grenada rum tour

• Custom Excursions
• Testimonials
• Photo Gallery

Grenada Rum and chocolate Tour

Places to Visit:

• Clarke’s Court Rum Distillery.
• Westerhall Rum Estate.
• Diamond Chocolate Factory.
• Belmont Estate.
• River Antoine Rum Distillery.

 Grenada Rum and Chocolate Trip.

Rum, Chocolate, Spice, oh my!  The “Full Day All Rum and Chocolate Tour” is dedicated to all things rum and chocolate to let guests experience first-hand that Grenada is much more than spices and beaches.  We begin at Clarke’s Court Rum Distillery located in Woodlands, St. George, ten minutes from the Grand Anse Beach.

Clarke’s Court has been in operations since 1937 and is the largest distillery on the island.  Guests are exposed to the working operations of this distillery with tasting sample bar to get the day started on the right foot.

Ten minutes away is our second distillery on the agenda, Westerhall Rum Estate, surrounded by the beauty of sugar cane fields.  Westerhall Rum Estate has been in operations since the 1900’s and along with a tour, guests are able to taste rums ranging from 40% to 69% alcohol per volume.

We cut across the island to view village life and coastal scenery to move north to savor the sweet, deep flavors of organic cocoa in multiple forms.  The Diamond Chocolate Factory, locally known as Jouvay Chocolate, is located in the parish of St. Mark’s and prides themselves as “Grenada grown, farmer owned bean-to-bar chocolate.”

Guests can take a factory tour or an agro-tour of its modern organic cocoa farm, both ending in opportunities to stock up on chocolate bars, cocoa nibs, cocoa powders, cocoa butter and much more.

Guests will be ready for lunch at the Belmont Estate located in St. Patrick’s, the most northern parish on the island.  After lunch guests can tour the gorgeous grounds filled with cocoa, lush gardens, and historical plantation history.

We make our journey towards the eastern side of the island to take a step back in time at the River Antoine Rum Distillery, the Caribbean’s oldest functioning water-propelled distillery originating since the 1800’s.  Operations have not changed much over the centuries as guests will be able to see rum making in its truest form resulting in the strongest rum on the island at 75% alcohol per volume.

Duration of the Trip.

It takes approximately 6 hours to complete the trip.

Burris Tours

Book the best Grenada tour

Discover Grenada

A Caribbean Island Gem

Grenada’s Rum Distilleries: A Tour of the Island’s Boozy History

When arrivingonto the lush, tropical island of Grenada, I can feel the excitement building within me. As a travel blogger hired by the Grenada Tourism Authority, I have been given the incredible opportunity to explore this beautiful island and create a comprehensive guide for visitors. And what better way to start than with a tour of Grenada’s rum distilleries?

Rum has played a significant role in Grenada’s history and culture, and I am eager to delve into its rich past. From the island’s involvement in the global rum trade to the impact of rum production on the local economy and culture, I am excited to uncover the stories and traditions that have shaped Grenada’s boozy history.

Join me as we embark on a tour of Grenada’s rum distilleries, exploring their unique features and offerings. From personal experiences to recommendations for visitors, I will share everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to this beautiful island. So grab a glass and let’s raise a toast to Grenada’s rum distilleries and their place in the island’s tourism industry.

The History of Rum in Grenada

As I delved into the history of rum production in Grenada, I was fascinated by the island’s rich and complex relationship with this beloved spirit. Rum has been a part of Grenada’s history since the 17th century, when the island was first colonized by the French and British. The fertile soil and tropical climate of Grenada proved to be the perfect conditions for growing sugarcane, the raw material for rum production.

Over the centuries, Grenada became a major player in the global rum trade, exporting its high-quality rum to countries around the world. The island’s rum was prized for its smoothness, complexity, and unique flavor profile, which was influenced by the local terroir and the use of traditional distillation methods.

But rum production in Grenada was not just a matter of economics. It was also deeply intertwined with the island’s culture and identity. Rum was a staple of social gatherings, religious ceremonies, and everyday life in Grenada. It was a symbol of the island’s resilience, creativity, and ingenuity in the face of adversity.

Today, Grenada’s rum industry continues to thrive, with several world-renowned distilleries producing some of the finest rum in the Caribbean. But the history and legacy of rum in Grenada are never far from the surface, reminding visitors of the island’s rich and complex past.

A Tour of Grenada’s Rum Distilleries

Grenada is home to several rum distilleries, each with its own unique history and offerings. One of the most popular distilleries is the River Antoine Rum Distillery, which has been producing rum since 1785 and is the oldest functioning water-powered distillery in the Caribbean. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery and witness the traditional methods used to produce the rum, including the use of a water wheel to power the machinery.

Another popular distillery is Clarke’s Court Rum, which has been producing rum since 1937. The distillery offers a variety of rum flavors, including spiced, white, and dark rum. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery and learn about the history of rum production in Grenada, as well as sample some of the delicious rum.

For those interested in organic and sustainable rum production, the Westerhall Estate Rum Distillery is a must-visit. The distillery uses only locally sourced sugarcane and has implemented eco-friendly practices to reduce its carbon footprint. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery and learn about the organic rum production process, as well as sample some of the award-winning rum.

Overall, a tour of Grenada’s rum distilleries is a great way to learn about the island’s history and culture, as well as sample some of the delicious rum. I highly recommend visiting at least one of these distilleries during your trip to Grenada.

In conclusion, Grenada’s rum distilleries offer a unique and fascinating glimpse into the island’s history and culture. From the early days of rum production to the present, rum has played a significant role in Grenada’s economy and way of life. The distilleries themselves are a testament to the island’s rich history, with each one offering its own unique features and offerings.

As a travel blogger hired by the Grenada Tourism Authority, I highly recommend visiting the island’s rum distilleries as part of any trip to Grenada. Not only will visitors have the opportunity to sample some of the world’s finest rum, but they will also gain a deeper understanding of Grenada’s history and culture.

Overall, Grenada’s rum distilleries are an essential part of the island’s tourism industry, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have explored them as part of my comprehensive guide to Grenada. I hope that visitors to the island will take the time to experience these distilleries for themselves and appreciate the rich history and culture that they represent.

Originally posted 2023-04-20 13:54:19.

Touring River Antoine Rum Distillery in Grenada

In classic Caribbean style, The River Antoine rum distillery in Grenada has been making rum the same authentic way for more than 250 years!

Since 1785, the River Antoine Rum Distillery in Grenada has faithfully focused on one single thing, making classic Caribbean rum. What makes the River Antoine Rum Distillery such a fascinating place isn’t just the potent rum that it produces, but the fact that they do it in almost exactly the same way now, using almost exactly the same methods as nearly 250 years ago!

This post may contain compensated links. For more information please read our  disclaimer .

Visiting Lake Antoine in Grenada

Table of Contents

Before visiting the River Antoine Rum Distillery in Grenada , our guide Mandoo, who took us on an aromatic spice tour of Grenada , brought us up to nearby Lake Antoine. The area features incredible views. It also houses the ruins of several small residences destroyed by some of the islands most notorious hurricanes.

