( CNN ) -- The tiny Caribbean nation of Grenada is more often associated with its unforgiving hurricane season and at times turbulent political history , however this week the island will be hoping that all the conditions are right for sailing . The 2012 Grenada Sailing Festival begins on Friday with races around the southern and eastern coasts , in waters the organizers say are some of the most challenging in the Caribbean . It is that same water that attracts visitors to the region . The crystal blue sea is a haven for sailors , swimmers and scuba divers , keen to race , relax and explore in the island that is known for being a yachting destination . Twenty one miles long and 12 miles wide , Grenada lies just north of Trinidad and Tobago . The island declared independence from Great Britain in 1974 , and today , much of its culture reflects the African roots of the black majority . Grenada is more commonly known as the `` Spice Island '' and is a major exporter of cinnamon and nutmeg . Climate . Around 110 , 000 people call Grenada home , with the largest town St George 's having one of the Caribbean 's most picturesque waterfronts . With the average temperatures teetering around the mid-to late 20s ( degrees ) , the climate is perfect to enjoy the outdoors and gaze out towards the ocean . However the region is not immune to hurricanes . Its long hurricane season , stretching from June until November , can sometimes be deadly . In 2004 , Hurricane Ivan ripped through the area , killing dozens in the region and causing widespread damage . Sailing . If the festival inspires yachting enthusiasts to set sail , then there are plenty of marinas and inlets to dock for overnight stays . Eight marinas are dotted around the Grenada , and little inlets offer boats a sheltered place to drop an anchor . The festival centers around Port Louis Marina , just outside the capital . Joshua Yetman , a photographer who lives on the island said , `` Society here is n't based on class or cash-flow - and those lack of barriers is openly evident during the sailing festival . Million dollar sailing yachts are crewed by visitors and locals alike . `` On any given vessel you might find a teacher , a doctor , an investment banker , or a leather-skinned yachtie who travels from festival to festival . '' Diving . The crystal clear water of Grenada makes the island 's surrounds ideal for diving . Reefs , shipwrecks and a sculpture park are features of the underwater world . Read more : The world 's weirdest places to scuba dive . Within the island 's protected marine area is Happy Valley , where authorities say divers will find a plethora of reef fish . But it 's not just the natural beauty that 's said to captivate . The Bianca C shipwreck has been called the 'Titanic of the Caribbean ' . The luxury liner sank outside the capital 's harbor more than half a century ago and has since become a spectacular dive site . The sculptures under the sea is another of the breathtaking man-made sites . They were created by renowned English artist Jason de Caires Taylor to promote conservation awareness . Beaches . Undoubtedly a highlight of Grenada , people are divided as to which beach is the best . But one thing they do agree on is that with turquoise water the glides up the long stretches of white sand , the beaches are idyllic . Visitors who are hungry for the typical Grenadian experience should head to Grand Anse where bars and restaurants are sandwiched between the clear waters and surrounding hills . Sydney : Making the most of Australia 's 'harbor city ' The fashion conscious should try the beach resort of Laluna which is co-owned by an Italian fashion publicist . Famous fashion names are said to have stayed in the cottages along the beach . However for those wanting a quieter approach , locals recommend the secluded L'Anse aux Epines Beach on the island 's south .
The 2012 Grenada Sailing Festival began on Friday . Organizers say the waters are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean . The crystal blue water is a haven for sailors , fishermen and sport divers , keen to sail , relax and explore .