St. Vincent and The Grenadines
Nestled in the heart of the southern Caribbean, the 32 islands of St. Vincent and The Grenadines (SVG) beckon adventurous travellers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. With an unassuming charm, friendly locals, and a treasury of untouched natural wonders, this archipelago offers a transformative experience for the discerning traveller.
Stretching gracefully across 112 kilometers, this island chain forms a picturesque necklace, extending from the vibrant main island of St. Vincent to the serene Petit St. Vincent in the south. Each island is a unique gem waiting to be explored.
With its lush mountainous landscapes and black and golden sand beaches, St. Vincent provides a tranquil retreat for those yearning to escape the crowds. A short 30-minute ferry ride away lies Bequia, a haven of yesteryear Caribbean charm and golden shores. Alternatively, indulge in barefoot luxury at secluded resorts like Young Island, Palm Island, and Petit St. Vincent—serenity without the hustle.
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Mustique and Canouan set the stage for opulent villa experiences and boutique hotel charm, while Mayreau offers one of the region’s most pristine anchorages. Union Island, a cultural hub, launches you into a world of small-island vibrancy. Uninhabited but breathtaking, the Tobago Cays, a marine park, is a yachter’s paradise with turquoise waters, friendly turtles, and white sandy beaches.
A sought-after sailing destination, the archipelago offers tranquil atolls spanning 64 kilometres. Explore palm tree-populated islets, home to seabirds and turtles. With state-of-the-art marinas on Canouan and well-stocked chandleries, sailing enthusiasts find their haven.
St. Vincent and The Grenadines provide an unparalleled backdrop for those planning a wedding, celebrating an anniversary, renewing vows, or embarking on a memorable honeymoon. New regulations even allow tying the knot on the day of arrival. This romantic destination offers a myriad of intimate settings for your unique celebration.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to St. Vincent and The Grenadines—where authenticity, tranquillity, and adventure converge to create an experience like no other. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, adventure in unexplored landscapes, or the intimacy of a romantic getaway, SVG promises a haven for every traveller’s dream.
Dining
St. Vincent and The Grenadines offers both authentic Vincentian cuisine and fast food at small intimate local restaurants, and international gourmet meals at various hotels and restaurants throughout the multi island state.
Hotel dining at most properties is open to non guests who wish to experience various cuisines. With an abundance of fresh produce and seafood, great local chefs and cooks, food is always fresh and tasty, whether it is a remote beach lobster Bar-b-Que or the local catch of the day.
Quick Facts
Languages spoken: English
Banking & Banking Hours: Several international banks operate in St. Vincent and the Grenadines including the Bank of St. Vincent & the Grenadines Ltd., 1st National Bank St Lucia Limited, and Republic Bank (EC) Ltd. Additionally, there are licensed financial institutions like European Commerce Bank, Euro Pacific Bank, Loyal Bank Limited, and B2B Bank Limited. Most banks operate from 8am to 2pm, Monday through Friday.
Currency: The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), the local currency, is pegged to the US Dollar. The banks give EC$2.67 for US$1cash and EC$2.68 for US$1 Travellers’ Cheques. Shops and restaurants exchange US$1 at approximately EC$2.60.
Climate: Average daytime temperatures range from 24°C/75°F to 30°C/87°F. There are two main seasons: A Dry Season from January to April and a Rainy Season from July to October.
Average annual rainfall is 80” on the coast, 150” inland.
Dress Code: In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, there’s generally a relaxed dress code, especially for the tropical climate. Casual, lightweight clothing is suitable for most situations, including beaches and casual dining. However, for more formal dining, particularly at upscale restaurants, “smart casual” attire is recommended. Camouglage clothing is prohibited.
Driving: Driving is on the left-hand side, and Canadian driver’s licenses are accepted for shorter stays. If you are staying for a longer period of time, a temporary driver’s license is required and is valid for a period of six months. The fee for this is EC $125.
Electricity: 110V / 230V; it is advisable to check with your hotel to see if adaptors may be required; most hotels have adaptors available if needed.
Time Zone: GMT-4 Atlantic Standard Time. St. Vincent and The Grenadines does not observe Daylight Savings Time, thus they are on the same time zone as EST in Canada during the summer, but an hour ahead in the winter.
Activities
For adventurous souls, St. Vincent and The Grenadines offer eco-rich experiences. Hike the La Soufrière volcano or spot the indigenous Amazona Guildingi parrot on the Vermont Nature Trail. Refresh your spirit at St. Vincent’s waterfalls or dip in the Leeward coastline’s black sand beaches. Wander through the Botanical Gardens, a sanctuary for the soul and the oldest in the Western Hemisphere.
