It lies immediately south of St. Vincent island, separated from it by a channel approximately 180 m (590 ft) wide.

The name goes back to the former British Governor of St. Vincent William Young.

Immediately south of Young Island, less than 55 metres (60 yd) from the island, stands the Fort Duvernette, dating from the 18th century and partially carved out of a 60-metre (200 ft) conical rocky outcropping.

Young Island can only be reached by a small ferry that travels regularly to and from St. Vincent.

The island is privately owned, and prior to 1974 work began on building a luxury holiday resort.