Nestled in the eastern Caribbean, Grenada is a small island country known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. With a population of just over 125,000 people, Grenada is one of the smallest independent countries in the western hemisphere. Despite its size, Grenada has a rich and complex history, having been inhabited by indigenous peoples, colonized by the French and the British, and later gaining independence in 1974.
Today, Grenada is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, flavourful cuisine, and friendly people. Let’s explore the wonders of this beautiful island nation with these 21 fun facts about Grenada.
1. Grenada is a bit of a cluster.
Grenada is an archipelago of 1 large island and 6 smaller islands in the Caribbean. Its nearest neighbours are Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to the north, Barbados to the northeast, Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela to the south and Curacao to the west.
2. Who found Grenada first?
The island was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1498 and originally named Concepcion.
3. Finding Grenada on a map is easy…
Fancy heading to this picturesque island? Head for the coordinates of 12.0500° N, 61.7500° W for your very own Grenadian adventure!
4. …and so is calling the archipelago!
Want to call your friends in Grenada? You’ll need to use the international dialing code of +1473.
5. There’s a lot of lava here.
The terrain here is volcanic in origin, with beautiful mountains and many stunning waterfalls worth hiking to, in the centre of the island.
6. It’s double the size of a famous British city.
The total land area of Grenada is 133 square miles (344 square kilometres)…that’s around twice the size of Glasgow.
7. However, it’s super sparse!
Grenada’s population was 125,438 in 2022…that’s around 1/6 of the population of Glasgow!
8. What’s the capital of Grenada?
The capital is St George’s; it had a population of 38,000 in 2014.
9. The weather here is wonderful.
Grenadians enjoy a tropical climate with temperatures moderated by trade winds.
10. It’s a diving paradise!
Grenada boasts an amazing underwater sculpture marine park that’s popular with both snorkelers and scuba-divers.
11. It’s very popular with green tourists.
Thanks to the luscious rainforests and beautiful waterfalls, Grenada experiences a lot of eco-tourism.
12. What language do people speak in Grenada?
The official language of Grenada is English, although Grenadian Creole English and French Patois is also spoken.
13. It used to be ruled by Britain.
Grenada celebrated 50 years of independence from Britain on the 7th February 2024, having gained it on the 7th February 1974.
14. Why the ‘Spice Island’?
Grenada is often referred to as the ‘Island of Spice’ thanks to the large amount of nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and other spices it produces and exports.
15. What should you change your money to here?
East Caribbean Dollar is the official currency here.
16. Want to try the local cuisine here?
The national dish of Grenada is called ‘Oil Down’; it’s a delicious stew of meat, vegetables and dumplings cooked off in coconut milk, herbs and spices!
17. Better check your wardrobe…
Apparently, wearing camouflage is illegal in Grenada as it’s what the army wears!
18. It once played host to a US invasion.
Code-named Operation Urgent Fury and under the presidency of Ronald Reagan, the USA invaded Grenada in 1983 to secure the safety of American nationals from a pro-Marxist threat. The invasion overthrew the Grenadian government in just over a week.
19. Life expectancy here is pretty healthy.
The average life span here is 74.94 years (2021).
20. Traffic signals aren’t an issue here.
Bored of waiting at traffic lights? Well you’re in luck in Grenada, as there are only 4 sets of traffic lights on the entire island (2024)! Looking for a new or used SUV to drive around the island? Check out IslandMotors.com
21. The Grenadian export scene is pretty wild.
Grenada grows nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, sugarcane, maize, cacao, bananas, and mango.
Its industry consists of food, beverages, textiles, tourism and light assembly operations. The main exports include rum, bananas, nutmeg, cacao, fruits and vegetables.
FAQs about Grenada
What is Grenada best known for?
Also known as the Spice Island, Grenada is best known for the many spices it produces - famously cloves, nutmeg, mace and cinnamon.
Is it safe to visit Grenada?
Grenada is one of the safer islands in the West Indies. Tourists should still avoid visiting isolated areas alone, and are advised not to walk on beaches after dark.
Do you know any fun facts about Grenada? Share them in the comments below!