Roughly the same size as the UK’s Isle of Wight, Grenada is an eastern Caribbean chain of islands comprising Carriacou, Petite Martinique, and Grenada itself. But while it might be modest in size, there’s nothing remotely modest about its snorkeling scene. With more than 45 pristine white beaches, a dozen protected reefs, and waters teeming with vibrant corals, reef fish, turtles, and rays, there’s enough to enthrall even the most seasoned snorkelers. But which to choose? From an underwater sculpture park to offshore reefs, we’ve rounded up seven of the best destinations for snorkeling in Grenada.
Where are the best snorkeling destinations in Grenada?
Most of Grenada’s most popular snorkeling spots are sprinkled across the west and south coast, as well as the fringes of Carriacou. Thanks to its sunny and warm temperatures all year, Grenada is an excellent year-round snorkeling destination, though conditions are best during the dry season from January to May.
1. Moliniere Bay
No list of Grenada’s best snorkel spots would be complete without a nod to Molinere Bay, home to the world’s first underwater sculpture park. Designed by the British sculptor Jason de Caires Taylor, the park features more than 60 statues sitting at depths of between five and nine meters. Each sculpture is made from concrete and steel and weighs as much as 15 tonnes. It’s even ranked as one of National Geographic’s 25 Wonders of the World. Christ of the Deep, The Vicissitudes, and The Lost Correspondent are three of its most famous sculptures. Tickets for the sculpture park cost USD 1-2.
2. Grande Anse Beach
There might not be any colorful corals at Grande Anse Beach, but this two-mile sandy stretch is popular with tropical fish, lobsters, and shrimp. The beach is shielded from strong currents and winds, which makes it particularly popular with families and beginners. It’s easy to reach the beach too, close to a handful of large hotels, as well as facilities and restaurants close to the beach. It’s best to head here first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds.
3. Magazine Beach
This superb stretch of sugar-soft sandy coastline offers some of the best snorkeling in the south of the island. Visibility is near-perfect and you can snorkel straight from the beach to the reef too. The turquoise, clear and calm waters are brimming with fish, though you’ll need to keep an eye out for sea urchins. Its convenient location near the airport makes it a popular spot at the weekend, but during the week it’s generally free from crowds.
4. Flamingo Bay
Flamingo Bay is part of the wider Grenada Marine Park and is bursting with marine life. It takes its name from the unusual flamingo tongue snail, which lives on its sandy shelves. You’ll also find stingrays, pillar corals, sea fans, barracudas, trunkfish, and sea turtles here. To reach the reef, you’ll need to hop on a boat or book a guided excursion. Water depths are a little deeper than other sites, though visibility and clarity are still excellent.
5. Sandy Island
Located just off the west coast of Carriacou, Sandy Island encompasses a handful of underwater boulder formations covered by coral and sponge growth. The surrounding waters are brimming with sea life, including triggerfish, snapper, barracuda, and hawksbill sea turtles. It’s a relatively shallow spot with depths of two to ten meters, which makes it ideal for snorkelers looking to get up close to colorful reef fish.
6. Morne Rouge Beach
If you’re looking for a more secluded snorkeling experience, Morne Rouge Beach is an excellent option. Southwest of Grand Anse Beach, this half-moon-shaped stretch offers clear, shallow waters that are shielded by trade winds from Quarantine Point. The corals and concentration of fish aren’t as jaw-dropping as it is in other patches of Grenada, but you’ll still get the chance to get up close to eels, colorful starfish, and sea urchins. There are some excellent restaurants close to the beach dishing up fantastic local dishes too.
7. Dragon Bay
Set in the southwest of Grenada, Dragon Bay boasts one of the best-conserved coral reefs on the island. It’s teeming with marine life, such as eels, lobsters, morays sea horses, and octopus. There are some beautiful sponges covering the sloping reefs too.
