Choose from 419 Fun Things to Do in Caribbean
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Cayman National Museum
To learn about the history and culture of the Cayman Island, make a stop at the Cayman Islands National Museum. The museum is housed in a historic building—the oldest public building in the islands—made from traditional wattle and daub architecture and that has been used as a jail, courthouse and post office over nearly 200 years.
Permanent exhibits include a natural history gallery that explains how the islands were formed along with depictions of the underwater life you can see while snorkeling or diving here. A cultural history gallery offers insight into the Cayman Islands during colonial times and the era’s main industries of turtling and fishing. A handful of changing galleries include a kid’s gallery with hand-on activities so children can learn while also having fun.
Practical Info
The Cayman Islands National Museum is location on the west coast of the island, just a short walk from the cruise ship port. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays, closed on Sunday. Admission costs $8 for adults, $6 for children (age 6 to 12), and free for kids 5 and under.
Address: 3 Harbour Dr, George Town, Cayman Islands
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm
Admission: $8 Adults, $6 Children ages 6-12, FREE Children 5 and under
From $ 316
Capilla del Cristo Chapel
The Capilla del Cristo Chapel is a small 18th-century sanctuary tucked away at the end of a pedestrian street in a corner of the old walled city of San Juan. It was built here to commemorate what believers say was a miracle of divine intervention.
The legend of the Capilla del Cristo Chapel is based on a story of a rider who lost control of his horse along Calle del Cristo during a fiesta. Plunging off the top of the stone wall and into the cliffs below, the rider was said to have miraculously survived. Over the years, faithful Puerto Ricans have flocked to the chapel to pray for miracle cures and leave tiny silver ornaments (representing parts of the miracle rider’s body) at its altar.
Today, the chapel is a well-known yet humble historical landmark. Its gold and silver altar can be seen through the glass doors of the old building, but most visitors have to settle for a view from outside, as the chapel is only open to the public once a week. As it is located within Old San Juan, the historic colonial section of the city, there are numerous ways to explore the area, including half-day sightseeing tours, walking tours, and even segway tours.
Insider’s Tip: You can visit the chapel at any time, but the iron fence across the front only opens on Tuesday afternoons and on religious holidays.
Practical Info
The Calle del Cristo Chapel is located next to Parque de las Palomas by the old city wall.
Address: Calle del Cristo, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Hours: Open Tues afternoons and religious holidays
From $ 40
Carenage
The Carenage is St. George’s lively waterfront promenade, which winds around Grenada’s inner harbor. Its name is derived from the French word carenage, meaning “safe anchorage.” Lined with colonial-era buildings, the inlet offers shops, seafood restaurants, and cafés, plus it’s near Grenada’s bustling open-air market.
The Basics
This marina is busy with fishing boats, yachts, and barges, as well as the ferry to Carriacou. Whether you visit Grenada with a tour or independently, it’s a pleasure to grab a meal at one of the many seafood restaurants, or rum at a local bar, and snap photos of the quaint Georgian buildings that line the waterfront. Shop here for souvenirs, spices, preserves, local crafts, and more.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Water taxis run from here to the popular beach at Grand Anse.
- Grenada is a big producer of cinnamon, cloves, ginger, bay leaf, turmeric, and nutmeg, so be sure to visit the local spice market.
- English is the official language of Grenada, making it easy to chat with vendors.
How to Get There
From the cruise ship terminal, it’s a short walk (less than 10 minutes) to the Carenage. If you drive, park outside the marina area and walk to the waterfront, because parking is limited and navigating the roads can be tricky. Public minibuses are available around the island; from the central bus station in St. George’s, it’s 15–20minutes’ walk to the Carenage.
When to Get There
Grenada is known as the Spice Island, so a visit to the open-air spice market is a must. Located inland from the Carenage, near the Esplanade Mall, the shopping area is open daily, but Saturday mornings are the busiest because that’s when farmers and vendors from across the island come to sell their produce.
Nearby Fort George
From the Carenage, head up to Fort George to take in picturesque views of the town and harbor. The battery dates back to 1705 and was named in honor of King George III when the British took control of Grenada. The viewing section features plaques indicating important landmarks, along with several canno
Address: Grenada
From $ 191
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Just north of the Old San Juan district, within the San Juan National Historic Site, lies Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century citadel, or fortress.