Lake Antoine sits inside an extinct volcano amidst the incredible Grenadian greenery. Lake Antoine is a paradise for bird watchers and used to have maintained walking paths that led along the rim. Unfortunately, the maintenance of the paths no longer occurs. Access beyond the main overlook can be difficult.

Exploring the River Antoine Rum Distillery in Grenada

The River Antoine Rum Distillery in Grenada is in the Northeast of the island near Lake Antoine and the town of Tivoli. The second we arrived here, with our 2-year-old in tow, it was instantly obvious that this place had incredible character.

As we entered the distillery we were treated to the delicious smells of the sugar cane being stripped and crushed. The cane is loaded into a large mechanical wheel. The remains of which are pushed out to a small rail system that helps get rid of the excess. C loved playing in the shucks like a sandbox.

Wood Fires a Burning

As we continued to explore, it was amazing to see how the liquids were heated using a traditional hand stoked wood flame. There was no doubt that each drop of the River Antoine Rum came from hard days work! The hot sun and humid air had us sweating, and we searched for shade. Lucky for us, the distillery workers could point us to the best places to escape the heat.

Open Air Coppers

The juice is filtered by scooping up the chunks of the cane and then filtered through a wicker mat. The juice is directed into the main building where it is dumped into successive metal basins called ‘ coppers ‘.  As we entered the distilling room to see the pots of rum aging, it was tough not to notice the ghoulish liquid fermenting into pots.

Birds flew around shedding feathers … and other stuff. The liquid is boiled in the last copper pot. It was hard to believe that these bubbling potions would soon be the staple crystal clear elixir of the island. The open air allows the natural yeast to form for fermentation. This means no additional yeast is needed!

Down the Hatch!

As we rounded our tour of the River Antoine Rum Distillery in Grenada by entering the tasting room, I was happy to see that they had put as much work into its decor as they had into modernizing their operation. The room was barren with nothing but the rum barrel and a single fold-out table holding small paper cups.

For many visitors, words fail to convey the character of the River Antoine Rum Distillery in Grenada. The lack of voice might be due to their vocal cords being numbed by the 140 proof rum that they just shot down their throat.

River Antoine Rum is viciously strong and many visitors who join the tour have a difficult time keeping it down. The rum maintains a dedicated following among the locals. Nearly all of the rum from the distillery is consumed locally. The popularity is why the rum can’t be found outside of the island. Otherwise, the River Antoine Rum Distillery in Grenada just couldn’t keep up with demand.

Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

You May Also Like To Read:

Sunday 5th of February 2017

From your beautiful pictures, there's a charming look and feel to this distillery which makes it quite special. It's interesting to see first hand the process of making rum especially in such a beautiful setting.

Tilly Horseman

Sunday 15th of January 2017

One word: fascinating! I doubt it is somewhere I will go, but as a fan of brewery tours in England, I can appreciate this place!

Privacy Overview

Rum and Chocolate Tour

Rum and Chocolate are great on their own but amazing when paired together, adding some sweetness and zing to your life.

Pick up from your hotel in St. Georges

Prices vary, 6 hour tour, tour highlights.

* Belmont Estate

* Rivers Rum Distillery

* Picnic luncheon at Pearl Airport

Tour Details

Rum and Chocolate are great on their own but amazing when paired together, adding some sweetness and zing to your life. In this 6 hr hour tour, your first stop is at Belmont Estate. This over 300-year-old working agricultural estate transports you back to experience the rich history of growing organic cocoa and other produce in Grenada. Then, it brings you back to modern day in which Belmont’s certified organic cocoa is turned into exquisite dark chocolate. You will be spoiled for choice, trying to decide among the range of flavours at the Chocolate Shop. Your second stop is at River Antoine Estate to witness the intricate process of rum making as it was done centuries ago, complete with a fully functioning water wheel (oldest in the Southern Hemisphere). Guides take you through the process which ends with a tasting of the Estate’s award-winning products. To wind down from all the excitement, enjoy the rest of the tour with a flavorful Caribbean meal and picnic at the historic Pearl’s Airstrip, the site of Grenada’s first airport.

Please note that rates are subject to amount of persons in your tour group and sites you chose. Please provide details to get proper costing. We include all entrance fees in the price of our tours. All rates are quoted in US$ (United States Dollar).

Tour rates are dependent on the size of the group. Group discounts apply. Email for details

Lunch Options

We can book a local lunch for you at one of our stops or you can bring a picnic along with you.

• Belmont Estate
• Rivers Restaurant
• Petite Anse
• Bathway Food vendors
• Grenville Restaurants
• Picnic at Pearls Plane Site .

The price of a lunch booked at one of our stops or a Grenville Restaurant is not included in the price of the tour. A lunch will usually cost EC$40 – EC$60. You will be advised on booking.

What You Should Bring

Suncream Hat Extra water – we provide a cooler of water on our tours Money to purchase lunch and drinks Money to purchase craft, rum or chocolate items Gratuity for driver / tour guide

Useful Information

• All our tour buses are air-conditioned and comfortable.
• All our drivers are trained and GTA (Grenada Tourism Authority) authorised tour guides.
• Our full day tour starts at 8.15am and ends at 5.15pm. A half day tour starts at 8.15am and ends at 12.15pm. Opportunity to see all the sites depends on our guests (you) and how long you stay at each site.
• Our rates include customer collection and return and include admission to the sights and attractions.

River Antoine Rum Distillery Grenada

ExplorerGrenada Tours is unique and separate from all the other companies in Grenada. Why? We don't set tour packages and lock-in tours for our visitors. This is what we do: We give our client's the opportunity to choose and customize their tours. With 24 hours notice you can make changes to your reservation. So, what are you waiting for, lets take the journey.

CHECK BELOW FOR BOOKING RESERVATION FORMS: CRUISE / HOTELS

Grenada falls /lakes.

• Concord Water Falls, Grand Etang Lake
• Seven Sisters Water Falls
• Annandale Water Falls, Lake Antoine
• Mount Carmel Water Fall,

Email: [email protected]

Eastern Adventure – Grenada Chocolate, Rum & More

Eastern adventure – grenada chocolate, rum & more highlights.

• Look out for Mona monkeys in the beautiful Grand Etang Forest Reserve
• Visit Grenville, Grenada’s second largest town, known as Rainbow City
• Sample bean-to-bar Grenada chocolate at two factories
• Sip on over-proof rum at River Antoine Rum Distillery
• Take a scenic drive along Grenada’s east coast, through fishing villages and beaches

From US$ 280

Duration: 8 Hours

• Food & Drink
• Guides & Tips
• See & Do
• Sharm el-Sheikh
• Fuerteventura
• Gran Canaria
• Lake District
• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Riviera Maya
• San Francisco
• Send app to your phone
• Submit your video

A rum lover’s guide to Grenada

• Food & Drink
• A rum lover’s guide to…

People from  Grenada   have plenty to be proud of when it comes to titillating the tastebuds  with their local fares , but  you’d be hard pressed to find anyone on the  Caribbean island  who isn’t ready to wax lyrical about the incredible properties of their local rum.  The country has a long history of producing this drink, which has an intrinsic link with the slavery of the past thanks to its reliance on sugarcane.  Nowadays, though, the industry is mostly run by Grenadians, for Grenadians – and they’re ready to share their drinks with the world.  