Discover the “critter capital of the world” as St. Vincent and The Grenadines boast unparalleled critter diving outside the Coral Triangle. Over 100 dive sites await exploration, from adrenaline-pumping drifts to uncrowded coral gardens and dramatic underwater landscapes of caves, canyons, and walls.
Travel Essentials
Flight Information
Air Canada offers nonstop flights from Toronto to St. Vincent’s Argyle International Airport as follows:
Winter: Twice weekly, on Mondays and Thursdays until April 30th
Summer: Once weekly on Wednesdays from May 6th to October 21st
Winter 2027: Twice weekly, on Mondays and Thursdays from October 26th
*Subject to change
November: twice weekly flights begin on October 27th, Mondays and Fridays
Travellers from Canada can connect with American Airlines from Miami International Airport, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (seasonal), North Carolina (seasonal), and JFK (seasonal). As well as form Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport for flights on Delta
Connections from Barbados are available with inter-island carriers Inter Caribbean Airways, Caribbean Airlines and Liat. SVG Air and Grenadines Airways offers connections from Barbados to St. Vincent, Union Island, Bequia, Mustique and Canouan.
For information on flights from other gateways, click HERE.
Entry Requirements for Canadians
Canadian citizens do not require a visa to visit St. Vincent and The Grenadines. A valid Canadian passport is required as is a return or ongoing ticket. Your passport should be valid for the entirety of your stay. Entry permits are granted on arrival by an Immigration Officer and it may be valid for up to three months.
Entry requirements for longer stays: If you plan to stay longer than three (3) months, you must apply for an extension of stay. You can do this at the Immigration Head Office in Kingstown or at the following ports of entry: Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, and Union Island. There is an extension fee of EC$75 (US$28) per person for a month or part thereof.
Visas are required by persons from the following named countries, however, they must apply to the Ministry of National Security in St. Vincent and The Grenadines: Afghanistan, Cameroon, China, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Nigeria and Syria.
For additional information, consult your Travel Advisor or The Government of Canada’s Entry and Exit Requirements: English / French
Long Stays
Please remember to see the Quick Facts section above for information on languages spoken, banking information, currency, weather, driving requirements, and more.
Please see the Medical tab for information on hospitals and pharmacies. If you are a diver, information on the closest hyperbaric chamber is included.
Here is additional information that you may require when planning a longer stay away:
Entry Requirements for Long Stays
If you plan to stay longer than three (3) months, you must apply for an extension of stay. You can do this at the Immigration Head Office in Kingstown or at the following ports of entry: Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, and Union Island. There is an extension fee of EC$75 (US$28) per person for a month or part thereof.
Pet Policy
Please remember to check with both your airline and your long stay residence, to ensure you are familiar with their pet policies and procedures for transportation.
You must present an original health certificate signed by an accredited veterinarian. Your pet must have a microchip, with all rabies vaccinations up to date. Learn More.
Groceries
There are several local supermarkets on mainland St.Vincent. Limited shopping is available on Bequia, Canouan, Mustique, Union Island and Mayreau.
Phone Plans & Internet
Getting Married
St. Vincent and The Grenadines has facilitated online marriage licence applications for persons who wish to get married on any of our islands. Licences can now be processed and issued online at a cost of EC$540 (approximately USD $200) and must be, verified by the marriage officer in person before the ceremony. Your hotel can also facilitate the application on your behalf.
For the application link click HERE.
If you are a non-national you will need to provide the documents below in English.
- Passport
- Copy of Decree Absolute (if either party is divorced)
- Marriage certificate (if previously married)
- Copy of Death Certificate (of deceased spouse)
Cultural/Annual Events
St.Vincent and The Grenadines is rich in culture with most inhabited islands celebrating various aspects of their indigenous traditions at different times of the year.
Annual events like the Mustique Blues Festival and the Bequia Music Festival take place in late January/early February. March is National Heritage month, and the country’s only national hero Carib Chief Joseph Chatoyer is recognized on March 14 on National Heroes Day, a national holiday. The Bequia Easter Regatta and Easterval on Union Island create island vibes that will lure you back each year.
The Canouan Regatta offers boat racing and activities on the Whitsuntide weekend. Early June is the unofficial start of the much acclaimed “Vincy Mas” carnival celebrations when the calypsonians start rendering their compositions for the season in “calypso tents”. This culminates with an official 10-day celebration from the last week in June. Revellers flock to fetes and to the streets to “let loose” and enjoy this jubilant time.
Nine Mornings is a unique Vincentian festivity associated with the Christmas season. Nine Mornings before Christmas, the people awake in the early hours of the morning and partake in activities such as sea baths, dances, bicycle riding, unusual contests and street concerts. In the rural areas, the final morning of the festival usually ends with a steelband “jump-up.” Nine Mornings is believed to have developed from the early morning church services of the Catholics.
