Mayreau, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Travel Guide

Discover the tranquility and charm of Mayreau, the smallest inhabited island in the Grenadines, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich local culture.

Mayreau, the smallest inhabited island in the Grenadines, is a secluded paradise waiting to be explored. This tiny island, with its lush landscapes and stunning beaches, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The island's main settlement, Old Wall Village, is perched on a hill and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. Snorkelers and divers will find Mayreau's waters teeming with marine life, making it a perfect spot for underwater adventures. The Saltwhistle Bay, with its crescent-shaped beach and calm turquoise waters, is a favorite among visitors. For those seeking a bit of history, the island's quaint stone church, built in the 18th century, offers a glimpse into Mayreau's past. Despite its small size, Mayreau boasts a vibrant local culture. Visitors can enjoy freshly caught seafood at local restaurants or partake in one of the island's lively festivals. The friendly locals and laid-back vibe make Mayreau a welcoming destination for all who visit.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mayreau.

Visit Saltwhistle Bay early in the day to avoid crowds and get the best spot on the beach.
Bring cash, as there are no ATMs on the island and many places do not accept credit cards.
Take a hike to the top of Old Wall Village for stunning panoramic views of the Grenadines.
Try the local seafood, especially the freshly caught fish and lobster.
Pack light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen, as the island can get quite warm and sunny.

Explore Mayreau: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in Mayreau

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Salt Whistle Bay

Experience the serene beauty of Salt Whistle Bay, a tropical paradise in Mayreau, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

4.5

Tobago Cays Marine Park

Explore the enchanting Tobago Cays Marine Park, a stunning aquatic paradise with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life in the Caribbean.

4.9

Tobago Cays Marine Park

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Tobago Cays Marine Park, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers in the Caribbean.

4.9

Montreal Gardens

Explore the lush Montreal Gardens, a serene paradise in Mesopotamia, perfect for relaxation, family outings, and nature photography.

4.7

Best landmarks in Mayreau

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Best Landmarks

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Wallilabou Anchorage

Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Wallilabou Anchorage, a premier restaurant and cocktail bar in the heart of the Caribbean.

4.1

Fort Charlotte, Saint Vincent

Explore the historic Fort Charlotte in Saint Vincent, where colonial history meets breathtaking views of the Caribbean landscape.

4.4

Princess Margaret Beach

Explore the stunning shores of Princess Margaret Beach, a serene Caribbean paradise perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

4.6

Salt Whistle Bay

Discover the serene beauty of Salt Whistle Bay, a tropical paradise in Mayreau, renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant Caribbean culture, perfect for relaxation.

4.5

Best restaurants in Mayreau

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The Ranch Escapade

Discover culinary delights at The Ranch Escapade in Clifton—where fresh flavors meet serene ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.9

Last Bar Before the Jungle

Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at Last Bar Before the Jungle on Mayreau Island – where relaxation meets delicious dining.

4.9

The Combination Cafe

Discover Caribbean flavors at The Combination Cafe in Mayreau – where delicious meals meet stunning views for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.5

Mayreau Beach Club & Villas

Experience luxury and serenity at Mayreau Beach Club & Villas - your ultimate Caribbean getaway awaits with stunning views and gourmet dining.

4.8

Best bars in Mayreau

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Best Bars

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The Ranch Escapade

Experience exceptional Caribbean and international cuisine at The Ranch Escapade, Clifton's top dining destination, perfect for all occasions.

4.9

Last Bar Before the Jungle

Discover the authentic taste of Caribbean culture at The Last Bar Before the Jungle, a charming restaurant in Mayreau.

4.9

Robert Righteous and de Youths

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Robert Righteous and de Youths, where Caribbean culture meets refreshing drinks and stunning views in Mayreau.

4.8

The Combination Cafe

Experience the flavors of the Caribbean at The Combination Cafe in Mayreau, where local ingredients and hospitality meet breathtaking views.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Mayreau

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Last Bar Before the Jungle

Discover the vibrant Caribbean flavors and breathtaking views at the Last Bar Before the Jungle, a must-visit spot on Mayreau.

4.9

Robert Righteous and de Youths

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Robert Righteous and de Youths, a must-visit bar in Mayreau, where Caribbean culture meets unforgettable experiences.

4.8

Mayreau Beach Club & Villas

Discover exquisite dining and stunning views at Mayreau Beach Club & Villas, a Caribbean culinary gem in Twassante Bay.

4.8

Nadi's Bar & Restorante

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Nadi's Bar & Restorante, Mayreau's culinary treasure with stunning views and delicious dishes.

