Welcome to Grenada – The Isle of Spice 

General Information About Grenada

Discovering Grenada: The Island of Spice

Grenada, an enchanting island nation in the West Indies, is a tropical paradise that offers much more than stunning beaches. Known as the "Island of Spice" for its abundance of nutmeg, mace, and other fragrant exports, Grenada consists of the main island and two smaller gems, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. With a vibrant culture, diverse ecosystems, and rich history, Grenada is a destination worth exploring.

Tucked away in the southern Caribbean, Grenada is a tropical paradise bursting with color, culture, and Caribbean soul. Whether you're planning your next Carnival trip or chasing sun-soaked adventure, this gem of an island has everything you need to fuel your wanderlust.
Let’s explore why Grenada should be on your radar!

Where Is Grenada?

Grenada sits at the southern tip of the Grenadines, made up of three islands:

Grenada (main island)

Carriacou

Petite Martinique

The capital, St. George’s, is a scenic harbor city known for its vibrant charm and historic forts. Think cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and epic ocean views.

What Makes Grenada Unique?

They call it the “Island of Spice” for a reason — the air here literally smells like nutmeg and cinnamon. Grenada is one of the world’s top producers of nutmeg, mace, cloves, and cocoa. But it’s not just the spices that make it stand out…

Rainforests, waterfalls & volcanic lakes

Golden-sand beaches & black-sand shores

World’s first underwater sculpture park

Historic plantations, spice estates & cocoa farms

Warm, welcoming locals with a rich cultural vibe

Location & Composition: Grenada is nestled in the southeastern Caribbean and is part of the Lesser Antilles chain. Its territory includes the main island of Grenada and the smaller islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

Unique Moniker: Known as the "Island of Spice" due to its significant nutmeg and mace production, Grenada's aroma is as memorable as its sights.

Population: Home to approximately 112,523 people, it has a warm, welcoming community.

Natural Beauty: The island’s highest peak is Mount St. Catherine, surrounded by lush landscapes encompassing four distinct ecoregions: moist forests, dry forests, xeric scrubs, and dry forests of the Leeward Islands.

Climate: Grenada enjoys a tropical climate, with temperatures rarely dipping below 18°C (64°F).

Iconic Features: Renowned for its majestic waterfalls such as Annandale and Mount Carmel, Grenada is also home to the world’s first underwater sculpture park.

Weather Vibes

Grenada offers year-round sunshine with tropical temperatures hovering between 24°C – 30°C (75°F – 86°F).

Dry Season: December to May

Wet Season: June to November
Even in rainy season, the showers are usually brief—perfect for a refreshing cooldown between fetes.

Language & Local Culture

English is the official language, but don’t be surprised if you hear Grenadian Creole or some sweet local slang. The people here are known for their hospitality and good vibes, always ready to share a story or a smile.

Food That Hits Different

Grenadian cuisine is a full-on flavor experience. Whether you're grabbing something quick between parties or sitting down for a beachside meal, you’re in for a treat:

Oil Down – the national dish, rich and hearty with breadfruit, dumplings, meat, and coconut milk

Fresh grilled fish, jerk chicken, and roadside BBQ

Local fruit juices and bold Caribbean spices in every bite

Don’t leave without trying the homemade rum punch or cocoa tea

Currency & Travel Tips

Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) – but USD is widely accepted

Getting Around: Taxis, minibuses, car rentals, and water taxis

Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available; local SIM cards are affordable

Tap Water: Safe to drink!

Cost: Mid-range budget-friendly with both boutique and luxury stays available

SpiceMas – Grenada’s Carnival Experience

Now THIS is where Grenada turns all the way up.
Spice Mas is one of the Caribbean’s most unique and exhilarating Carnival celebrations, mixing folklore, music, and modern mas into one unforgettable experience.

Key Events You Don’t Want to Miss:

J’ouvert Morning: A raw, gritty, and electrifying street parade. Expect paint, oil, mud, and pure revelry.

Monday Night Mas: LED-lit costumes, glowing crowds, and pulsating soca vibes after sunset.

Pretty Mas Tuesday: Vibrant costumes, big trucks, dancing in the streets, and endless energy.

Traditional Mas: Featuring Jab Jab (devil masqueraders covered in black oil), Shortknee, and Vieux Corps — cultural characters that bring Grenada’s history to life.

With top-tier soca artists, fetes that run from dusk till dawn, and an unmatched local vibe, Spice Mas is a must-experience for every Carnival chaser.

