Happy Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Guide
Happy Island isn't your typical city; it's a man-made island bar located just off the coast of Union Island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This unique destination, crafted from conch shells, offers a truly unforgettable experience. Imagine sipping on a rum punch while surrounded by turquoise waters, with the gentle Caribbean breeze whispering through the air. It's a place where time slows down and the worries of the world melt away. Happy Island is more than just a bar; it's a testament to ingenuity and a symbol of Caribbean resourcefulness. Built by Janty Ramage, it's a living, breathing example of sustainable tourism. The island's intimate setting fosters a sense of community, making it easy to strike up conversations with fellow travelers and locals alike. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly unique and authentic Caribbean experience.
Food & Cuisine
While Happy Island itself primarily focuses on drinks, you can often find light snacks available. However, the real culinary adventure awaits you back on Union Island. Clifton Harbour boasts a variety of restaurants offering fresh seafood, local Caribbean dishes like callaloo soup and roti, and international cuisine. Explore the local markets for fresh produce and spices to get a true taste of the island's flavors. Ask your water taxi driver for recommendations; they often know the best spots for authentic Vincentian food.
Nightlife
Happy Island is the nightlife! The bar is the main attraction, offering a relaxed and convivial atmosphere. Enjoy the sunset with a cocktail in hand, listen to reggae music, and soak in the island vibes. While Happy Island closes at a reasonable hour, Union Island offers further nightlife options in Clifton Harbour, with bars and restaurants staying open later into the evening.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Happy Island and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. You'll experience sunny skies, lower humidity, and less chance of rain. This is also peak tourist season, so expect slightly higher prices and more crowds. However, the pleasant weather makes it well worth it. Avoid the hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
Transportation
Happy Island is accessible only by boat. Water taxis are readily available from Union Island, particularly from Clifton Harbour. Negotiate the fare beforehand. The journey is short, typically only a few minutes.
Airport
The nearest airport is Union Island Airport (UNI), located on Union Island. From the airport, you'll need to take a taxi to Clifton Harbour, where you can then hire a water taxi to Happy Island. The water taxi ride is very short, only a few minutes.
Attractions
Happy Island Bar
Happy Island Bar is a unique man-made island bar constructed from conch shells. It's a must-visit for a truly unique Caribbean experience. Enjoy drinks, music, and stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters. It's a great place to relax, socialize, and soak up the sun. A truly unforgettable experience!
Day Trips
A cluster of five uninhabited islands, the Tobago Cays are a protected marine park renowned for their stunning coral reefs, turquoise waters, and abundant marine life. This is a must-do for snorkelers and divers! Swim with sea turtles, explore the vibrant coral gardens, and relax on the pristine beaches of these idyllic islands. A truly unforgettable Caribbean experience.
Approximately 2 hours by speedboat from Happy Island. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, Mustique offers a glimpse into a world of luxury and natural beauty. While privacy is paramount, day visitors can still enjoy the island's stunning beaches, upscale restaurants, and lush landscapes. Bask in the sun at Macaroni Beach, indulge in a delicious lunch at Basil's Bar, and soak up the exclusive atmosphere of this unique island paradise.
Approximately 1 hour by ferry from Kingstown (St. Vincent), then a short water taxi to Happy Island. Canouan is an up-and-coming gem in the Grenadines, boasting luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and a championship golf course. While it caters to a high-end clientele, day visitors can still enjoy the island's natural beauty and tranquility. Explore the charming Charlestown, relax on the white sands of Godahl Beach, or take a hike to Mount Royal for breathtaking views.
Approximately 1.5 hours by ferry from Kingstown (St. Vincent), then a short water taxi to Happy Island. Bequia, the second largest of the Grenadine islands, offers a charming blend of Caribbean tranquility and maritime history. Explore the quaint harbor town of Port Elizabeth, relax on pristine beaches like Princess Margaret Beach, or hike to the top of Mount Pleasant for panoramic views. Bequia is a perfect escape for a day of relaxation and exploration.
Approximately 45 minutes by ferry from Kingstown (St. Vincent), then a short water taxi to Happy Island. Union Island, known as the "Tahiti of the West Indies," offers a vibrant blend of Caribbean culture and stunning natural beauty. Explore the bustling town of Clifton, hike to Fort Hill for panoramic views, or relax on the beautiful beaches of Chatham Bay. With its lively atmosphere and diverse attractions, Union Island is a perfect day trip destination.
Approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Happy Island. Tobago Cays
Travel Time
Activities
Mustique
Travel Time
Activities
Canouan
Travel Time
Activities
Bequia
Travel Time
Activities
Union Island
Travel Time
Activities