It is a World Heritage-listed site on the northwestern tip of the islet of San Juan – a perfect spot to keep watch over the Atlantic Ocean and protect Old San Juan and the Bay of San Juan from incoming enemies. Its more recent history includes the American military, which occupied the site from 1898 to 1961.
The citadel, surrounded like it is by an expansive green lawn and the dramatic rocky coast, sits on quite a beautiful spot; the imposing fortress walls create an interesting contrast to the sparkling blue sea. When the wind blows, the lawn that connects the citadel to the town is a popular kite-flying spot.
It is a World Heritage-listed site on the northwestern tip of the islet of San Juan – a perfect spot to keep watch over the Atlantic Ocean and protect Old San Juan and the Bay of San Juan from incoming enemies. Its more recent history includes the American military, which occupied the site from 1898 to 1961.
The citadel, surrounded like it is by an expansive green lawn and the dramatic rocky coast, sits on quite a beautiful spot; the imposing fortress walls create an interesting contrast to the sparkling blue sea. When the wind blows, the lawn that connects the citadel to the town is a popular kite-flying spot.
Address: Fort San Cristobal, Norzagaray Street, San Juan, PR 00901, Puerto Rico
Hours: Daily 9am-5pm
Admission: $3 adults (16 & older) for one fort, $5 for both, seniors: $2, children 15 & under: free.
From $ 33
Carlisle Bay
The ancient shipwrecks in this protected natural harbor make Carlisle Bay one of Barbados’ most popular snorkeling and scuba diving destinations. Six sunken vessels dot the ocean floor here and attract hundreds of varieties of tropical fish, stingrays, sea stars and turtles, not to mention curious travelers.
In addition to underwater adventures, the nearby Boatyard offers jet skiing, sea trampolines and the opportunity to jump into the ocean via rope swing. Even those who prefer to stay out of the water will love the calm shores and sandy beaches of Carlisle Bay, where countless chair and umbrella rentals make it easy to while away the day here.
Practical Info
Carlisle Bay is located in the southwest region of Barbados near Bridgetown. Early risers can head to nearby Pebble Beach to see local race horses being exercised along the shores.
Address: Barbados
From $ 20
Cayo Arena
Cayo Arena, off the Dominican Republic’s northern coast, is a faint whisper of a Caribbean island that barely even exists. This sandy dollop rising up from the reef measures 2,100 square feet—which makes it less than a tenth of an acre of fine, sparkling white sand. After racing across the cobalt sea in a speedboat from Punta Rucia, arrive on the fringes of the coral reef that surrounds the patch of sand. The island itself is undeveloped—save for some thatched roof huts—and snorkeling in the calm, turquoise lagoon is a way to literally come face to face with curious Caribbean fish. Also known as “Paradise Island,” Cayo Arena is truly a place that’s out of a tropical dream, where sand, sky, and crystal clear water combine to create a Caribbean outpost that seems too beautiful to be real.
Practical Info
Cayo Arena is a 20-minute boat ride from the beach at Punta Rucia, which itself is located an hour and half to the west of Puerto Plata. The cay is accessible by guided tours, many of which also visit the mangroves that line Punta Rucia’s shore. As there’s no shade on Cayo Arena, be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, or a coverup if you want to escape the sun.
Address: Cayo Arena, Caribbean, Dominican Republic
From $ 95
Cayman Spirits Co
If there were one drink associated with the Caribbean that drink would definitely be rum. Here at Cayman Spirits Company Co. Distillery, not only is rum distilled with cane juice that’s locally grown on the island, but it’s aged in barrels that are placed 42 feet, or seven fathoms underwater. The result is their famous Seven Fathoms rum, which due to it being rocked by the waves as it slowly ages in the barrels, has become one of the most sought after spirits on any Caribbean island. While it started out in 2008 in a small, single room building, the distillery has grown from its humble beginnings to include a 5,000 square foot building that houses their tastings and tours. Learn the process behind distilling and see the massive tanks, and pour yourself samples of Seven Fathoms or their spiced and flavored rums. The company also distills vodka and moonshine, though it’s the rum that keep visitors strolling through the doors in search of not just the perfect drink—but the perfect gift to take home.
Insiders's Tip: Considering all of the free samples, definitely plan to take a cab when visiting Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery.
Practical Info
Tours last 30-40 minutes and include numerous chances for tastings. The legal drinking age in the Cayman Islands is 18 years old.
