Gouyave in Grenada – A Fishing Town

Gouyave in Grenada – as you can imagine is named after it’s guava fruit trees. The French changed the name of the town from Charlotte Town (named after Britain’s Queen Charlotte) many years ago.

The town of Gouyave is one of the biggest fishing towns in Grenada. It’s also known across the island as an entertainment town and is the venue for the weekly ‘Fish Friday’. This fun event is held every Friday evening when it’s possible to sample the fishy dishes and entertainment that the town lays on for locals and tourists alike. PLEASE NOTE THAT FISH FRIDAY HAS NOT BEEN OPERATING SINCE THE PANDEMIC BUT WE ARE HOPING IT WILL BE REINSTATED SOON.

Gouyave also celebrates Fishermans’ birthday on an annual basis on June 29^th with a musical carnival atmosphere and more seafood than you can imagine!

The fish caught off the coast at Gouyave are plentiful and varied. Tuna, swordfish, mahi mahi, snapper, marlin and flying fish are hauled in every day and available at any one of the eateries in the town for a good price. A good lunch prepared with local seasoning, cooked in a variety of ways and can be enjoyed for as little as $5 USD or less.

Located on the west coast of the island, the streets are narrow and you’ll most likely find yourself going around the one way system when looking for somewhere to park for Fish Friday. Alternatively a taxi from the hotel won’t cost much or there is a car park in the centre of the town that charges just a few dollars for the evening.

In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Gouyave is also known for its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush green hills and stunning beaches, making it a popular destination for tourists who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving. One of the most popular beaches in Gouyave is the Grand Anse Beach, which is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand.

For those who enjoy hiking and exploring, Gouyave is also home to several scenic trails and nature reserves. The Concord Falls and Seven Sisters Waterfalls are two of the most popular attractions, offering visitors the chance to see Grenada’s stunning natural beauty up close.

Aside from its delicious seafood, Gouyave is also home to several historic landmarks and cultural attractions. The town’s Anglican church, which dates back to the 19th century, is an architectural gem and a testament to the island’s colonial past. Visitors can also explore the nearby River Antoine Rum Distillery, one of the oldest distilleries in the Caribbean, which has been producing rum using traditional methods since the 18th century.

Be sure to check out the Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station, one of the island’s largest nutmeg processing factories. For a mere US$1.00, you can take a tour of the factory and witness the workers hand-select, grade, and package the nutmegs. While on the tour, you can also visit the stencil room, where you can have a local jute bag customized with any words of your choosing. After the tour, make sure to explore ‘Nutmeg World’ for a variety of packaged spices, clothing, and other locally-made souvenirs to remember your experience by.

The Nutmeg Station is an important cultural and historical landmark located in Victoria, Grenada. It was once a bustling hub for the island’s nutmeg industry, which played a crucial role in the country’s economy. Today, the Nutmeg Station has been transformed into a museum, showcasing the history and importance of nutmeg to Grenada’s cultural heritage. Visitors can learn about the island’s nutmeg production, from harvesting and processing to the role it played in the country’s history. The museum also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase locally made nutmeg products, such as spices, oils, and soaps. The Nutmeg Station is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in learning about Grenada’s culture and history, and for those who appreciate the importance of nutmeg to the country’s economy.

Overall, Gouyave is a charming and vibrant town that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in trying the local seafood, exploring historic landmarks, or simply relaxing on the beach, Gouyave has something for everyone.

Gouyave in Grenada is definitely worth a visit if you want to see and experience a fun and lively town with a choice of bars. If you have a penchant for fish – then you won’t go hungry here!