Grenadines Islands: Geography and Population of the Archipelago
The Grenadines are a stunning chain of islands in the Caribbean, split politically between two sovereign nations: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. This archipelago consists of a diverse mix of inhabited hubs, private retreats, and protected marine reserves, each offering a unique glimpse into the region's geography.
Key Facts
- The total population of the Grenadines within Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is approximately 10,234.
- The dependency of Grenada (Carriacou and Petite Martinique) has a population of 10,900.
- Carriacou is the largest island in the entire Grenadine chain.
- The islands are categorized into Northern and Southern groups, as well as various uninhabited territories.
Islands of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
The Grenadines Parish of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is divided into inhabited and uninhabited zones, featuring a variety of administrative capitals and private estates.
The Northern Grenadines
The northern section is anchored by Bequia, the most populous island in this group, and the private island of Mustique.
- Bequia: Area of 18.3 km (7.1 sq mi) with a population of 5,300 and its capital at Port Elizabeth.
- Mustique: Area of 5.70 km (2.20 sq mi) with a population of 800 and its capital at Lovell.
The Southern Grenadines
The southern region consists of several inhabited islands that serve as key residential and administrative centers.
- Union Island: Area of 9 km (3.5 sq mi) with a population of 2,700 and its capital at Clifton.
- Canouan: Area of 7.60 km (2.93 sq mi) with a population of 1,200 and its capital at Port Charlestown.
- Mayreau: Area of 1.20 km (300 acres) with a population of 280 and its capital at Old Wall.
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Uninhabited Islands
Beyond the main residential hubs, the parish includes numerous uninhabited islands, some of which are private or protected. Notable examples include the Tobago Cays, which serves as a marine reserve, and private islands such as Palm Island (Cactus Hill) and Petit Saint Vincent (Telescope Hill).
Islands of Grenada
The Grenadine chain also extends to a dependency of Grenada, consisting of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, along with several smaller, non-inhabited islands.
Inhabited Territories
This region is dominated by Carriacou, the largest island in the chain, and the smaller Petite Martinique.
- Carriacou: Area of 32.73 km (12.64 sq mi) with a population of 10,000 and its capital at Hillsborough.
- Petite Martinique: Area of 2.37 km (590 acres) with a population of 900 and its capital at North Village.
Non-inhabited Islands
Grenada's portion of the Grenadines also includes several smaller landmasses, such as Ronde Island (the largest of the uninhabited group at 8.1 km), Caille Island, Saline Island, Large Island, and Frigate Island.
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Grenadines Island Summary
| Island | Nation/Dependency | Area | Population | Capital |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carriacou | Grenada | 32.73 km | 10,000 | Hillsborough |
| Bequia | St. Vincent & Grenadines | 18.3 km | 5,300 | Port Elizabeth |
| Union Island | St. Vincent & Grenadines | 9 km | 2,700 | Clifton |
| Canouan | St. Vincent & Grenadines | 7.60 km | 1,200 | Port Charlestown |
| Mustique | St. Vincent & Grenadines | 5.70 km | 800 | Lovell |
| Petite Martinique | Grenada | 2.37 km | 900 | North Village |
| Mayreau | St. Vincent & Grenadines | 1.20 km | 280 | Old Wall |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the largest island in the Grenadines?
Carriacou is the largest island in the Grenadine chain, with an area of 32.73 km (12.64 sq mi).
How is the population distributed between the two nations?
The Grenadine islands within Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have an estimated population of 10,234, while the dependency of Grenada has a population of 10,900.
What is the purpose of the Tobago Cays?
The Tobago Cays, covering 0.25 km (62 acres), function as a marine reserve.
Which islands in the Northern Grenadines are private?
Mustique (capital Lovell), Palm Island (Cactus Hill), and Petit Saint Vincent (Telescope Hill) are listed as private islands.
What are the capitals of the Southern Grenadines in Saint Vincent?
The capitals are Clifton (Union Island), Port Charlestown (Canouan), and Old Wall (Mayreau).