Big Business or Small Stills?

While there are a couple of larger distilleries now dotted around the island, at its heart Grenada rum is a local affair. Micro-stills and the ease of access to materials mean in many ways rum  remains  a cottage industry, but that doesn’t mean the quality is lacking  – and as most of these smaller groups don’t export, this is the only chance you’ll have to  try a bit  of the local produce .  

What Kind of Rum does Grenada Produce?

While the small island nation hasn’t quite reached the rum producing heights of its past – which some estimates put at 1.2m gallons in 1823 – there’s a whole host of new and exciting rum-related developments in Grenada. With that said, the country also has a lot of attractions and old-stills that showcase the history of drink production on the island, so if you’re more interested in learning about the culture of this place through its local drinks instead of simply sipping them, you’re in luck.  

Once known as the spice isle, it’s no surprise Grenada make some great dark, spiced rum, but in honesty it’s the pure sugarcane variety that’s best here. Everything is grown on the island, and it shows in the flavour profiles.   

Places to Visit

Grenada’s river antoine rum distillery.

No Grenada rum tour would be complete without a visit to this rum-mecca. The oldest operational distillery in the country is still powered by a nearly two hundred-year old water wheel, that crushes sugar cane to release the juice. The resulting liquid is processed in almost the same way it was centuries ago, and the stills are heated by burning local hardwood underneath them instead of targeted steam, like more modern distilleries.  

Some of the rum made here is incredibly popular among rum aficionados – so much so the distillery is often low on stock. Although they don’t distil throughout the year, you can still tour the facility even when rum is not being made – but don’t be disappointed if they don’t have much else to sell.   

The distillery is off a small road, and there isn’t much denoting you’re about to enter one of the most feted places in the rum world.   If you do get a chance to buy some of the produce, there are two strengths of  Rivers Royal Grenadian Rum , as it’s known. The bottle with the blue label is lower in strength, but the one with the red ribbon is for locals. Flavour profiles can vary with Rivers Rum Grenada, but that’s part of the joy of buying boutique.  

Grenada Distillers Ltd.

Producers of the Clarke’s Court Rum, one of the few major rum brands that is exported from the island, this Grenada rum distillery have been operating for nearly ninety years. They’re located in the capital St George and unlike the near-mythical River Antoine, you very much know you’re in a distillery here.   

If you are a bit of a booze and rum geek, then a factory tour is a must. You get a little bit about the history of the space and how they distil from sugar cane, as well as the chance to look at the steam engines that once powered the entire operation. You’re then invited to sample the products, which are some of the finest Grenada rums on offer. 

Because this is one of the more modern, tech-driven stills, the flavour profile and strength is a lot more consistent, so if you’re a bit worried about homebrews, then this is the Grenada rum tour for you.  

Local Markets

If you really want to learn about Grenada rum, then the best way is to drink what the people drink. St George’s Market is the largest market on the island and is right in the heart of the nation’s capital. This bright, vibrant place is worth a visit on your trip for its own reasons, but rum lovers will relish the chance to try out the sorts of rum old-timers and toothless old men drink.   

If you’re really keen to explore, then Hillsborough on the nation’s second, smaller island Carriacou is a great place to visit. There are very few tourists compared to the main island, and the sorts of rum on offer here are varied enough to make even the most seasoned drinker feel like Charlie Bucket. A must for those who crave authenticity.  

Ready for a bite to eat to accompany all that rum? Our guide to Grenada’s  best breakfast, lunch and dinner  will point you in the right direction.   

Are you looking to get a nose for rum on your Caribbean getaway? Download the Orbzii app today to Dream, Plan, and Book your Grenada  rum odyssey.  

• 7 Day Refund Promise
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Privacy Overview

Scan here to download:.

Just open the camera app on your smartphone or use a QR scanning app to start downloading Orbzii

Orbzii is protected by

Download the Orbzii app today

Orbzii allows you to experience the most exciting way to dream, plan and book travel, all in one place.

Build trips

Share & collaborate

Book flights

Book hotels

Book holidays

Pay securely

Unlock over 100,000 destinations

Distinctive adventures & tours in Grenada

Top things to do in grenada.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE ESSENCE OF THE CARIBBEAN

Nirraky Tours Grenada goes beyond the ordinary, offering visitors a deeper connection to our beautiful Island with a well crafted list of things to do in Grenada . With our team of expert guides, you’ll not only witness the stunning scenic beauty of Grenada but also delve into its heart and soul.

We offer a diverse range of things to do in Grenada with our guided tours and excursions in Grenada ranging from half-day, full-day, to customized tours. Understandably, every traveler is unique with their own interests and preferences so therefore, you can opt for a customized tour, ensuring that your visit to Grenada aligns perfectly with what fascinates you most. Whether you’re a foodie, nature enthusiast, seeking the serenity of Grenada’s lush landscapes, rainforest, a history buff craving insights into its rich past, or simply in search of relaxation on its pristine beaches , we tailor each experience to suit your desires.

Sandals Grenada | Silversands Grenada | Radisson Grenada | Mount Cinnamon | Royalton Grenada | Siesta hotel | Blue horizon | True blue bay resorts | Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel  | Lance Aux Epines Cottages | Allamanda | Coyaba | La Luna | Maca Bana | Allamanda | Bay House, and more…

Things to do in grenada, our full day tours in grenada.

Discover Grenada's hidden gems with our handpicked full-day tours in Grenada. In this section you can choose to spend the day exploring the Island

Chocolate Factory Belmont Estate, Annandale Falls & Grand Etang Lake Tour

Rum Distilleries Tour (Clarke’s Court &/ Water Powered River Antoine)

Grenada Island Food & Sightseeing Tour (Full Day)

Grenada Spice Gardens, Rum & Chocolate Tour (Full Day)

Our half day tours.

Discover Grenada's hidden gems with our handpicked half day tour options. If you’re looking at spending half the day exploring the Island, this section was specifically designed for you

Grenada Island Food & Sightseeing Tour (Half Day)

Rum distillery tour (clarke’s court only).

Grand Etang Lake & National Park, Annandale Falls & Fort Frederick Tour

Grenada spice gardens, rum & chocolate tour (half day).

Book your cheapest flight connections today

find budget flights online today with our trusted partner Kayak

We are also on

Tripadvisor.

As a trusted tripadvisor.com partner we also offer our services on the world's largest travel platform

Doing business with us is easy

Why we rock.

Booking a tour on our website is seamless, 100% safe and for every booking, you are guaranteed to get your money back

100% Safe online booking

Book using PayPal, Master/Visa Credit/debit cards. Our powerful booking system makes it safe for you to make a reservation with ease of mind

Air Condition Vehicles

All our vehicles come with air conditioners to keep you cool during your tropical exploration

Superb Service

We always ensure to make your Grenada adventure memorable with our excellent quality of service

Latest updates from Nirraky travel blog

Embark on a globetrotter's Oddysey: Join us as we wander the world, sharing tales of thrilling escapades, culture immersion, and the quest for extraordinary experiences.

