Canouan is a quiet, hook-shaped island of about 7.6 km² in the southern Grenadines, with a population of under 2,000. Its northern half is taken up by a vast luxury resort, marina and golf course development; the small village of Charlestown and the ferry dock lie on the bay in the middle.
The island’s great natural asset is a long barrier reef off the windward shore, which shelters a clear lagoon for swimming and snorkelling. Hurricane Beryl caused serious damage here in 2024, and some properties have been closed for repairs — check the latest before you plan a stay.
Top things to do: Canouan
Snorkel the barrier reef lagoon
Inside the reef on the east side the water is calm and shallow, with coral heads, reef fish and rays. The resorts run boat trips; local operators do too.
Day-trip to the Tobago Cays
Canouan is one of the closest islands to the Cays, so a half-day or full-day boat trip is easy to arrange from Charlestown or the marina.
Walk to Mount Royal
The island’s highest point, around 270 metres, has a short, steep trail with a view across the Grenadines.
How to get to Canouan
- By air: Canouan’s airport takes regional flights from Argyle and Barbados and private jets.
- By ferry: the southern Grenadines ferries from Kingstown call at Charlestown Bay.
- By yacht: Charlestown Bay is a clearance-friendly anchorage, and there is a marina for superyachts.
Insider tips
- Outside the luxury resorts, services are limited: a few shops, bars and guesthouses in Charlestown.
- The resort side of the island is private; ask before exploring its beaches.
Tours that include Canouan
These bookable experiences are the easiest way to see Canouan:
Boat trip from €112 Bequia Day Cruise with Drinks and Photos
The only bookable way on GetYourGuide to get a taste of the Grenadines in a day. You cruise to Bequia, swim or snorkel off Princess Margaret Beach, then have lunch or a drink by Admiralty Bay before sailing back — with photos of the day included.
- Sail across to Bequia, the first of the Grenadines
- Swim and snorkel at Princess Margaret Beach
- Drinks or lunch at a Port Elizabeth waterfront bar
Private boat charter from €1561 per group Private Charter Tour to Bequia Island
The whole boat to yourselves for a day trip to Bequia. At the group price it only makes sense for a large party — up to 18 people — but for a family reunion or a group of friends it is the most comfortable way to see the first of the Grenadines.
- Your own boat and crew for the day
- Swimming and snorkelling at Princess Margaret Beach
- A complimentary photo shoot of the day
