Inside Canouan: The Under-the-Radar Destination

Blank, baffled stares—that’s what I encountered when I mentioned my upcoming trip to Canouan, a three-square-mile island within the Grenadines archipelago. My friends—despite being seasoned travelers—would inquire, “Where’s that?” After pulling up a map, I pointed to a coat-hook-shaped speck located between St. Vincent and Grenada, met only with puzzled expressions.

Canouan is indeed an enigma amid the Caribbean. Located just a 45-minute flight from Barbados, it remains relatively secluded, known only to a select few who moor their yachts or seek refuge from the paparazzi. Meanwhile, it’s been referred to as a “place where billionaires go to escape millionaires.”

Historically, Canouan lacked running water and paved roads, boasting more turtles than humans. Now, it features a runway for private jets, luxury hotels and villas, and a multimillion-dollar marina for mega yachts. Nevertheless, arriving here feels like uncovering a hidden treasure.

From an aerial view, Canouan resembles other Caribbean islands, with lush green hills and charming villages encircled by vibrant turquoise waters filled with yachts. On the ground, the island unfolds along the road from the airport, revealing ocean vistas alongside a quaint village free from crowds of cruise passengers and tacky souvenir shops. Here, “traffic” merely means waiting for turtles to cross the road, emphasizing its peaceful nature.

Despite its allure, Canouan maintains a refreshing tranquility, aided by its remote setting. Charter flights represent the most direct route, although ferries and commercial flights are also accessible. Canouan Estate Resort & Villas even provides a Cessna for a quick 20- to 25-minute departure from regional hubs.

Upon landing in Barbados from New York, a dedicated team ushered us onto a chartered SVG Air flight that whisked us to the Mandarin Oriental, Canouan—a stunning luxury resort previously known as the Pink Sands Club.

The 26 suites, starting at 1,300 square feet, are adorned with marble bathrooms, terraces or gardens, and stunning views complemented by refreshing watermelon juice in hand. The Mandarin Oriental’s multistory hillside villas provide an exclusive experience, featuring infinity pools, expansive patios, and even elevators in some villas.

While the hotel embraces its previous identity with charming bursts of pink—visible from beach umbrellas to loungers by the infinity pool—the luxury experience extends to its culinary offerings. Guests may indulge in fine dining or in-villa service. Don’t miss the saltfish and coconut doughboy for breakfast!

The resort also allows guests to arrange a “castaway” picnic on a secluded beach. Nearby, Canouan Estate features two delightful eateries—L’Ance Guyac, and Shell Beach Bar & Grill. Guests preferring to venture further might explore Soho Beach House and Shenanigans. Regardless, be sure to start your evening with a cocktail at Turtles, a bar overlooking Carenage Bay.

The onsite spa adds another layer of luxury, with 10 treatment villas that either overlook the bay or exist in overwater bungalows, featuring steam showers and glass floors. Here, you can truly unwind while enjoying breathtaking ocean views during your treatment.

Active travelers may take advantage of complimentary catamarans, stand-up paddle boards, and kayaks or play a round of golf on Jim Fazio’s 18-hole course—perfect for sunset cocktails on the 13th hole.

One morning, I opted for a short yet steep hike up Mount Royal with Kezzy, the resort’s nature guide. The ascent rewarded us with stunning views of neighboring islands, including Mustique, Union Island, and Petit St. Vincent. Kezzy shared his passion for the view, stating, “Never will it get old.”

For another adventure, we sailed to Tobago Cays—a cluster of uninhabited islands surrounded by a protective coral reef ideal for snorkeling. Swimming alongside green turtles and encountering schools of stingrays made me realize how truly exquisite this place is. Each day on the water brings new experiences, and the joy is evident in our guide’s words: “It doesn’t get old.”

In Canouan, you can take it slow. Most days, I found myself strolling down to the sandy shore multiple times, dipping my toes in the water, and enjoying the ocean’s rhythm during the soft evening breeze. Whether lounging on a deck with a captivating read or taking a plunge in Carenage Bay, each moment is a slice of paradise.

On my final day, before departing, I captured one last photo of the crystalline sea under the midday sun and shared it with a friend, captioned, “We have to come back.” Because some secrets are too good to keep.