Address: 65 Bronze Road, George Town, Cayman Islands
Hours: 9am-5:30pm Monday-Saturday. Closed on Sundays.
Admission: $15 USD
From $ 22
Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor (Catedral Primada de Am erica)
Recognized as one of the oldest churches in the Americas, Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor is Santo Domingo’s most famous religious structure. Tucked into the old-world streets of the city’s Colonial Zone, Santa Maria was built in the early 1500s and remains an icon of the country’s Catholic community. Its classic Gothic and Baroque features are a nod to the church’s European roots and an extensive collection of woodcarvings and religious artifacts make a visit well worth the trip.
Practical Info
The church is located next to Columbus Park between Calle Arzobispo Merino and Isabel la Catolica.
Address: Calle Isabel La Católica, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
From $ 79
Capitol Building
This classic capitol in the heart of San Juan is home to the Legislative Assembly, House or Representatives, the Senate and a whole lot of Puerto Rican history. Visitors to this regal site, which officially opened in 1907, will find massive marble columns, ornate stonework and a brightly colored capitol dome, in addition to the Architecture and Construction Archives of the University of Puerto Rico. These include rare ink and cloth sketches, as well as the original 38 blue print plans for the structure. Visitors say this classic building is a major departure from the rest of the old city, but a few hours wandering the halls, learning about Puerto Rican history and politics is a worthy addition to any San Juan visit.
Practical Info
The Capitol is located in the Puerta de Tierra section of San Juan. The address is 1 Democracy Square. Guided tours are available by appointment.
Address: 1 Democracy Square, San Juan, Puerto Rico
From $ 75
Casa Ponce de León
Juan Ponce de Léon House Museum (Casa Museo Juan Ponce de Léon)
The former home of explorer and governor of Puerto Rico Juan Ponce de Léon, Casa Ponce de Léon is a simple stone building with an important place in history. Visitors come to travel over 500 years back in time to the days of great oceanic exploration and see an important landmark in the history of the Americas.
The Basics
Explorer and conquistador Juan Ponce de Léon first visited the Americas as part of Christopher Columbus’ second mission in 1493. He remained in Hispaniola (now the Dominican Republic and Haiti) and was named the first governor of Puerto Rico in 1509. From 1502 to 1508 he, his wife, and their three daughters lived in the simple, fortified stone house near San Rafael de Yuma designed with small doors and windows for additional safety against intruders. Today the Ponce de Léon House museum still contains some of the family’s possessions, including furniture, chests, and even his suit of armor.
You can visit the museum independently or as part of a guided tour from Punta Cana, some of which also explore nearby beaches and caves.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ponce de Léon House is ideal for history buffs.
- Tours of the house are available in Spanish only.
- Nearby Boca de Yuma is a popular snorkeling spot.
How to Get There
Within driving distance of the resorts of Punta Cana and La Romana, the house is in a fairly isolated area near the town of Boca de Yuma. Most visitors drive to the house, take a taxi, or arrive with a guided tour that includes transportation.
When to Get There
The house is open from 10am to 1pm Tuesday through Sunday.
Enjoy the Bright Lights of Punta Cana
On the Dominican Republic’s southeast coast, the resort town of Punta Cana has it all—white-sand beaches, water that’s ideal for swimming, lively restaurants and resort bars, and a wide variety of water sports. It’s a very popular choice for vacationers looking for a sunny getaway, especially in winter.
Address: Highway 4, San Rafael de Yuma 23000, Dominican Republic
Admission: Varies
From $ 125
Cayo Icacos
A small, uninhabited island located just a 15-minute boat ride from the Puerto Rican town of Fajardo, Cayo Icacos is part of Cordillera Keys Nature Reserve (Reserva Natural los Cayos de la Cordillera). Its white-sand shores, pristine waters, and colorful reefs make it a popular day-trip destination for snorkeling and diving.
The Basics
A white sand beach rings a forested grove at the center of the tiny island, where waves and wind are almost the only sounds. Offshore, schools of colorful tropical fish inhabit a system of coral reefs. Snorkeling cruises to Cayo Icacos are a popular option for mainland visitors, and boat tours typically leave from Fajardo or even San Juan. Motor boat and catamaran cruises allow you to swim from the safety of the ship’s deck, explore the colorful reef below, and go ashore to stroll along the beach and visit the green center of the island. It’s also possible to visit Icacos as part of an island-hopping tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cayo Icacos is a must-see for nature lovers.
