Things to Do in Palm Island

Palm Island, Saintvincent - Complete Travel Guide

Palm Island is an exclusive private resort island located in the Grenadines, part of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This pristine 135-acre tropical paradise was transformed from the former Prune Island into a luxury eco-resort destination, featuring five stunning white-sand beaches surrounded by crystal-clear Caribbean waters. The island maintains an intimate atmosphere with only 43 luxury accommodations spread across the property, ensuring privacy and personalized service for every guest. The resort operates as an all-inclusive destination, offering world-class dining, water sports, spa services, and access to some of the Caribbean's most pristine coral reefs. Palm Island represents the epitome of barefoot luxury, where guests can disconnect from the outside world while enjoying exceptional amenities in a stunning natural setting. The island's commitment to sustainability and conservation makes it a model eco-resort that preserves the delicate Caribbean ecosystem while providing an unforgettable luxury experience.

Top Things to Do in Palm Island

Snorkeling and Diving

Explore the pristine coral reefs surrounding Palm Island, home to vibrant marine life including tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. The island's protected waters offer excellent visibility and calm conditions perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. Multiple dive sites are accessible within minutes of the island, including the famous Tobago Cays Marine Park.

Booking Tip: Most activities are included in the resort's all-inclusive package. Book diving excursions through the resort's dive center, with costs around $50-80 for certified divers. Best diving conditions are typically in the morning with calmer seas and better visibility.

Sailing and Catamaran Excursions

Take advantage of Palm Island's location in the heart of the Grenadines with sailing trips to nearby islands like Mayreau, Union Island, and the famous Tobago Cays. These excursions offer opportunities to explore uninhabited cays, swim with sea turtles, and experience the Caribbean's legendary sailing conditions. Full-day and half-day options are available with experienced local captains.

Booking Tip: Book sailing trips through the resort concierge or directly with local operators. Full-day catamaran trips cost $100-150 per person including lunch and drinks. Morning departures offer the best weather conditions and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Beach Hopping and Water Sports

Discover Palm Island's five distinct beaches, each offering unique characteristics from the main Casuarina Beach to the secluded Sunset Beach. The resort provides complimentary kayaks, windsurfing equipment, and small sailboats for exploring the coastline. Each beach offers different amenities and atmospheres, from active water sports areas to quiet relaxation zones.

Booking Tip: All beach access and non-motorized water sports are typically included in resort packages. Equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit different beaches throughout your stay as wind and weather conditions vary, making some better for activities at different times.

Spa and Wellness Treatments

Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at the resort's wellness center, featuring massages, facials, and body treatments using natural Caribbean ingredients. The spa offers both indoor treatment rooms and outdoor pavilions with ocean views. Yoga classes and meditation sessions are also available in scenic beachfront locations.

Booking Tip: Book spa treatments in advance as availability is limited due to the intimate resort size. Treatments range from $80-200 depending on duration and type. Sunset massage sessions on the beach are particularly popular and should be reserved early in your stay.

Fishing Charters

Experience world-class deep-sea fishing in the waters around the Grenadines, known for marlin, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and tuna. Local fishing charters offer both half-day and full-day excursions with experienced captains who know the best fishing spots. The resort can arrange both catch-and-release sport fishing and fishing trips where your catch can be prepared by the resort's chefs.

Booking Tip: Book fishing charters through the resort concierge at least 24 hours in advance. Half-day charters cost $400-600 for up to 4 people, while full-day trips range $800-1200. Early morning departures typically offer the best fishing conditions and higher success rates.

Getting There

Reaching Palm Island requires multiple transportation steps as it's a private resort island. Most guests fly into Barbados (BGI) or Saint Vincent (SVD) airports, then take a connecting flight to Union Island Airport (UNI) via SVG Air or Grenadine Airways. From Union Island, Palm Island provides a complimentary 10-minute boat transfer to the resort. Alternatively, guests can arrange charter flights directly to Union Island or take inter-island ferries, though flight connections are generally more reliable and faster.

Getting Around

Transportation on Palm Island is entirely on foot or by resort-provided golf carts for luggage and mobility assistance. The island is small enough to walk from end to end in about 20 minutes, with well-maintained paths connecting all facilities and beaches. The resort provides bicycles for guests who prefer cycling, and electric carts are available for guests with mobility needs. Water taxis and boats are used for excursions to nearby islands and dive sites.

Where to Stay

Beachfront Suites
Garden View Rooms
Palm Suites
Island Lofts
Plantation House
Royal Palm Suite

Food & Dining

Palm Island operates on an all-inclusive dining concept with three main restaurants and multiple bars. The Sunset Restaurant offers fine dining with Caribbean and international cuisine, while the Beach Restaurant provides casual beachfront dining with fresh seafood and grilled specialties. The Bamboo Bar & Restaurant serves light lunches and tropical cocktails in a relaxed setting. All meals feature fresh local ingredients, including seafood caught daily by local fishermen and tropical fruits grown on nearby islands. The resort can accommodate dietary restrictions and special requests with advance notice.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Palm Island is during the dry season from December to April, when you'll experience the most stable weather, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall. This period coincides with peak season, so expect higher rates and the need to book well in advance. The shoulder seasons of May-June and November can offer good weather with lower rates, while July through October is hurricane season with higher risks of storms and rain, though many days can still be beautiful with afternoon showers.

Insider Tips

Book the Royal Palm Suite or beachfront accommodations well in advance as they're extremely limited and highly sought after
Pack reef-safe sunscreen as the resort is committed to protecting the coral reefs and marine environment
Bring or purchase underwater cameras as the snorkeling and diving opportunities are exceptional and you'll want to capture the marine life

Explore Activities in Palm Island