Carriacou Travel Guide (Grenada, 2026)

Backpacking in Carriacou
🏆 Top pickregion ranked #2
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 22, 2026

Carriacou has no large resorts, and that is the whole point: the island runs on boatyards, rum shops and goat paths rather than package tours. It sits in the north of Grenada’s island chain, a short hop from the main island, and you reach it by sea or small plane. The slower ferry costs the least and gives you a deck to sprawl on, though you give up an afternoon and some comfort. The faster boat saves time at a higher price, and for most backpackers that trade is worth making when schedules are tight. Expect white-sand coves, reefs, a quiet capital in Hillsborough, and Big Drum and string band traditions that still feel local. Nightlife is thin, buses are informal, and some shops close early on Sundays, so stock up on Saturday. Carriacou suits divers, hikers and slow readers best. If you need big-city energy or a hostel social scene, you will get restless.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Grenada Travel Guide.

Best time to go: December - May
Population: 8,000 [gov.gd]
Daily cost: USD40 to 80

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Grenada

example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Grenada

example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Grenada

example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Grenada

example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Grenada

example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Grenada

example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Grenada

example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Grenada

✨ Why go?
Ranked #2 region in GrenadaReasons people choose to visit here

Carriacou is small enough that you can sleep in one place and still cover the whole island, which means no packing and unpacking every other night. The Tyrrel Bay anchorage doubles as a social hub, with sailors who will tell you which cove has the best snorkeling this week and sometimes trade a day of deck work for a berth on a passing yacht. Hitching and shared minibuses cover the main road well enough, and a rented scooter or quad reaches the quieter beaches.

The landscape also does two jobs at once. In a single day you can climb the ridge of High North National Park for wide views toward the Grenadines, then drop to a beach with nobody on it. Culture sits close to nature here: Windward’s hand-built wooden boats are made by families who learned the craft from Scottish settlers, and you … read more 👉

Carriacou is small enough that you can sleep in one place and still cover the whole island, which means no packing and unpacking every other night. The Tyrrel Bay anchorage doubles as a social hub, with sailors who will tell you which cove has the best snorkeling this week and sometimes trade a day of deck work for a berth on a passing yacht. Hitching and shared minibuses cover the main road well enough, and a rented scooter or quad reaches the quieter beaches.

The landscape also does two jobs at once. In a single day you can climb the ridge of High North National Park for wide views toward the Grenadines, then drop to a beach with nobody on it. Culture sits close to nature here: Windward’s hand-built wooden boats are made by families who learned the craft from Scottish settlers, and you can simply walk up to a yard and watch. Pair that with a night of Big Drum or string band music and you get two sides of the island without leaving it.

💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while visiting Carriacou

Hillsborough: The island’s main town and port, where the ferry from Grenada lands. A single waterfront street holds the jetty, a small market, the Carriacou Museum (housed in an old cotton ginning mill, with Amerindian pottery and African-heritage artifacts) and a few rum-shop lunch counters. Walk it in under an hour.
Paradise Beach: A long, calm stretch of pale sand just south of Hillsborough, with shallow water and a couple of beach bars. Reefs sit close enough that you can snorkel from the shore.
Sandy Island: A tiny, palm-dotted sand spit inside a marine protected area, reached by a short boat ride from Hillsborough. Snorkeling over the reef right off the beach is the draw. Bring your own shade and water.
Tyrrel Bay: A sheltered anchorage packed with sailing yachts, lined with cheap restaurants

