ELLE Escapes: Grenada

Beach season isn’t a time of year; it’s a state of mind. With BeachBound, a seaside stay is mere clicks away anytime you want it—and practically anywhere in the world. At the booking site, you can arrange your flight, hotel, travel, and excursions all in one place, meaning relaxation remains the top priority.

In your search for the perfect beach, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better spot for a respite than Grenada. Though small, the southern Caribbean island manages to fit all sorts of adventure within its 12-by-21 mile radius. Think white sand beaches and clear blue water, impressive spice production—cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves—underwater activities, and a food scene anchored around a mouth-watering national dish. (That would be Oil Down, a stew of breadfruit, meats, dumplings, vegetables, spices, and coconut milk.) Not to mention, you can get there via direct flights from cities like Miami, Atlanta, and New York.

Whether you’re popping over for a long weekend, or plan to relax for a week or more, here’s how to make the most of your time.

Concord Waterfalls

Located on the east side of the island, just outside the village of Concord, you’ll find three waterfalls in the forest. While outdoorsy travelers might prefer to hike the 1.5 miles from town to the natural wonders, you can also drive up, then walk a short distance to the first fall. Here you can enjoy a refreshing quick dip—or just take in the view. The pools of surrounding water get deeper closer to the falls, so it may be best to wade in the shallow sections.

Diamond Chocolate Factory

Grenadian cacao is some of the highest-quality in the world—and certainly not to be missed. At the historic Diamond Chocolate Factory and its surrounding verdant grounds in Victoria, you can see how the cocoa is grown and harvested, then how the beans are sorted, roasted, refined, and tempered. Take home a sweet souvenir like chocolate bars, chocolate-dipped fruit, or cocoa powder, all sold under the brand Jouvay.

Grand Etang Lake

Surrounded by abundant greenery, this 30-acre crater lake sits in an extinct volcano that hasn’t erupted in 12,000 years. With its calm waters and high altitude—1,740 feet above sea level—this natural marvel located in St. Andrew is the perfect spot to enjoy some peace and quiet. You might spot small fish swimming below, or, if you’re up for more adventure, consider exploring the surrounding Grand Etang Forest Reserve, home to local plants and wildlife like the Mona Monkey, or hiking up to Mount Qua Qua which is visible from the lake.

Grand Anse Beach and Magazine Beach

One of the island’s most popular beaches for tourists, Grand Anse is a two-mile stretch of resorts, restaurants and bars, vendors, watersports, and silky white sand along the southwest coast. For those staying at Royalton Grenada, Magazine Beach is at your doorstep. It’s a secluded, peaceful place to feel the warm breeze, catch up on a book, and take in the beauty of Grenada.

St. George’s Market

Bustling on Saturdays, the vibrant market in the center of St. George’s is a must-see. Here, visitors can find fruits, spices, and vegetables sold on outdoor stands, usually covered by tents and umbrellas. It’s a busy spot, but it’s the perfect place to taste the culture. Make a day out of your visit to town by walking through St. George’s winding, steep roads and musing over its dreamy waterfront view, dotted with colorful homes and buildings.

Gourmet Marché

Start your day off with a breakfast in this breezy, open-air buffet eatery at Royalton Grenada, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort. The wide-ranging spread includes local breadfruit and star fruit, juices, yogurts, breads and pastries, porridge, and American griddle specialties (think eggs, bacon, and sausage). The restaurant is also open for lunch and dinner.

Ma Maison

In this crisp and elegant dining room, guests enjoy a variety of French-inspired dishes like pistou soup and seared scallops. Popular dishes include the red snapper and fall-off-the-bone braised short rib paired with mashed potatoes. If you still have room for dessert, there’s a velvety-rich chocolate crème brulée.

Taj

More than 10 percent of the Grenadian population can trace their roots back to India, and that vibrant culture can be felt on the island—and at Royalton Grenada’s Indian restaurant, which is a can’t-miss for dinner. Its upscale, moody ambiance is perfectly matched by delicious fare of rich spices and flavors. The savory garlic naan complements beloved favorites like butter chicken and biryani for entrées.

Lobby Bar

A lively spot with bumping music, this is where Royalton Grenada guests can sip on cocktails, beers, and wines while mingling with each other or kicking back to watch a game on any of the multiple screens above the bar. In Grenada, that could mean watching cricket too.

Martini Mix

On the other side of Lobby Bar is its quieter neighbor, Martini Mix. The perfect place to pop in for a digestif, it’s lined with sleek, intimate tables, a fitting spot for a chat and a cocktail, as its name suggests. On vacation, the drinks flow all day long; Martini Mix opens at 10 a.m.

River Antoine Estate

You’ll need to venture off the resort to check out River Antoine Distillery. Established in 1785, it’s the oldest water-propelled distillery in the western hemisphere still functioning today. Visitors at the northeastern Grenada site get to witness how its historic white rums are made, from breaking down sugar canes, to boiling, to fermentation. At the end of your tour, you can taste some yourself—and buy a bottle as a boozy souvenir.

Royalton Grenada

Just steps from the airport, this all-inclusive gem is an accessible oasis for weary travelers shuffling off the plane. Once there, the Royalton Grenada’s dreamy atmosphere is unperturbed by coming and going flights. Instead, the lush greenery, flora, and landscaping act as a natural border to keep the joy inside.

Here you’ll stay in one of the spacious 269 rooms and suites on the resort grounds, where everything—including three pools, restaurants serving five-star meals, bars offering premium cocktails, a spa, and a sunset-facing beach—is just a short stroll apart from one another. Though, if you prefer to rest your feet, there’s also a shuttle to and from the main building. If there’s room in the budget, upgrade to the Diamond Club. You’ll be treated to a balcony with a beachfront view, an en-suite bar, and butler service for any additional needs.

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