Take the Family to Grenada

Paradise calls on the Isle of Spice — otherwise known as Grenada. Relax on the white sandy beaches of the Caribbean Sea while sipping a tropical drink and listening to the rhythms of a local steel drum band. The island is laidback and ideal for some of that rest and relaxation we all need so much of.

When you are in Grenada, it is easy to let the troubles of the outside world fade away while you allow yourself to unwind and enjoy the unique culture and atmosphere of the island. The calm, sandy beaches are not only clean and inviting, but straight out of a postcard with their picturesque palm trees lining the coastline. The waters are clear and warm and the weather is pleasant all year long. The people are warm and friendly and help make it the perfect island getaway.

When you’ve had enough of soaking up the sun on the beach (but let’s be honest, that may never actually happen!), grab the family and visit one of the island’s many attractions that make Grenada the ideal destination for a family looking for fun.

A visit to the Underwater Sculpture Park off the coast is a must for anyone visiting Grenada. Whether you enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving, the warm, clear waters of the Caribbean Sea are optimal for exploring this incredible attraction. Not only do these beautiful statues provide a unique way to experience the art and culture of Grenada, but they are contributing to the environment by creating flourishing artificial reefs.

During your visit to the underwater sculptures, don’t be surprised if you find yourself sharing the experience with some of the local marine life. The Caribbean Sea is home to some of the most beautiful tropical fish in the world, not to mention dolphins, sea turtles, seahorses and a variety of rays such as manta rays, stingrays and spotted eagle rays.

Photo: Seadam | Dreamstime

The Caribbean is famous for its incredible scuba diving, but in case you aren’t experienced in either diving or snorkeling, don’t fret. You don’t have to go far to find assistance. Dive Grenada is one of several outfits located on the island that offers several options for all skill levels to learn or practice in one of the best diving environments in the world. They have individual and group lessons for anyone ages 10 and older so you can fully experience all that the Caribbean has to offer during your stay.

In addition to the marine life that can be seen in the waters surrounding Grenada, the island itself is host to a wide variety of wildlife. Take a trip into the rainforest region of the island where you are likely to encounter some of the island’s most notable creatures. Mona monkeys are not only adorable, but full of character and curiosity. Iguanas, snakes, mongooses and a herd of feral goats are just a few examples of the local inhabitants lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of.

Grand Etang National Park and Forest Reserve is a necessary stop for anyone touring the interior of Grenada. Located in the mountainous interior of the island, it is a great way to spend a day enjoying the outdoors. Opportunities for hiking are everywhere, not to mention the possibility of viewing some of that unique Grenadan wildlife. If you are worried about straying too far from the beach with its refreshing swimming opportunities, Grand Etang will alleviate your concerns. It is home to some incredible waterfalls, such as the Seven Sisters waterfalls, that reward your effort to find them with invigorating swimming holes.

Photo: Paulo Costa | Dreamstime

There are many options for tours of the island’s interior as well as the waters around it. Pure Grenada is an excellent source for locating and arranging tours of the island. Take a glass-bottom boat tour around the island for a unique viewing experience of the island’s reefs and marine life or take a guided Jeep tour of the interior rainforests and plantations. Whatever tour your family is interested in, a guided excursion will provide you with a terrific opportunity to not only explore all Grenada has to offer but to learn about its culture and history, as well.

While visiting the island paradise of Grenada, make time for a daytrip to the neighboring islands of Carriacou or Petite Martinique. They are even more laidback than their big brother Grenada and offer a true Caribbean island experience. The beautiful island of Carriacou is home to the remains of English and French plantations as well as one of the most picturesque beaches in the Caribbean, the aptly named Paradise Beach. The easiest way to access Carriacou and Petite Martinique is by ferry boat from the port in St. George. Ferries depart in the morning and return in the afternoon and run almost every day of the year, depending on the weather. Travel between Grenada and Carriacou is also possible via airplane.

No matter how your family chooses to enjoy Grenada, they will leave happy and wanting more. This jewel of the Caribbean will nourish your body and soul so your family will return home happy and refreshed, if not a bit spoiled by paradise!