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About Carriacou

Where Is Carriacou?

We are known for

A journey to Grenada remains incomplete without an enchanting detour to Carriacou (pronounced (Karry-a-cou).  Experience Caribbean living in its purest form as the island’s allure lies in its tranquil and rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern world.

Carriacou, meaning “Isle of Reefs,” is conveniently located just 90 minutes away by ferry or a quick 20-minute flight from the main island of Grenada.

One of its greatest charms are the deeply-rooted traditions cherished by its warm-hearted citizens. The Maroon Festival, Big Drum Nation Dance, Shakespeare Mas, Stringband music, Carriacou Regatta and boat building are all unique experiences still kept alive with pride.

 Spanning a modest 13 square miles, Carriacou is the second-largest island within the state of Grenada. Carriacou boasts some of the world’s finest dive spots, characterized by crystal-clear waters, pristine coral reefs, enchanting drifts and beaches that are unmatched such as the World-famous Paradise beach.

Serving as the largest and final destination in the breathtaking sailing paradise of the Grenadines Island chain, Carriacou promises an unparalleled Caribbean experience.

Grenada
In 1763, our mainland was named Grenada when the British gained control from the French who had named the country La Grenada. The name originates from Granada given by the Spaniards in the 1520s. When the British regained control, they failed in their attempts to rid the island of French influences imposed since 1649 when the French settled the island. Years on, our islands reveal influences of Amerindian customs, French and English…
Grenada
In 1763, our mainland was named Grenada when the British gained control from the French who had named the country La Grenada. The name originates from Granada given by the Spaniards in the 1520s. When the British regained control, they failed in their attempts to rid the island of French influences imposed since 1649 when the French settled the island. Years on, our islands reveal influences of Amerindian customs, French and English…
Grenada
In 1763, our mainland was named Grenada when the British gained control from the French who had named the country La Grenada. The name originates from Granada given by the Spaniards in the 1520s. When the British regained control, they failed in their attempts to rid the island of French influences imposed since 1649 when the French settled the island. Years on, our islands reveal influences of Amerindian customs, French and English…
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Our People

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Our Culture

The people of Carriacou carry a rich treasure trove of traditions and customs, passed down through generations, shaped by the influences of African and European ancestors. Immersing yourself in Carriacou’s cultural experiences unveils a myriad of memorable celebrations and traditions, from witnessing boat-launching events and unique traditional weddings that boast captivating cake and flag dancing rituals to engaging in the vibrant Big Drum Nation Dance or the unique Shakespeare Mas which is practiced exclusively on the island. During Shakespeare mas the creativity and talent of the people shine through as they recite William Shakespeare’s best lines.

Adding to the island’s cultural wealth, Carriacou boasts its own culinary traditions. Transport your taste buds to a bygone era with Carriacou’s traditional flavourful smoked food served with rice and corn based starchy dishes. This unique cuisine is an integral part of Carriacou’s cultural and historical celebrations, including Saraca, Tombstone Feast, Parang Festival and the Maroon & String Band Music Festival.  

Our History

Carriacou derives its name from the Kalinago term ‘Kayryouacou’, signifying land surrounded by reefs. Archaeological findings of pottery tools indicate that the initial settlers on the island were the Arawaks from South America, succeeded by successive waves of inhabitants culminating with the Kalinago.

The French became the first European settlers in Carriacou around the 1740s. In 1763, the British took over Carriacou and Grenada. Despite the predominant African descent of Carriacou’s population, traces of European influences persist in the lifestyle of its residents in the names of towns, cities, and people. Of particular note is the enduring traditional wooden sloop boat building craft passed on by Scottish settlers on the islands.

Grenada
In 1763, our mainland was named Grenada when the British gained control from the French who had named the country La Grenada. The name originates from Granada given by the Spaniards in the 1520s. When the British regained control, they failed in their attempts to rid the island of French influences imposed since 1649 when the French settled the island. Years on, our islands reveal influences of Amerindian customs, French and English…
Grenada
In 1763, our mainland was named Grenada when the British gained control from the French who had named the country La Grenada. The name originates from Granada given by the Spaniards in the 1520s. When the British regained control, they failed in their attempts to rid the island of French influences imposed since 1649 when the French settled the island. Years on, our islands reveal influences of Amerindian customs, French and English…
Grenada
In 1763, our mainland was named Grenada when the British gained control from the French who had named the country La Grenada. The name originates from Granada given by the Spaniards in the 1520s. When the British regained control, they failed in their attempts to rid the island of French influences imposed since 1649 when the French settled the island. Years on, our islands reveal influences of Amerindian customs, French and English…
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Read our History

Map of Grenada

Our Stories

Grenada Heritage Map

Pure Grenada has been shaped by an interesting and thrilling mixture of French, African and British influences. Today, accents of our rich and colorful history still remain from our Georgian architecture to beautiful historical forts and ancient rum distilleries. By downloading the Grenada Heritage Map, you will have at your fingertips a virtual map that allows you to browse historical and natural/landscapes – points of interest in Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique and get directions to them. These well-preserved points of interest will surely allow you to step back in history to find out what makes our destination unique. The App is available via the Google and Apple Stores. Just Search ‘Grenada Heritage Map’.

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National Symbols

Oildown - National Food
Oildown - National Food
Grenada Dove (Leptotila wellsi) - National Bird
Grenada Dove (Leptotila wellsi) - National Bird
Bougainvillea - National Flower
Bougainvillea - National Flower

Kayaks as they are affectionately called are welcoming, vibrant and love to share their culture and traditions. It is customary to see them in social gatherings, sharing a drink, food and engaging in past times such as domino. The talent of the people of Carriacou is highlighted through art, boat building, sailing regattas, music and mouthwatering cuisine.

Carriacou got its name from the Kalinago (Caribs) – ‘Kayryouacou’, meaning, ‘land surrounded by reefs’. Discoveries of pottery tools reveal that Arawaks from South America were the first settlers on the island, followed by various waves and ending with the Kalinago.

The French were the first European settlers in Carriacou around the 1740s. In 1763, it was surrendered along with Grenada to the British. Although the majority of Carriacou’s inhabitants are of African descent, European influences can still be found in the way Kayaks live and also in the names of our towns, cities and people.