The scent of nutmeg still wafts through St. George’s Market. Grand Anse Beach remains one of the wide sandy beaches in the Caribbean. In Carriacou, the beaches are back, the yachts are back, and the pace once again feels unmistakably Grenadian.
Now the island has another reason to celebrate.
Grenada Welcome 54,565 permanent visitors In the first quarter of 2026 12% increase This compares to the same period last year, according to newly released data from the Caribbean Tourism Board.
These figures establish Grenada as one of the countries with the strongest tourism activity in the Caribbean so far this year, continuing the destination’s steady momentum as travelers increasingly look beyond the region’s biggest names.
One of the region’s strongest performers
While growth has slowed in some Caribbean regions and declined in others, Grenada ranked as one of the fastest-growing lodging markets in the region in the first three months of the year.
The increase reflects growing demand for a destination that has quietly built one of the Caribbean’s most attractive tourism products, balanced with luxury resorts and boutique hotels, secluded beaches, world-class diving and one of the region’s richest culinary offerings.
Stayed arrivals remain the most important metric for the industry, as overnight visitors generate the overwhelming majority of tourism spending through hotels, restaurants, attractions and local businesses.
A destination with momentum
Grenada has been steadily expanding its tourism activities over the past few years.
New hotel investments have expanded the island’s accommodation options, from luxury resorts to intimate boutique hotels, while expanded airlift has made the destination increasingly accessible from North America and Europe.
The destination also continues to benefit from a unique identity. Unlike many of the larger Caribbean islands, Grenada offers diving in the world’s first underwater sculpture park in the morning, swimming in Grand Anse Beach in the afternoon and St. Petersburg in the evening. George’s maintains a wonderfully authentic feel, perfect for spending time at a beachfront restaurant.
Outside of the main island, recovery work continues on Carriacou after Hurricane Beryl, bringing renewed attention to one of the Caribbean’s most attractive sister islands.
Why travelers keep coming back
Grenada’s charm has always extended beyond its beaches.
The island’s rainforest interior, waterfall hikes, spice plantations, chocolate makers and thriving farm-to-table dining environment have helped create a destination of special depth. Luxury hotels such as Silversands Grenada, Spice Island Beach Resort and Calabash Hotel continue to attract luxury travelers, and a growing number of boutique hotels are broadening the island’s appeal.
It’s a formula that increasingly resonates with visitors looking for a Caribbean vacation that offers both relaxation and a strong sense of place.
Looking into the future
The first quarter figures suggest that Grenada is maintaining strong momentum for the remainder of 2026.
With continued hotel investment, expansion of international air services and growing awareness among travelers looking for a more intimate Caribbean experience, the island appears well-positioned for another successful year.
The latest Caribbean Tourism Board data for Grenada reinforces a trend that has been building for several years. One of the Caribbean’s smallest tourist destinations is becoming one of its biggest success stories.
