Levera National Park: Grenada's Coastal Sanctuary
Discover Grenada's natural beauty at Levera National Park: pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and stunning coastal views await!
Levera National Park, established in 1992, is a stunning 450-acre coastal area on the northeastern coast of Grenada. The park boasts a diverse landscape of mangrove swamps, a 23-acre pond, coastal dry forests, and pristine beaches, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park's main attraction is Levera Beach, a picturesque stretch of white sand and clear waters. This beach is also a critical nesting site for endangered leatherback turtles, particularly between March and July. Visitors may have the unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures laying their eggs during this season. Levera Pond, a large lagoon within the park, is a prime spot for birdwatching. The area attracts a variety of waterfowl and wading birds, including the Scarlet Ibis, herons, black-necked stilts, and common snipes. The park also features hiking trails that wind through the varied ecosystems, offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and nearby islands. Levera's marine areas are equally impressive, with vibrant coral reefs and seagrass beds that provide shelter for lobsters and reef fish. Visitors can explore the nearby island of Sugar Loaf, which is a short boat ride away. The park also holds historical significance, with remnants of old sugar plantations scattered throughout. While the Grenadian government had once attempted to develop a luxury resort in the area, Levera remains a protected RAMSAR site, Grenada's first and only. This designation highlights the park's importance as a Wetland of International Importance.
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the best weather and fewer crowds.
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching at Levera Pond.
- Pack a picnic, as there are no restaurants or vendors within the park.
- If visiting between March and July, consider a nighttime excursion to witness leatherback turtles nesting.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes to explore the park's trails.
A brief summary to Levera National Park
- Levera, GD
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From St. George's, take a bus heading towards Sauteurs or Carriacou. The bus fare is typically around EC$2-5 (Eastern Caribbean dollars). Inform the driver that you want to get off at Levera National Park, and they will drop you at the nearest stop, a short walk to the entrance.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available from St. George's or Grenville. Negotiate the fare beforehand; expect to pay around EC$30-50 for a round trip to Levera National Park. The taxi will drop you off at the entrance, and you can arrange for the driver to return at a specific time.
-
Car
From any location in Grenada, head north on the main road, following signs towards Sauteurs or Carriacou. Continue until you see the sign for Levera National Park; the entrance will be on your left. Parking is free at the designated parking lot near the beach, though spaces may be limited.