Travelers often say they want that beachy, “barefoot,” flip-flop-focused hideaway in the Caribbean. And then they still end up at a large resort. But on the lovely white-sand sliver called Portici Beach in Grenada, you can find exactly the kind of low-key retreat you’re dreaming about.
This is Laluna, and it’s one of our favorite places on one of our favorites islands: Grenada (and one that fits right in with its sustainable ethos). It’s a tiny escape, with just 16 rooms (and some villas, too), set on a secluded, corner of the island in Morne Rouge, and “barefoot” is the first word that stands out.
Because the emphasis here is on the vibes, on the experience; it’s deliciously unpretentious, but it’s decidedly sophisticated, too. It’s for travelers who know what they want (and what they don’t want), and prize the essences of Caribbean travel: the sensory delights of shaking palm trees and lapping waves, the privilege of being able to hear your footsteps; the soundtrack of real birdsong.
It’s hard to classify the design style here, in a good way: everything from the West Indies to Bali, and a mix of rooms and villas.
The food gets its inspiration from the Italian owners, and that means a very cool fusion of local and continental flavors and ingredients, where you can eat with the breeze from the beach.
There are watersports, too, whether you want to try your hand at snorkeling or take a paddle out into the Grenadian blue.
As for the rooms, they’re rustic-chic, mostly with nice decks, four poster beds and views tailor-made for Grenadian sunsets.
But this isn’t just for pure beach bliss. There’s a bigger story: the wellness factor, which is off the charts. First, there’s an outstanding spa with every manner of treatment on offer, from Balinese rituals to a “Mediterranean ritual massage.” There’s a solid gym with Technogym equipment; And then there’s the party piece: what just might be the most impressive yoga program at any hotel, at least one of this size, all set in the hotel’s spectacular beach yoga pavilion.
So Laluna is that rare hotel that pulls off dual objectives: you can relax, in the classical sense; or you can do something for your soul, too. And that’s what really stood out on my last visit here — you really feel the difference, feel the energy here. It’s different.
You should note that this is not an adults-only resort, but it is adult-friendly, we would say, with kids over 12 welcome and a very quiet, very serene feel.
If you want a little extra degree of privacy, you can go for one of the stunning villas, a mix of options from smaller two-bedroom cottages-style villas to some pretty spectacular luxe estates, including some with infinity pools and high-level kitchens. (They do come with daily housekeeping, in a welcome touch).
It’s the tiny Caribbean beach hotel you’ve been thinking about. And this is your chance to actually do it.
What about prices? You can find rates at Laluna starting at around $485 right now.
