On our recent Southern Caribbean cruise, we sailed to a new port of call for us, Grenada. Known as the spice island, Grenada is lovely little island located in the West Indies. We were excited to experience our first cruise port day in Grenada.
The cruise port terminal in Grenada is rather small and very easy to manage. There are a few shops to browse as well as a few excursion counters, water taxis, etc. One interesting thing that caught my attention was several ladies taking pictures outside of the restroom.
Why? Apparently, because they found the sign noting $1 fee to use the restroom not only selfie-worthy but also “unbelievable”. They seemed to be offended.
I will happily pay $1 to use the restroom if it means it is clean and well maintained. From what I understand, it’s very common in Europe to pay for the use of a public toilet as well.
Anyway…thankfully our cruise port day in Grenda did not center around the public restroom fee and we had a day of exploring ahead of us.
Fort George – A Cruise Port Day in Grenada
When we travel as a couple we like to explore more on our own and do more active things. Based on my pre-cruise planning I knew that Fort George was within walking distance from the port and planned to check it out.
On our way out of the port, we met the sweetest little man. We didn’t realize it until we were off on our way but he was there ready and waiting to give people walking tours. He welcomed us and asked where we were from. When we told him we were from the states he said that the people of Grenada will be forever grateful to Ronald Reagan. We knew the story but it was sweet to hear him share how Ronald Reagan helped “save his homeland”. If you are interested in a little history, you can read the story here.
But, on to Fort George. 
Fort George is a very…well, interesting place. As you would guess, it sits at the top of a hill and fairly steep steps have been added along the path guiding you to the top. Once at the top, you may pay $2 to enter the fort or you can simply view from a short distance for free.
We felt the $2 was more than fair to check out the fort, catch the view and help the local economy in a very small way. So into the fort, we went. I refer to the fort as “interesting” because while it does look quite historic and features a line of cannons facing the port…it also has an old basketball goal and a rusty weight room.
Water Taxi to Grand Anse Beach in Grenada
After our little hike, we decided to head back into the terminal to catch the water taxi. Given the choice between land or a water taxi, we always opt for water. Any chance to be on the water, we take it. Yet another reason why we love cruising so much.
The water taxi from the cruise port to Grand Anse beach was $10 round trip per person. It was a quick and easy ride (approx. 10 minutes) and we were able to snap a few pics of the cruise ship as we traveled. That’s always fun. Our captain told us that there would be shops and food options as well as vendors with chairs, etc. available on the beach. Once we docked, he directed us to his “preferred vendor” but you could rent from anyone you like.
Grand Anse Beach – A Cruise Port Day in Grenada
It was still quite early when we arrived so we walked the stretch of beach before settling on a chair/umbrella deal with a vendor. We paid $15 for two chairs and an umbrella which we felt was quite fair and settled in for a relaxing few hours on the beach. Our chosen spot was on the far end from the pier where our water taxi had dropped us.
Another vendor showed up shortly after we settled in and offered us a drink menu. We ordered a drink and settled in for a little vitamin D. After about an hour, the beach started filling up but never felt “too crowded”.
We relaxed, swam and of course, people watched. After a while, I explored the other end of the beach closer to the little pier. There was, in fact, a food stand area, a couple of tables and what appeared to be a little market area. There were a few people milling around but it didn’t seem to be the lively spot, at least not yet. Oh and yes there was a sign, advertising the public restroom for $1! 😉 Additional signs displayed what you were NOT allowed to do in the area with specific notations about gambling.
So, how was the beach? I’m a beach bum and while we enjoyed our day, I can’t say that it was in our top 10. But, there was absolutely nothing to complain about! The water was beautiful, the people were friendly and the sun was shining. I remember a sign at Fort Myers Beach that said, “If you are lucky enough to be at the beach…you are lucky enough”. I agree.
Planning for our Next Cruise Port Day in Grenada
After our morning hike, and midday nap on the beach we decided it was time to make our way back to the ship for a late lunch. The return water taxi was quick and convenient. While we made our way back to the ship it left us with time to think about what we would choose to do when we return to Grenada.
Next time if we hit it off again with another sweet local we will take the walking tour. In the past, I’ve always been leery of these things. What if you end up with someone that makes you uncomfortable? Have you ever had that experience? As cruisers, we are so used to port areas being vendor heavy. Maybe we are all too used to immediately saying “no thank you”. The introvert in me is always a little too ready with a polite “no thank you”. But, I’m working on it.
I have to admit, I feel a little guilty that we visited “The Spice Island” and didn’t take a spice tour. I guess we will have to cruise to the Southern Caribbean again soon! You can read more cruise port day experiences on my Cruise Page. And join our community on Facebook.
Have you been to Grenada? Did you check out the spices? I would love to hear about your experience.
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I love Grenada and have been there by air and by private sailboat and have many friends there. I have traveled all over the island alone and with others, locals and visitors, by foot, taxi and bus. I have never felt threatened or afraid at any time. Grenadians are amazing people and as everywhere else there are those that will willingly take advantage of “tourists”. The taxies are government regulated and can be quiet pricy but the “buses” are for the most part 9-11 passenger vans and cost around $5 for tourists or visitors and $.50 for locals of course this depends on where you are going. It has been about 3 years since I have been there but I am looking forward to a trip there in the near future.
Private sailboat?!! Ann, that sounds amazing! Thank you so much for sharing such great information and tips.
If you should get there again be sure to go to the market. They have all kind of spices plus fruits and vegetables you cannot bring back into the US. You can however eat some before you get home. Things are usually cheaper at the market than at the kiosks at the cruise terminal.
I love markets! I know one day we will return. Do you recall the market location? I’d love to make a note of it. I know there was a small market at the beach but I assume there is a larger one you are referring to. We very rarely buy items inside the cruise terminal. We like to explore and spend money in the local areas when possible.
The market is to the left and up a hill, several blocks, but certainly walka=
ble. Just ask anybody on the street and they will point you in the right dir=
ection. How long was the cruise ship in port in Grenada?
Sounds great. We were there about 9-4 so plenty of time!