From the iconic La Soufrière volcano to hidden waterfalls and serene beaches, this guide offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
As I spent hours all by myself bathing at one of the most beautiful waterfalls of St. Vincent, the realization hit me: this island is a hidden gem in the Caribbean. St. Vincent is an island where nature still reigns supreme and where travelers can experience an untouched paradise with vibrant rainforests, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural history.
When I first set foot on St. Vincent, I had little idea of the adventure that awaited me. Over the next three days, I drove around this beautiful island, swam in crystal-clear waters, and dined on some of the freshest seafood I’ve ever tasted.
This guide is designed for first-timers like you, who want to experience the best of St. Vincent in just a few days. No matter if you are looking for the stunning landscapes, the vibrant local culture, or simply to relax, I got you covered.
Understanding St. Vincent
St. Vincent is the largest island in the Grenadines and where most travelers entering into this country will arrive. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and crystal-clear waters, the island offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. The northern part of the island is dominated by La Soufrière, an active volcano, while the southern part is home to Kingstown, the bustling capital with colonial-era buildings, lively markets, and vibrant street life.
Despite its beauty, St. Vincent remains relatively under the radar compared to its Caribbean neighbors. Besides a couple of 6-star resorts for the ultra-rich here and there, tourism is basically inexistant – making it an ideal destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
I went to St Vincent to find some pretty beaches. However, I ended up encountering a place to go hiking, snorkeling, and to experience local culture.
During my visit to St.Vincent, I used the Global Plan of Flexiroam and bought 10 GB of internet for just 30 USD
Click here to get your plan too
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Where to Stay in St. Vincent
Choosing the right accommodation is key to making the most of your stay in St. Vincent. Depending on your travel style, budget and itinerary, here are the best areas to stay in St. Vincent, along with some of the best choices for each section of the island.
While in St. Vincent, I was able to find the best prices available for any hotel at Booking.com and Agoda. These are the two largest platforms to compare hotel prices.
Kingstown and Surrounding Areas
Kingstown, the capital city of St. Vincent, is a convenient base for exploring the island. Specially since it does not feel like a capital. Staying here puts you close to many attractions, including the Botanical Gardens, Fort Charlotte, and Villa Beach. This area is ideal for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action while still enjoying beautiful coastal views.
Best hotels in Kingstown:
- Beachcombers Hotel
- Rating on Booking.com: 8.5/10
- A charming beachfront hotel just outside Kingstown. Beachcombers Hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views, a swimming pool, and easy access to nearby attractions.
Book your stay at Beachcombers Hotel
- Grenadine House
- Rating on Booking.com: 8.8/10
- This elegant hotel is housed in a historic building overlooking Kingstown. Grenadine House features stylish rooms, a restaurant, a spa, and an outdoor pool, all with stunning views of the city and harbor.
Check availability at Grenadine House
- Cobblestone Inn
- Rating on Booking.com: 8.3/10
- Located in the heart of Kingstown, this boutique hotel offers a cozy, historic atmosphere with modern amenities. Cobblestone Inn is within walking distance of the city’s main attractions and markets.
South Coast (Villa and Indian Bay) – This is where I stayed!
The south coast of St. Vincent, including Villa and Indian Bay, is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. This area is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea while still being close to Kingstown and other attractions.
Best hotels in the South Coast of St Vincent:
- Paradise Beach Hotel
- Rating on Booking.com: 8.7/10
- Located on Villa Beach, Paradise Beach Hotel offers beachfront rooms, a lively bar and restaurant, and easy access to water sports and local dining options.
Book your room at Paradise Beach Hotel
- Young Island Resort (this is the most beautiful hotel in the whole country)
- Rating on Booking.com: 9.0/10
- This private island resort is just a short boat ride from the mainland, offering a secluded and luxurious escape. Guests can enjoy beautiful cottages, gourmet dining, and exclusive beach access.
Did you know: You can also visit the Young Island Resort with a day pass.
- Mariners Hotel
- Rating on Booking.com: 8.5/10
- Mariners Hotel, located on Indian Bay, provides comfortable accommodation with stunning ocean views, a swimming pool, and a restaurant known for its seafood.
Leeward Coast (Layou and Buccament Bay)
The Leeward Coast offers a more tranquil and scenic experience, with easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. This area is ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Best hotels in the Leeward Coast:
- Buccament Bay Resort
- Rating on Booking.com: 9.2/10
- A luxurious resort located in a stunning bay with lush surroundings. Buccament Bay Resort offers private villas, multiple dining options, a spa, and activities like snorkeling and diving.
Book your stay at Buccament Bay Resort
- Keegan’s Beachside Hotel, Apartments & Cottage
- Rating on Booking.com: 8.6/10
- Situated in Layou, this charming beachfront property offers a variety of accommodations, from rooms to cottages. Keegan’s is perfect for travelers seeking a laid-back beach experience.
Stay at Keegan’s Beachside Hotel
- Rich View Guesthouse
- Rating on Booking.com: 8.4/10
- Located on the hillside overlooking Buccament Bay, Rich View Guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with panoramic views, a restaurant, and personalized service.
For those going to the Grenadines (Day Trip to Bequia or Mustique)
While not part of the mainland, a visit to the Grenadine islands like Bequia or Mustique can be a highlight of your trip. These islands offer a mix of luxury and tranquility, with pristine beaches and clear waters perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxation.
Best Hotels in Bequia and Mustique:
- Bequia Beach Hotel
- Rating on Booking.com: 9.1/10
- Located on Bequia Island, this upscale hotel offers luxurious rooms, a spa, multiple dining options, and direct access to one of the island’s best beaches.
