Grenada is gaining international recognition after being included in National Geographic’s list of the best places to visit in 2027. In an article published on October 20, 2026, travel writer Kristin Braswell explores the destination’s distinctive mix of beaches, tropical landscapes, cultural traditions, local flavors and historic attractions.

Titled Grenada, the Caribbean Island Nation With So Much More Than Beaches, the feature presents the archipelago as a destination for travelers seeking more than a traditional beach holiday. Known as the Spice Isle, Grenada is celebrated for its fertile volcanic soil, which supports the cultivation of nutmeg, mace and cocoa, as well as for its rainforests, mangroves, rum production and underwater experiences.

The article places particular emphasis on the island’s cultural calendar. In 2027, Spicemas, Grenada’s signature Carnival celebration, will mark its 150th anniversary with islandwide festivities and live calypso performances. One of its most distinctive traditions is Jab Jab, a ritual in which participants cover themselves in black oil to commemorate the cruelty of slavery and honor the resilience of their ancestors.

The Grenada Chocolate Festival, held each May, is another highlight. The event celebrates the island’s internationally recognized cocoa through farm visits, opportunities to learn about the tree-to-bar process, meetings with local chocolatiers and cocoa-inspired wellness experiences.

National Geographic also recommends visiting Carriacou, a nearby island known for its colorful fishing villages, locally owned guesthouses and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Sailing is central to everyday life there, and visitors can explore coral reefs, reach nearby islands by boat and enjoy freshly caught seafood. The Carriacou Regatta further showcases the region’s maritime heritage.

Nature lovers can explore Grand Étang National Park, with its crater lakes, rainforest trails and native wildlife, or visit River Sallee Boiling Springs, where geothermal pools and volcanic mud offer a different kind of outdoor experience. The Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park is another distinctive attraction: its submerged artworks also serve as artificial reefs, supporting marine life and coral recovery.

The feature also highlights St. George’s, Grenada’s picturesque capital, where visitors can explore spice markets and enjoy harbor views from Fort George. Another recommended stop is the River Antoine Rum Distillery, established in 1785 and known for its traditional sugarcane-crushing process powered by a waterwheel.

Looking ahead to 2027, the article mentions the planned opening of the 500-room Grenada National Resort near Levera National Park. The property is expected to offer convenient access to mangrove lagoons and nesting areas for leatherback turtles, which visit the island from March through July.

The recognition supports the strategic positioning promoted by the Grenada Tourism Authority, which presents Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique as a Caribbean destination where culture, heritage, sustainability and community participation are integral to the visitor experience.

As travelers increasingly seek meaningful and immersive experiences, National Geographic’s feature puts Grenada’s cultural traditions, natural landscapes and locally rooted tourism experiences in the international spotlight.