Grenadines, Archipelago in Windward Islands, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
The Grenadines are an archipelago of 32 islands and cays that extend for 60 miles (97 km) through the southeastern Caribbean between Saint Vincent and Grenada. Individual islands range from inhabited places with villages and harbors to deserted coral atolls with palm-fringed shores.
Carib peoples used these waters for fishing and navigation until French settlers established early plantations on several islands starting in 1650. The British took control in 1762 and developed the chain as part of their colonial route through the Lesser Antilles.
The Grenadines maintain their boat-building tradition, with wooden fishing vessels still crafted on several islands using methods passed down through generations. This craft is especially visible in working shipyards where boats are painted in bright colors.
Ferry services run several times a week between larger islands including Bequia, Canouan, and Union Island, with crossings taking between one and three hours depending on sea conditions. Visitors planning to explore multiple islands should allow flexible timing since departures depend on weather.
Only nine of the 32 islands have permanent residents, while others serve exclusively as private resorts or protected habitats for seabirds. Some of these uninhabited islands allow day visits for hiking and snorkeling, provided guests leave by sunset.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
