Grand Anse Beach as the Granddaddy of all Grenada Beaches

Grand Anse Beach as the Granddaddy of all Grenada Beaches

Frommer’s describes Grand Anse as “the granddaddy” of Grenada’s 45 beaches, but that’s an understatement. This two-mile stretch of creamy-white sand overlooks a sheltered, azure-hued bay where bright red and yellow fishing boats burst with color. Numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops act as a convenient backdrop to this postcard-perfect scene, making this a great home base for sun-seeking visitors. Recent visitors love this beach, but they do warn that local vendors’ aggressive sales pitches can put a damper on a relaxing day in the sun. To avoid any conflicts, just sternly say “No, thank you” (unless you actually want to make a purchase.Grenada is blessed with some of the loveliest sandy beaches in the Caribbean. Below, you’ll find five of the best. These include the most popular strands in the south-west corner of the island, and idyllic beaches elsewhere on Grenada that are worth heading for on day trips, whether you’re looking to snorkel, swim or stroll. Note that following an incident in 2016, tourists are advised to be wary of exploring isolated beaches on Grenada, though generally the island is safe.

Grenada’s most famous, and justifiably most popular, beach is a fabulous mile-and-a-half curve of soft, white sand, shaded by sea grapes, almond trees and palms, and backed by low-rise hotels. From the middle and southern end, sensational views unfurl up the coast, taking in the island’s capital, St George’s.

Who goes?
Everyone, but the beach is big enough to find an uncrowded spot. The middle section and the northern end are livelier and more popular with locals, and cruise-ship passengers are dropped off towards the northern end, by the Craft & Spice Market. At the southern part, around the posh Spice Island Beach Resort, it’s quieter.

What is there to do?
Swim. The sea is usually calm here and perfect for a dip, and the beach shelves gently and is sandy under the water. There are also various watersports outlets. Strolling along the beach early in the morning, while it’s still cool and before the vendors have started to tout their wares, is one of Grenada’s great pleasures. End to end takes around 30 minutes.

Bars and bites
The most appealing spot is Umbrellas Beach Bar, by the Coyaba Beach Resort, a well-run, lively and fairly sophisticated set-up, with indoor and outdoor seating, and good food as well as drinks. The Craft & Spice Market has a clutch of hole-in-the-wall beach bars.

Getting there
There are various public access points to the beach between the hotels, including by Umbrellas, where there’s ample parking. Grand Anse Beach lies along the southwestern coast of Grenada Island, roughly six miles south of St. George’s. You can reach the beach by car, minibus, or water taxi. You’re welcome to explore the beach at any time, day or night, and the sands are free of charge.