- Aside from palm trees, there is no shade on the island; visitors should bring sun protection.
- Booking a tour ensures you’ll have access to restrooms and water on board the tour boat, as there are no amenities on the island.
- Visitors who book a simple water-taxi excursion will need to bring their own snorkeling gear; on guided tours, gear is typically included.
How to Get There
Cayo Icacos is a 15-minute boat ride from the port at Las Croabas in Fajardo. Catamaran cruises typically depart from Fajardo Marina, which is located roughly 90 minutes by road from San Juan.
When to Get There
Travelers who book a private tour can schedule for earlier in the morning, before other groups arrive. You can visit Cayo Icacos year-round, but weather in this part of Puerto Rico is best from December through April. The hurricane season typically last from June through November.
Snorkeling at Cayo Icacos
Walk-in snorkeling is possible off any of the beaches at Cayo Icacos, but the four best spots are off the popular beaches on the west side of the island. The area’s healthy coral reef is home to creatures such as blue tang, parrotfish, snapper, stingrays, and sea turtles.
Address: Cayo Icacos, Fajardo 00738, Puerto Rico
Admission: Varies
From $ 83
Caroni Bird Sanctuary
Every day, the scarlet ibis, Trinidad & Tobago’s national bird, flies to nearby Venezuela to feed and heads back to its island home in the late afternoon. Watching the birds in their thousands return to roost in the vivid green mangroves of Caroni Swamp, red plumage blazing against the deepening blue sky, is one of the greatest sights the Caribbean has to offer.
Take a sunset trip by boat through the serene “canals” and tidal lagoons of the swamp, with guides pointing out snakes, iguanas and other creatures as you glide past. Once anchored, sit back and enjoy the hush of dusk until the return of the ibises.
Practical Info
The Caroni Swamp is off the coast of Trinidad, in a bay situated a half-hour drive from the capital Port-of-Spain. If visiting at sunset, remember this is a peak time for mosquitoes, so cover up!
Address: Trinidad, Trinidad and Tobago
Hours: Visitor Center: 7am - 7pm. Tour boats leave at 4pm
Admission: Free
From $ 49
Caroni Swamp
Caroni Swamp is a 12,000-acre swamp situated just south of Port of Spain on Trinidad & Tobago’s west coast. Being the second largest mangrove wetlands on the island and the natural nesting home for one of the country’s national birds, Caroni Swamp is protected under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance.
The swamp runs along the banks of the Caroni River and features a maze of channels and lagoons. The central section is designated as a wildlife sanctuary, with the mangrove trees providing the ideal nesting place for the distinctive Scarlet Ibis birds, along with around 100 species of migratory birds, making it perfect for birdwatchers. The main attraction for nature lovers occurs just before sunset, when the ritualistic roosting habits of thousands of the brightly-colored Ibis can be observed close-up. The birds fly in unison to feed and nest here, creating a dazzling cloud of red against the evening sky.
Caroni Swamp is naturally a popular tourist destination, and flat-bottom boats with experienced guides conduct regular tours through the mangroves, helping you to spot the many bird species and other swamp inhabitants, such as crabs, caimans, and boa constrictors. Book a Caroni wetlands boat tour or a Caroni Bird Sanctuary tour from Port of Spain to experience the natural wonders of this unique swamp for yourself.
Did You Know? While the Scarlet Ibis birds are the main attraction at Caroni Swamp, other birds you’re likely to spot here include the neotropic cormorant, large-billed tern, red-capped cardinal, tricolored heron, snowy egret, and the bicolored conebill.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off from your Port of Spain accommodation, you’ll need to make your own way south until you reach Caroni Swamp along the Uriah Butler Highway. The drive takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
Address: Uriah Butler Highway, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
Admission: Dependent on tour
From $ 98
Catalina Island (Isla Catalina)
Tiny Catalina Island (Isla Catalina), just 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) off the Dominican Republic’s mainland, is an idyllic sandy speck in the turquoise Caribbean waters. Known for its well-populated coral reefs, Catalina is a peaceful respite for those looking to escape bustling Punta Cana and La Romana.
The Basics
Catalina Island is home to a diverse ecosystem of sand dunes, mangroves, and reefs populated by many species of sea birds and tropical fish. The island’s main draws are its white sandy beaches and its beautiful underwater ecosystem. Snorkeling and scuba diving are particularly good here, and the Wall and the Aquarium are two of the top dive sites.