Reveal the Captivating Grenada Travel Deals: Your Ultimate Caribbean Gateway

Sandals Grenada – The Ultimate Luxury Escape To Discover 2024

Visit our blog today using the button below for interesting and insightful articles

Be The First To Receive our Latest Offers

We offer a diverse range of things to do in Grenada, with our guided tours and excursions in Grenada  ranging from half-day, full-day, to customized tours. Whether you’re a foodie, nature enthusiast, seeking the serenity of Grenada’s lush landscapes, rainforest, a history buff craving insights into its rich past, or simply in search of relaxation on its pristine beaches , we tailor each experience to suit your desires. Your Grenada adventure awaits!

• Customer Support
• Contact Channels
• Travel Blog & Tips
• Grand Anse, St. George's Grenada
• +14734567534
• © 2024 Nirraky Tours All Rights Reserved.

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

How to explore Grenada, from rum distilleries to rainforests 

Celebrating its 50th year of independence in 2024, the verdant island of Grenada steps into the limelight as a land of mona monkeys and artisanal rum.

Monkeys, monkeys everywhere. These are Old World mona monkeys — weighing around 11lbs and groomed as if having come from the hair salon. Their body fur is coffee brown, their chipmunk-like cheeks covered in bushy white tufts. Those closest sniff the air, displaying masks of bare skin around their eyes, making them look like miniature Dick Turpins. They act like the highwayman, too. Watchful, hungry and with slim pickpocket fingers, I fear they’re here to rob my lunch.

“The Mona is one of the few monkey species in the Caribbean,” says Jeremy, our guide, as he surveys their gang hideout in the treetops. “They act like they own the place too.” Even eyed from a distance, at the far end of a track through an overgrown canopy, it’s clear they have swagger. Spend a few moments watching them and it feels — briefly — as though they’re policing the rainforest, tails swinging like batons, as we try to lift the veil on their natural world.

The Grenada experience begins from the get-go and, this year, the country is marking its 50th anniversary of independence, after it transitioned from UK rule in February 1974. Five centuries before that, Grenada was first sighted by Christopher Columbus while sailing from Sanlúcar, Spain, on his third Transatlantic voyage to conquer the New World. The Italian named the island Concepción, a hat tip to the Immaculate Conception of Mary, mother of Jesus, but never set foot on its shores. For Columbus, suffering from the relapsing arthritis that is said to eventually have killed him, another week at sea awaited before he instead landed on Hispaniola. For me, landing close to the rolling waves of Grand Anse Beach, it’s a far more straightforward arrival from the airport in a minibus.

Out of all the islands in the Lesser Antilles, Grenada is the near-forgotten speck at the bottom tip of the banana curve. This is a country neglected by most visitors to the region   — compared to big hitters such as St Lucia, Barbados, Antigua and the Virgin Islands   — and it’s a land more reliant on agriculture and export crops like nutmeg and mace than the tourist industry. On first impression, it’s all the better for it. Tourism is still developing at a relatively grassroots level here and it feels distinctly authentic.

We begin our first day on the road to Grand Etang National Park, with the asphalt uncoiling into the island’s volcanic interior and lumpy hills. It’s a glorious autumn morning in the island capital, St George’s: the sun breaking the clouds above the hewn battlements of Fort George is a hymn for the day ahead. The rainforest, meanwhile, is a thick pelt of dense, dark green. It’s a wild place and, as we move from the suburbs past gas storage tanks onto a mountain road, looming bamboo begins to block out the rippling blue sky. There’s no lack of competition. Eucalyptus, teak, gum, guava and rainbow trees creep towards the verges, almost shielding our entry. It’s no prison, but our progress is slow.

The problem is that our minibus, with loose exhaust and coughing engine, doesn’t have enough power to accelerate uphill, especially with the air conditioning chasing the stifling heat away. “Windows open,” yells Jeremy from the wheel, as he turns off the air-con. He doesn’t waste words, I come to learn, and so our writhing bus becomes a safari vehicle and the little details outside quickly become more exciting: our nostrils full of earth, woodsmoke and diesel, before we head into an interior laden with foilage. An out-of-tune steel band would make less rattle and hum than we do. As we lurch uphill, vendors at tarp-covered stalls appear in whizz-by auditions wielding pineapples, breadfruit and mangoes.  

Grenada is oval-shaped, almost like the cacao fruit on which many of its farmers so heavily depend, and, at the island’s heart, is the seed of so much of this growth: Grand Etang Lake, a mineral-rich crater basin, which empties into the upper headwaters of steep-sided ravines and the tributary of the raging Great River. The air is heavy when we step out at the road’s highest point, 1,910ft above sea level. Just east of Grenada’s tallest volcanoes, we have views of the Caribbean Sea, the shallow curve of Grand Mal Bay and the wonderfully named Mount Qua Qua, framed in forest green, views that Columbus would have kicked himself for missing.

As I wander the trail to Grand Etang Lake, the landscape — what’s here and what isn’t — fills my mind. In recent decades, Grenada has been hit by several tropical storms, including Hurricane Ivan, which caused widespread damage during the 2004 season. When its westward jog across the island began, palms were scythed and the national park’s high forest canopy toppled. The good news is that species are recuperating and every candlewood or mahogany tree in the forest is knee-deep in its own recovery, with a mosaic of broad low buttresses on the forest floor now reaching from shadow into light. At the same time, the sight of the rainforest parting and the sky dissolving into the crater lake fills my vision, the silvery surface merging with the regrouping clouds as I reach the water’s edge. Somewhere, the monkeys are still looking on. It’s like being in my own Indiana Jones movie.

In the days that follow, we peel back the many layers of Grenada, as if we were gradually dehusking a coconut. There’s much more for us to see and so we drive on, searching. A common urge is to wallow on one of Grenada’s 45 beaches but I’m drawn instead to the colour of the deep-green highlands, the fruit bowl jumble of the markets and the burnt umber of the chocolate factories.  

Even so, appearances of cocoa bean plantations on Caribbean islands are increasingly rare nowadays. Here, they appear fleetingly by roadsides, almost in a state of stasis, at odds with the satisfyingly fat heavyweight producers of the Ivory Coast, Ghana and Ecuador. And it seems today that the Grenada cocoa farmers’ raison d’être is to provide a more refined response to their supposed rivals. Almost as if their story is worthy of a more romantic reimagining.  

At least, I sense this is the case in St Andrew parish at Jouvay, a low-key production site built tight into a cradle of cacoa trees from where seeds are effortlessly harvested. It’s empty when I arrive, except for Nolan, a tour guide who talks little, but laughs a lot. “We’re just a tiny dot on the map, hard to find, but you get the best chocolate in the world right here,” he says, cackling.  

