Union Island

Union Island is the last inhabited island in the Vincentian Grenadines before Grenada's waters, and it looks different from the rest of the chain: sharp volcanic peaks rising to Mount Taboi at over three hundred metres, giving it a profile that sailors use as a landmark. Clifton is the main town and the clearance port. A shallow lagoon behind the reef on the eastern side has made it a kitesurfing centre.

Background

The island covers 9 km², is about 3 miles long and 1 mile wide, and sits about 200 kilometres to the west-southwest of Barbados, with Carriacou and the Grenada mainland in view to the south. Mount Taboi, the highest peak, reaches 999 feet. Clifton and Ashton are the two main towns, and the population is just under 3,000. English is the official language, though some merchants in Clifton also speak French and German. Flights from Union Island Airport reach Saint Vincent and some other Grenadines at home, and Barbados, Carriacou, Grenada and Martinique abroad. The Union Island gecko, discovered in 2005, lives only here and is listed as critically endangered.

Source: Wikipedia, "Union Island"

Highlights

• The peaks - the sharp volcanic profile rising to Mount Taboi.
• Clifton - the main town and clearance port for the southern chain.
• The kitesurfing lagoon - the shallow water behind the reef on the eastern side.
• The Grenadine position - the last inhabited island before Grenadian waters.

When to go

December to May is the dry season with the steadiest trade wind for kiting. Hurricane season runs June to November. Ferries run on limited days.

Things to know

Hurricane Beryl in 2024 caused severe damage across the island and recovery is ongoing; facilities may be limited. Flights are small and weather-dependent. Prices are high for what is available.

Nearby

Chatham Bay is west, and Palm Island is southeast.

Key facts