Planning a trip to Grenada might seem expensive, especially since the Caribbean isn’t known for being budget-friendly. However, there are plenty of ways to keep costs down and still enjoy all the island has to offer. Here’s how you can travel to Grenada on a budget:
First, let’s talk about accommodation. You have options like hostels, guesthouses, apartments, house-sitting, couchsurfing, or even camping. Prices do go up during the high season (December – February and August), but there remain affordable choices. Despite some high-end luxurious hotels, there are plenty of budget-friendly places to stay.
Couchsurfing connects travelers with local hosts who offer a free place to stay, often in a private room. It’s a fantastic way to save money and meet Grenadians or expatriates living there.
House Sitting/Pet Sitting is another excellent way to get free accommodation. Homeowners need someone to look after their property and pets while they’re away, sometimes even providing a car and a salary. Trusted Housesitters is a good place to find such opportunities in Grenada.
Airbnb offers a variety of accommodations, from private rooms to entire apartments, starting at around $30 per night, and you can share costs if you’re traveling with someone else.
Though hostels in the traditional sense are scarce, you can stay at Crayfish Bay Organic Estate in the north where you can learn about cocoa farming or just relax. Prices for dorm beds start at $22.50, and cottages for two cost about $51.
If you’re into camping, you can pitch a tent on quieter beaches for free. However, solo female travelers or those with expensive gear should exercise caution.
When it comes to food, Grenada offers great affordable options:
Weekend BBQs are a must-try. Every Friday, vendors pop up island-wide offering grilled meats like pork, chicken, and fish, typically costing between $2.60 to $3.70.
Local soups like “Waters” are delicious and cheap. Andy’s Waters and Joey’s are popular spots for soup that costs around $3.70 to $5.50.
Roti, a curried chicken and vegetable wrap, is another affordable meal priced at about $2.70. You can find some of the best roti at the Bakery attached to Foodland in Westerhall.
Doubles, a Trinidadian favorite, are available at Wall Street in Grand Anse, served by Latta and Frank from their orange van, costing about $2.70 each.
Caribbean buffets offer a variety of dishes where you pay by the weight, often costing around $7.40 for a full plate. Grill Master in Grand Anse and Creole Shack in St. George’s are excellent spots to try.
Kathy’s Soul Food in Grenville offers a full plate of Grenadian comfort food for about $5.50.
Umbrellas Beach Bar on Grand Anse Beach provides international cuisine and a fun atmosphere, with meals priced between $5.20 and $14.80.
To save on groceries, buy local produce from street vendors and markets. The main grocery stores, IGA, FoodLand, and FoodFair, offer imported items often more expensive than local goods. Tap water is safe to drink, helping you avoid buying bottled water.
For transportation, buses are the way to go. These minivans are cheap, costing $0.75 for a typical trip and up to $1.85 for longer distances. Vans are privately owned and can hold around 20 passengers. Just flag one down by raising your hand – it’s an authentic and economical way to get around.
As for activities, there’s plenty to do in Grenada without breaking the bank:
Swimming and snorkeling are free or low-cost if you bring your own gear. Popular spots include the waters off Magazine Beach and Grand Anse Beach.
Hashing, a social activity combining running and drinking, is a fun way to explore, costing just $0.75 per event.
Visiting waterfalls like Annadale, Mount Carmel, and Seven Sisters usually costs $1.85.
Hiking in Grand Etang National Park and other scenic spots around the island is either free or very low cost.
For wellness activities, there are yoga classes at Grenada Fountain of Youth and Spice Harmony, ranging from $7.40 to $11.00.
Consider a chocolate tour at Belmont Estate for $4.80 where you can learn about cocoa production and taste some amazing chocolate.
Live music is available at venues like Prickly Bay restaurant and Umbrellas on weekends, providing great entertainment with a meal or drink purchase.
Movie nights at Prickly Bay on Sundays are free with the purchase of a drink.
If you wish to contribute to the community, you can volunteer at places like Belair Children’s Home or the GSPCA, or help with turtle conservation.
Exploring cities like St. George’s, Grenville, Sauters, or Gouyave is also free and allows you to soak in the local culture.
Hopefully, these tips have shown you how to enjoy Grenada without spending a fortune. Whether you’re there for a quick trip, island hopping in the Grenadines, or backpacking, Grenada offers plenty of budget-friendly options for every traveler.