The work has finished for the day and so we have the run of the factory to ourselves during our spontaneous visit. The building is almost a relic, with a ragged profile, empty wooden floors, bare-stone walls and basement level that leads to silent sheds of drying racks, where millions of raw cocoa beans the colour of dark chocolate huddle in the dark. Tomorrow, they’ll be wheeled back out into the morning sun, like a tanning shop on steroids. The soundtrack, Nolan says, is always the soft tambourine rattle of the seeds being raked.

Eventually we come to the barrows for storing cacao pods. Nolan picks one out. There, he says, driving a knife into the seed to break the skin before ringing the blade around its midriff — one swift move and it opens like a Fabergé egg to reveal a gelatinous white centre and clump of beans. He looks happy. “We make cocoa tea from this,” he says, handing me the pod to smell —the scent is musty, almost sour, and sticks to my palm. “It’s like Viagra and an island bestseller.” He cackles again, slapping me on the shoulder.  

Like cacao, sugarcane processing was a popular industry across the Lesser Antilles, along with its byproduct, molasses. River Antoine Rum Distillery in St Patrick parish, with its waterwheel-powered machinery and cane crushers, is Grenada’s most historic warehouse, opening in the island’s north in 1785 shortly after the island was ceded to British colonisers by the French. But on my last afternoon, I instead drop into Clarke’s Court, and nowhere, I think, captures the spirit of Grenadian hospitality — of informality, indulgence and intoxication — quite like it.

In the company of guide Danny, I join a tour of the distillery’s corrugated hangar, its belly opening up to a skeleton of oxide-red piping, gantries, tired vats and tanks — some looking salvaged from a scrapyard. There is a distinct feeling of merriment in the air despite it being technically a work day. Rum is an integral part of Caribbean culture, used across the region as a tonic to baptise newborns, remember the dead and chase demons away — and it’s not hard to appreciate the sense of open-armed gesture and friendship born from this marvellous liquid sunshine.

Rum now in hand, I can taste that warmth too. The intense vanilla spirit glosses over my tongue and throat, the alcohol instantly affecting me at Nick’s Barrel House, next to the factory floor and where merchandise is sold to visitors and calypso music plays on TV. The sweet melodies fit the mood and there’s an undercurrent of deep satisfaction as the browns, coppers and caramels of the different aged rums are swirled in glasses like newly mixed paints. Around me, locals empty shots of nutmeg, cinnamon and hibiscus-imbued rum, twirling and laughing.  

Later, back in St George’s, I think of the other Caribbean islands I know — Jamaica, Barbados, the Dominican Republic — and of all the tourists there, hurrying around each island impatiently in search of their own little slice of paradise. It could be the evening’s sun, which glows golden before dropping from the horizon like a coin into a slot, but I look back towards the mist-wreathed rainforest, volcanoes, winding roads and tropical pleasures and watch for a while, hopeful that the island will continue to thrive throughout the next 50 years. In Grenada, it feels like history is happening right now.

Related Topics

• CULTURAL TOURISM
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
• FOOD TOURISM

You May Also Like

A Caribbean island-hopping adventure in St Vincent & the Grenadines

A taste of Grenada, from lemongrass biscuits to lime pie

Limited time offer.

Get a FREE tote featuring 1 of 7 ICONIC PLACES OF THE WORLD

From renewable energy to backing communities: how hotels can make a difference

How South Australia's Eyre Peninsula is leading the way in sustainable seafood, from cockles to kingfish

10 of the best UK destinations for spring travel

10 whimsical ways to experience Scotland

The essential guide to visiting Scotland

• Paid Content
• Environment

History & Culture

• History Magazine
• Women of Impact
• History & Culture
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Destination Guide
• Adventures Everywhere
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Grenada Rum and Why You Need to Drink “Under the Counter”

Posted on January 12, 2021

Categories Blog , Caribbean , Cruise , Emerald Princess 2014 , Food and Drink , Grenada , Reviews , Tours

Grenada is the “Spice Island” and you can even find these spices in the locally produced Grenada rum. While you can take a Grenada rum distillery tour, Justin and I had a unique experience on our half day tour of Grenada . Our tour guide, Anthony, took us to a small bar for a rum tasting as part of our excursion.

His friend, Mark owns the bar and it’s aptly called “Mark’s Sports Bar”. There’s the perfect outdoor patio, you’re surrounded by plants and brightly painted homes, and you can enjoy a wonderful view of the island.

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

Table of Contents

Grenada Rum Tasting

At Mark’s Sports Bar, Anthony guided us through the local Grenada rum tasting. There was a table with many bottles on it, and it was possible to purchase some rum to bring back home. However, some of the rum actually isn’t legal to bring back home! More on that in a bit.

Grenada Rum Punch

First, we tried a rum punch , a very popular drink throughout the Caribbean. I’m sure you’ve tried this one before, especially if you’ve ever traveled anywhere around the Caribbean islands. This rum punch was one of Mark’s special homemade concoctions.

It was particularly strong, yet very tasty. Rum punch can be very deceiving. It tastes fruity and delicious, but it can make you feel tipsy pretty quickly.

“Under the Counter” Grenada Rum

Next, Anthony brought out a gallon jug. It was filled with a clear liquid and had a ton of spices stuffed inside. This is what the locals call “under the counter” Grenada rum. It’s a homemade mixture that’s extremely popular.

Basically, the alcohol is called under the counter because it isn’t displayed on any signs or postings at the bar. It’s also called “bush rum” because it used to be made illegally behind bushes. It’s not exactly legal or regulated either. However, it’s so common place and popular that the local authorities aren’t going to try to stop the sale of it.

Under the counter is created out of a high proof locally made white rum, often “overproof” rum. At 140 proof or higher (over 70% alcohol), you can only really try this stuff on the island itself. You can’t bring any home with you on an airplane. There are airline regulations that forbid overproof rum because it packs such a powerful punch that the bottles could explode in transit!

Thankfully, for those who do want to bring a bottle home, the distilleries manufacture one that is 138 proof with 1% less alcohol (69% alcohol). This means that it’s just legal enough to bring back home with you.

How to Drink Under the Counter Grenada Rum

Every local establishment or bar that carries under the counter has their own special version of it. You’ll see various seeds, twigs, nuts, and spices all floating around inside a big glass jug. The spices are all freshly grown on the island, naturally. I’m not sure what makes the under the counter at Mark’s Sports Bar different from the others, but I’m glad that I got to try it.

There’s a method to drinking under the counter Grenada rum. It’s so strong that it can cause damage to your throat! So, you need to sip a little bit of the alcohol and hold it in your mouth for a few moments. Then, drink some water and swish everything around in your mouth before you swallow it. This helps you to taste all of the spices, and you need to water down this alcohol before drinking it.

Rum Producers in Grenada

There are currently three rum distilleries in Grenada and two additional rum makers. The companies that do not distill their own rum tend to purchase and blend other rums to sell under their own labels.

River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery

The River Antoine Estate Distillery is the oldest Grenada rum distillery, established in 1785. It also has the oldest functioning water mill in all of the Caribbean. It’s a fascinating place to go for a tour, especially to witness the history of the place. Beginning centuries ago, a nearby river powered a water mill that crushes sugar cane from the surrounding fields.

