Exploring Carriacou: Your Island Getaway Guide

Carriacou, often referred to as the "Land of Reefs," is a jewel of the West Indies, beckoning travellers with its pristine waters, vibrant marine life, and a distinctly relaxed island charm. As one of Grenada's sister islands, it offers a more tranquil experience compared to the bustling mainland, making it an ideal destination for those seeking serenity and natural beauty. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information for anyone planning a visit to this idyllic Caribbean paradise, covering everything from transportation and accommodation to the myriad of activities and culinary delights that await.

Getting to Carriacou: Your Island Transfer Options

Reaching Carriacou is an adventure in itself, with two primary methods of transport from the main island of Grenada. Each offers a different perspective and experience of the journey.

By Air: The Swift Ascent

For those prioritising speed and efficiency, a short flight from Grenada to Carriacou is the most convenient option. This 20-minute flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Grenadine archipelago, providing a tantalising glimpse of the turquoise waters and scattered islands that define this region. While offering unparalleled speed, it's important to note that air travel often comes at a higher cost.

By Sea: The Scenic Voyage

The ferry is a popular and more economical choice for reaching Carriacou. Two main ferry services operate this route, each with its own characteristics:

• The Osprey: This is a passenger-only ferry service that typically takes between 90 to 120 minutes to complete the journey. It's a great opportunity to soak in the Caribbean sea breeze and enjoy the coastal scenery. Ticket prices are generally EC$80 for adults, with concessions for children.
• Dolly C: This is the car ferry, designed to transport vehicles along with passengers. The journey is longer, taking approximately 180 minutes. This option is ideal for those planning to bring their own vehicle to explore Carriacou or for groups travelling with a car. Prices for adults are around EC$50, with a more substantial fee for vehicle transport.

Ferry Schedules and Booking

It is advisable to check the latest ferry schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Information can usually be obtained from ferry operators or local tourism offices in Grenada.

Exploring Carriacou: Getting Around the Island

Once you've arrived on Carriacou, navigating the island is straightforward, with several convenient options available:

• Local Buses (Vans): These are the most budget-friendly way to get around. The brightly coloured vans operate on set routes, and you can typically hail them down as they pass. They offer an authentic local experience and are a great way to interact with residents.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available for hire and offer a more comfortable and direct mode of transport. Negotiate your fare before commencing your journey. Taxis are particularly useful for reaching more remote locations or for shorter, more direct trips.
• Car Hire: For maximum flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace, hiring a car is an excellent option. You can arrange this in advance or upon arrival. Remember that driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

Must-See Attractions and Activities in Carriacou

Carriacou's allure lies in its natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. The island offers a diverse range of activities to suit every interest:

Island Hopping and Offshore Adventures

The waters surrounding Carriacou are dotted with smaller, idyllic islands, each offering its own distinct charm:

• Sandy Island: Located just off Paradise Beach, this long, slender sandbar is a snorkeler's dream. You can kayak across from Paradise Beach (be mindful of currents) or arrange a trip with local fishermen. Allison at the Paradise Beach Club offers round trips for a reasonable fee, often combined with lunch.
• White Island: Easily recognisable by its prominent piton, White Island boasts a beautiful sandy beach and a fantastic reef perfect for snorkeling. Water taxis from Tyrrel Bay can take you here for approximately 150 ECD round trip for a group. It's a popular weekend spot for locals.
• Saline Island: Named after its large salt pond, Saline Island features a long, calm beach ideal for swimming and snorkeling. You might even spot a sea turtle here. It's conveniently located next to White Island.
• Frigate Island: This island has a sheltered bay, and it's recommended to go with a local boat to navigate the entrance safely.

Relaxing on Carriacou's Beautiful Beaches

Carriacou is renowned for its stunning coastline, with beaches that cater to different preferences:

• Anse La Roche: Situated in the north, this beach is excellent for snorkeling and is part of a nature reserve. Local fisherman Tim often sets up a barbecue here, serving fresh seafood and operating a beach bar. He can also arrange boat pick-ups from Hillsborough.
• Petite Carenage: Located in the far north, this beach is a significant turtle nesting site. A nearby turtle sanctuary and a shallow shipwreck add to its unique appeal.
• Tyrell Bay Beach: This is the island's new "main beach," offering a pleasant spot to relax, though it can have patches of seaweed. You can often spot starfish in the shallows. The area is lined with bars, providing a lively atmosphere.
• Paradise Beach: Widely considered the most beautiful beach on Carriacou, it offers mesmerising views of Sandy Island. With beach bars and calm waters, it's perfect for a day of leisure, perhaps playing dominos with the locals.

Discovering Traditional Boat Building in Windward

The village of Windward, on Carriacou's northeast coast, is the heart of traditional boat building. This age-old craft, with roots stretching back to the early 19th century and Scottish influences, is kept alive through generations of skilled artisans. Witnessing boats being constructed directly on the beach using traditional methods and then launched into the water with logs is a captivating experience. The annual around-island race featuring these traditional 'sloops' is a fantastic spectacle. Consider booking a cruise on a traditional sloop like Savvy Sailing, which can even take you to the Tobago Cays.

