Things to Do in Saint Georges in January

January Weather in Saint Georges

28°C (82°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

95mm (3.7 inches) Rainfall

78% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with only 8 rainy days and minimal rainfall of 95mm (3.7 inches) - perfect for outdoor activities and beach days
Consistent northeast trade winds keep temperatures comfortable at 24-28°C (75-82°F) with natural cooling throughout the day
Crystal clear waters with visibility reaching 30m (98 ft) - optimal conditions for diving and snorkeling around the reef systems
Local harvest season brings fresh spices, nutmeg, and tropical fruits to markets with prices 30-40% lower than peak tourist months

Considerations

High season pricing with accommodation rates 60-80% higher than low season, requiring bookings 6-8 weeks in advance
Cruise ship arrivals (typically 3-4 per week) create crowded conditions at Market Square and Grand Anse Beach between 9am-4pm
Strong UV index of 9 requires constant sun protection and limits comfortable outdoor activities to early morning and late afternoon hours

Best Activities in January

Grand Anse Beach Water Sports

January's calm seas and consistent trade winds create perfect conditions for paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. Water temperature holds steady at 27°C (81°F) with minimal waves. Morning sessions (7-10am) offer the best wind conditions before cruise ship crowds arrive.

Booking Tip: Equipment rental typically costs EC$40-60 per hour. Book through beachfront operators for best rates and avoid cruise ship rush periods. No advance booking needed for equipment rental, but guided tours should be reserved 3-5 days ahead.

Underwater Sculpture Park Diving

January offers the year's best underwater visibility at 25-30m (82-98 ft) with calm seas and water temperatures of 27°C (81°F). The sculptures are fully settled and marine life is most active during this dry season period. Perfect for both beginners and experienced divers.

Booking Tip: Two-tank dives typically cost EC$180-220 including equipment. Book certified operators 7-10 days ahead as spots fill quickly in high season. Look for PADI-certified operators with good safety records. See current diving packages in the booking section below.

Spice Plantation Tours

January is nutmeg and cocoa harvesting season, offering visitors the chance to see active processing and taste fresh products straight from the trees. Temperatures are comfortable for walking tours, and many plantations offer special harvest demonstrations only available during this period.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost EC$120-160 per person including transportation and tastings. Book 5-7 days ahead during high season. Look for tours that include hands-on harvesting experiences and traditional lunch preparation. Morning tours (8am start) avoid afternoon heat.

Annandale Waterfall Hiking

January's reduced rainfall means safer hiking conditions on the 45-minute trail, while the falls still maintain good water flow from December rains. The forest canopy provides natural cooling, and morning hikes (start by 8am) avoid peak UV exposure. Swimming pools at the base are refreshing after the trek.

Booking Tip: Guided hikes cost EC$80-120 per person including transportation. Self-guided visits require only EC$10 entrance fee. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes for swimming. Trail can be slippery near the falls regardless of season - proper footwear essential.

St. George's Historic Walking Tours

January's dry weather and cooling trade winds make walking the steep streets of St. George's comfortable, especially in early morning or late afternoon. The historic fort and market square are less crowded before 9am and after 4pm when cruise ships depart.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free with downloadable maps. Guided tours cost EC$60-90 per person for 2-3 hours. Start early (8am) to avoid cruise ship crowds and afternoon heat. Fort George offers the best harbor views and historical context. Water breaks essential due to steep terrain.

Carriacou Day Trips

January's calm seas make the 90-minute ferry ride to Carriacou comfortable with minimal seasickness risk. The smaller island offers uncrowded beaches, traditional boat building workshops, and excellent snorkeling at Sandy Island. Perfect escape from St. George's crowds.

Booking Tip: Ferry tickets cost EC$25-35 each way, departing twice daily. Day trip packages including lunch and snorkeling typically cost EC$180-240. Book ferry tickets 2-3 days ahead during high season. Sandy Island trips can be arranged locally for EC$60-80. Check current ferry schedules in booking section below.

January Events & Festivals

Late January

Grenada Sailing Festival Regatta

Annual sailing competition featuring local and international yachts racing around Grenada's waters. Spectators can watch from Grand Anse Beach or Fort George, with evening parties at the marina. Local vendors set up food stalls and craft booths during race days.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

High SPF reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) - UV index reaches 9 and reflection off white sand beaches intensifies exposure

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts with UPF protection - essential for hiking and extended outdoor activities in strong tropical sun

Quick-dry hiking pants - for spice plantation tours and waterfall hikes through humid forest environments

Water shoes with good grip - essential for rocky beach entries, waterfall pools, and boat transfers to diving sites

Light rain jacket or packable poncho - afternoon showers still occur 8 days per month and can be sudden

Wide-brimmed hat that won't blow off in trade winds - baseball caps insufficient for tropical sun protection

High-quality sunglasses with UV protection - intense sunlight reflection off water and sand causes eye strain

Insect repellent with DEET 20-30% - mosquitoes active during brief evening calm periods and in forest areas

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid synthetic materials in 78% humidity conditions

Dry bag for electronics - essential for boat trips, waterfall visits, and sudden tropical downpours

Insider Knowledge

Cruise ship schedules are posted at the tourism office - plan major attractions visits on non-cruise days for 70% fewer crowds and better photo opportunities

Local buses (EC$2.50) run frequently until 8pm but avoid the 9am-4pm cruise ship rush when they're packed with day-trippers

Friday afternoon fish markets at St. George's offer the week's best selection and lowest prices - vendors eager to sell before weekend

Many restaurants offer 'locals menus' with prices 40-50% lower than tourist menus - ask servers about daily specials in EC dollars rather than USD

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking accommodation less than 6 weeks ahead - January is peak season with limited availability and premium pricing

Planning outdoor activities during cruise ship hours (9am-4pm) - attractions become overcrowded and prices increase

Underestimating UV exposure - many visitors get severe sunburn on first day due to intense tropical sun and cooling trade winds that mask heat