This rum distillery operates just as it did over the past hundreds of years. The fermentation processes are completely natural without any pasteurization or added yeast. You can buy two different strengths: one is 75% ABV (the kind we sampled in our “under the counter” spiced concoction at Mark’s Sports Bar) and a 69% ABV that’s possible for tourists to bring home.

You can book a tour at the River Antoine Distillery to see the property and taste this Grenada rum, too. This is the most popular distillery that tourists visit when they come to Grenada. There aren’t any other rum distilleries in the Caribbean that still utilize these old methods of production.

Renegade Rum Distillery

Renegade Rum Distillery has been a project in the making for several years now. They’ve finally started to produce Renegade Rum in September 2020. To start, the owners of Renegade Rum founded an agricultural company, CaneCo, to reintroduce several varieties of sugar cane to Grenada. Sugar cane used to be widely grown across Grenada, but this has dissipated over the years after hurricanes wiped out farms.

Most rum is made from molasses, and Renegade Rum uses sugar cane for their rum. They’re calling it a “terroir-driven” rum. “Terroir” relates to the interaction between the soil, microclimate, and the plant or vine. They’ve planted several types of sugar cane based on the various microclimates and soil around Grenada. Therefore, a terroir-driven rum is one that has a close connection to the traceability of the ingredients and its integrity.

Renegade Rum is just getting started. We’ll have to wait and see how it will be possible to sample this Grenada rum or even take a tour of the facilities someday.

Grenada Distillers Ltd.

Grenada Distillers Ltd are the makers of Clarke’s Court rum, and they are the largest distillery in Grenada. It was established in 1937. Grenada Distillers makes both aged and unaged rum, and their top of the line rum is the #37 Blend, aged for 12 years. They also make an overproofed white rum (Clarke’s Court Pure White) and an aged variety called Old Grog. You can find these in the shops around Grenada.

It’s also possible to take a tour of the facilities and sample the rum on site. There are some old steam engines used in the early days of production that are well over 100 years old. The distillery tour lasts about 15 minutes, and then you’ll be able to sample their products at the bar.

Westerhall Estate

Westerhall Estate is a Grenada rum distillery that started production in the mid-1800s, initially for export only. In 1996, they stopped distilling their own rum and started purchasing rum to blend and sell. They sell aged and unaged varieties, including their high end vintage rum that’s aged for at least 10 years.

Eastern Caribbean Rum Company

The Eastern Caribbean Rum Company is a small Grenada rum company that buys and blends rum. Then, it’s sold as Cannes Brulees and Cannes Royal for local sale and export. They describe themselves as craft producers of small batch, artisanal rum.

It’s made in small batches of 1000 liters or less. There may be slight variations between batches, but they focus on creating high quality rum.

More Things to Do in Grenada

Besides drinking Grenada rum, there are so many more things to do and see on this gorgeous island. One place that you need to see is Grand Etang National Park and Grand Etang Lake. I also recommend relaxing at some of Grenada’s famous beaches like Grand Anse Beach.

There’s also snorkeling and diving excursions, learning and tasting all of the spices, and witnessing the beauty of several waterfalls dotted around Grenada. If you want a great overview of the island, I suggest booking this half day tour of Grenada . And please take a look at our blog post about all of the best things to do in Grenada .

Want to see more photos of Grenada?

View all of our travel photography in one place! You can browse and buy any of our pictures in the form of canvas prints, things for the home, and more!

Where to Stay in Grenada

There are so many fantastic places to stay in Grenada for a memorable tropical island getaway. Here are our top picks for every budget.

Luxury Hotel: Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel

The Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel in Saint George’s, Grenada, provides that wow factor in a getaway to paradise. You’ll get the celebrity treatment at this highly rated hotel. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, a high end spa, and Grand Etang National Park is only a 20 minute drive away. Breakfast on your balcony overlooking lush gardens…doesn’t that sound good right about now?

You can read more reviews of the Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel written by guests who have stayed there and experienced the resort.

Mid-Range Hotel: Petit Anse Hotel

Petit Anse Hotel is a mid-range accommodation with tons of modern amenities and stunning waterfront scenery. Every room has views of the sea, and there’s also a tropical garden and a swimming pool. It’s a beautiful property that you’ll surely love, and it’s at a fraction of the price compared to other resorts.

You can read more reviews of the Petit Anse Hotel written by guests who have stayed there and fully experienced the hotel.

Airbnbs in Grenada

If you prefer to have your own apartment or share a home, there are lots of Airbnb accommodations in Grenada . You might be able to find an even better deal on Airbnb with the chance to have a unique travel experience. Browse the map below to find an Airbnb that’s right for you.

Looking for the Best Travel Insurance?

You should never leave home without travel insurance! We recommend the trip insurance packages from World Nomads.

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Friday 11th of September 2015

Take it as an opportunity to rellay absorb the place you are in! Life doesn't always have to be rushing from one activity to the next. Grab a book and head to the river, or take long photo walks to practice your photography skills & look for the beauty in the mundane, or go to markets or cafes & practice your Thai- spare time is a gift that you can use to learn!

Tuesday 26th of August 2014

Rum is my favorite-- and I miss all the rum punches you get almost everywhere in the Caribbean. Also, that food looks amazing. Looks like you had a great cruise!

Ron | Active Planet Travels

What a wonderful cruise! The more I see of the Caribbean, the more anxious I get for my upcoming trip this Spring. Have you heard anything about the diving/snorkeling in Grenada? What about fishing?

Raphael Alexander Zoren

Rum plus the Caribbean = A dream come true! :D

I love this! Looks like so much fun, even just wandering around brings lots of great photo opps (Love the goat! They always make me laugh) I'd love to see the stars in that clear sky also . . . it does not happen for me often at all!

• GRENADA ADVENTURE TOURS
• GRENADA ISLAND TOURS
• BOOK A TOUR

Best Grenada Adventure Tours

Embark on unforgettable adventures and discover the adrenaline-pumping beauty of the island’s natural landscapes with the most thrilling adventure tours in Grenada

Zip Lining Adventure

Soar through the lush rainforest canopy on thrilling zip lines, experiencing adrenaline-pumping excitement

ATV Off-Road Adventure

Explore Grenada's rugged terrain and hidden gems on an exhilarating ATV off-road excursion, traversing jungle trails and scenic landscapes

River Tubing Expedition

Embark on a river tubing adventure down Grenada's pristine rivers, navigating gentle rapids and enjoying the serene beauty of the rainforest

Find The Best Adventure Tours in Grenada

Immerse yourself in the exhilarating beauty and natural wonders of Grenada with a diverse range of adventures that promises excitement at every turn. Choose your next adrenaline-pumping escapade and embark on an unforgettable journey with Grenada Adventure Tours with I’m Local.

