Canouan's Instagram Guide
Editor's Note: We encourage readers to check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website (opens in new tab) for the latest information on safe travel practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Canouan (pronounced CAN-oh-wan) is so off the radar that you can't blame your phone for trying to auto-correct to "Cancun." This crescent-shaped Caribbean island is part of a group of islands called the Grenadines, which lie between the islands of St. Vincent and Grenada. If you are arriving in Canouan by plane, you will probably fly from Barbados (BGI airport). It is a small country surrounded by white sand beaches, incredibly blue waters, and the island's highest peak, Mount Royal (open in new tab). Canouan means "turtle" in Caribbean. It may be a small island, but it is packed with memorable activities. Below are some activities not to be missed.
The sprawling grounds of Mandarin Oriental, Canouan (open in new tab) may make the resort seem large, but there are only 26 suites and 13 villas on 1,200 acres. The secluded retreat feels like a getaway from it all, with modern amenities that bring the world closer to you. Sit by the infinity pool or on the resort's white sand beach and feel the stress drift away with the ebb and flow of the tide.
Mount Royal, the highest point on the island, offers panoramic views of Canouan and neighboring islands such as St. Vincent, the Grenadines, and St. Lucia (opens in new tab). The hike only takes about 30 minutes to the top, but you will gain a lot of elevation, so bring plenty of water and comfortable walking shoes!
The Tobago Cays are protected as a marine park and offer great snorkeling where you can see many green sea turtles swimming in the clear blue waters. Fun Fact: The 1,400-acre archipelago of Tobago Cays is home to five small uninhabited islands, including the island where "Pirates of the Caribbean" was filmed!
Relax in a beach chair or grab a paddle board and cruise the calm waters. For lunch, the Shell Beach Bar and Grill offers Caribbean cuisine, including jerk chicken and fresh fish caught that day.
Canouan's stunning 18-hole golf course offers its beauty to golfers and non-golfers alike, and the 13th hole offers views of both sunrise and sunset, perfect for a romantic evening picnic or an impromptu happy hour.
Mandarin Oriental's Balinese-inspired spa has two overwater bungalows and a hillside room accessed by a quiet wooden walkway. The sound of the waves is the perfect accompaniment to a personalized massage or facial. It doesn't get much more relaxing than that!
If you've fallen in love with Canouan, book your trip here (opens in new tab).
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