Mayreau, France - Things to Do in Mayreau

Things to Do in Mayreau

Mayreau, France - Complete Travel Guide

Mayreau has fewer than 300 residents. This smallest inhabited Grenadine island spans just 1.5 square miles but delivers some of the clearest waters and most clean beaches in the Caribbean. The island runs on "Mayreau time"—a pace where choosing between Saline Bay's powder sand or Salt Whistle Bay's turquoise water counts as a major decision. No resorts exist here. No cruise terminals, traffic lights, or mass tourism infrastructure clutters this authentic Caribbean spot with just a few guesthouses and beach bars.

Top Things to Do in Mayreau

Salt Whistle Bay Beach

This horseshoe-shaped bay ranks among the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches. The sand is so fine it squeaks under your feet, while the water transitions from crystal clear shallows to deeper turquoise in a way that looks almost artificially perfect. You'll likely have stretches entirely to yourself. Early morning or late afternoon visits guarantee the best experience.

Booking Tip: No booking required - it's a public beach accessible by a 15-minute walk from the village. Bring your own snacks and water as facilities are minimal. The walk can be steep, so wear proper footwear.

Saline Bay Snorkeling

The eastern side offers surprisingly good snorkeling right off the beach. Healthy coral formations and plenty of tropical fish thrive in these relatively calm waters, making it perfect for beginners or anyone preferring a relaxed underwater experience. You might spot parrotfish and angelfish. Sea turtles appear if you're lucky.

Booking Tip: Bring your own snorkel gear from St. Vincent or Union Island - rental options on Mayreau are very limited. Best visibility is typically in the morning before 11 AM when the water is calmest.

Village Walk to Old Wall

The island's only settlement sits perched on a hill. Old Wall offers spectacular panoramic views and an authentic glimpse into small-island Caribbean life with colorful wooden houses and friendly locals who wave from their porches. The pace of life is refreshingly unhurried here. The Catholic church at the village center deserves a quick look for its simple but charming architecture.

Booking Tip: This is a self-guided walk that costs nothing but requires decent fitness for the uphill climb. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photos and cooler temperatures. Bring water and wear sun protection.

Sunset Watching from Station Hill

Station Hill provides the island's highest vantage point. Many consider this the best sunset spot in the Grenadines, with views across to Union Island, Palm Island, and on clear days, even Carriacou in the distance. The 360-degree views are genuinely impressive. You're standing on a small piece of land surrounded by endless Caribbean blue.

Booking Tip: Allow 30-45 minutes for the hike up from the village, and bring a flashlight for the walk back down after dark. The trail can be rough, so sturdy shoes are essential. Sunset times vary by season, so check locally.

Beach Bar Hopping

Mayreau's handful of beach bars each have distinct personalities. Robert Righteous and De Rasta at Salt Whistle Bay serves cold beers and grilled fish with reggae music, while Dennis' Hideaway has a more laid-back vibe with surprisingly good rum punches. These aren't fancy establishments. They capture authentic Caribbean beach bar atmosphere well.

Booking Tip: Most bars accept cash only (Eastern Caribbean dollars or US dollars), so come prepared. Prices are reasonable by Caribbean standards - expect to pay $3-5 for beers, $6-8 for rum punches. Food service can be slow, so order early if you're hungry.

Getting There

No airport means boat or seaplane access only. Most visitors fly into Union Island's small airport, then take a 15-minute water taxi or scheduled ferry to reach Mayreau. You can also fly into St. Vincent and catch the mail boat or charter a private water taxi for the longer journey. Many people arrive on sailing charters or day trips from Union Island—more convenient if you won't stay overnight.

Getting Around

Walking is your only transportation option. The island is small enough to cross end-to-end in about 45 minutes, though hills and rough paths slow you down. Most visitors move between Salt Whistle Bay, the village, and Saline Bay using footpaths that locals will gladly point out. Bring comfortable walking shoes. Rushing makes no sense on an island this size.

Where to Stay

Old Wall village
Saline Bay beachfront
Station Hill vicinity
Private villa rentals
Yacht anchorage

Food & Dining

Dining options are refreshingly simple here. Beach bars double as restaurants, serving grilled fish, seasonal lobster, rice and peas, and other island staples prepared with local spices and real character. Don't expect fancy presentations or extensive menus—you'll get honest, flavorful food often prepared by families who've cooked on the island for generations. Most places operate on island time. Meals take a while, but that gives you more time for views and cold drinks.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Saint Vincent

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Adaggio

4.6 /5
(1131 reviews) 2

Massawa Restaurant

4.6 /5
(877 reviews) 1

PARDI

4.5 /5
(212 reviews)

Restaurant Le cadran solaire

5.0 /5
(162 reviews)
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When to Visit

The dry season delivers the most reliable weather. December through April typically brings less rainfall and calmer seas, though this tiny island stays pleasant even during wetter months from May through November. You might encounter brief afternoon showers but also fewer crowds and better accommodation deals. Hurricane season runs June through November. Direct hits are relatively rare, and shoulder months like May or November offer the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices.

Insider Tips

The mail boat from St. Vincent runs on "island time." Departure schedules are rough suggestions, so build flexibility into your travel plans.
Bring cash in small bills. Change can be hard to come by, and credit cards are rarely accepted outside of a few guesthouses.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent now. Shopping options are extremely limited and prices for basics can be surprisingly high.

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