By MICHAEL BAGINSKI/ Grenada has long appealed to Canadians seeking an authentic Caribbean escape, but the island is nevertheless still emerging from the shadow of some of its better-known neighbours. With expanding air service from Canada, growing recognition in the luxury market, and an impressive culinary scene, the Spice Island is increasingly demonstrating that it is one of the Caribbean’s most compelling destinations.
Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), says Canada is one of Grenada’s most important international markets and one with significant room for growth.
During a recent FAM trip to the island, Liburd told Travel Industry Today that Canada again represents Grenada’s No. 2 market (following a pandemic downturn), which she attributes to consistency of flights from Air Canada and WestJet that give Canadians the easy opportunity to discover “the destination they’re looking for – whether it’s sun, sand, sea or great food, culture, safety, adventure…”
And despite a loyal visitor base, one prominent hotel on the island has seen its Canadian clientele jump from 10 to 30% in the past two years, she noted.
A frequent visitor to Canada, Liburd believes that the current geopolitical climate and many Canadians’ disapproval of the U.S. have also helped, as has Grenada’s reputation as a fresh and relatively undiscovered destination for Canadians where “you are not going to a place that you and your family go every year.”
And one that can be reached in less than five hours – and where, upon arrival, virtually every hotel is within a 20-minute transfer.
Traditionally attracting affluent travellers, Grenada is broadening its appeal while maintaining the authenticity that distinguishes it from larger Caribbean destinations.
Light on all-inclusives (Royalton, Sandals, Coyaba Beach Resort), Grenada offers a “mixed bag” of accommodation options, says Liburd.
“You will never be able to take market share from certain markets (such as all-inclusives), Canada being one of them, but you do have the traveller that wants the Mount Cinnamon and (soon to open) Six Senses and Silver Sands and Cocoa Cove.
“What they also want,” she continues, “is to be able to go out and explore the destination. They want their villa product and then go out for lunch and quite possibly dinner. And they want the option to have a lazy day, and they can just go out and get groceries or have someone come and cook for they for them. So, we see a different segment of traveller depending on what they want their holidays to look like.
“I know Canadians do like to pay one price, and that’s where the (all-inclusives) do well,” she concludes, “but sometimes they hinder you from going out and experiencing a destination that is organic and lends itself to that immersive experience.”
With this in mind, Liburd says Grenada is eager to promote all it’s properties – not just those for “front of the plane” clients.
“We have lots of charming properties,” such as smaller resorts, villas, and AirBnBs that are “clean and offer the same quality of vacation,” she says, and adds, “You have (clients) who say they don’t want to spend a lot on accommodation and would rather spend it on experiences – and we do have product for that client!”
Beyond the resort
With this in mind, Grenada invites visitors to discover its villages, restaurants, rum distilleries, spice plantations, chocolate producers and colourful capital, St. George’s, where pastel buildings tumble down hillsides toward one of the Caribbean’s prettiest harbours.
The island is also a veritable garden, with flowers such as hibiscus, frangipani, and the national flower, bougainvillea, as well as plants/trees like bamboo and eucalyptus, as accessible randomly as they are in more formal settings.
Although famous for postcard-perfect beaches, Grenada’s greatest surprise lies inland. The mountainous interior is filled with lush rainforest, crater lakes, waterfalls and hiking trails that provide a striking contrast to the coastline.
Grand Etang National Park, built around an extinct volcanic crater, offers scenic walks beneath towering tropical trees, while waterfalls including Annandale, Concord and Seven Sisters reward visitors with refreshing natural pools after short hikes through the forest.
For travellers seeking soft adventure, hiking, ATV excursions, paddle boarding and kayaking are easily combined with leisurely beach days.
Better down where it’s wetter
Grenada has quietly become one of the Caribbean’s premier diving destinations. Its underwater attractions include colourful coral reefs, dramatic shipwrecks and the internationally renowned Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park, where submerged sculptures blend art, history and marine conservation. A second underwater sculpture installation on Carriacou further enhances the destination’s appeal for divers and snorkellers alike.
“It isn’t just an underwater attraction,” Liburd noted of the sculpture park. “It’s a cultural landmark.”
Bountiful beaches
Grenada’s coastline offers nearly 50 beaches, ranging from lively stretches to secluded coves.
Grand Anse Beach remains the island’s signature shoreline, with nearly 5 km. of powder-soft sand, calm waters and spectacular sunsets.
Those seeking a quieter escape can head to Magazine Beach or BBC Beach, while Paradise Beach on nearby Carriacou delivers classic Caribbean tranquillity with crystal-clear waters and few crowds.
Culinary & chocolate
Recognition by the World Food Travel Association as a Culinary Capital reflects the island’s growing reputation among food lovers. Known worldwide as the “Spice Island,” Grenada exports nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, turmeric, vanilla and allspice, while Grenadian chefs prepare meals using locally grown spices, tropical fruits, fresh seafood and organic produce harvested only hours before reaching the plate. Be sure to try the Grenadian version of Callaloo soup and the breadfruit-based national dish “boil down” (in season). Cooking classes are an option for visitors who like to be hands on.
Chocolate also plays an important role. Grenada’s annual Chocolate Festival celebrates the island’s internationally acclaimed cocoa industry through farm tours, tastings, culinary demonstrations and educational workshops that showcase every step from bean to bar.
