Grenada is compact enough to drive across in under two hours, but its winding, hilly roads make getting around a different planning problem than a flatter island. Here’s what actually works for families.
What to Know
- Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) has nonstop US service from New York, Miami, and Atlanta.
- Visitors need a temporary local driving permit (about EC$60, roughly $22 USD), bought at the airport or through a rental agency.
- Driving is on the left — a real adjustment for US-based families, especially on narrow mountain roads.
- Taxis are widely available and a practical alternative to driving, especially for airport transfers and shorter trips.
- A ferry (Osprey Lines) connects Grenada to the sister island of Carriacou for families wanting a day trip further afield.
Getting to Grenada
Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) sits just outside St. George’s and has genuine nonstop US service — JetBlue from New York (JFK) year-round, American from Miami year-round, Delta from Atlanta year-round, and seasonal American service from Charlotte. This nonstop access is one of Grenada’s real advantages over smaller neighboring islands.
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Visitors need a temporary local driving permit in addition to a valid home license — it costs roughly EC$60 (about $22 USD) and can be purchased at the airport, through your rental agency, or at a police station. Driving is on the left side of the road, which takes real adjustment for US families, especially combined with narrow, winding sections in the interior and north of the island.
Taxis and Hired Drivers
Taxis are plentiful and a reasonable choice for families who’d rather skip driving on unfamiliar roads — agree on a fare before setting off, since most aren’t metered. For day trips to Grand Etang or the spice country, a hired driver-guide is a popular option that adds local context without the stress of navigation.
Public Buses
Grenada’s minibus system covers most of the island cheaply, but routes and schedules are informal and buses can be crowded — workable for confident travelers, but not the easiest way to build a full sightseeing day with young kids.
Day Trip to Carriacou
Osprey Lines runs a fast ferry between St. George’s and Grenada’s sister island, Carriacou — a quieter, slower-paced island popular for its beaches and snorkeling. It’s a worthwhile day trip or overnight add-on for families with a bit of extra time; check current schedules and fares directly with Osprey Lines before planning around it, since sailing times can shift seasonally.
Airport Arrival and Departure Tips
Maurice Bishop International Airport is small and straightforward — immigration and customs typically move quickly outside of peak arrival banks. Many hotels offer arranged airport transfers, which is worth booking ahead rather than arranging a taxi cold on arrival, especially with young kids and luggage after a long flight. Build in a bit of buffer time for departure, since the drive from resorts further north or east can take 45 minutes or more depending on traffic through St. George’s.
Road Conditions to Expect
Grenada’s coastal roads are generally well-maintained, but interior routes near Grand Etang and the north of the island narrow considerably and wind through steep terrain — a 20-mile drive can realistically take 45-60 minutes. Gas stations are less frequent outside St. George’s and the main tourist areas, so it’s worth filling up before a full day of driving rather than assuming you’ll pass one along the way.
Coverage is generally solid along the coast and in St. George’s but drops out in parts of the interior, including sections of Grand Etang National Park — download offline maps before heading into less-covered areas. Road signage improves each year but can still be inconsistent in rural areas, so a GPS app with offline capability is worth having as a backup to your rental car’s built-in navigation.
Fuel and Rental Car Logistics
Most rental agencies require a credit card hold and a copy of your passport and driving permit at pickup, so have both ready to avoid delays. Return the car with a full tank where possible, since agencies typically charge a premium rate for refueling compared to filling up yourself at a station along the way back to the airport.
Ride-Hailing and App-Based Options
Ride-hailing apps have limited coverage on Grenada compared to bigger destinations, so don’t count on one being reliably available — arranging a taxi through your hotel or a known local driver is still the more dependable option.
Driving Yourself vs. Hiring a Driver
Grenada’s roads are narrow and winding in places, similar to other volcanic Caribbean islands — families less comfortable with mountain driving often find hiring a driver for a day or two less stressful than a full-week rental.
Plan Your Days in Grenada
Browse family-friendly tours, hikes, and day activities on the Spice Isle.
Quick Answers
Do you need a special permit to drive in Grenada?
Yes — visitors need a temporary local driving permit, about EC$60, purchased on arrival in addition to a valid home license.
Is it easy to get around Grenada without a car?
Yes — taxis and hired drivers cover most family itineraries well, especially for day trips to Grand Etang or St. George’s.
Can you take a day trip to Carriacou?
Yes — Osprey Lines runs a ferry from St. George’s; it’s worth checking current schedules directly before planning your day around it.
Where to Stay in Grenada
A few family-friendly places to base your Grenada trip:
Spice Island Beach Resort, Grand Anse
True Blue Bay Boutique Resort
Coyaba Beach Resort, Grand AnseReady to Plan Your Trip?
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