BUCCAMENT, St. Vincent – If you watched the original “Pirates of the Caribbean,” you might recognize St. Vincent.

The stunning island is showcased early in the film, acting as the vibrant backdrop for Port Royal. The remnants of the movie set still attract tourists to Wallilabou Bay, located on the western side of the island.

However, many travelers are not well-acquainted with St. Vincent and the Grenadines. According to travel booking site Hopper, none of its islands rank among the top tourist spots in the Caribbean. This aspect might be precisely what both visitors and locals prefer.

“Our tourism slogan, ‘The Caribbean you’re looking for,’ truly reflects our essence,” remarked Richard MacLeish, director of sales for the St. Vincent and the Grenadines tourist office in New York. “We still represent the idyllic Caribbean image people envision.”

This summer, I had the chance to visit Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to experience it myself.

A precious find

As I gazed at the jagged cliffs and lush greenery along St. Vincent’s shores, thoughts of pirate stories filled my mind, making me believe this would be an ideal treasure hideout.

It didn’t take long for me to realize that St. Vincent itself is the true gem.

“The island’s stunning features are undeniable: tranquil waters in various blue shades, verdant mountains, awe-inspiring valleys, magnificent waterfalls, and a remarkable collection of 32 interconnected islands and cays,” said Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts, in his statement to YSL News. “But what truly enriches this place are the Vincentian people, whose warmth and hospitality overflow with genuine kindness.”

Many popular tourist destinations experience mixed feelings towards visitors, but my experience was nothing but positive.

“I believe our lack of overtourism has fostered a welcoming atmosphere without resentment,” MacLeish shared. “We embrace visitors wholeheartedly… When you’re here, you can truly engage with the local culture, savor the cuisine, and avoid the chaos often found in crowded spring break hotspots.”

There’s ample beach space to enjoy, featuring predominantly black sand along volcanic St. Vincent (though Sandals offers its signature white sand), white sandy stretches in the Grenadines, and the clearest waters imaginable.

Activities and sights

Although I didn’t make it to the Grenadines during my brief visit, I enjoyed a sunset cruise along the coast towards St. Vincent’s volcano, La Soufrière. The last eruption occurred in 2021, and during the ride, the captain highlighted areas where lava flows had carved paths through the vegetation to the sea.

I also explored Kingstown, the capital city, which maintains a local atmosphere without being overwhelmed by a multitude of souvenir shops.

In the bustling open-air markets I wandered through, I noticed many local Vincentians examining freshly caught fish and a variety of local produce. Tropical fruits like avocados, mangos, and breadfruit—the key ingredient in the national dish of roasted breadfruit and fried jackfish—grow freely.

“The presence of an active volcano contributes to the nutrient-rich soil, allowing you to simply plant something and watch it grow,” explained MacLeish.

He also provided some insights about the other islands, each with its own charm. Bequia, his mother’s birthplace, is a personal favorite due to its friendly locals, rich boat-building heritage, and plentiful seafood. Bequia is easily reachable by daily ferry from St. Vincent.

MacLeish expressed his affection for Union Island’s African-inspired customs, mentioning a unique cake dance performed during weddings that invites the entire community to join in.

He described the iconic Tobago Cays, noting it as a filming location for “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.” The pristine cays host a national marine park where guests can snorkel alongside sea turtles. St. Vincent and the Grenadines host an impressive diversity of marine life, earning it the nickname the critter capital of the Caribbean.

“Our destination stands out due to its diversity and the unique nature of the archipelago,” said MacLeish.

While only nine islands are inhabited, the resort islands of Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent are currently closed for repairs following significant damage from Hurricane Beryl. “We take pride in our resilience,” remarked MacLeish.

Is St. Vincent and the Grenadines costly to visit?

It can be. There are many luxurious accommodations available. MacLeish humorously remarked that Canouan Island is a retreat for billionaires escaping the millionaires and pointed out that celebrities and royals prefer the private island of Mustique.

However, there are also budget-friendly hotels and dining choices accessible.

Can U.S. citizens travel to St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

Yes, they can. U.S. citizens do not need a visa; they only require a valid passport for entry to the islands.

How can I reach St. Vincent from the U.S.?

Direct flights to Kingstown are provided on select days by American Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Caribbean Airlines from various U.S. cities. Most travelers will connect through Miami, Charlotte, or New York.

Additionally, several cruise companies, including MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, and Virgin Voyages, have routes that stop at Kingstown.

What language do they speak in St. Vincent?

English is the official language in this former British colony, but many locals also use a regional dialect.

What currency is used in St. Vincent?

The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (ECD) serves as the official currency of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, though U.S. dollars are widely accepted in many locations.

What electrical voltage is used in St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

“In St. Vincent, the electrical outlets are set up for 220 volts, which is typical in the U.K., while the U.S. uses 110 volts,” said MacLeish. “Many devices, such as laptop and cell phone chargers, are designed to work with both voltages (110V – 250V), but you may need an adapter if the hotel you stay in doesn’t have U.S. outlets.”

He mentioned that some hotels provide both types of outlets, while others might have step-down transformers available.

When is the best time to visit St. Vincent?

According to Sandals Resorts, the high tourist season is from December to April, while the low season lasts from July to November. Each season has its own benefits. June through November is also the period when Atlantic hurricanes can occur.

Visitors looking to avoid both hurricanes and large crowds might find the shoulder months to be an ideal time to travel, although any time can be enjoyable for a visit.

“Typically, due to the trade winds, the ocean temperature remains a comfortable 75 degrees throughout the year,” MacLeish stated.