Weather in Carriacou

Carriacou is Grenada's largest sister island, a place still steeped in traditional wooden boatbuilding and African-rooted Big Drum culture, with beaches like Paradise and Anse La Roche that rival anywhere in the Grenadines for emptiness and clarity. The pace is set by Hillsborough's small jetty and a handful of rum shops rather than any tourist infrastructure, making it a genuine escape for those who've already done the busier islands.

Best areas to stay in Carriacou

Hillsborough

The island's small main town, with the jetty, market, and a relaxed strip of shops and eateries along the waterfront.

Paradise Beach

A long, palm-lined stretch of sand near Hillsborough, popular for swimming and watching the sunset.

Windward

A village on the east coast famous for its traditional wooden boatbuilding, where vessels are still constructed by hand on the beach.

Anse La Roche

A secluded beach reached via a short forest trail, often empty even in high season.

Getting to Carriacou

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Flights

Fly via Grenada (GND) and take a short connecting flight to Carriacou, or take the ferry from St George's.

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From London

~10-11 hours from London via Grenada, plus the onward flight or ferry.

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Getting around

Taxis and a few rental jeeps cover the island's roads; walking trails reach the more secluded beaches.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Carriacou?

January to May offers the driest weather, and the island's Maroon and String Band Music Festival in late April is a highlight if timing allows.

How do I get to Carriacou?

Fly via Grenada (GND) to Carriacou's small airstrip, or take the ferry from Grenada's capital, St George's, which takes around 1.5-2 hours.

What is Carriacou known for?

Traditional wooden boatbuilding, particularly in Windward, along with a strong tradition of Big Drum ceremonies that trace back to West African roots.

Is Anse La Roche worth the walk?

Yes — this secluded beach requires a short hike through dry forest but rewards with one of the quietest, most beautiful bays on the island.

Is Carriacou expensive?

It's generally more affordable than the more developed Grenadines, with simple guesthouses and local restaurants keeping costs modest.

Traveler reviews

★★★★★

Walked to Anse La Roche and had the whole beach to ourselves for hours. Carriacou felt like the Caribbean of decades ago, very few tourists and incredibly welcoming locals.

Desmond K. · February 2024

★★★★★

Watched a traditional boat being built by hand in Windward, fascinating to see the craft still alive. Paradise Beach was perfect for relaxing afterwards.

Nadia P. · April 2023

★★★★☆

Took the ferry over from Grenada which was straightforward and cheap. Hillsborough is tiny but has a great local rum shop scene in the evenings.

Chris H. · January 2024