… read more 👉

Hillsborough: The island’s main town and port, where the ferry from Grenada lands. A single waterfront street holds the jetty, a small market, the Carriacou Museum (housed in an old cotton ginning mill, with Amerindian pottery and African-heritage artifacts) and a few rum-shop lunch counters. Walk it in under an hour.
Paradise Beach: A long, calm stretch of pale sand just south of Hillsborough, with shallow water and a couple of beach bars. Reefs sit close enough that you can snorkel from the shore.
Sandy Island: A tiny, palm-dotted sand spit inside a marine protected area, reached by a short boat ride from Hillsborough. Snorkeling over the reef right off the beach is the draw. Bring your own shade and water.
Tyrrel Bay: A sheltered anchorage packed with sailing yachts, lined with cheap restaurants and a mangrove lagoon at its head. Cruisers swap tips here, and you can often find a lift or a sailing contact at the dinghy dock.
High North National Park: The island’s highest ground, topped by the 291-meter High North peak. Trails run through dry forest and open ridges with views across the Grenadines. Go early before the heat builds.
Windward: A fishing and boatbuilding village on the east coast, where wooden sloops are still built on the beach using techniques brought by Scottish settlers. Locals here are happy to talk about the craft if you wander over.
Anse La Roche: A secluded bay on the north coast, reached by a short hike over rough track from the village of Bogles. Few people make the walk, so the sand is usually empty and the water clear for snorkeling. Carry water and sturdy shoes.
Belair Viewpoint and Old Cemetery: A hilltop lookout above Hillsborough with a sweeping view over Sandy Island and the neighboring islets. A short drive or steep walk, ideal late in the afternoon.
Old Stone Mill Ruins: Ruined stone sugar and cotton mill towers scattered through the countryside, relics of the plantation era. They are quiet, unsigned in places, and easy to pair with a ride across the island.
Carriacou Regatta Festival: A multi-day festival each August, with sloop races at Hillsborough and Tyrrel Bay, plus beach parties, greasy-pole contests and live music. Book beds early if you want to be here for it.

Carriacou’s cheapest highlights are its beaches, including Paradise Beach and Anse La Roche, which cost nothing to enter.

Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

🏘️ NeighborhoodsHow different areas shape the experience

Carriacou, a slice of paradise in Grenada, offers a blend of laid-back charm and vibrant local culture. Here’s how to navigate its neighborhoods like a pro.

Hillsborough: The bustling heart of Carriacou, Hillsborough is where you’ll find the ferry terminal and the main shops. The vibe is lively, with local markets and street vendors filling the air with the scent of fresh fish and spices. It’s walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Nightlife is low-key, with a few bars offering live music. Perfect for short stays, as you can easily access transport to other islands.

Windward: This area is quieter, with stunning views of the Atlantic. It’s ideal for those seeking peace and a slower pace. Accommodations here tend to be more budget-friendly, and you can find cozy guesthouses. The walkability … read more 👉

Carriacou, a slice of paradise in Grenada, offers a blend of laid-back charm and vibrant local culture. Here’s how to navigate its neighborhoods like a pro.

Hillsborough: The bustling heart of Carriacou, Hillsborough is where you’ll find the ferry terminal and the main shops. The vibe is lively, with local markets and street vendors filling the air with the scent of fresh fish and spices. It’s walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Nightlife is low-key, with a few bars offering live music. Perfect for short stays, as you can easily access transport to other islands.

Windward: This area is quieter, with stunning views of the Atlantic. It’s ideal for those seeking peace and a slower pace. Accommodations here tend to be more budget-friendly, and you can find cozy guesthouses. The walkability is decent, but a rental bike or scooter can enhance your experience. Windward is great for longer stays, especially if you want to immerse yourself in local life.

Petite Martinique: A short boat ride away, this tiny island feels like a world apart. It’s less touristy, offering a genuine slice of Caribbean life. The vibe is tranquil, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle. Accommodations are limited but charming. This area is best for longer stays, allowing you to soak in the island’s slow rhythm.

Each neighborhood has its own flavor, making Carriacou a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.

⌛️ 5 daysWhat you can realistically do in a week

Distances are small and public transport is informal, so the days work best on foot in the mornings, a taxi or shared minibus for longer hops, and a long break at midday when the sun is brutal. Always ask a driver to agree your pickup time before you head off.

Day 1: Hillsborough: Arrive by ferry or plane and start in the capital, because everything you need is within a short walk: the jetty, the market, the museum and a handful of bars. The museum comes first, since it explains the Big Drum, boat-building and Amerindian history you are about to see. Stay the night close to the waterfront.

Day 2: Paradise Beach: Spend the morning at the beach while the water is calm and the sand is empty. Retreat to a shaded beach bar during the hottest hours, then walk back toward Hillsborough or catch … read more 👉

Distances are small and public transport is informal, so the days work best on foot in the mornings, a taxi or shared minibus for longer hops, and a long break at midday when the sun is brutal. Always ask a driver to agree your pickup time before you head off.

Day 1: Hillsborough: Arrive by ferry or plane and start in the capital, because everything you need is within a short walk: the jetty, the market, the museum and a handful of bars. The museum comes first, since it explains the Big Drum, boat-building and Amerindian history you are about to see. Stay the night close to the waterfront.

Day 2: Paradise Beach: Spend the morning at the beach while the water is calm and the sand is empty. Retreat to a shaded beach bar during the hottest hours, then walk back toward Hillsborough or catch a taxi for sunset drinks on the jetty.

Day 3: Windward: Take a morning taxi across the island to the boatyards, where you can watch builders at work with hand tools. Return in the afternoon and base yourself in Tyrrel Bay, where food and company are easy to find.

Day 4: High North: Start the climb at first light. The ridge trail gives wide views, and by midday you should be back in the shade. Afternoons suit the mangroves by kayak.

Day 5: Sandy Island: The detour: take a boat from Hillsborough to Sandy Island for an unhurried day of snorkeling on the reef, then be back before dark. It adds a lot and needs no extra transfer beyond the short boat ride.

If you only get one day, make it this one. Sandy Island has the clearest water and the quietest sand, and nothing else on Carriacou matches it.

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

Dry Season (December to May): Carriacou’s driest stretch, with steady northeast trade winds, little rain and daytime highs of 28 to 31°C (82 to 88°F). Seas are calm for diving and sailing, and this is when the island is busiest and prices run highest.
Carnival (February or March): Carriacou’s pre-Lenten Carnival fills the guesthouses in Hillsborough, so book ahead. Expect street parades and costumed characters.
Regatta (late July/early August): The Carriacou Regatta brings sailboat racing, beach parties and the year’s biggest crowds. Rooms tighten and rates climb.
Wet Season (June to November): Showers are short and heavy, humidity is high and highs reach 30 to 32°C (86 to 90°F). Rates drop and beaches empty, though some small restaurants close. Hurricanes are a low but real risk, mostly August

… read more 👉

Dry Season (December to May): Carriacou’s driest stretch, with steady northeast trade winds, little rain and daytime highs of 28 to 31°C (82 to 88°F). Seas are calm for diving and sailing, and this is when the island is busiest and prices run highest.
Carnival (February or March): Carriacou’s pre-Lenten Carnival fills the guesthouses in Hillsborough, so book ahead. Expect street parades and costumed characters.
Regatta (late July/early August): The Carriacou Regatta brings sailboat racing, beach parties and the year’s biggest crowds. Rooms tighten and rates climb.
Wet Season (June to November): Showers are short and heavy, humidity is high and highs reach 30 to 32°C (86 to 90°F). Rates drop and beaches empty, though some small restaurants close. Hurricanes are a low but real risk, mostly August to October, since Carriacou sits south of the main belt.

Daylight runs roughly 11 to 13 hours across the year. For the best balance of calm seas and quieter beaches, come in late April or May.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Grenada

Hillsborough and Tyrrel Bay are the two spots where backpackers will be happiest on Carriacou, and both are safe enough to walk around after dark.
Hillsborough, the main town, gives you the ferry dock, a bank, small supermarkets, bakeries and bars within a short stroll. It has a handful of simple guesthouses and rooms, and it is the easiest base if you rely on public minibuses or catch the morning boat. Beaches here are narrow but the town is flat and easy to walk. Dorms are rare on the island, so private rooms with shared kitchens usually run about US$40 to 80 a night.
Tyrrel Bay, on the west coast, … read more 👉

Hillsborough and Tyrrel Bay are the two spots where backpackers will be happiest on Carriacou, and both are safe enough to walk around after dark.
Hillsborough, the main town, gives you the ferry dock, a bank, small supermarkets, bakeries and bars within a short stroll. It has a handful of simple guesthouses and rooms, and it is the easiest base if you rely on public minibuses or catch the morning boat. Beaches here are narrow but the town is flat and easy to walk. Dorms are rare on the island, so private rooms with shared kitchens usually run about US$40 to 80 a night.
Tyrrel Bay, on the west coast, is where the sailing crowd gathers. A long curve of anchorage, a few beach bars and casual restaurants make it the island’s most social corner, and you can often find work-for-passage chatter among yacht crews. Rooms and apartments are mostly in the US$50 to 90 range, and the quiet water suits swimming at dusk. Mangrove walks and the road to Hillsborough are close by.
For a quieter stay, Paradise Beach and Lauriston have small guesthouses within easy reach of good swimming. Carriacou has little in the way of nightlife outside weekends, so base yourself where the people are.

Best hostels in Grenada

Best quality hotels in Grenada

🚌 Getting aroundTransportation options and practical tips

Hillsborough, the main town, is flat and compact enough to cover on foot in 15 to 20 minutes end to end, but walking stops making sense once you head for Paradise Beach, Tyrrel Bay or Windward on the other side of the island. Carriacou is only about 13 square miles, so nothing is far, yet the hills and lack of buses make a little planning pay off. Most backpackers lean on shared minibuses, taxis and their own feet, and it all works fine if you stay relaxed about timing.

Minibuses: The cheapest way to move along the main roads, roughly US$1 to 3 a ride. They run mostly in the morning and early afternoon and thin out fast later in the day, and there is no fixed timetable. Wave one down, ask the driver where he is heading and chat a bit. For the money, this gives a backpacker the most, as long

… read more 👉

Hillsborough, the main town, is flat and compact enough to cover on foot in 15 to 20 minutes end to end, but walking stops making sense once you head for Paradise Beach, Tyrrel Bay or Windward on the other side of the island. Carriacou is only about 13 square miles, so nothing is far, yet the hills and lack of buses make a little planning pay off. Most backpackers lean on shared minibuses, taxis and their own feet, and it all works fine if you stay relaxed about timing.

Minibuses: The cheapest way to move along the main roads, roughly US$1 to 3 a ride. They run mostly in the morning and early afternoon and thin out fast later in the day, and there is no fixed timetable. Wave one down, ask the driver where he is heading and chat a bit. For the money, this gives a backpacker the most, as long as you are not racing a deadline.
Taxis: Island taxis are typically unmetered vans, so agree the fare before you get in. Expect about US$10 to 20 for most cross-island hops, and more for a full-island tour of two to three hours. Splitting one with two or three people makes this very good value for Windward or the airport.
Rental cars and scooters: Cars run roughly US$45 to 70 a day, and you need a local driving permit, around US$20 to 25, from the licensing office. Drive on the left, mind the goats, and expect steep, narrow bends. Comfortable, but pricey solo.
Water taxis and ferries: Small boats hop between Hillsborough, Tyrrel Bay and Sandy Island, around US$15 to 40 return depending on distance. The fast ferry from Grenada (Grenada’s Port of St. George’s) takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours and costs roughly US$35 to 50 one way, with Petite Martinique reachable by boat from Windward.

Hitching a ride is common and generally friendly here, and a smile plus a thumbs-up often beats waiting. Leave the island for the ferry with spare time, since schedules shift with weather, and book a taxi for early departures the day before.

👛 Costs (as of 22 October 2026)Money, prices, and spending tips

Carriacou, Grenada offers a laid-back island vibe where your daily costs reflect its small-town charm and Caribbean pace. Here’s what you can expect to spend as an independent backpacker navigating this slice of the Grenadines.

Dorm Accommodation: Options are limited but affordable. Expect to pay around $15 to $25 USD per night for a bunk in a basic guesthouse or hostel. These places often have a relaxed, homey feel rather than polished hotel vibes, so you’re paying for simplicity and local character.
Meals: Food here leans heavily on fresh seafood and local produce. Street food and small local eateries will run you about $5 to $10 USD per meal. If you opt for a sit-down restaurant, especially those catering to tourists, meals can climb to $15 or more. Cooking your own food is possible but

… read more 👉

Carriacou, Grenada offers a laid-back island vibe where your daily costs reflect its small-town charm and Caribbean pace. Here’s what you can expect to spend as an independent backpacker navigating this slice of the Grenadines.

Dorm Accommodation: Options are limited but affordable. Expect to pay around $15 to $25 USD per night for a bunk in a basic guesthouse or hostel. These places often have a relaxed, homey feel rather than polished hotel vibes, so you’re paying for simplicity and local character.
Meals: Food here leans heavily on fresh seafood and local produce. Street food and small local eateries will run you about $5 to $10 USD per meal. If you opt for a sit-down restaurant, especially those catering to tourists, meals can climb to $15 or more. Cooking your own food is possible but less common, given the island’s limited grocery options.
Local Transport: Carriacou is small, so many travelers get around by walking or renting a scooter for roughly $25 to $40 USD per day. Public transport is minimal, with some shared taxis costing around $2 to $5 USD per trip depending on distance. The island’s pace means transport is more about convenience than necessity.
Basic Activities/Entry Fees: Most natural attractions like beaches and hiking trails are free. Organized tours or boat trips to nearby islands typically cost between $30 and $60 USD. Museums or cultural sites, if visited, have modest entry fees around $5 to $10 USD.
Miscellaneous Expenses: This covers essentials like bottled water, occasional snacks, or small souvenirs. Budget around $5 to $10 USD daily here, as imported goods can be pricier due to the island’s remote location.

All told, a realistic daily budget for backpacking in Carriacou ranges from about $40 to $80 USD. This covers the basics without skimping on comfort or experiences, letting you soak in the island’s easygoing rhythm without surprises.

⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🚌 Day tripsWhere to go beyond the main area

Carriacou, with its laid-back vibe and stunning coastal views, is the perfect launchpad for unforgettable day trips. Here’s how to make the most of your time on this charming island.

Snorkeling at Sandy Island

Just a short boat ride from Carriacou, Sandy Island is a slice of paradise. The water is crystal clear, revealing vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish. Grab your snorkel gear (or rent it for about $10) and dive into this underwater wonderland. The trip takes about 15 minutes, and you can easily spend a few hours here soaking up the sun and exploring the marine life. Avoid the mistake of going too late in the day; the best visibility is in the morning when the light dances through the water.

👉 Explore Sandy Island

Hiking to the Highest Point

For those who crave a bit of adventure, … read more 👉

Carriacou, with its laid-back vibe and stunning coastal views, is the perfect launchpad for unforgettable day trips. Here’s how to make the most of your time on this charming island.

Snorkeling at Sandy Island

Just a short boat ride from Carriacou, Sandy Island is a slice of paradise. The water is crystal clear, revealing vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish. Grab your snorkel gear (or rent it for about $10) and dive into this underwater wonderland. The trip takes about 15 minutes, and you can easily spend a few hours here soaking up the sun and exploring the marine life. Avoid the mistake of going too late in the day; the best visibility is in the morning when the light dances through the water.

👉 Explore Sandy Island

Hiking to the Highest Point

For those who crave a bit of adventure, hiking to the top of High North Peak offers a rewarding challenge. The trail is well-marked but can be steep in sections, so wear sturdy shoes. It takes about 2-3 hours to reach the summit, where you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the way. The best time to hike is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Many first-timers underestimate the trail’s difficulty, so pace yourself and enjoy the journey.

Exploring the Village of Hillsborough

Hillsborough, the island’s main town, is a cultural treasure trove. Spend a few hours wandering the colorful streets, sampling local dishes like callaloo soup at a roadside stand (around $5), and chatting with friendly locals. Don’t miss the market days, usually on Saturdays, when the atmosphere buzzes with energy. A common mistake is to rush through; take your time to soak in the local culture.

👉 Explore Hillsborough

Beach Day at Anse La Roche

Anse La Roche is a stunning beach that feels like your own private getaway. Accessible by a 30-minute hike or a short boat ride, it’s less crowded than other beaches. Pack a picnic and enjoy the soft sand and gentle waves. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is perfect for lounging. Many travelers overlook this spot, thinking they need to stick to the more popular beaches. Trust me, the tranquility here is worth the trek.

👉 Explore Anse La Roche Beach

🍲 FoodLocal Flavors for Backpackers

Start with oil down, Grenada’s national dish, made on Carriacou with breadfruit, salted meat, dumplings and callaloo simmered slowly in coconut milk with turmeric until everything turns golden and soft. It is heavy, savory and wonderful. Fresh lobster (in season, roughly November to April) and grilled conch or fish, usually mahi-mahi or snapper, show up in most beach bars, often with rice and peas, plantain and a sharp scoop of pepper sauce.
Eating is casual. Look for small roadside shacks, bakeries in Hillsborough that sell warm bread and coconut rolls, and bars at Tyrrel Bay serving roti and fried fish for about US$8 to 15. Lobster dinners cost more, typically US$25 to 40.
The drink to know is Carriacou rum, particularly strong, unaged white rum poured at local bars and mixed with lime and … read more 👉

