Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Grenada Travel Guide

Discover Carriacou and Petite Martinique: hidden gems of Grenada, offering stunning beaches, rich culture, and endless adventures in a peaceful island setting.

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Carriacou and Petite Martinique

Carriacou and Petite Martinique are small islands in Grenada, famous for their untouched beauty and laid-back vibe. Carriacou, known as the 'Land of Reefs,' offers some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Caribbean. The island is also home to beautiful beaches like Anse La Roche and Paradise Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the sun. Petite Martinique, on the other hand, is even smaller and more tranquil. This island is perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape. You can explore the island by foot or take a boat trip around its coast to see its stunning landscapes. The local culture is rich with traditions, and you can experience this through the many festivals and events held throughout the year. Both islands are great for sailing, fishing, and hiking. The locals are friendly and welcoming, making your visit even more enjoyable. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Carriacou and Petite Martinique have something to offer everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

Visit during the annual Carriacou Parang Festival in December for a taste of local music and culture.
Bring cash, as ATMs are limited and many places do not accept credit cards.
Try the local seafood, especially the fresh fish and lobster, which are a specialty on the islands.
Consider renting a boat to explore the coastline and reach secluded beaches.
Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, as the tropical sun can be quite intense.

Top City Travel Guides in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

The cities of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Hillsborough

Explore Carriacou and Petite Martinique: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Anse La Roche Bay

Discover Carriacou's hidden gem: Anse La Roche, a secluded beach with pristine sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life.

4.7

Tyrell Bay Beach

Discover Tyrell Bay Beach in Carriacou: a serene escape with calm waters, white sand, and a laid-back Caribbean vibe. Perfect for relaxation and yachting.

4.4

Mount Pleasant Beach

Discover Grenada's hidden gem: Mount Pleasant Beach, where tranquility meets adventure on pristine sands and turquoise waters.

The Carriacou & Petite Martinique Tourism Association

Discover Carriacou & Petite Martinique: Your gateway to unspoiled Caribbean beauty, pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and boat-building traditions.

4.6

Best landmarks in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

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Anse La Roche Bay

Discover Anse La Roche Bay in Carriacou: a secluded beach paradise with stunning snorkeling, lush scenery, and tranquil vibes.

4.7

Tyrell Bay Beach

Discover the serene beauty of Tyrell Bay Beach in Carriacou, Grenada: a perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and Caribbean charm.

4.4

Black Sands Beach

Discover Grenada's hidden gem: Black Sands Beach, a secluded haven with unique volcanic sands, perfect for a tranquil escape and exploration.

Carriacou Museum

Discover Carriacou's vibrant history and culture at the Carriacou Museum, showcasing Amerindian, African, and European heritage.

4.1

Best restaurants in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

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Paradise Beach Club, Carriacou

Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine at Paradise Beach Club in Carriacou, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.

4.8

Bogles Round House Restaurant & Cottages

Discover the flavors and comforts of Grenada at Bogles Round House Restaurant & Cottages - where every meal is a celebration.

4.7

Kayak Kafe Main Store

Discover the flavors of Caribbean and Asian fusion at Kayak Kafe Main Store in Carriacou – a must-visit culinary destination.

4.6

Off D Hook Bar & Grill

Experience mouthwatering Caribbean cuisine at Off D Hook Bar & Grill on Grenada's stunning Paradise Beach.

4.6

Best bars in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

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Paradise Beach Club, Carriacou

Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at Paradise Beach Club in Carriacou, where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views.

4.8

Off D Hook Bar & Grill

Discover the culinary delights of Grenada at Off D Hook Bar & Grill, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views on Paradise Beach.

4.6

LAMBI QUEEN Tyrrel Bay

Experience authentic Grenadian flavors at Lambi Queen, a charming restaurant in Tyrell Bay, renowned for its seafood delights and stunning views.

4.4

Hardwood Bar

Enjoy authentic Grenadian cuisine at Hardwood Bar, a vibrant restaurant in Argyle, Grenada, perfect for a memorable dining experience.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

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Paradise Beach Club, Carriacou

Experience the ultimate dining escape at Paradise Beach Club, where delicious Caribbean cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views.

4.8

Gary's Sauces & Snacks Beach Bar

Experience the flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Grenada at Gary's Sauces & Snacks Beach Bar, a seaside gem offering local delicacies and stunning views.

5.0

Footprint Bar

Discover the lively Footprint Bar in Argyle, Grenada - a premier spot for drinks, music, and unforgettable Caribbean nights.

4.3

DJ BAR & GRILL

Experience the vibrant nightlife at DJ Bar & Grill, where Grenadian culture meets delicious food and electrifying music.

5.0

Best shops in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Paradise Beach Club, Carriacou

Experience the flavors of the Caribbean at Paradise Beach Club, where exquisite dining meets breathtaking ocean views.

4.8

Grand Anse Shopping Center

Discover the vibrant Grand Anse Shopping Center, where shopping meets Caribbean charm in the heart of Grenada.

4.2

Alexis Food Stores

Explore the flavors of Grenada at Alexis Food Stores, your go-to grocery destination in Argyle for local produce and international delights.

4.3

Bogles Round House Restaurant & Cottages

Discover the charm of Grenada at Bogles Round House, where delightful cuisine meets cozy cottage living in a tropical paradise.

