St Vincent and the Grenadines: Discover a True "Under-the-Radar" Paradise

Bequia

Bequia (pronounced Bek-way) is the largest of the Grenadines and the closest to St Vincent. It’s a charming island, known for its laid-back atmosphere and welcoming locals. Bequia is a quick ferry ride away from St Vincent and offers white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Its rich maritime heritage is apparent in its boat-building traditions and maritime museum. Calm waters and a mix of wrecks, caves, and reefs make Bequia popular with discerning divers.

Tropical Hideaway

Best for: Views and ecological awareness
You’re assured of a warm welcome from Julie and Martin, the hosts, owners, and builders of Tropical Hideaway. Perched on the hillside overlooking Admiralty Bay, Tropical Hideaway has five private villas, suites and studios with breathtaking views, and perhaps the finest infinity pool on the island. A woodland trail down from the property and then a short roadside walk takes you to Princess Margaret (Tony Gibbons) Beach.

Why It’s Perfect:

• Charming, boutique accommodation.

• On-site store for food, wine, and beverages.

• Relatively easy access from St Vincent.

Activities:

• Explore Port Elizabeth’s restaurants.

• Stroll down to pristine beaches.

• Enjoy Martin’s rum punch.

Bequia Beach Hotel

Best for: Boutique charm and island culture
Laid-back boutique hotel perfectly placed on Friendship Bay Beach. Like Tropical Hideaway, it combines a family business with facilities, experiences, and views as unforgettable as any in the Caribbean.

Why It’s Perfect:

• Stylish beachfront suites and private villas.

• Extensive dining options featuring fresh, local produce.

• Intimate and personalized service.

Activities:

• Sail to Mustique or the Tobago Cays

• Complimentary use of watersports, tennis, and pickleball gear.

• Enjoy spa and wellness treatments.

Canouan

Canouan's remote location and limited development have helped preserve the natural environment and its unique cultural heritage. Said to be home to more turtles than people, it offers pristine beaches, upscale resorts, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities – a tempting destination for those seeking a more peaceful island experience and to escape the hustle and bustle of busier and better-known tourist spots.

Soho Beach House

Best for: Trendy luxury and exclusive membership perks
Other properties in the Soho House group are for networking; this one is for disconnecting and unwinding. This chic resort caters to its members and guests with a unique blend of luxury and creativity. Optionally add a one-year membership to your booking to access discounted pricing and other benefits.

Why It’s Perfect:

• Stylish suites with beach access and ocean views.

• Exclusive access to curated events and amenities.

• Soho House Foundation donates to local partners to help rebuild after Hurricane Beryl.

Activities:

• Hire the jetty for a private dinner under the stars.

• Yoga, meditation, or interval training classes at the Cowshed spa.

• Explore Canouan’s scenic hiking trails and marine life.

Mandarin Oriental

Best for: Luxury and seclusion
Luxurious may be an overused word when it comes to Caribbean resorts, but Mandarin Oriental certainly deserves it. Impeccable service in a stunning location, with all the amenities you could wish for.

Why It’s Perfect:

• Elegant suites and villas with ocean views and private infinity pools.

• Attentive and personalized service, including butlers and private chefs.

• Pirates of Canouan Kids’ Club, perfect for the little ones.

Activities:

• Golf on an 18-hole championship course with panoramic ocean views.

• Explore the beautiful landscaped estate on foot or by golf cart.

• Snorkel or kayak in the Tobago Cays Marine Park nearby.

St Vincent

This is where most visitors arrive in “SVG”. St. Vincent is the largest island of the group and boasts a more dramatic landscape, with volcanic peaks, lush rainforests, and fantastic waterfalls. Active travelers can hike the La Soufrière volcano in the company of a local guide, or explore the colonial architecture and busy harbor of the capital, Kingstown. As is often the case in the Lesser Antilles, the beaches on the west side of the island face calmer water than those facing the Atlantic on the east.

Sandals St Vincent

Best for: All-inclusive convenience and fun
Opened in 2024, this Sandals resort has an unrivaled location, tucked away in a quiet bay where the Buccament River meets the sea. Expect all the usual Sandals amenities, plus an overwater wedding chapel, sailings to Tobago Cays, and adventurous hikes through rainforest and atop the La Soufriere volcano.

Why It’s Perfect:

• Luxurious accommodations, including overwater villas.

• Unlimited gourmet dining and premium beverages.

• A variety of packages to suit every type of traveler.

Activities:

• Snorkeling and scuba diving in the vibrant reefs.

• Dance the night away at beachfront parties.

• Island Routes adventures around the island, including the St Vincent Parrot Reserve.

Mustique

Despite Mustique's fame as a haunt for A-listers, this tiny island in the Grenadines remains a relatively low-key destination, with a handful of villas available for rent and a single hotel, The Cotton House. For those seeking an ultra-exclusive, tranquil retreat from the world, Mustique's blend of natural beauty, luxury, and seclusion make it a dream destination.

Mustique’s Private Villas

Best for: Luxury, comfort, privacy
Staying in a private villa on Mustique guarantees an unforgettable experience of opulence and seclusion.

Why It’s Perfect:

• Handsome, spacious villas with infinity pools, gourmet kitchens, and dedicated staff.

• Total privacy, perfect for a secluded escape.

Activities:

• Horseback riding along white-sand beaches.

• Explore the island’s lush landscapes on guided hikes.

• Enjoy cocktails at Basil’s Bar, the iconic Mustique hotspot.

Island Hop

If choosing one island is too difficult, why not island hop with a fully crewed catamaran or yacht? You get to visit a new island every day and experience the magic of the Grenadines in a very intimate way. Fora advisors work with yacht charter companies like Dream Yacht, The Moorings, and The Sailing Collective to help clients find the perfect boat, captain, and crew for their vacation – whether it's a romantic trip for two, a family trip, or a big group vacation.

For me, this is the ultimate way to see these incredible islands in all their splendor.

Tips for Visiting St. Vincent and the Grenadines

• Island hop: Explore multiple islands to experience the unique charm of each, using the ferries or by organizing private sailings.

• Book early: Resorts like Mandarin Oriental are in high demand for their exclusivity.

• Combine luxury and adventure: Pair indulgent spa days with active excursions like snorkeling in the Tobago Cays or hiking La Soufrière volcano.

Need to Know

• When to go: The best time to visit depends on your preferences regarding weather, crowds, cost and activities. December to April is peak season, offering the driest weather. May and November balance good weather with fewer crowds. The off-peak season, July to October, offers fewer visitors, lower rates, but some risk of extreme weather.

• Currency: The official currency is the East Caribbean Dollar. The US dollar is widely accepted, but you may receive change in East Caribbean Dollars.

• Hurricane disruption as of January 2025: Rebuilding efforts after recent hurricanes may mean certain islands have restrictions for travelers, or fewer amenities than usual. Union Island and Petit St Vincent were badly affected. Elsewhere, some facilities – such as golf courses – may not be available at all resorts due to damage caused by storms. For up-to-date details on closures and restrictions, speak with your Fora advisor.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our St. Vincent and Grenadines page.