Carnival Season: Festivities build throughout July, culminating in the main parade days in early August.

Planning Tip: Book your costumes, parties, and accommodations early—Spice Mas is one of the most sought-after Caribbean Carnival experiences on the map!

Explore More with Carnival Guide

From Carnival packages and accommodation bookings, to party tickets, costumes, and local tours, we’ve got your Grenada experience covered from start to soca.
Dive into everything Grenada has to offer — whether you're traveling for the culture, the fetes, or the food. Carnival Guide connects you to the heartbeat of Grenada. Let’s plan your next epic escape.

Sports & Athletics in Grenada

Grenada’s sporting spirit runs deep, fueled by natural talent, a strong sense of national pride, and a growing infrastructure that supports athletes from the grassroots to the global stage. Whether it’s track and field, cricket, football, or emerging sports like basketball and tennis, Grenadians compete with heart and fire.

National Sporting Pride

Grenada made history in 2012 when Kirani James won the island’s first Olympic gold medal in the 400m sprint, placing Grenada firmly on the international athletics map. His win sparked an era of renewed investment in sport and inspired a generation of young athletes.

Popular Sports in Grenada

Track & Field

Grenada's top-performing sport internationally

Olympic & World Championship medals by Kirani James, Anderson Peters (javelin), and rising stars

Annual meets held at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium

Cricket

Part of the Windward Islands Cricket Board and the West Indies Cricket Team pipeline

Grenada National Cricket Stadium (formerly Queen’s Park) hosts international matches

Cricket remains a community favorite, especially in rural parishes

Football (Soccer)

Overseen by the Grenada Football Association (GFA)

National team nicknamed "The Spice Boyz"

Competes in CONCACAF tournaments and regional friendlies

Growing investment in youth development and league structure

Basketball

Gaining momentum in schools and local communities

Overseen by the Grenada Amateur Basketball Association (GABA)

Annual school tournaments and small league competitions developing across the island

Tennis, Netball & Volleyball

Popular at the school level and in select community clubs

Often included in inter-school and inter-island competitions

Sports Governance & Organizations

Sports Development & Infrastructure

Kirani James Athletics Stadium (St. George's)

Grenada’s flagship stadium

Hosts major track and field meets and national events

Equipped with an IAAF-certified track and seating for 8,000+ spectators

Grenada National Cricket Stadium

Scenic location at Queen’s Park

Hosts local, regional, and international matches including test and T20 matches

Includes practice nets and renovated stands

Community Playing Fields & Courts

Each parish features multi-use sporting grounds for football, cricket, netball, and more

These venues are central to village life and youth development

New community sports courts and lighting infrastructure are part of ongoing initiatives

Youth & School Sports

Intercol (Inter-secondary School Athletics Championships) is a national highlight, drawing massive crowds

The National Primary School Games and Secondary School Championships are annual platforms for talent scouting

Partnerships with regional training programs and U.S. college scouts have opened new pathways for young athletes

The Future of Grenadian Sport

Grenada continues to invest in its sports sector as both a tool for national unity and a gateway to international recognition. With champions like Kirani James and Anderson Peters leading by example, the island’s athletic potential is just getting started.

Grenada Nightlife

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culture of Grenada

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French Wine Bar

Bar-Restaurant de l’Hôtel Costes

239, Rue Saint-Honoré - 75001 Grenada
Tel. : +33 (0) 1 42 44 50 25
Fax : +33 (0) 1 42 44 50 01

Buddha bar

8, Rue Boissy d’Anglas - 75008 Grenada
Tel. : +33 (0) 1 53 05 90 00
Fax : +33 (0) 1 53 05 90 09

Le Cithéa

114, Rue Oberkampf - 75011 Grenada
Tel. : +33 (0) 1 40 21 70 95
Fax : +33 (0) 1 47 00 94 97

Le SanZ SanS

49, Rue Faubourg Saint-Antoine - 75011 Grenada
Tel. : +33 (0) 1 44 75 78 78
Fax : +33 (0) 1 53 17 04 85

nightlife of Grenada

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Grenada restaurants & cuisine

Grenada, known as the "Spice Isle", offers a flavorful and diverse dining experience that blends African, French, Indian, and Caribbean influences. From beachside seafood spots to fine dining restaurants, the island’s cuisine is a must-try for food lovers.

dining in Grenada

Grenada’s food scene is a flavorful adventure:

The Armadillo: A cozy, intimate spot run by a local couple, known for its personal touch and scenic views. Reservations are essential!