4.7

Explore Carriacou and Petite Martinique on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Carriacou and Petite Martinique, mapped for you.

Carriacou and Petite Martinique Essentials

Carriacou and Petite Martinique are part of Grenada and can be accessed primarily via the Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA) in Grenada’s main island. From the airport, you can take a short domestic flight to Carriacou's Lauriston Airport. Alternatively, there are ferry services available from St. George's in Grenada to Carriacou. Petite Martinique can be reached by a short boat ride from Carriacou.
Transportation within Carriacou and Petite Martinique is limited but functional. Taxis are available and can be hired for specific trips or for the entire day. Rental cars and scooters are also an option on Carriacou. Petite Martinique is quite small and can be easily navigated on foot or by bicycle. Public minibuses operate on Carriacou and provide an affordable way to get around the island.
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but US Dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments. ATMs are available in Carriacou, but they are less common on Petite Martinique, so it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash beforehand.
Carriacou and Petite Martinique are generally safe destinations for tourists. However, as with any travel location, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Both Carriacou and Petite Martinique have medical facilities, but for serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Grenada's main island may be necessary. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available on Carriacou for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear lightweight and breathable clothing, but avoid overly revealing outfits, especially in more conservative areas. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and dress modestly when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and greet the driver and passengers when boarding minibuses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a warm smile and a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept hospitality graciously. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Carriacou and Petite Martinique like a local, visit the local markets to buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their islands. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in local festivals such as the Carriacou Maroon and String Band Music Festival. For a unique experience, explore the underwater world through snorkeling or diving, as the islands are known for their vibrant marine life.

When is the best time to visit Carriacou and Petite Martinique?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Carriacou and Petite Martinique

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGreetings
  [Greetin's]
- GoodbyeGoodbye
  [Goo'bye]
- YesYes
  [Yess]
- NoNo
  [No]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/Welcome
  [Pleez/Welcom]
- Thank youThank you
  [Tank yuh]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [Excu' me/Sori]
- How are you?How yuh doin'?
  [How yuh doin'?]
- Fine. And you?I good. An yuh?
  [I good. An yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [Yuh speek English?]
- I don't understandI no understand
  [I no undastand]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI want see de menu, please
  [I want see de menu, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI no eat meat
  [I no eat meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI wan pay, please
  [I wan pay, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Go way!
  [Go way!]
- Call the Police!Call di Police!
  [Call di Police!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call a docta!]
- I'm lostI lost
  [I lost]
- I'm illI sick
  [I sick]
- I'd like to buy...I want buy...
  [I want buy...]
- I'm just lookingI just lookin'
  [I just lookin']
- How much is it?How much dat?
  [How much dat?]
- That's too expensiveDat too costly
  [Dat too costly]
- Can you lower the price?Can yuh lower di price?
  [Can yuh lower di price?]
- What time is it?Wha time it?
  [Wha time it?]
- It's one o'clockIt one o'clock
  [It one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yes'terday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorra]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Wha de...?
  [Wha de...?]
- What's the address?Wha di address?
  [Wha di address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can yuh show me (on di map)?
  [Can yuh show me (on di map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wen di next (bus)?
  [Wen di next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Carriacou and Petite Martinique

Before European colonization, Carriacou and Petite Martinique were inhabited by the indigenous Carib and Arawak peoples. These early inhabitants left behind evidence of their existence through petroglyphs and other archaeological remains, showcasing their advanced skills in pottery and seafaring. The islands were known for their rich marine life and fertile lands, which provided the resources necessary for sustaining their communities.
The islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique were first sighted by Europeans in the late 15th century during Christopher Columbus's voyages. However, it was the French who initially colonized the islands in the 17th century. They introduced sugar plantations and utilized African slave labor, profoundly impacting the islands' demographics and culture. The islands changed hands several times between the French and the British until the Treaty of Paris in 1763 officially handed them over to British control.
The legacy of African slaves brought to Carriacou and Petite Martinique during the colonial era remains a significant part of the islands' culture. This heritage is evident in the islands' music, dance, and festivals, such as the Big Drum Dance and Quadrille Dance, both of which feature African rhythms and movements. The annual Carriacou Maroon and String Band Music Festival celebrates this rich cultural heritage with traditional music, food, and rituals.
Following the abolition of slavery in 1834, the economy of Carriacou and Petite Martinique shifted from plantation agriculture to small-scale farming and fishing. The islands' residents became skilled boat builders, known for crafting traditional wooden sloops and schooners. These vessels played a crucial role in inter-island trade and fishing, sustaining the local economy. Today, the boat-building tradition continues to be a source of pride and cultural identity for the people of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
In 1974, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, along with Grenada, gained independence from British colonial rule, forming the nation of Grenada. The islands have since been integral parts of the country, contributing to its cultural diversity and economic activities. Despite their small size, Carriacou and Petite Martinique maintain distinct cultural identities and traditions, which continue to attract visitors from around the world.
Carriacou and Petite Martinique are known for their vibrant cultural festivals that attract visitors from around the globe. The Carriacou Parang Festival, held every December, features traditional Caribbean Christmas music and brings the community together in celebration. The Regatta Festival, celebrated in August, showcases the islands' maritime heritage with boat races, cultural performances, and local cuisine. These festivals provide a unique glimpse into the islands' rich cultural tapestry and community spirit.