Book your stay at Bequia Beach Hotel
- Firefly Mustique
- Rating on Booking.com: 9.4/10
- A boutique hotel on the exclusive island of Mustique, offering luxurious rooms, fine dining, and breathtaking views. It’s perfect for a day trip or a luxurious overnight stay.
- Keegan’s Guest House, Bequia
- Rating on Booking.com: 8.7/10
- A budget-friendly option on Bequia, Keegan’s Guest House provides comfortable rooms with easy access to the beach and local attractions.
Tip: Staying in the cities can be a bit chaotic, so I highly recommend choosing a coastal location to make the most of your trip.
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Getting Around St Vincent
Getting around St. Vincent is relatively easy, but having a rental car will give you the most flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. The roads can be narrow and winding, but the scenic views more than make up for it.
- Renting a Car – I highly recommend renting a car for your trip. It’s the best way to see the island, and you’ll have the freedom to explore remote areas that are not accessible by public transport.
If you want to compare prices with all companies together, check the different options at DiscoverCars and RentalCars
- Public Transport – While public transport is available, it can be somewhat unreliable and limited to certain areas. Buses and minibuses are the main modes of public transport, but they often follow set routes that may not align with your itinerary.
- Taxis – Taxis are widely available, especially in Kingstown, but they can be expensive if you rely on them for the entire trip. If you plan to use taxis, it’s best to negotiate the fare in advance.
- Guided Tours – If driving on unfamiliar roads isn’t your thing, consider booking a guided tour. Several companies offer full-day tours that cover the island’s main attractions.
Read more: What are the best things to do in Barbados A good adventure in St Vincent begins in Kingstown, the vibrant capital of St. Vincent & the Grenadines. Start your day with a visit to the Botanical Gardens, the oldest in the Western Hemisphere. Here, you can see a variety of tropical plants and trees, as well as the national bird, the St. Vincent Parrot. The gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city and provide a great introduction to the island’s flora and fauna. Afterward, take a stroll through the streets of Kingstown, where you’ll find a mix of colonial-era architecture and colorful Caribbean buildings. Don’t miss St. George’s Anglican Cathedral, a stunning Gothic-style church built in the early 19th century. Nearby, you can also visit St. Mary’s Cathedral, a Roman Catholic church with a distinctive black-and-white stone façade. For a local lunch, head to VeeJay’s Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delicious rotis and fresh seafood. After that, you can drive up to Fort Charlotte, located on a hill overlooking Kingstown. The fort offers panoramic views of the city and the Grenadines and is a great spot for photos. In the afternoon, make your way to Young Island, the most beautiful island in St Vincent and a great place to spend the afternoon.. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the clear waters, or enjoying a drink at one of the beachfront bars. Start early and drive north towards La Soufrière, the island’s iconic volcano. Tour operators also offer tours that start very early in the morning. The hike to the summit is challenging but incredibly rewarding (around 6 hours) It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and the crater when you reach the top. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and prepare for changing weather conditions. Book your tour to La Soufrière After conquering La Soufrière, head to Dark View Falls, a stunning twin waterfall located in a lush rainforest setting. The falls are easily accessible via a short hike, and there’s a natural pool at the base where you can take a refreshing dip. For lunch, stop by a local eatery in the nearby village of Chateaubelair. Here, you can enjoy authentic Vincentian cuisine, such as roasted breadfruit, fried jackfish, and callaloo soup. In the afternoon, continue your exploration along the Leeward Coast, where you’ll find several beautiful beaches and secluded coves. Wallilabou Bay is a must-visit, as it was one of the filming locations for Pirates of the Caribbean. The bay is picturesque, with a small beach, clear waters, and remnants of the movie set still visible. This is also one of the few spots where you will see lots of tourists. This is where most cruise ship day-trippers will stop by. A nice activity to do in the afternoon is the Rum tasting and cave kayaking. The west coast and the east coast are completely different. Head to the Windward Coast, where you’ll find some of St. Vincent’s most stunning natural and untouched attractions. Start with a visit to the Black Point Tunnel, a historic site built by enslaved Africans in the early 19th century. The tunnel is carved out of solid rock and leads to a beautiful black sand beach. Next, drive to Montreal Gardens, a hidden gem nestled in the hills of the Mesopotamia Valley. These private gardens are a horticulturist’s dream, with a stunning array of tropical flowers, plants, and trees. The gardens are a peaceful retreat, and the views of the surrounding valley are simply breathtaking. For lunch, the only options are in the village of Georgetown. Here, you can sample more traditional Vincentian dishes, such as saltfish buljol, fried plantains, and coconut bakes. Afterwards, make your way to the Owia Salt Pond, a natural rock pool located at the northern tip of the island. The salt pond is formed by volcanic rocks and is filled with seawater, creating a calm and serene spot for swimming and snorkeling. I really liked this place. Another option is to start at the Owia Salt Pond and then drive all the way back stopping at the East Coast key attractions. NOTE: St Vincent can’t be driven in circles. There is no connecting roads between the north east and the north west. The easiest way to plan a trip to St Vincent is by planning one day in the East and then one day in the West. Find the best accommodation deals for your extended stay
Day 1: Explore Kingstown and Surroundings
Day 2: Adventure to La Soufrière
Day 3: Discover the East Coast and Beyond
Itineraries for Different Lengths of Stay
2 Nights Itinerary:
3 Nights Itinerary:
5 Nights Itinerary:
