×

St. Vincent & the Grenadines🇻🇨 | regionsCanouanReef-wrapped shores, leeward yacht bays, resort north, Charlestown jetty | things to do and best time to go

Explore BequiaExplore Union Island

Backpacking in Canouan
🌟 Highlightregion ranked #1
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 22, 2026

Canouan is best known for the reef that wraps its eastern and southern shores, and for the sheltered bays along its leeward coast that make it a favorite with sailors. It sits in the middle of the Grenadines chain in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, south of Kingstown and a hop from Mayreau and the Tobago Cays. The island is small and hilly, with one main road and an unhurried feel. Charlestown, the one real village, has a jetty, a few snack bars and a quiet waterfront where you can eat a plate of fresh fish for a fair price. The north end is dominated by a large luxury resort and golf course, so the island splits in two: a polished corner and a lived-in, local one. Backpackers will find fewer cheap beds than on Bequia, and that is the real limit. Go to the windward side early, before the breeze builds, and you will have long stretches of pale sand to yourself, with only the reef surf breaking in the distance.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 St. Vincent & the Grenadines Travel Guide.


example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL

✨ Why go?
Ranked #1 region in St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Why Canouan should be on your travel list

Canouan is a crescent of an island roughly 5 kilometers long, and that compact size is the whole argument for staying put. You can walk from the village of Charlestown on the western shore to the rugged windward coast in an afternoon, so there is no need to pack up every night. Most backpackers arrive from the mainland by ferry or short flight and are surprised how much fits in so small a space.

The water is the main draw. The island sits on the edge of the Tobago Cays and Mayreau reef system, and the barrier reef that wraps its eastern side means calm, shallow lagoons on one side and Atlantic surf on the other. Glossy Bay and Godahl Beach sit a short walk or hitch apart, so you can swim at one and watch fishing boats at the other without a transfer. Mount Royal, the island's high point at … read more 👉
Canouan is a crescent of an island roughly 5 kilometers long, and that compact size is the whole argument for staying put. You can walk from the village of Charlestown on the western shore to the rugged windward coast in an afternoon, so there is no need to pack up every night. Most backpackers arrive from the mainland by ferry or short flight and are surprised how much fits in so small a space.

The water is the main draw. The island sits on the edge of the Tobago Cays and Mayreau reef system, and the barrier reef that wraps its eastern side means calm, shallow lagoons on one side and Atlantic surf on the other. Glossy Bay and Godahl Beach sit a short walk or hitch apart, so you can swim at one and watch fishing boats at the other without a transfer. Mount Royal, the island's high point at roughly 270 meters, gives a free hike with views over both coasts.

Canouan is also quiet and luxury-leaning, with a large resort on the north end. That keeps the village low-key and the walking easy, and it makes the island a restful pause between sailing days and busier stops like Bequia and Union Island. Plan on a slow stretch of three or four nights, mixing hikes, snorkeling and long, unhurried meals of fresh-caught fish.

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

  1. Glossy Bay: The leeward-side bay where the marina sits, with calm, shallow turquoise water and anchored yachts. Walk the shoreline and look for the reef edge a short way out.
  2. Godahl Beach: The resort’s long northeast-coast beach, white sand with a little more wind and wave than the west side. Beach access is open to non-guests, and it is the place for a quiet walk rather than a party.
  3. Mount Royal: The island’s high point at roughly 270 meters, reached on a steep hike or short drive. From the top you see the whole island, the reefs, and the neighboring Grenadines on a clear day.
  4. Charlestown Bay: The island’s main settlement and fishing harbor on the southwest side. Boats unload catch on the jetty, and the waterfront is the easiest place to talk with locals about conch, lobster and weather.
  5. Tamarind
… read more 👉
  1. Glossy Bay: The leeward-side bay where the marina sits, with calm, shallow turquoise water and anchored yachts. Walk the shoreline and look for the reef edge a short way out.
  2. Godahl Beach: The resort’s long northeast-coast beach, white sand with a little more wind and wave than the west side. Beach access is open to non-guests, and it is the place for a quiet walk rather than a party.
  3. Mount Royal: The island’s high point at roughly 270 meters, reached on a steep hike or short drive. From the top you see the whole island, the reefs, and the neighboring Grenadines on a clear day.
  4. Charlestown Bay: The island’s main settlement and fishing harbor on the southwest side. Boats unload catch on the jetty, and the waterfront is the easiest place to talk with locals about conch, lobster and weather.
  5. Tamarind Beach: A sheltered stretch near the resort side of the island, with soft sand and little crowding. It suits a long swim and a lazy afternoon.
  6. Canouan Heritage Trail around Charlestown: Look for the old stone ruins, small chapels and weathered cottages between the harbor and the hills. It takes under an hour and shows island life away from the resort fence.
  7. Mahault Bay: A quiet, lesser-known cove in the south where few visitors walk. Expect empty sand, sea grape trees and the odd goat on the track.
  8. Carenage Bay: A calm leeward cove used by local fishermen. It is a good spot for snorkeling over seagrass and small patch reefs, with almost no facilities.
  9. Canouan Golf Course viewpoints: The resort course in the north is private, but the roads around it give wide views over both coasts. Come for the contrast between manicured green and raw coastline.
  10. Tobago Cays Marine Park day boat: Boats leave from Canouan for the protected reef lagoon, where sea turtles graze in shallow seagrass and uninhabited islets rise out of bright water. It is the island’s biggest excursion and worth the boat fare.
Canouan pairs the climb up Mount Royal in the cool of the morning with an afternoon swim at Glossy Bay, since the two sit on opposite sides of the same short road.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

⌛️ 5 daysA smart one-week plan

Day 1: Charlestown: Canouan is small enough that one road and a few taxis set the pace, so start where the island lives. Arrive at the harbor, drop your bag, and wander the waterfront while the fishing boats come in. Stay on foot here; the settlement is compact and you will learn who runs the best lunch counter within an hour.
Day 2: Mount Royal and Glossy Bay: Take the road toward the hill early, before the heat builds, and climb Mount Royal for a view of the entire island. Come down to the leeward coast and spend the afternoon at Glossy Bay, where the water is calm enough to swim straight from the sand. Taxis are cheap enough to flag for the short hop, and the marina is a decent place for a cold drink.
Day 3: Tobago Cays Marine Park: This is the day that justifies the whole trip. Book a day … read more 👉
Day 1: Charlestown: Canouan is small enough that one road and a few taxis set the pace, so start where the island lives. Arrive at the harbor, drop your bag, and wander the waterfront while the fishing boats come in. Stay on foot here; the settlement is compact and you will learn who runs the best lunch counter within an hour.
Day 2: Mount Royal and Glossy Bay: Take the road toward the hill early, before the heat builds, and climb Mount Royal for a view of the entire island. Come down to the leeward coast and spend the afternoon at Glossy Bay, where the water is calm enough to swim straight from the sand. Taxis are cheap enough to flag for the short hop, and the marina is a decent place for a cold drink.
Day 3: Tobago Cays Marine Park: This is the day that justifies the whole trip. Book a day boat the evening before and head out to the reef lagoon, where turtles feed over seagrass and the water shifts through several shades of blue. Boat schedules depend on wind and sea state, so keep this day flexible and bring reef-safe sunscreen.
Day 4: Godahl Beach and the north: Cross to the northeast coast and walk the long sand at Godahl Beach, where the Atlantic-facing breeze is stronger. Continue along the roads near the resort for views over both coasts. Without a car, hire a taxi for a set time and ask the driver to wait; the north has few services.
Day 5: Detour to Mahault Bay: Spend your last day on a detour south to Mahault Bay, an empty cove few visitors reach. Walk the last stretch on the track, swim, then return to Charlestown in time for your ferry or flight. It adds solitude without costing a single extra transfer.

🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience

  • Dry Season (December to May): Canouan is at its best now, with sunny days of 27 to 30°C (81 to 86°F), cooler nights around 23°C (73°F) and steady trade winds that keep the heat bearable. Daylight runs about 11 to 12 hours. Prices peak from mid-December through Easter, and the leeward beaches at Glossy Bay fill with yacht crews.
  • Shoulder Months (May to June): Showers are brief, seas are calm and rates start dropping. Expect 28 to 31°C (82 to 88°F). Good for snorkeling over the reef.
  • Wet and Hurricane Season (July to November): Humid, 29 to 32°C (84 to 90°F), with heavy squalls and the highest storm risk from August to October. Some restaurants and guesthouses close, ferries get rougher, and rooms can cost 20 to 40 percent less.
  • Regatta and Festival Periods: Sailing events and Carnival season around
… read more 👉
  • Dry Season (December to May): Canouan is at its best now, with sunny days of 27 to 30°C (81 to 86°F), cooler nights around 23°C (73°F) and steady trade winds that keep the heat bearable. Daylight runs about 11 to 12 hours. Prices peak from mid-December through Easter, and the leeward beaches at Glossy Bay fill with yacht crews.
  • Shoulder Months (May to June): Showers are brief, seas are calm and rates start dropping. Expect 28 to 31°C (82 to 88°F). Good for snorkeling over the reef.
  • Wet and Hurricane Season (July to November): Humid, 29 to 32°C (84 to 90°F), with heavy squalls and the highest storm risk from August to October. Some restaurants and guesthouses close, ferries get rougher, and rooms can cost 20 to 40 percent less.
  • Regatta and Festival Periods: Sailing events and Carnival season around late June and July bring music and extra boats, but also fuller flights and higher prices.
Book flights and beds early for February and March, or go in May for dry weather and lower prices.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: excellent for travelingFEBFebruary: excellent for travelingMARMarch: excellent for travelingAPRApril: highly recommended for travelingMAYMay: highly recommended for travelingJUNJune: highly recommended for travelingJULJuly: fair for travelingAUGAugust: fair for travelingSEPSeptember: fair for travelingOCTOctober: fair for travelingNOVNovember: good for travelingDECDecember: excellent for traveling
when-to-go

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutSt. Vincent & the Grenadines Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
The digital guide (124 pages) contains:
✅ 26 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 2, 3 & 5-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ Local customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Stop searching, start planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.
+ Add another guide for just

By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Choosing the right base

Charlestown is the best place to stay in Canouan for backpackers, because it holds the island’s cheapest rooms, its few grocery shops and the jetty where boats come and go. It is also the one place where you will meet other travelers, boat crews and locals in the same evening.

The village is compact and calm. Evenings are quiet, with people on porches and music drifting from a couple of small bars. Safety is rarely an issue, though common sense with valuables still applies. From here you can walk to the waterfront in minutes and find a minibus or taxi for anything farther.

The area around Corbay … read more 👉
Charlestown is the best place to stay in Canouan for backpackers, because it holds the island’s cheapest rooms, its few grocery shops and the jetty where boats come and go. It is also the one place where you will meet other travelers, boat crews and locals in the same evening.

The village is compact and calm. Evenings are quiet, with people on porches and music drifting from a couple of small bars. Safety is rarely an issue, though common sense with valuables still applies. From here you can walk to the waterfront in minutes and find a minibus or taxi for anything farther.

The area around Corbay and the bay shore, just beside Charlestown, suits anyone who wants to be near the water. It gives you easy morning swims and a short stroll to the village for food, with a bit more space and sea breeze.

The northern end around the large resort development is polished and far from the village, and prices run well above budget levels, so it is better as a day visit. Glossy Bay and the southern coast have a few simple lodgings with quiet beaches, but they leave you dependent on taxis and carts after dark.

Because accommodation on Canouan is limited, book ahead from December to April. Self-catering rooms help a lot, since groceries in Charlestown cost less than eating out every night.

🚌 Getting aroundGetting around like a local

Canouan’s main settlement at Charlestown is small enough to cross on foot in 15 minutes, but the island is about 5 km (3 miles) long and the beaches, the resort area in the north and the southern hills are spread out enough that walking stops making sense beyond the village. Most backpackers combine short walks with shared minibuses and the occasional taxi. It all works, but on a sleepy schedule, so plan around it.
  • Walking: Free, and the best way to cover Charlestown and Corbay Beach and the road along the bay. Go early or after 4 pm when the heat eases and fishermen are hauling boats in, and you get the village at its most talkative.
  • Minibus: Informal vans run the main road for roughly US$1 to 3 a ride. Wave one down, tell the driver where you’re headed and pay on arrival. You get a front-row
… read more 👉
Canouan’s main settlement at Charlestown is small enough to cross on foot in 15 minutes, but the island is about 5 km (3 miles) long and the beaches, the resort area in the north and the southern hills are spread out enough that walking stops making sense beyond the village. Most backpackers combine short walks with shared minibuses and the occasional taxi. It all works, but on a sleepy schedule, so plan around it.
  • Walking: Free, and the best way to cover Charlestown and Corbay Beach and the road along the bay. Go early or after 4 pm when the heat eases and fishermen are hauling boats in, and you get the village at its most talkative.
  • Minibus: Informal vans run the main road for roughly US$1 to 3 a ride. Wave one down, tell the driver where you’re headed and pay on arrival. You get a front-row view of island life and usually a few directions from the locals on board.
  • Taxi: Taxis wait at the airport and near the jetty, with typical fares of US$10 to 25 depending on distance, such as the run to the northern resort area or Glossy Bay. Agree the price before getting in. A driver can also take you on a loop of the island for around US$40 to 60, ending at a lookout over the reef.
  • Golf cart or scooter rental: Carts rent for about US$60 to 100 a day and scooters cost less. Roads are paved but have a few steep stretches, so expect to coast down to quiet southern bays with nobody else there.
  • Ferry and boat: The Gem Star and other inter-island boats link Canouan with Union Island, Bequia and St Vincent, usually 1 to 4 hours for around US$20 to 40. Small planes also fly in and out. Sit on the open deck for the long view of the Grenadines slipping past.
Check ferry days at the jetty a day ahead, since timetables shift with weather, and buy tickets early in the morning to get a good seat.

🚌 Day tripsExploring the surroundings

Canouan is a perfect launchpad for exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of St. Vincent & the Grenadines. Each day trip offers a unique slice of island life, making the effort worthwhile.

Mayreau Island
A quick 30-minute boat ride from Canouan, Mayreau is a postcard-perfect island with pristine beaches and a laid-back vibe. Spend your day lounging on Salt Whistle Bay, where the soft white sand meets turquoise waters. Grab a local lunch at one of the beach shacks—think fresh fish and plantains for around $10. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May, when the sun shines bright. A common mistake is underestimating the boat schedule; check the return times to avoid being stranded.

Union Island
Just a 15-minute hop by ferry, Union Island is a vibrant … read more 👉
Canouan is a perfect launchpad for exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of St. Vincent & the Grenadines. Each day trip offers a unique slice of island life, making the effort worthwhile.

Mayreau Island
A quick 30-minute boat ride from Canouan, Mayreau is a postcard-perfect island with pristine beaches and a laid-back vibe. Spend your day lounging on Salt Whistle Bay, where the soft white sand meets turquoise waters. Grab a local lunch at one of the beach shacks—think fresh fish and plantains for around $10. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May, when the sun shines bright. A common mistake is underestimating the boat schedule; check the return times to avoid being stranded.

Union Island
Just a 15-minute hop by ferry, Union Island is a vibrant hub of local culture. Explore Clifton, where you can find colorful markets and friendly locals. Rent a bike for about $15 and cycle to the stunning Chatham Bay, where you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Aim for a morning trip to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful lunch at one of the beachside eateries. Many first-timers miss the chance to chat with local fishermen—don’t skip that!

Bequia
A bit further afield, Bequia is about an hour by ferry, but it’s worth every minute. This island is rich in maritime history and has a charming, artistic vibe. Visit the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary to learn about conservation efforts, then stroll through Port Elizabeth for some unique crafts. Expect to spend around $30 for the round trip, plus a few bucks for lunch. The best time to visit is during the annual Bequia Easter Regatta in April, where the atmosphere is electric. Many backpackers overlook the local rum shops—don’t miss out on a taste of the island’s spirit!

Canouan’s Beaches
Sometimes, the best day trip is right at your doorstep. Spend a day exploring Canouan’s own beaches, like the serene Pink Sands Beach. Pack a picnic and enjoy the soft, pink-hued sand while soaking up the sun. This is a free option, and you can easily spend hours here. The best time is early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. A common mistake is not bringing enough water—stay hydrated!

🍲 FoodLocal Cuisine & Drinks

Canouan eats from the sea, so start with grilled lobster in season (roughly August to April depending on closures) and conch stewed or fried, plus fresh-caught fish such as mahi-mahi or kingfish, served with rice and peas, fried plantain and a sharp pepper sauce. Roti wraps and fish cakes turn up everywhere as cheap lunches, and the smell of frying dough with thyme and scallion lingers around the village in the afternoon.

For drinks, go for Sunset Very Strong Rum from St Vincent, often taken with lime and ice or mixed into punch, and a cold Hairoun lager. Fresh soursop and passion fruit juice are good if the sun is hitting hard.

Backpackers eat mostly at small local cookshops and beach bars in Charlestown, where plates run about US$10 to 20. Small bakeries sell warm bread and pastries for … read more 👉
Canouan eats from the sea, so start with grilled lobster in season (roughly August to April depending on closures) and conch stewed or fried, plus fresh-caught fish such as mahi-mahi or kingfish, served with rice and peas, fried plantain and a sharp pepper sauce. Roti wraps and fish cakes turn up everywhere as cheap lunches, and the smell of frying dough with thyme and scallion lingers around the village in the afternoon.

For drinks, go for Sunset Very Strong Rum from St Vincent, often taken with lime and ice or mixed into punch, and a cold Hairoun lager. Fresh soursop and passion fruit juice are good if the sun is hitting hard.

Backpackers eat mostly at small local cookshops and beach bars in Charlestown, where plates run about US$10 to 20. Small bakeries sell warm bread and pastries for breakfast, and the village shops stock basics if you are cooking. Fishermen sometimes sell their catch near the jetty in the morning. The resort restaurants in the north are costly, so treat them as a splurge for a sunset drink.

Greet people with a “good morning” or “good afternoon” before ordering, since it is expected. Meals take their time and service is unhurried. Many places close early or on Sundays, and cash is the safest way to pay. Ask before you go if lobster is on offer, as it often sells out.

FAQFrequently asked questions about Canouan

Three to four days is enough for Canouan if you want beaches, snorkeling and a loop of the island. Two days covers Charlestown, Glossy Bay and Corbay Beach, while a third and fourth day add a boat trip to the Tobago Cays, roughly 30 to 60 minutes away by water for about US$100 to 150 on a day tour, or a stop on a longer Grenadines route.
Canouan is easy without a car, since most of what you want sits within a few kilometers of Charlestown. You can walk around the village, flag down a minibus for about US$1 to 3, or take a taxi for US$10 to 25 to farther bays and the northern resort area. Golf carts rent for around US$60 to 100 a day if you want to roam freely.
Canouan is known for its calm turquoise bays, the barrier reef that wraps the island and its easy access to the Tobago Cays by boat. It also has a large luxury resort and golf course in the north, a popular stop for yachts and sailing charters. In contrast, Charlestown stays small and relaxed, with fresh lobster and fish on local plates.
⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other Vincentian regions near Canouan

Explore more nearby:

  • Union Island—Clifton jetty, kitesurfing launchpad, Mount Taboi, Cays departures| 19 km away
  • Bequia—Admiralty Bay harbor, wooden boatbuilding, Lower Bay beach, hilltop fort| 34 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for St. Vincent & the Grenadines including Canouan and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all regions

Or checkout all St. Vincent & the Grenadines has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Country photo of St. Vincent & the Grenadines

We 💚 feedbackParting advice and final tips

Canouan suits travelers who like their beaches empty and their evenings slow: sailors, snorkelers, couples with a flexible budget and anyone who can happily read for three hours. I would book a few nights at most, bring cash and snacks from the mainland, and arrange the Tobago Cays boat early. Skip it if you need nightlife or a long list of cheap hostels.

✍️ 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 St. Vincent & the Grenadines. 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 TakeYourBackpackHi, 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.