Explore Grenada’s rugged terrain and hidden gems on exhilarating ATV excursions through jungle trails

Embark on a river tubing adventure down Grenada’s pristine rivers, navigating gentle rapids and enjoying the serene beauty of the rainforest

Hiking and Waterfall Trek

Trek through lush forests to reveal gorgeous views of cascading waterfalls on guided hiking excursions

Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour

Paddle along Grenada’s scenic coastline on a kayaking adventure, stopping to snorkel in crystal-clear waters 

Sailing and Island Hopping

A must-do Grenada adventure, cruising the Caribbean Sea, visiting coves, islands, and beaches, including Tobago Keys

Grenada Rum and Chocolate Tour

Indulge in Grenada’s rich rum and chocolate heritage with a guided tour, sampling exquisite flavors and learning about the island’s culinary traditions

Bareback Jeep Adventure

Experience the thrill of off-road exploration on a bareback jeep adventure, traversing rugged terrain and discovering hidden gems of Grenada’s countryside

Create Your Grenada Adventure Island Tour

Looking for a Grenada adventure? Look no further than I’m Local! With us, you can craft the perfect island excursion, tailored to your every whim. Live life to the fullest and immerse yourself in the richness of all that Grenada has to offer. Book with us today and let’s make your island dreams come true!

Customize Your Island Tour

Experience the Best of Grenada: Embark on a private island tour and discover the hidden gems of Grenada. Our customizable tours allow you to choose your pickup time, number of passengers, and points of interest.

Add-On Drinks, Snacks & More

Enhancing Your Island Tour with Add-Ons: Make your island tour experience your own by adding your favorite drinks, snacks, or even a car seat to your ride. Our easy-to-use add-ons feature lets you customize your private tour to your heart's desire.

Get Your Private Tour Guide

Assigning Your Private Tour Guide: Once you have personalized your tour and selected any additional features, a certified tour guide will be appointed to your private tour to confirm your booking. Our team will also contact you to verify your account details.

See What Others Are Saying

I'm Local made our vacation very special. This is a great service with very friendly informed, helpful people... I'm Local will make your vacation special and help you do the things you want to do in a hassle free way.

It is an amazing service provided always punctual and professional. Last minute ideas/activities - they are always ready and available!

Cory and the team at I’m local are fantastic! Everything from arranging a rental car when our original one fell through (almost impossible at Christmas time), to arranging dinner reservations, to arranging for a chef to come to the house to make an amazing dinner for my husband’s 50th birthday. Cory just made it all happen behind the scenes and was an absolute pleasure to deal with. I’m Local took care of all the logistical hassles and actually made it possible for me to have a perfectly customized and very relaxing vacation. Thank you!!!

I'm Local was very helpful and gave us lots of great advice for our trip, and also helped arrange and book a sunset catamaran cruise and car rental with great prices. Would definitely recommend anyone visiting Grenada to let “I’m Local” help you plan your trip!

While visiting Grenada for the first time, our resort (473 Grenada) hooked us up with I'm Local to a customized 6-hour tour for 4 of us. We didn't have any idea where we would be going, and our driver Mustafa took the time to understand our interests and created a tour that didn't disappoint! He was engaged in conversation with us, and shared a great deal of information about the island, its people, and its history. He enriched our experience and made great use of our time! Highly recommend!

Start saving BIG with I'm Local

Experience vacation for less – saving on dining, attractions, activities, shopping, services, travel and more with our vacation membership

Caribbean Tourism Organization Member

As Seen in:

Discover more

Grenada Things to Do Grenada Attractions Grenada Restaurants Grenada Transportation Grenada Nightlife Grenada Forts Grenada Museums Grenada Waterfalls Grenada Chocolate Factories Grenada Rum Factories Grenada Bus Tours Island Tours Grenada Grenada Private Tours Grenada Taxi Tours Grenada Historic Tours Grenada Adventure Tours Grenada Sightseeing Grenada Shops Grenada Sulphur Springs Grand Etang Lake Grenada Hiking Tours Grenada Sailing Tours Grenada Scuba Diving Grenada Snorkeling Grenada River Tubing Grenada Bike Tours

Grenada Things to Do Grenada Attractions Grenada Restaurants Grenada Transportation Grenada Nightlife Grenada Forts Grenada Museums Grenada Waterfalls Grenada Chocolate Factories

Grenada Rum Factories Grenada Bus Tours Island Tours Grenada Grenada Private Tours Grenada Taxi Tours Grenada Historic Tours Grenada Adventure Tours Grenada Sightseeing Grenada Shops

Grenada Sulphur Springs Grand Etang Lake Grenada Hiking Tours Grenada Sailing Tours Grenada Scuba Diving Grenada Snorkeling Grenada River Tubing Grenada Bike Tours

10 Most Entertaining Things to Do in Grenada

W ith its unspoiled beauty and authentic beach vibe, Grenada is a hidden gem in the Caribbean . You’ll find so many things to do in Grenada that there will never be a single dull moment.

This island country has many pristine beaches, spectacular waterfalls, chocolate factories, and rum distilleries. It also has numerous dive sites where you can find stunning underwater scenes.

When you’re looking for a beyond-the-ordinary experience in the Caribbean , Grenada is the place to be. The country has started gaining popularity rather recently so it’s not overcrowded with tourists. If you’re looking for a place that offers natural beauty, raw excitement, and many things to do, visit Grenada and you’ll leave with many happy memories.

Let’s look at some of the best things to do in Grenada.

Things to do in Grenada

There are dozens of exciting things to do in Grenada. Let’s discuss the most popular ones.

1. Find the best accommodation

Finding good accommodation is the first rule of vacationing. If you stay at a less-than-satisfactory place, you can’t be happy enough to enjoy your vacation. While accommodation is important for all travelers, it’s even more important for honeymooners.

If you’re with someone you love, you need the best place to stay – a place that offers you all the luxuries so you can enjoy your love to the fullest.

Sandals Grenada is among the best resorts in the country. It’s an all-inclusive resort so you have to pay once and everything will be covered in that package. This includes your meals, drinks, and some motorized sports and activities.

This resort is on Pink Gin Beach and offers 5 amazing dining options and 6 bars. If you’re a party animal, make sure you visit the clubs at the resort.

The best accommodation in the resort is the Italian Oceanview suite that comes with a tranquility soaking tub on the balcony. When you book it, you also get personal butler services. It offers the perfect intimate space to the new couple.

2. Go Beach hopping

Grenada has several beautiful beaches, which means you have plenty of options for beach hopping. Visiting beaches is among the most popular things to do in Grenada. Let’s discuss some of the prettiest beaches in the country.

a) Pink Gin Beach

This beach is perfect for seashell collectors. While it’s a bit rockier than some of the other beaches in Grenada, it has big and beautiful waves that make the place very attractive. If you stay at Sandals , Pink Gin Beach will be easily accessible to you.

b) Grand Anse Beach

Walk on the soft white sands of the beach and enjoy the views of turquoise blue waters. This beach has hills in the back and you can experience different landscapes in one place. Sunsets here are just perfect and cast a wonderful glow which makes the place even more magical.

c) Sandy Island

It’s a small island in Grenada that offers amazing snorkeling options. You can take a boat ride to this island and spend the day enjoying the natural beauty or tasting barbecued fish. Some travelers call it the best beach in Grenada.

