Bequia Info
Personal Impressions
Bequia (pronounced Beck-way) is a meeting place for yachties from all over the world. Only a few thousand people live on this sleepy Grenadine island. I found the atmosphere very laid-back and the locals welcoming and friendly.
Port Elizabeth, the main town, has small shops, restaurants and a strong maritime character. Bequia's history is tied to fishing, boatbuilding, sailing and whaling. The island also has beautiful sand beaches and enough restaurants and social life to feel lively without becoming a large resort destination.
For me, Bequia is an excellent place for a few relaxing days or perhaps a week. I would combine it with other islands rather than spend an entire long Caribbean holiday only here, because part of Bequia's appeal is precisely its small scale.
Port Elizabeth and Admiralty Bay
Port Elizabeth is the service and social centre of Bequia. Ferries dock here, yachts anchor across Admiralty Bay and water taxis move between the waterfront and nearby beaches. The Belmont Walkway makes it easy to continue on foot toward Princess Margaret Beach.
Beaches
Princess Margaret Beach is close enough to Port Elizabeth to reach on foot or by water taxi, yet it feels much more secluded than the town waterfront. Lower Bay has a relaxed beach atmosphere with restaurants and accommodation nearby, while Friendship Bay on the southern side feels more open and exposed.
A Maritime Island
Traditional boatbuilding and sailing remain central to Bequia's identity. The Easter Regatta is one of the best times to see this heritage alive, with local double-enders racing alongside visiting yachts.
Bequia also retains a controversial whaling tradition. It should be understood in its historical and cultural context rather than treated casually as a tourist curiosity. Modern whaling is internationally regulated and remains ethically contested.
Getting There
Bequia is the easiest Grenadine island to reach independently from Saint Vincent. Bequia Express and Bequia Fast Ferry operate several sailings between Port Elizabeth and Kingstown on most days, with fewer departures on Sundays and public holidays. Schedules can change, especially around holidays, so check the operators before travelling.
J.F. Mitchell Airport (BQU) handles small regional aircraft and charters. For many visitors, however, the ferry is part of the pleasure because it arrives directly in Port Elizabeth.
Who Will Like Bequia?
Bequia works particularly well for sailors, couples, independent travellers and anyone who wants restaurants and social life without a large resort strip. It is also an excellent first Grenadine island because the logistics are easier than on many of the islands farther south.