Patrick’s Homecooking: A budget-friendly eatery that serves authentic Grenadian cuisine.

Laluna Restaurant: Perfect for a romantic evening with panoramic ocean views.

restaurants & Bars

Coconut's Beach Restaurant

Grand Anse Beach; Tel. 444-4644
Open daily, except Tue., 12noon-10pm. Reservations advised.
BBQ and live music Wed., Fri., and Sun. in season.
Specialties: Local lobster, French Creole cuisine.

Dr. Grooms Cafe & Restaurant

Point Salines; Tel. 444-1979
Specialties: Italian and West Indian cuisine.

Fish and Chick Restaurant & Bar

Sugar Mill Roundabout, Grand Anse; Tel. 444-4132
Open daily, 7am until; take-out service available.
Specialties: Fish, Chicken, and Hot Roti, with daily West Indian specials.

Horse Shoe Beach Restaurant

Horse Shoe Beach Hotel; Tel 444-4410
Romantic dinners, with a spectacular view of Prickly Bay.
Specialties: Exotic West Indian favourites and International cuisine.

dining Grenada

Signature Dishes & Local Flavors

Oil Down – Grenada’s national dish, a hearty one-pot meal made with breadfruit, salted meat, callaloo, coconut milk, and dumplings, slow-cooked for a rich, comforting flavor.

Fresh Seafood – Lobster, conch, and mahi-mahi are island staples, often grilled or curried with Grenada’s signature spices.

Roti – A delicious Caribbean-style wrap filled with curried chicken, goat, or vegetables, influenced by Indian cuisine.

Pelau – A flavorful rice dish cooked with chicken, peas, and local spices.

Nutmeg Ice Cream – A sweet treat infused with Grenada’s famous nutmeg spice, offering a uniquely local taste.

Dining Experiences

Casual Beachfront Eats – Enjoy fresh seafood and grilled specialties at Umbrellas Beach Bar or La Plywood.

Fine Dining – Indulge in gourmet Caribbean cuisine at The Beach House or Rhodes Restaurant at Calabash.

Street Food & Local Markets – Sample authentic Grenadian flavors at the St. George’s Market or from local vendors selling oil down, roast corn, and fried bakes.

Farm-to-Table Experiences – Many restaurants use locally grown spices, fruits, and vegetables, giving dishes a fresh, authentic taste.

Why Dine in Grenada?
Grenada’s culinary scene is a delight for food lovers, offering everything from authentic island comfort food to high-end gastronomy. Whether you’re dining under the stars by the sea or enjoying a casual meal in a local eatery, Grenada’s flavors and spices will leave a lasting impression.

General Information About Grenada

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Location & Composition: Grenada is nestled in the southeastern Caribbean and is part of the Lesser Antilles chain. Its territory includes the main island of Grenada and the smaller islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

Unique Moniker: Known as the "Island of Spice" due to its significant nutmeg and mace production, Grenada's aroma is as memorable as its sights.

Population: Home to approximately 112,523 people, it has a warm, welcoming community.

Natural Beauty: The island’s highest peak is Mount St. Catherine, surrounded by lush landscapes encompassing four distinct ecoregions: moist forests, dry forests, xeric scrubs, and dry forests of the Leeward Islands.

Climate: Grenada enjoys a tropical climate, with temperatures rarely dipping below 18°C (64°F).

Iconic Features: Renowned for its majestic waterfalls such as Annandale and Mount Carmel, Grenada is also home to the world’s first underwater sculpture park.

Culture & Cuisine:

The culture is a blend of African, Caribbean, and European influences. Music like calypso and steel pan are key parts of the experience.

Local food includes fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes like roti and callaloo soup.

Grenada Culture and History

Grenada’s culture is a melting pot of influences, primarily African, British, and French. This fusion is evident in its Creole dialect, tantalizing cuisine, and architecture..

history of Grenada

Heritage: The majority of Grenadians are descendants of African slaves brought during the colonial era. Storytelling traditions reflect African and French influences, with captivating folk tales like Anancy, the trickster spider, and La Diablesse, a mythical femme fatale.

Cuisine: The national dish, Oil Down, is a one-pot wonder made with breadfruit, salted meat, turmeric, and coconut milk. Other culinary delights feature bold spices that embody Grenada’s essence.