Public and Government Holidays observed throughout the year:
The Government of St. Vincent & The Grenadines observes the following holidays each year: (Please note that on holidays, most stores remain open at least until midday however, restaurants are open. Government-run establishments are closed on all of the holidays listed below.)
2026 Public Holidays
Thursday, January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day
March 14, 2026 – National Heroes’ Day
Friday, April 3, 2026 – Good Friday (stores closed)
Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
Monday, April 6, 2026 – Easter Monday
Friday, May 1, 2026 – Labour Day / National Workers’ Day
Thursday, May 21, 2026 – National Spiritual Baptist Day
Monday, May 25, 2026 – Whit Monday
Monday, July 6, 2026 – Carnival Monday (Vincy Mas)
Tuesday, July 7, 2026 – Carnival Tuesday (Vincy Mas)
Saturday, August 1, 2026 – Emancipation Day
October 27, 2026 – Independence Day
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Medical & Dental Information
Healthcare services are provided in most towns across the inhabited islands. In the event of an emergency, especially if you are staying in the Grenadines and need to get to the main hospital on St. Vincent, the healthcare facilities will make the relevant arrangement.
As St. Vincent and The Grenadines spans a large geographic region, medical services are broken out over 39 health care facilities, 1 polyclinic, and 5 district hospitals in various health districts as follows:
Northern Grenadines Health District
- Bequia Hospital; Phone: +1-784-458-3294
- Port Elizabeth Health Care; Phone: +1-784-457-3328
- Paget Farm Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-3302
Southern Grenadines Health District
- Clifton, Union Island Hospital; Phone: +1-784-458-8339
- Ashton, Union Island Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-8245
- Canouan Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-8305
- Mayreau Health Care; Phone: +1-784-485-8215
Marriaqua Health District
- Marriaqua Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-5245
- Levi Latham Hospital; Phone: +1-784-458-5245
- Richlan Park Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-5440
- Lowmans Windward Health Care: Phone: +1-784-45706794
- Calder Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-5248
- Greggs Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-5245
- Evesham Health Care; Phone: +1-784-451-3155
Pembroke Health District
- Retreat Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-7224
- Buccament Bay Polyclinic; Phone: +1-784-458-7191
- Barrouallie Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-7327
- Layou Health Care; Phone: Phone: +1-784-458-7245
- Campden Park Health Care; Phone: +1-784-456-1640
- Clare Valley Health Care; Phone: +1-784-457-8390
Kingstown Health District
- Kingstown Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-6335
- A&E, Milton Cato Memorial Hospital; Phone: +1-784-456-1955
Georgetown Health District
- Georgetown Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-6652
- Medical & Diagnostic Centre; Phone: +1-784-532-1400
- Sandy Bay Health Care; Phone: +1-784-457-6836
- Fancy Health Care; Phone: +1-784-457-6838
- Overland Health Care; Phone: +1-784-457-6835
- Owia Health Care; Phone: +1-784-457-6837
- Byrea Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-6510
Chateaubelair Health District
- Chateaubelair Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-2228
- Chateaubelair Hospital; Phone: +1-784-458-7860
- Troumaca Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-2222
- Rose Hall Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-2232
- Coull’s Hill Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-2218
- Spring Village Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-2352
Cedars Health District
- Diamond Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-6213
- Biabou Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-0217
- Park Hill Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-6413
- Colonaire Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-6251
- South Rivers Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-6252
Calliaqua Health District
- Calliaqua Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-4280
- Sion Hill Health Care; Phone: +1-784-456-1508
- Belair Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-4579
- Stubs Polyclinic; Phone: +1-784-458-0743
- Enhams Health Care; Phone: +1-784-458-4262
EMERGENCY DENTAL SERVICES:
There are two emergency dental centres that can be contacted for emergency care:
All Smiles Dental Centre: PH: 784-497-1440
Dental Arts Centre: PH 784-457-2136
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is no hyperbaric chamber in St. Vincent and The Grenadines. There is however, a hyperbaric chamber located in both Barbados and Grenada.
Accessibility
Please ensure that your airline is aware of any special needs travel prior to departure from Canada.
Airport Services
Argyle International Airport (SVG):
- Accessible parking in the short-term parking lots
- Accessible restrooms with wheelchair access are placed throughout the terminals
- Wheelchair Assistance: available at the airline counters
- Elevators, escalators and ramps are available
There are other international airports located throughout The Grenadines, although services may be more limited for those with physical disabilities. It is best to check with your airline for their available services.
Transportation:
There are no wheelchair accessible transfer vehicles available in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. All taxis and buses would be able to accommodate collapsible wheelchairs and store these in the trunk of the car or bus for transport or tours. Please note that if the individual is severely disabled whereby they cannot stand on their own, and where they would need to be physically lifted in and out of the vehicle, this is not a service that drivers can facilitate.
For Accessibility information at hotels located in St. Vincent and The Grenadines please consult the hotel’s individual websites.