5.0

Best shops in Mayreau

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Salt Whistle Bay

Discover the serene beauty of Salt Whistle Bay, a tropical paradise in Mayreau, perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning landscapes.

4.5

Uncle Duff Store

Discover local flavors and friendly service at Uncle Duff Store, the heart of Derrick's grocery shopping experience.

4.7

Hutchinson's Variety Store

Discover a unique blend of local goods and fresh produce at Hutchinson's Variety Store in Central Union Island, your ideal stop for island essentials.

3.9

Nicholls Treasures Boutique

Explore Nicholls Treasures Boutique for stylish Caribbean clothing and unique local crafts in the heart of Bequia's Port Elizabeth.

5.0

Explore Mayreau on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Mayreau, mapped for you.

Mayreau Essentials

Mayreau is accessible by boat, as it lacks an airport. The nearest major airport is Argyle International Airport (AIA) on Saint Vincent. From there, you can take a ferry or a private boat to Mayreau. Ferries are available from Kingstown on Saint Vincent and from other islands in the Grenadines such as Bequia and Union Island. Private yacht charters can also be arranged for a more personalized journey.
Mayreau is a small island, and most of it can be explored on foot. For longer distances, you can hire local taxis, which are usually pickup trucks with seating in the back. There is no public bus service on the island. Renting a scooter or a golf cart is another popular option for getting around and exploring the island at your own pace.
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and local vendors. ATMs are not readily available on the island, so make sure to withdraw enough cash before arriving.
Mayreau is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended on the beach and be cautious when walking alone at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. There is a small medical clinic on the island, but for serious medical issues, it may be necessary to travel to the mainland or a larger nearby island. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are a few local pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey. There is no formal public transport system. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning'. A handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Mayreau like a local, visit the local bars and eateries where you can enjoy authentic Caribbean cuisine and interact with residents. Participate in local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the culture. A visit to the hilltop Catholic Church offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and is a great way to understand the island's history. Don’t miss a day trip to the Tobago Cays Marine Park for some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences in the Caribbean.

When is the best time to visit Mayreau?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Mayreau

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 Mayreau. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHello
  [Hello]
- GoodbyeGoodbye
  [Goodbye]
- YesYes
  [Yes]
- NoNo
  [No]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Please/You're welcome]
- Thank youThank you
  [Thank you]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [Excuse me/Sorry]
- How are you?How are you?
  [How are you?]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. And you?]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [Do you speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't understand
  [I don't understand]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [I'd like to see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [I would like to pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Go away!
  [Go away!]
- Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [Call the Police!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm ill
  [I'm ill]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [I'd like to buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [I'm just looking]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [How much is it?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [That's too expensive]
- Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [Can you lower the price?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Mayreau

Before European colonization, Mayreau was inhabited by the Carib and Arawak peoples. These indigenous groups lived off the land and sea, practicing a subsistence lifestyle that included fishing, hunting, and farming. Archaeological evidence, such as pottery shards and tools, provides insight into their daily lives and cultural practices.
In the late 15th and early 16th centuries, European explorers began to arrive in the Caribbean. Mayreau, like many other islands in the Grenadines, was claimed by various European powers. The island changed hands several times between the French and the British, with the British eventually establishing control in the 18th century.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Mayreau was home to sugar plantations. Enslaved Africans were brought to the island to work on these plantations, dramatically altering the island's demographics and culture. The remnants of these plantations can still be seen today, including ruins of sugar mills and estate houses.
The British Empire abolished slavery in 1834, leading to significant changes in Mayreau's society. Formerly enslaved people became free citizens, though many continued to work in agriculture. The legacy of slavery and its abolition had a lasting impact on the island's social and economic structures.
In the 20th century, Mayreau saw gradual modernization and development. Infrastructure improvements, such as the introduction of electricity and better transportation, helped to improve the quality of life for residents. The island's population remained small, maintaining a close-knit community atmosphere.
In recent decades, Mayreau has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a serene Caribbean experience. The island's natural beauty, including its pristine beaches and coral reefs, attracts visitors from around the world. Tourism has become a vital part of the local economy, bringing both opportunities and challenges to the island.
Mayreau's culture is a vibrant mix of African, European, and indigenous influences. The island hosts several annual festivals, such as the Mayreau Regatta and the Easterval celebrations, which showcase local music, dance, and culinary traditions. These events provide a glimpse into the island's rich cultural heritage and community spirit.