid during the summer months, from June to August, and hurricane season lasts from June to November.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saint Vincent

Here are some important do’s and don’ts for visitors to Saint Vincent:

Do:

  • Keep an open mind and respect local customs and traditions
  • Wear sunscreen and mosquito repellent to protect yourself from the sun and bugs
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Book tours and activities with reputable companies

Don’t:

  • Leave your valuables unattended on the beach
  • Wear revealing clothing in public places
  • Touch or harass wildlife, including monkeys
  • Purchase drugs or participate in illegal activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Saint Vincent

Saint Vincent is a relatively safe destination for travelers, but visitors should take precautions to avoid theft and stay safe. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Don’t leave your valuables unattended on the beach or in your room.
  • Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.

Health in Saint Vincent

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has limited medical facilities, and visitors should take precautions to stay healthy. Here are some health tips to keep in mind:

  • Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid water-borne illnesses.
  • Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to avoid mosquito bites and the risk of dengue fever and Zika virus.
  • Pack any necessary medications, including those for chronic conditions, as they may not be readily available on the island.

Getting to Saint Vincent: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can get to Saint Vincent by air or sea. The following are some transportation options:

Airports Near Saint Vincent

  • Argyle International Airport (SVD): Located on the eastern coast of the island, this is the main international airport serving Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Bus Stations Near Saint Vincent

  • Kingstown Bus Terminal: Located in the capital city of Kingstown, this is the main bus station on the island.

Other Options

  • Ferry: Visitors can take a ferry from neighboring islands, including St. Lucia and Grenada.
  • Private boat: For those with boating experience, private boats can be rented or chartered to travel around Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

How to Get Around in Saint Vincent

On Saint Vincent, visitors can use a variety of transportation options to get around, including:

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel or accommodation.
  • Buses: Public buses are inexpensive and run throughout the island, with frequent stops in major towns and cities.
  • Rental cars: Visitors can rent cars, but driving can be challenging due to the island’s narrow roads and unpredictable weather.

Where to Go Next from Saint Vincent: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Saint Vincent’s location in the Grenadines makes it an ideal starting point for exploring nearby destinations and embarking on exciting excursions. Some popular options include:

  • Bequia Island: A short boat ride from Saint Vincent, Bequia Island is a beautiful and peaceful island with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an unspoiled natural landscape.
  • Tobago Cays: A series of small, uninhabited islands that are part of the Grenadines, the Tobago Cays offer some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean.
  • St. Lucia: A larger island located north of Saint Vincent, St. Lucia offers spectacular scenery, including the iconic Pitons and the Sulphur Springs.

Conclusion

Saint Vincent is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an active outdoor adventure, Saint Vincent has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover all that this beautiful island has to offer!



    Kingstown