Diving and Underwater Exploration

Carriacou is a diver's paradise, boasting numerous shipwrecks and abundant marine life. Renowned dive operators like Deefer Diving offer guided excursions, focusing on small groups and reef conservation. Key dive sites include:

• Barracuda Point: Famous for its exotic coral formations and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
• Sharky's Hideaway: Known for encounters with nurse sharks and graceful seahorses.
• The Whirlpool: An atmospheric dive site where bubbles emerge from the seabed, creating a mesmerizing visual effect.
• WWI Gunboat: A shallow wreck, approximately 12 meters deep, perfect for beginner wreck divers.

Volunteer with Caribbean Reef Buddy

For travellers interested in marine conservation, Caribbean Reef Buddy offers immersive volunteer opportunities. Projects include:

• Coral Reef Restoration: Participate in coral transplanting and the development of new reef sites.
• Lionfish Population Control: Help manage the invasive lionfish population, with caught fish being used for food and even crafts.
• Coral Monitoring: Contribute to documenting the health of marine life in protected areas.
• Nudibranch and Sea Slug Research: Assist in the monitoring and data collection of local species.

Admiring the Views

For panoramic vistas of the island, head to the Princess Royal Hospital in Belair. The car park offers stunning views of the west coast and the Sandy Island marine conservation area. Nearby, you can also find the Belair Windmill Ruins, remnants of the island's colonial past.

Carriacou's Culinary Scene: A Taste of the Islands

Carriacou offers a delightful array of dining options, from casual beachside grills to more refined establishments:

Tyrell Bay

• Slipway: Known for its delicious burgers and fish sandwiches, and serving West Indies Beer Company.
• Lazy Turtle: Offers thin-crust pizzas and, upon request, lionfish dishes.
• Gallery Cafe: A great spot for coffee and breakfast.

Hillsborough

• Bogles Roundhouse: Serves European and local cuisine in a charming, homely setting.
• Callaloo at the Mermaid: Features Caribbean-style meals, currently open for lunch.
• Green Roof Inn: Offers a changing menu based on fresh, local ingredients, with a veranda overlooking the sea.
• Laurena II: Specialises in Jamaican-inspired local dishes.
• Kayak Cafe: Great for breakfast, with fresh juices, smoothies, burgers, and wraps.

Windward

• Pizza Ma Heart: A must-visit for excellent quality pizza.

Paradise Beach

• Off D Hook Bar & Grill: Serves cold beer and local dishes right on the beach.
• HardWood Bar & Snacket: Offers local fish and meals.
• Paradise Beach Club: Provides high-quality food and service with stunning views, and their Caribbean Gin Gin Mule is a must-try.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Carriacou comes alive after dark with several popular spots:

• Paradise Beach Club: A vibrant beach bar with regular events.
• La Playa (Beausejour Bay): A picturesque wooden house on the water, often hosting live music and sunset sessions. Known for its good-value lobster on Mondays.
• Footprint Bar (Shipwreck Beach): A favourite local haunt that can keep the party going all night on the beach.
• Frogs (Tyrell Bay): Famous for its popular live music nights on Fridays.
• Snaggs: Open on Saturday nights, featuring a live string band and fresh fish dishes.

Where to Stay in Carriacou: Island Accommodation

Carriacou offers a range of accommodation options, from secluded beach houses to luxurious villas:

• The Paradise Beach House: A colourful wooden lodging directly on a white sandy beach, offering beautiful views of Sandy Island and watersport equipment.
• Las Tortugas: A stunning white villa set on a hill overlooking Paradise Beach and Sandy Island, featuring an infinity pool.
• Bogles Round House: A family-run property with charming cottages, exceptional service, and a secluded beach.
• Green Roof Inn: Offers various room types with ocean views and a commitment to sustainability.
• The Mermaid Hotel Carriacou: Located on Hillsborough Beach, providing a modern feel and convenient access to town amenities.

Shopping in Carriacou

Shopping opportunities are somewhat limited but offer local crafts and essentials:

• Alexis Supermarket (Tyrell Bay): The island's largest store, offering a variety of food and beverages.
• Fruit and Vegetable Stalls (Tyrell Bay): Find fresh produce and juices along the main road.
• Fidel Productions (Paradise Beach): A unique shop in a shipping container selling locally made T-shirts, art, and jewellery.
• Be All Natural – BAN: Available at Easy Shopping supermarket, offering natural toiletries.

Eco-Travel Tips for Carriacou

As a small island, responsible tourism is crucial. Carriacou has limited recycling facilities, and waste management is a consideration. Many visitors purchase bottled water due to rainwater being the primary source. Consider these eco-friendly practices:

• Minimize single-use plastics.
• Carry a reusable water bottle and water filter if possible.
• Respect marine life and avoid touching coral.
• Support local businesses and artisans.

Carriacou is a destination that truly captures the essence of Caribbean life. Its natural beauty, rich culture, and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit for any discerning traveller. Whether you're seeking adventure in the water, relaxation on the beach, or a glimpse into traditional island life, Carriacou promises an unforgettable experience.