There are seven chocolate factories to choose from around the island and the House of Chocolate in St. George’s serves as both a shop and mini museum that offers informative presentations of the history of chocolate on the island.
Festivals
Grenada boasts an extensive calendar of events. Spicemas, the island’s celebrated Carnival, remains the headline attraction each summer, while newer festivals continue to expand the tourism offering.
The inaugural Lobster and Lambie Festival on Carriacou highlighted local cuisine and culture, while the Chocolate Festival and the recently introduced Flower and Garden Festival showcase Grenada’s agricultural heritage and biodiversity.
MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Fort Frederick
An ideal first stop when exploring, Fort Frederick offers some of the finest panoramic views in Grenada. Built by the French in the late 18th century and later occupied by the British, the historic fortress overlooks the capital, Grand Anse Beach and the Caribbean Sea, providing a perfect “lay of the land” for new arrivals, and a highly Instagrammable photo stop to boot.
St. George’s and Market Square
Frequently regarded as one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque capitals, St. George’s boasts colourful hillside buildings, charming horseshoe-shaped harbour and bustling waterfront. At the heart of the city, Market Square overflows with fresh produce, tropical fruits as well as handcrafted souvenirs. This is the place to buy those spices to take home.
Belmont Estate
Nestled amid the lush hills of St. Patrick Parish, Belmont Estate offers visitors an authentic taste of Grenada’s agricultural heritage. The historic plantation showcases the journey from cocoa bean to chocolate bar while celebrating the island’s rich traditions of spice cultivation and sustainable farming. Guided tours, an onsite restaurant featuring farm-to-table cuisine and artisan chocolate tastings appeal to both food lovers and anyone interested in Grenada’s cultural roots.
Clarke’s Court Rum Distillery
Rum has been part of Grenada’s history for centuries, and Clarke’s Court Rum Distillery continues that proud tradition. Visitors can discover the rum-making process from fermentation to bottling while learning about the island’s sugar cane heritage. Tastings of the distillery’s award-winning rums provide the perfect introduction to one of Grenada’s signature exports and a true flavour of the Spice Island.
Grand Etang National Park
In the heart of Grenada lies 1,540-hectare Grand Etang National Park, a lush rainforest sanctuary centred around a crater lake formed by an extinct volcano. Hiking trails wind through tropical forest alive with colourful birds, playful Mona monkeys (who are happy to climb on guests in exchange for a treat), myriad flora and fauna (including over 100 types of ferns), and stunning panoramic viewpoints. Cooler temperatures and waterfalls make the park a refreshing alternative to the beaches.
Waterfalls
Grenada’s lush volcanic landscape is notably home to 18 waterfalls, hidden among the tropical rainforests, rivers and mountain valleys. Among the most popular are Annandale Falls, Concord Falls, Seven Sisters Falls and Mount Carmel Falls, each offering a different experience.
Concord Falls is a series of three cascades, while Seven Sisters offers hikers a scenic rainforest trek and a collection of pristine waterfalls. Mount Carmel, the island’s tallest waterfall, is a favourite for adventurous visitors seeking a more secluded setting.
The most accessible – and arguably the most visited – is Annandale (banner photo) located just 20 minutes from St. George’s. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the 9-metre cascade plunges into a clear emerald pool perfect for a refreshing swim. A short, paved path makes it suitable for visitors of all ages and there is an on-site restaurant, gift shop and interpretation centre.
Underwater Sculpture Park
Grenada’s world-famous Underwater Sculpture Park is unique. Located in the protected Molinière Beauséjour Marine Park, the collection of submerged sculptures has become both a thriving artificial reef and an underwater art gallery.
Accessible by snorkelling, diving or glass-bottom boat, the installation combines marine conservation with cultural storytelling, creating one of the island’s most memorable experiences.
Driving
Public transport is minimal on the island, and taxis are plentiful but expensive. As such, Liburd says many visitors choose to rent a car. The roads are safe and Google Maps works as a guide, but she advises that drivers should be confident enough to navigate narrow roads and switchbacks, and drive on the left (a legacy of the island’s British heritage). But doing so to explore the island, she enthuses, is “a great adventure!”
“With a car, you can just get up and go,” she adds. “And there’s always somebody to help you.”
RESORT
Cocoa Cove Resort
Travel Industry Today stayed at (and recommends) Cocoa Cove Resort, an intimate luxury boutique retreat on Grenada’s picturesque south coast, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by turquoise waters and lush tropical landscapes.
Located on a secluded peninsula at New Westerhall Point, the resort features just nine spacious villas (photo above), each designed with contemporary comforts, Caribbean-inspired décor, and providing spectacular ocean views, not least while lounging in the stunning 21-metre infinity pool.
The private setting creates an exclusive atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for couples, honeymooners, families, and travellers seeking relaxation or workspace away from larger resort crowds.
Guests have direct access to two secluded beaches, and personalized concierge service, as well as gourmet dining, in-villa spa treatments, complimentary non-motorized water sports, and curated island experiences.
Conveniently located about 15 minutes from Maurice Bishop International Airport and St. George’s, the resort is entering its next phase of development with the addition of a signature restaurant expected to open later this year. The new dining venue will place a strong emphasis on Grenadian cuisine and is intended to become a destination in its own right for those not staying on site.
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