Start with oil down, Grenada’s national dish, made on Carriacou with breadfruit, salted meat, dumplings and callaloo simmered slowly in coconut milk with turmeric until everything turns golden and soft. It is heavy, savory and wonderful. Fresh lobster (in season, roughly November to April) and grilled conch or fish, usually mahi-mahi or snapper, show up in most beach bars, often with rice and peas, plantain and a sharp scoop of pepper sauce.
Eating is casual. Look for small roadside shacks, bakeries in Hillsborough that sell warm bread and coconut rolls, and bars at Tyrrel Bay serving roti and fried fish for about US$8 to 15. Lobster dinners cost more, typically US$25 to 40.
The drink to know is Carriacou rum, particularly strong, unaged white rum poured at local bars and mixed with lime and sugar, along with cold Carib beer. Sorrel juice, flavored with ginger and cloves, appears around Christmas, and fresh soursop or passion fruit juice is easy to find.
Greet people with a “good morning” or “good afternoon” before ordering, as skipping it comes across as rude. Service is relaxed, so expect a wait. Many small places close early on Sundays or open only for lunch, and you pay in cash, so carry small bills.

🛡️ SafetyStaying Safe: What Travelers Should Know

Carriacou is generally safe, but like any place, a little awareness goes a long way. The main town, Hillsborough, is where you’ll find most of the action. Keep your valuables close, especially in crowded markets or during local events. The vibrant colors and lively chatter can distract you, so stay alert.

If you’re solo, the daytime is perfect for exploring. But as the sun dips, consider sticking to well-lit areas. The beach at sunset is stunning, but it’s best enjoyed with friends or fellow travelers.

Scams are rare, but be cautious of overly friendly locals offering unsolicited help. A polite smile and a firm “no, thank you” usually do the trick.

Annoyances can include the occasional stray dog or a persistent vendor, but a friendly wave or a firm “not today” can keep things smooth. … read more 👉

Carriacou is generally safe, but like any place, a little awareness goes a long way. The main town, Hillsborough, is where you’ll find most of the action. Keep your valuables close, especially in crowded markets or during local events. The vibrant colors and lively chatter can distract you, so stay alert.

If you’re solo, the daytime is perfect for exploring. But as the sun dips, consider sticking to well-lit areas. The beach at sunset is stunning, but it’s best enjoyed with friends or fellow travelers.

Scams are rare, but be cautious of overly friendly locals offering unsolicited help. A polite smile and a firm “no, thank you” usually do the trick.

Annoyances can include the occasional stray dog or a persistent vendor, but a friendly wave or a firm “not today” can keep things smooth. Embrace the rhythm of the island, and you’ll find that the little bumps only add to the adventure.

Check Country Safety

FAQFrequently asked questions about Carriacou

Three to four days is enough for Carriacou if you want beaches, a boat trip and some walking. Spend one day at Paradise Beach and Hillsborough, one on Sandy Island by water taxi (about US$15 to 25 return), and one hiking up High North Peak at 291 meters. Sailors and divers often stretch it to a week.

Carriacou has no big buses, but shared minibuses (about US$1 to 3) cover the main roads in the morning and early afternoon, and taxis charge roughly US$10 to 20 for cross-island trips. The island is small, so Hillsborough can be walked in 15 to 20 minutes. Water taxis reach Sandy Island and Tyrrel Bay, and hitching is common and generally safe.

Carriacou is known for sailing, boat building, the Carriacou Regatta in late July or early August, and its Carnival. The island also has quiet beaches such as Paradise Beach, the Sandy Island marine park with good snorkeling, and the Big Drum and Maroon traditions that carry African heritage. Add oil down and fresh lobster, and most visits revolve around the water and food.

⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other destinations worth considering

Carriacou isn’t the only highlight in Grenada. Explore all what Grenada has to offer.

Explore Grenada

We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

Carriacou is at its best in the early morning, when the heat is soft, the beaches are empty and fishers are still landing the catch. If you can, come in late April or early August for the music and regatta, then book your bed well ahead. I would pack cash, because card machines are rare, and a good torch for the walk back after dark.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on in-depth research, insights shared by experienced travelers, and feedback from the local travel community in Grenada. While every effort is made to keep the information accurate and current, conditions can change — so if you spot anything incorrect or outdated, please get in touch.

🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past 3 decades, I’ve backpacked through 90+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story

Grenada🇬🇩 | regionsCarriacouSloop building, reef snorkeling, yacht anchorage, ridge trails, rum shops | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Carriacou
🏆 Top pickregion ranked #2
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 22, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #2 region in GrenadaReasons people choose to visit here

💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while visiting Carriacou

Things to do near Carriacou

Half-Day Grenada Tour With Easy

Clear Kayak Coral Reef Tour in Grenada

Grand Tours Grenada Call the Boss Taxi Luxurious Island Tour

Half Day Snorkeling Trip in Grenada

Chasing Waterfalls in Grenada Hike and Adventure Tours

Grenada Luxury Private Boat Cruises

Hop on Hop Off Grenadian Food Tour

Half Day Tour - Popular Sites in Grenada, Forest Reserve,Spice Market,Waterfalls

Shared Island Tour with Lunch & Admissions

Half-Day Hawaiian Leis Chocolate Waterfalls Beach Tour

🏘️ NeighborhoodsHow different areas shape the experience

⌛️ 5 daysWhat you can realistically do in a week

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutGrenada Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Grenada

🚌 Getting aroundTransportation options and practical tips

👛 Costs (as of 22 October 2026)Money, prices, and spending tips

🚌 Day tripsWhere to go beyond the main area

🍲 FoodLocal Flavors for Backpackers

🛡️ SafetyStaying Safe: What Travelers Should Know

FAQFrequently asked questions about Carriacou

Other destinations worth considering

We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Grenada🇬🇩 | regionsCarriacouSloop building, reef snorkeling, yacht anchorage, ridge trails, rum shops | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Carriacou🏆 Top pickregion ranked #2By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 22, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab034e')

✨ Why go?Ranked #2 region in GrenadaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab11ec')Reasons people choose to visit hereaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab11f3')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab24a5')Essential experiences to have while visiting CarriacouaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab24ad')

Things to do near Carriacou

Half-Day Grenada Tour With Easy

Clear Kayak Coral Reef Tour in Grenada

Grand Tours Grenada Call the Boss Taxi Luxurious Island Tour

Half Day Snorkeling Trip in Grenada

Chasing Waterfalls in Grenada Hike and Adventure Tours

Grenada Luxury Private Boat Cruises

Hop on Hop Off Grenadian Food Tour

Half Day Tour - Popular Sites in Grenada, Forest Reserve,Spice Market,Waterfalls

Shared Island Tour with Lunch & Admissions

Half-Day Hawaiian Leis Chocolate Waterfalls Beach Tour

🏘️ NeighborhoodsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab2c75')How different areas shape the experienceaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab2c7a')

⌛️ 5 daysaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab3780')What you can realistically do in a weekaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab3785')

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab414f')Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab4155')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutGrenada Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab4f77')Best areas to stay in GrenadaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab4f7b')

🚌 Getting aroundaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab5863')Transportation options and practical tipsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab5868')

👛 Costs (as of 22 October 2026)addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab61da')Money, prices, and spending tipsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555ab61de')

🚌 Day tripsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abba29')Where to go beyond the main areaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abba31')

🍲 FoodaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abc182')Local Flavors for BackpackersaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abc187')

🛡️ SafetyaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abc7ee')Staying Safe: What Travelers Should KnowaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abc7f2')

FAQaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abc886')Frequently asked questions about CarriacouaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abc88b')

Other destinations worth consideringaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abcbce')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abcd34')Is it worth it?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abcd38')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abcd7d')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adb555abcd80')

Backpacking in Carriacou
🏆 Top pickregion ranked #2
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 22, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #2 region in GrenadaReasons people choose to visit here

💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while visiting Carriacou

🏘️ NeighborhoodsHow different areas shape the experience

⌛️ 5 daysWhat you can realistically do in a week

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Grenada

🚌 Getting aroundTransportation options and practical tips

👛 Costs (as of 22 October 2026)Money, prices, and spending tips

🚌 Day tripsWhere to go beyond the main area

🍲 FoodLocal Flavors for Backpackers

🛡️ SafetyStaying Safe: What Travelers Should Know

FAQFrequently asked questions about Carriacou

Other destinations worth considering

We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?