This 5-acre (2-hectare private garden is home to some of the oldest mahogany trees in Grenada, as well as some of the island’s most treasured native plants and flowers. With the ocean bordering one side of the estate and the mountains facing the other, Sunnyside Garden is particularly scenic, making it a top garden spot in the Caribbean.
As you wander around Sunnyside Garden, some highlights include the Japanese area and koi fish ponds; exotic tropical flowers such as hibiscus and bougainvillea; and the variety of tropical fruit trees such as coconut, mango, and banana. Hummingbirds and other small local birds are a common sight, and large tortoises roam the grounds. Of course, the scent of spice plants on the “Spice Island,” as Grenada is known, follows visitors throughout. Nutmeg and cashews are also grown here. It’s best to visit with a guide who can point out the various exotic plants.
- Access to the private residence is by appointment or via an authorized tour operator only.
- Guided tours that focus on exploring the spices of the island including the De La Grenade Nutmeg Garden are available.
- You’ll need to walk along a steep, uneven driveway to reach the garden.
- The tropical climate and the rainy months in Grenada (from June to November) allow the island’s vegetation and flowers to flourish.
Sunnyside Garden is just outside the capital city of St. George’s on Grenada, off St. Paul’s main road. It’s about a 7-minute drive from the center of St. George’s to the garden, and about 10 minutes by car from the cruise ship port. Taxis are readily available; the public minibuses can get crowded, and most travelers recommend renting a car if you’re visiting Grenada for an extended stay.
March is considered the driest month in Grenada; this is when you might notice grasses browning and plants looking a bit wilted. But overall the dry season (from December to May) is the best time to visit in order to easily see the vibrancy of the flowers. The Poui trees bloom with yellow or pink flowers, and the bougainvillaeas are at their peak.
Just a short drive from the Sunnyside Garden, this expansive nutmeg garden produces products for the De La Grenade company. Here, you’ll experience more of the “Isle of Spice” and learn about the historical, traditional, and medicinal uses of spices and other local plants. You’ll also be able to sample beverage concentrates, syrups, jams, and homemade La Grenade liqueur.
