Carriacou and Petite Martinique: Culture, Reefs and Festivals

Different experiences shape the character of a trip to Carriacou and Petite Martinique: on Carriacou, boatbuilding traditions, cultural festivals and protected marine areas are among the highlights. Petite Martinique combines beach activities with a hike on the Piton. If you are choosing between the two destinations, these differences may help you decide.

Boatbuilding, Masquerade and Music

Traditional wooden boatbuilding is still practiced in Windward on Carriacou. It uses methods passed down by Scottish boatbuilders. Traditional sloops and schooners built on Carriacou are part of the island’s Regatta Festival in August. Before traveling for the event, check the latest dates and program. Opportunities to visit individual workshops may vary.

The Big Drum Dance, also called Nation Dance, is performed on occasions ranging from weddings and boat blessings to tombstone feasts and Maroons. Shakespeare Mas is a carnival masquerade unique to Carriacou. The annual Maroon and String Band Music Festival lasts three days and features local cuisine, crafts, music and dance; check the latest dates and program in advance.

On Petite Martinique, the Whitsuntide Regatta features local boat races and onshore activities. For both islands, if a festival is an important part of your plans, check the dates and program details in advance.

The Carriacou Museum offers another perspective on the island’s cultural heritage. Its current building is a historic former cotton gin. The collections include Amerindian and African artifacts, as well as colonial-era documents, furniture, glassware and ceramics. On September 9, 2026, the museum was temporarily closed after Hurricane Beryl severely damaged the building and collection on July 1, 2024. Check its current status before visiting; what is on display during reconstruction may vary.

Beaches, Reefs and Mangroves

Paradise Beach on Carriacou has calm waters and a stretch of white sand. Sandy Island is about a five-minute boat ride from Paradise Beach. It offers snorkeling and a shallow natural pool for swimming. The boat journey time is approximate; sea conditions and boat arrangements may vary.

At Anse La Roche, the reef is the main attraction: it is surrounded by parrotfish, drumfish and spiny lobsters, while rays are occasionally spotted there. Anse La Roche is recommended for snorkeling and beginner dives. Sightings are not guaranteed; check local conditions and the availability of operators before taking part.

Carriacou’s Oyster Bed Mangrove is a protected area and a nursery for many fish species. Guided boat tours are offered in the area. Before making plans, check the current availability of tours and boating conditions.

On Petite Martinique, Sanchez Beach offers opportunities for sailing, surfing, diving, kayaking, snorkeling and fishing. The range extends from activities on the water to experiences beneath it; sea conditions and local offerings may vary. Mang Beach offers opportunities for swimming and family picnics. This distinguishes the two beaches by the activities described for each, rather than reducing them to the same focus.

Places and Getting Around the Islands

The Piton on Petite Martinique offers a hike with summit views of the island and nearby Grenadine islands. Check local conditions and trail access in advance. The Piton was once the setting for a Maroon celebration known as the Sugaring of the Piton. On Carriacou, the Dover ruins are the site of the island’s first church; their current accessibility is not established.

Hillsborough is Carriacou’s main town and ferry terminal. Carriacou is about 90 minutes by boat from St. George’s, the capital of Grenada. Schedules and weather conditions may vary, so it is worth checking the latest services before traveling. Petite Martinique is a short boat ride from Carriacou; here too, check current boat connections.

Grenada as the Wider Destination

As part of the wider destination of Grenada, the Grenada National Museum presents the heritage of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Its visitor complex hosts concerts, lectures, art exhibitions and other special events throughout the year. The complex also includes a building whose foundations were laid in the mid-18th century.

When choosing accommodation, you can start by distinguishing between the two islands based on what you are looking for: Carriacou combines boatbuilding traditions and regattas with reefs and mangroves; on Petite Martinique, beaches, water sports and a hike on the Piton are specific options to consider.

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