Ins & Outs of St. Vincent and the Grenadines - 2023

43 DISCOVER ST. VINCENT Perfect for Picnics On the Windward side of the island there are a number of beautiful black sand beaches with facilities. Because of strong undercurrents, most Windward beaches are not recommended for swimming. Brighton Salt Pond A fascinating mangrove swamp which attracts many visitors. It is a very popular recreational and entertainment spot. The gazebos are great for birthdays and other functions. Owia Salt Pond On the northeastern coast, close to the Carib village of Owia. The 2-hour drive runs along the scenic coastline. This unusual gift of nature consists of a huge sea bathing pool enclosed by lava peaks and ridges. The pounding waves crash into this barrier and then gently cascade into the pool. Surrounded by mountains and the thunderous surf, the area is an ideal spot for picnics, swimming and snorkeling. Facilities include gazebos, bar, shower and washrooms, children’s play area, craft centre and fire pits. There is a small entrance fee. A 5-minute walk behind the old arrowroot factory in Owia are 4 waterfalls which are the beginning of a 1/4 mile of solid volcanic rock formation, through which the river cascades into many waterfalls. Young Island Cut The anchorage here, lying in clear water, is a favourite with yachtspeople. Anchor with care, as the current sweeps both ways and the centre of the cut is 65 feet deep. Moorings are available, but stay clear of the sea bed close to Young Island itself. The restaurant at Young Island Resort is a wonderful choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner in a relaxed beachfront setting, in the open-air, under thatched roof huts. Everyone raves about their freshly baked breads in six delicious flavours! West Coast Gems - above and below the surface The west coast of St. Vincent offers some of the best coastal scenery in the region and spectacular diving opportunities, with the impressive landscape underwater. The dive shops here offer some dramatic wall dives, full of black coral and azure sponges steeply shelving away to volcanic sand. Divers often find themselves surrounded by schools of creole wrasse, blue tangs or dozens of other curious species. Owia Salt Pond Photo: Calvert Jones