Tours from the Dominican Republic’s mainland (originating in Bayahibe, Punta Cana, La Romana, or even as far-flung as Santo Domingo) are plentiful and usually last all day. Some tours combine a trip to Catalina Island with visits to other area highlights such as Altos de Chavon, the more populated Saona Island, or Casa de Campo. Snorkeling tours and scuba diving tours usually include use of equipment.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Catalina Island is a great destination for kids, who will enjoy wading safely in the calm waters.
- Catalina Island is a protected area devoted to wildlife preservation, so there are not many amenities. The island lacks public restrooms and food options.
- Be sure to bring a bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, a sun hat, and water.
How to Get There
Catalina Island, located just a few miles off the coast of La Romana, can be reached only by boat from the Dominican Republic mainland.
When to Get There
Catalina is a popular destination for group tours, so if you’re in search of peace and quiet, arrive early. To scuba dive or snorkel, you’ll find the best visibility on calm, hot days between December and May, when the diving on the south coast is the best.
Shipwrecks
Captain William Kidd’s ship Quedagh Merchant is wrecked about 70 feet (21 meters) off the coast of Catalina Island. The pirate’s ship sank in the 17th century but was discovered only in 2007. Now preserved as a Living Museum of the Sea, the shipwreck offers a unique scuba diving opportunity.
Address: Isla Catalina, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
From $ 80
Caribelle Batik at Romney Manor
Caribelle Batik is essentially a shop on St Kitts, but a very special one. Located within Romney Manor, a stately estate once owned by the great-great-great grandfather of Thomas Jefferson, Caribelle Batik sells popular batik products that are some of the most sought after in the Caribbean. Batik is created using an ancient Indonesian method that uses wax to resist dye on parts of the fabric and then designs (often consisting of lines and dots) are applied with that method by using a canting tool or stamp. Caribelle Batik is famous for its unique batik designs that combine flourishing strokes and elements of nature. While at Caribelle Batik you’ll be able to learn more about the methods used to create batik as there will be artisans demonstrating the technique and creating products onsite while explaining the process. You can purchase products you see while at Caribelle Batik and the majority of them will have been created right in house.
Practical Info
Caribelle Batik is located in the capital city of Basseterre. You can drive there yourself (it is located at the crossroads of Sugar Factory Road and Taylor Road) or sign up for a tour that makes a stop at Romney Manor and gives you time to browse through the products of Caribelle Batik.
Address: Old Road Town, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, St Kitts and Nevis
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 34
Castries
Saint Lucia’s pint-sized port capital Castries is usually experienced as a stopping-off point on the way to one of the island’s beaches or resorts. While successive fires and hurricanes have periodically devastated the city there are still traces of the colonial era, when Saint Lucia bounced between French and British control. The Castries Heritage Walk will point out the city’s historical highlights.
Otherwise the city’s greatest appeal lies in its relaxed lifestyle, providing an easy introduction to the leisurely pace of island life. Head for the Jeremie Street Market to savor the taste of the tropics or just wander the streets and start adjusting your body clock.
Practical Info
Castries is located in the north of Saint Lucia’s west coast. Cruise ships dock directly in the harbor and George F. L. Charles Airport is very close to the city center, though most long-haul flights land at Hewanorra in the island’s south.
Address: St Lucia
Admission: Free
From $ 25
Cas en Bas Beach
On the northern tip of St. Lucia’s windward shore, Cas en Bas Beach is one of the best kitesurfing spots on the island, with regular tradewinds blowing onshore and a protected cove where the water stays calm and glassy. Kitesurfing St. Lucia offers lessons for all levels right off the beach. This somewhat secluded spot is the ideal destination for travelers who prefer a quiet place to swim and sunbathe away from the crowds and persistent vendors on the beaches closer to town—it’s also home to unique artifact, a spent rocket booster that washed ashore here after it was jettisoned by a spacecraft in flight. Join one of the horseback riding tours through the forests of the northern coast, and you’ll stop to relax and swim at Cas en Bas Beach before turning back on the trail. And hungry beachgoers can find food and drinks at Marjorie's Restaurant and Beach Bar, a casual, open-air eatery offering local favorites like fresh seafood and BBQ right on the sand.
