Mandarin Oriental Canouan
Hotel Name: Mandarin Oriental Canouan
Number of Rooms: 26 suites and villas
Location: Mandarin Oriental Canouan is located on the island of Canouan, in the heart of the Grenadines. Historically inhabited by the Caribs, it later became a British colony; today, the island is a well-kept secret, offering privacy and natural beauty, with protected coral reefs ideal for snorkeling and diving and an 18-hole championship golf course. Accessible via a short flight from Barbados, St. Lucia, or Grenada.
The Mandarin Oriental Canouan, the brand’s first Caribbean outpost, luxuriates across a 1200-acre estate that occupies the northern half of the island; the resort’s 26 suites all offer an ocean view and outdoor space. It’s one of those places where the first order of business is to drop your bags, open the doors, and let the sea breeze start slow dancing with the gauzy curtains. While the suite décor is classically Caribbean, with splashes of pink that will speak to anyone who owns a Lily Pulitzer mini, the two- and three-bedroom villas are more contemporary, with sleek island touches in their exposed-beam ceilings and teak latticework. The epic treehouse spa is an escape of its own – the ten treatment rooms snake up the hillside and are reached by funicular (unless you opt for one of two overwater bungalows, and then you’re arriving at your massage by boat.)
What We Loved: Pristine Godahl Beach is a highlight, perfect for sunbathing or swimming in the crystal-clear waters (diving here is also excellent). The Tom Fazio-designed golf course is also a major draw - the number of Caribbean islands with white sand beaches, chic hotels, and a fabulous course is actually quite small, and we love a spot that keeps the golfers happy without sacrificing the experience of the rest of the group.
What We Didn’t Love: The resort's remote location and limited airlift means getting here is the biggest challenge (though that’s actually a benefit once you arrive, as it means more beach for you.)
Right For: Couples and honeymooners looking for an excellent spa and great beaches; families seeking space will love the Mandarin’s multi-bedroom suites and villas.
Wrong For: Travelers who prefer a more dynamic environment with easy access to nightlife and local attractions might find the resort’s remoteness limiting. If you’re looking for a quick getaway with a variety of off-site activities, we’d recommend Anguilla or St. Barths.
Best Time to Visit: December to May is the ideal time to visit, offering pleasant weather and optimal conditions for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the island.
TLF Tip: Snorkeling and diving is top notch in the crystalline waters around Canouan. Take a day trip by private yacht to the Tobago Cays Marine Park, a protected area home to vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.