BUCCAMENT, St. Vincent – If you’ve watched the original “Pirates of the Caribbean,” you’ve likely glimpsed St. Vincent.

The beautiful island appears within the first few minutes of the film, showcasing the vibrant landscape of Port Royal. The remnants of the movie set continue to attract tourists to Wallilabou Bay located on the island’s western coast.

Despite this cinematic connection, many travelers are not well-acquainted with St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as these islands aren’t among the most frequented destinations in the Caribbean, according to travel site Hopper. This is likely a preference shared by both tourists and locals alike.

“Our tourism slogan, ‘The Caribbean you’re looking for,’ really hits home,” noted Richard MacLeish, who oversees sales for the St. Vincent and the Grenadines tourism office in New York. “We truly represent the essence of what many envision the Caribbean to be.”

This past summer, I traveled to Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to experience it for myself.

A hidden gem

As I gazed at the jagged cliffs and lush greenery along St. Vincent’s coast, pirate tales came to mind, and I imagined it as a perfect treasure hideout.

However, I soon realized that the true treasure lies in the island itself.

“The island’s stunning scenery is undeniable: tranquil waters in every shade of blue, verdant hills, stunning valleys, magnificent waterfalls, and a remarkable group of 32 interconnected islands and cays,” said Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts, in a statement to YSL News. “But what sets this place apart are the Vincentian people. Their warmth and hospitality are unmatched.”

While many tourist hubs experience mixed feelings about visitors, I sensed nothing but appreciation during my visit.

“I believe that because we are not inundated with tourists, there isn’t any backlash or dissatisfaction. We’ve always embraced new guests,” MacLeish commented. “We don’t engage in mass tourism… When you come here, you can dive deep into the culture, interact with the locals, savor the cuisine, and avoid the hustle and bustle seen in other tourist-packed areas.”

There’s ample beach space to enjoy, featuring mostly black sand on the volcanic St. Vincent (though Sandals boasts its signature white sand), white sand in the Grenadines, and exceptionally clear waters.

What to experience

Though I couldn’t explore the Grenadines during my brief visit, I went on a sunset cruise along the coast towards St. Vincent’s La Soufrière volcano, which last erupted in 2021. The captain shared details about how lava flows shaped the landscape and transformed the scenery down to the ocean.

I also explored the capital city, Kingstown, which retains a local vibe and is free from the clutter of souvenir stores.

This vibrant scene reflects the lively atmosphere of tourist hotspots in various port cities globally. Locals filled the bustling open-air markets I explored, eyeing the fresh seafood and plentiful local produce. Tropical fruits like avocados, mangos, and the staple breadfruit—featured in the national dish of roasted breadfruit and fried jackfish—are abundant in the wild.

MacLeish explained, “Having an active volcano means the soil is rich in minerals, so you can throw anything on the ground, and it will flourish.”

He revealed interesting facts about other islands, each with its own charm. Bequia, where his mother comes from, is a standout for him. “The locals are incredibly welcoming. The island has a rich boat-making tradition and plenty of seafood,” he noted, mentioning that Bequia is easily reachable by daily ferry from St. Vincent.

He has a fondness for the African-inspired culture of Union Island, stating, “During weddings, for instance, they perform a cake dance, gathering the entire community.”

MacLeish highlighted the Tobago Cays as iconic, recalling that scenes from “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” were filmed there. This pristine area features a national marine park where snorkelers can swim with sea turtles. The rich diversity of marine life has earned St. Vincent and the Grenadines the title of the critter capital of the Caribbean.

MacLeish remarked, “Our unique feature is the incredible diversity of the destination, our archipelago.”

While only nine of the islands are inhabited, Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent, popular resort destinations, suffered significant damage from Hurricane Beryl but are in the process of rebuilding. “Our resilience is something we take pride in,” MacLeish added.

Is visiting St. Vincent and the Grenadines pricey?

It can be. There are numerous upscale accommodations, and MacLeish humorously pointed out that Canouan is where billionaires go to relax away from millionaires, while celebrities and royals often frequent the exclusive island of Mustique.

Nevertheless, there are also budget-friendly hotels and dining establishments available.

Can US citizens visit St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

Yes, they can. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to the islands—just a valid passport is required.

How can one travel from the US to St. Vincent?

Direct flights from select U.S. cities to Kingstown are available through American Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Caribbean Airlines on specific days. Most U.S. travelers will likely need to connect via Miami, Charlotte, or New York.

Several cruise lines, including MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, and Virgin Voyages, also sail to Kingstown.

What is the official language in St. Vincent?

English serves as the official language in this former British colony, although many Vincentians also speak a local dialect.

What currency is used in St. Vincent?

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted in many establishments.

What is the voltage requirement in St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

“St. Vincent’s electrical system operates at 220V, compatible with U.K. outlets, while the U.S. uses 110V,” noted MacLeish. “Many devices, like phone and laptop chargers, support dual voltage (110V – 250V), but an adapter is necessary for hotels lacking U.S. outlets.”

He also mentioned that some hotels provide both types of outlets, while others may feature step-down transformers.

When is the ideal time to visit St. Vincent?

The peak tourist season runs from December to April, with the low season occurring from July to November, as per Sandals Resorts. Each season has its distinct advantages. Notably, June to November also marks the Atlantic hurricane season.

Travelers wishing to steer clear of both hurricanes and crowds might consider traveling during the shoulder months; however, any time of the year can be enjoyable.

“Thanks to the trade winds, the ocean temperature remains around 75 degrees year-round,” MacLeish added.