Festivals: Grenada's Carnival, known as Spicemas, is a grand celebration of music, dance, and vibrant costumes. Highlights include:

Shortknee Masqueraders: Performers adorned with traditional masks and mirrors.

Jab Jab (J’ouvert): Participants paint themselves in oil, symbolizing freedom from oppression.

Culture & History – The Soul of Grenada

Grenada’s story is layered, rich, and deeply rooted in resilience, rhythm, and resistance. From the days of colonial struggle to modern-day Carnival celebrations, the island’s history has shaped a people who are proud, expressive, and full of vibes.

A Brief History

Grenada's history is a mix of indigenous heritage, European colonization, and African influence.

Originally inhabited by the Kalinago (Caribs)

Colonized by the French in 1650, then taken by the British in 1763

Enslaved Africans were brought to work on sugar, cocoa, and nutmeg plantations

Slavery was abolished in 1834, but the struggle for freedom and identity continued

Gained independence from Britain in 1974

In the 1980s, Grenada made international headlines with a revolution and U.S. intervention—but out of that, a stronger national spirit was born

Today, Grenada stands proud as a sovereign island nation with a population known for warmth, pride, and cultural fire.

Culture That Moves You

Grenada’s culture is a powerful fusion of African, French, British, and Caribbean traditions, expressed through music, dance, storytelling, cuisine, and community.
You’ll find that every village, every street corner, and every celebration has its own rhythm—and Carnival is where it all explodes.

Cultural pillars include:

Soca and Calypso music

Drumming and traditional dance

Folklore characters like Jab Jab, Shortknee, and Vieux Corps

Creole-influenced language and proverbs

Spice-infused cuisine and herbal knowledge passed down through generations

Carnival: A Cultural Celebration of Resistance & Joy

Spice Mas isn’t just a party—it’s a living cultural statement.

Grenada’s Carnival reflects centuries of history.
The Jab Jab, for example—those fierce, black-oil-covered masqueraders—are symbols of rebellion, representing enslaved Africans who resisted colonial oppression. Their chains, horns, and fire are a visual retelling of struggle, survival, and strength.

Shortknee masqueraders, with painted faces and vibrant costumes, chant songs that speak to justice, identity, and tradition.

Pretty Mas showcases Grenada’s evolution—bright, elaborate costumes with feathers, gems, and glitter, representing the island’s present-day pride and global creativity.

Whether it’s in a traditional parade or a modern soca fete, every element of Carnival tells a story:
Who we were.
Who we are.
And where we're going.

Why It Matters

Carnival isn’t just a time of celebration.
It’s when history, heritage, and identity collide on the streets. For visitors, it's a front-row seat to Grenada’s cultural soul. For locals, it’s a reclamation of space, sound, and spirit.

Carnival is culture. Carnival is memory. Carnival is Grenada.
And we at Carnival Guide are here to help you experience it all—the history behind the beat.

history of Grenada

Did You Know About Grenada?

Island of Spice: Grenada is known as the "Island of Spice" because it is one of the world’s largest producers of nutmeg and mace, contributing significantly to its agricultural exports.

Unique Flag: Grenada’s national flag includes a nutmeg pod, symbolizing its importance to the nation.

First Underwater Sculpture Park: Grenada is home to the world’s first underwater sculpture park, located in Molinere Bay. This attraction is not only a cultural and artistic treasure but also promotes marine biodiversity by serving as an artificial reef.

Cultural Heritage: Grenadian culture is a rich mix of African, French, and British influences. This heritage is celebrated through storytelling, music, and festivals like Spicemas, the country's vibrant Carnival.

Breathtaking Waterfalls: The island boasts stunning waterfalls, including Annandale Falls and Mt. Carmel Falls, perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.

Climate Paradise: Grenada enjoys a tropical climate, with temperatures rarely dropping below 18°C (64°F). This makes it an ideal year-round travel destination.

Ecoregions Galore: The island features four distinct ecoregions, including moist forests, dry forests, and xeric scrublands, showcasing its diverse biodiversity.

Small Yet Mighty: Grenada's total population is just over 112,000, but its cultural and natural offerings rival those of much larger nations.

Historical Forts: Grenada’s forts, such as Fort George and Fort Frederick, offer a glimpse into the island's colonial past and provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Rich Marine Life: Grenada is a haven for divers and snorkelers, offering vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine reserves teeming with life.

Grenada offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance, making it a gem of the Caribbean!