Practical Info
Cas en Bas Beach sits 2 miles northeast of Rodney Bay at the north end of the island. To get there, take Cas en Bas Road off the Castries-Gros Inlet Highway, just north of Rodney Bay Marina.
Address: Rodney Bay, St Lucia
From $ 78
Cas Abao Beach
Hit the beach at one of Curacao’s most idyllic sandy shores. Cas Abao Beach is a protected escape on the island’s west side, where you can enjoy the crystal-blue water and gleaming white sand among a convenient collection of amenities. The private beach has plenty of parking, and once you’ve paid the entry fee, you can rent whatever you need on-site, from beach chairs and umbrellas to paddle boats and snorkeling gear. At lunch time, you can get burgers, sandwiches and frozen drinks at the Beach Bar & Restaurant, and if you’re looking for even more relaxation, book a massage at the open-air hut on the beach. The beach also has bathrooms with showers and lifeguards to keep everyone safe as you swim or snorkel.
Practical Info
Cas Abao beach is about 35 minutes by car from Willemstad, and the entry fee costs about $6 per car on weekdays, about $7.25 on weekends. Weekends, especially Sundays, can be quite crowded, so if you prefer a more laid-back beach experience, come during the week.
Address: Curacao
Hours: Daily 8am-6pm
Admission: Weekdays $6, Sat & Sun $7.25
From $ 49
Castillo de San Cristobal
Standing guard at Old San Juan’s Eastern Gate is the Castillo de San Crisotbal. Built to protect San Juan against land attacks, the ancient Spanish fort is now part of the San Juan National Historic Site and a great opportunity to see the largest Spanish fortification built in the New World and see some spectacular views of the San Juan Bay and El Morro. The massive structure, which was built in the 18th century to compliment the El Morro fortification which was designed to guard the bay, rises 150 feet above sea level and occupies most of the northeast edge of Old San Juan. Proven to be an effective fortification which helped repel a 1797 land invasion by Sir Ralph Abercrombie, the Castillo de San Cristobal is one of the premier attractions of Old San Juan.
Practical Info
Castillo de San Cristobal is available for exploration from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Self-guided tours and ranger led tours are available. There are many steps and steep ramps covering the 250 acre land parcel, so you must be prepared to walk a good deal.
Address: 501 Norzagaray Street, San Juan 00901, Puerto Rico
From $ 62
Carriacou
Carriacou provides a laid-back alternative to the larger neighboring island of Grenada, where many day trips to Carriacou begin. One of the Grenadine Islands, Carriacou is known as “the island surrounded by reefs." Its pristine beaches and clear waters offer ideal conditions for snorkeling and scuba diving.
The Basics
Located northeast of Grenada, Carriacou was settled by Arawak and Carib people from South America; their influence, along with that of the French and British, can still be seen in Hillsborough, the only town on the island. Gain insight into island culture by attending a music or dance performance, or visiting the small Carriacou Museum. Day trips from Grenada via ferry are available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you plan to celebrate Carnival in Carriacou, pack clothes that you won’t mind getting messy. The Carnival tradition of J’ouvert morning includes smearing paint, mud, or oil on participants’ bodies.
- Popular dive spots include Sharky’s Hideaway, where you can see nursing sharks. There’s also Sisters Rock for its black coral, and Whirlpool with volcanic bubbles.
- The uncrowded, sugar-white sand of Paradise Beach is a favorite place for relaxing.
How to Get There
Carriacou is 20 miles north of Grenada. Ferry service is available Monday through Saturday starting at 9am, and Sunday from 8am. Travel time from Grenada is 1.5 hours. Return ferries depart Carriacou daily starting at 3:30pm. Small aircraft can also land at the island’s Lauriston Airport. Minibuses run on the island from 7am to 5pm.
When to Get There
If you want to catch the Carriacou Maroon Music Festival, which celebrates the traditional Caribbean practice of a “maroon”—offering thanks for the last harvest and asking for good fortune for the next planting season—plan your trip for April. If you want to join in the celebration of Carnival, book your visit for some time in February or early March (depending when Easter falls).
Nearby Petite Martinique
Located 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from Carriacou, Petite Martinique is a tiny island with a small population, most of whom make a living building boats, fishing, and seafaring. Tourists who visit Petite Martinique and Carriacou on the same day trip can climb Petite Martinique’s Piton volcano via a well-marked trail. From the top, catch views of the neighboring Grenadine Islands.
Address: Grenada
From $ 191