3. Taste the local delicacies

If you’re staying at Sandals, you’ll be able to access 5 restaurants and 6 bars that won’t charge you for a meal. However, every once in a while, you might want to step outside and experience the local scrumptious delights. If you’re a foodie, this is among the best things to do in Grenada.

a) Sails Restaurant & Bar

It’s a popular restaurant in St. George’s that offers excellent views of the harbor. The staff is friendly and polite, and the food is good. They specialize in seafood and you can order anything from lobster and crab to fish and octopus.

b) Bella Milano

This is a bakery and coffee shop that serves delicious desserts. If you’re longing for a coffee and some pastries, this is the place to go. When you’re here, make sure you taste their chocolate croissants and doughnuts.

c) Carib Sushi

It’s a sushi place that serves fresh fish with amazing wines. If you’re a sushi lover, this place is a must-visit. Most of their dishes are made with tuna or local fish. It can be crowded during busy hours so it’s a good idea to get a reservation before visiting.

4. Go shopping

Grenada offers a unique experience that you’d never want to forget. Get reminded of the beautiful days spent here with the right souvenirs. Shopping is one of the most fun things to do in Grenada because there are so many amazing products to buy. Let’s look at the most popular shopping places on the island.

a) Spiceland Mall

There are many stores in the mall, including a grocery store, and a couple of restaurants. You’ll find many duty-free shops here so carry your passport for a good deal. There are also some tourist shops that carry amazing souvenirs and gifts.

b) Esplanade shopping complex

It’s a mall and shopping complex that has many tourist shops selling souvenirs. You’ll also find clothing and accessories in the market. It also has some jewelry shops that sell Colombian emeralds. While there is no food court, you’ll find some fast food outlets.

c) Paradise Glass art gallery

This place has many gifts made of glass. From glass jewelry to complicated glass art, there is a lot to see and buy. And while you roam around, they offer you coffee for free. It’s a unique experience.

5. Take a Chocolate Tour

Grenada is a small country that has 5 chocolate factories. Visiting these factories on a chocolate tour is among the sweetest things to do in Grenada. And if you visit in May, you can experience the annual Chocolate Fest.

During this fest, the locals celebrate everything related to chocolate – right from the tree to the final candy. Local artists make chocolate art including chocolate jewelry.

It’s the time when chocolate lovers from all over the world visit the island. If you’re a chocolate lover, make sure you don’t miss this event.

Even if you visit Grenada during any other month, you can still take a chocolate tour. You can visit any of the five companies, including Grenada Chocolate Company, Diamond Chocolate Factory, and Tri-Island Chocolate Factory.

When you visit these factories, you can see how chocolate is made, right from the berry. You can taste the chocolate and even buy it and take it with you. There are many types of chocolate and they vary from factory to factory.

6. Take a rum tour

When in the Caribbean, make sure you taste local rum. And when in Grenada, take a rum tour. This is a guided tour where you’ll be accompanied by a rum expert.  You can go to any rum distillery and see how this delicious spirit is made.

You can experience the different types of rum being made and sample all of them. The guide will tell you the history of the distillery along with all the new and old methods used to make rum. If you’ve purchased some chocolates on your chocolate tour, make sure you combine rum and chocolate for a heavenly experience.

While this tour is good for rum enthusiasts, it’s also a great option for history lovers because rum distilleries in Grenada are a part of its history. It’s an informative and fun tour with a happy vibe that will make you enjoy every moment.

Unless you’re a teetotaler, a rum tour is among the most fun things to do in Grenada. You can visit the River Antoine Estate rum distillery, Clarke’s Court rum distillery, or Blue Light distillery.

7. Explore the underwater sculptures

Want to have an adventure of a lifetime? Visit the Underwater Sculpture Park. It has got statues made of concrete and steel. Visiting these statues is one of the most dramatic things to do in Grenada.

While the sculptures have an ancient look, the park was actually made in 2006. The statues are heavy and some of them weigh about 15 tons each. They’re fixed in place using steel bolts.

There are 75 sculptures and thanks to the clear waters, they are easy to see. And since some sculptures are close to the water surface, they can be seen through glass bottom boats. However, the best way to visit the park is on a diving excursion.

You’ll find many different statues here but the most popular is The Vicissitudes. It’s a sculpture of a group of children standing in a circle, facing outwards. There are different interpretations of this art.

The sculpture park is a government effort to protect the reefs and maintain the ecosystem’s health. There’s a fee to enter the park and that money is used for the upkeep of the statues.

8. Visit the waterfalls

Grenada has amazing waterfalls. If you’re a swimmer, you can take a dip here and if you’re not, you can still come here for a picnic. There are many waterfalls in Grenada and here are the most popular ones.

a) Annandale Falls

It’s a mesmerizing waterfall that falls from a height of 30 feet. There are lush green surroundings and a small pool where the water falls. The walk to this waterfall is pretty easy and you can see locals jumping from the cliff into the water.

b) Seven Sisters Falls

Seven Sisters fall also has dense green surroundings with a cave-like area where the water falls. There’s a pool made from the water from the fall and you can swim in it. You’ll need to hike through the forest to reach this fall. The hike can be difficult for people with mobility issues.

c) Concord Falls

This waterfall is really high and falls from a height of 65 feet. You don’t have to hike for long to reach this place. You can reach the top easily and if you want to reach the base, there is a small descent. There are experienced locals here and they’ll jump for you for a tip.

9. Take a spice tour

Grenada is a food lover’s paradise. It has chocolate, rum, and fresh seafood. But that’s not all. The country also has spice plantations where you can find several spices and herbs.

There’s a reason why Grenada is called the isle of spice. Take a guided tour of its spice plantations and find out everything about spices and how they grow. Discover where the delicious Caribbean food gets its taste from.

You’ll find several spice plants here including nutmeg, clove, allspice, and cinnamon. And sometimes multiple spices grow on a single plant! Make amazing discoveries about the spice world with a spice tour with other tourists.

There are many spice farms and estates in Grenada including Belmont Estate, Dougaldston Estate, Laura Herb and Spice Garden, and others.

You can pay a small fee and take a group tour with an expert guide. Each plantation has its own guide.

10. Try river tubing

When you come to Grenada, you might notice a lot of tourists try river tubing. It’s pretty popular here and is among the most thrilling things to do in Grenada.

Enjoy tubing in the Balthazar River which is the most suitable for this activity. It will be a half-day experience in which you will get to swim, relax, and watch cliff divers jump into natural pools.

Continue your journey as you tube along the river and float with the flow. There are different tour providers and they all offer pretty much the same services, except their locations can be different.

Before the tubing begins, you can also check out the local vegetation and stop at natural pools. And once you’re done tubing, sip on rum punch to have a great end to a good day.

Looking for more?

There are many other things to do in Grenada. From 4×4 tours to hiking and from ebiking to luxury car tours. And then there’s boating, fishing, dinner cruises, and spa massages. When you’re here, you’ll never run out of activities.

You’ll also find water parks and amusement parks for kids. No matter what kind of traveler you are, Grenada has something for everyone.

Visiting Grenada for your honeymoon? Check out the best place to stay when in love.