Saint Lucia Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit in Saint Lucia, must-try dishes, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia, a small island in the Caribbean, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. It is a former British colony, which gained independence in 1979. Saint Lucia is located in the Lesser Antilles, in the eastern Caribbean Sea, and covers an area of 617 square kilometers. The island has a population of approximately 180,000 people, and the official language is English.

List of Places to Visit in Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia has a range of attractions that cater to different interests. Here’s a rundown of the top places to visit in Saint Lucia:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Pitons - the iconic twin peaks of Saint Lucia are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see attraction for all visitors;
  • The St. Lucia History Museum - a great place to learn about the island’s rich history and culture, including its Amerindian and African roots;
  • The Rodney Bay Marina - a scenic marina with a range of shops and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

Natural Attractions of Saint Lucia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sulphur Springs - the world’s only drive-in volcano, where you can take a relaxing mud bath and enjoy the therapeutic properties of the natural sulphur hot springs;
  • Pigeon Island National Park - a beautiful natural park located at the northwestern tip of the island, with nature trails, beaches, and historic ruins;
  • Marigot Bay - a picturesque bay surrounded by lush green hills and beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint Lucia

For adventurous visitors, Saint Lucia offers an array of hiking and biking routes with scenic views of the island’s natural beauty.

  • Tet Paul Nature Trail - a beautiful and easy hiking trail that takes you to the top of a hill with stunning views of the Pitons and the island’s lush greenery;
  • Edmund Forest Reserve - a challenging trail that takes you through Saint Lucia’s dense forests and offers incredible panoramic views of the island’s natural beauty;
  • Gros Piton Nature Trail - a challenging but breathtaking hike that takes you to the top of Gros Piton, one of Saint Lucia’s iconic twin peaks.

Best Things to Do in Saint Lucia: Activities and Tours

  • Whale watching - take a boat tour and spot humpback whales and dolphins in the waters around Saint Lucia;
  • Scuba diving - explore the island’s beautiful coral reefs and marine life with a scuba diving tour;
  • Zipline adventure - experience the thrill of ziplining above Saint Lucia’s lush forests and landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saint Lucia

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary that covers all the must-see attractions in Saint Lucia:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Pitons and explore Sulphur Springs
2 Take a boat tour and go whale watching
3 Go for a hike at Tet Paul Nature Trail and explore Marigot Bay
4 Explore St. Lucia History Museum and hike the Edmund Forest Reserve
5 Take a scuba diving tour and explore Pigeon Island National Park
6 Enjoy a zipline adventure through Saint Lucia’s lush forests
7 Relax on one of Saint Lucia’s beautiful beaches and buy souvenirs to take home

Food and Drink Scene of Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia’s cuisine is a blend of African, Indian, French, and Creole influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Fig and Saltfish - a popular dish made with boiled green bananas and salted codfish, often served with a tomato-based sauce and vegetables;
  • Callaloo - a hearty soup made with leafy green vegetables, coconut milk, and sometimes seafood or chicken;
  • Creole Fish - a delicious fish dish cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and other herbs and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Piton Beer - a light, refreshing beer that is brewed locally on the island;
  • Rum Punch - a classic Caribbean cocktail made with rum, fruit juice, and spices;
  • Coconut Water - a refreshing and healthy beverage that is rich in electrolytes and enjoyed straight from the coconut.

Where to Stay in Saint Lucia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Saint Lucia has many options for accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some top options:

  • Luxury Hotels: Ladera Resort, Jade Mountain Resort, and Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort;
  • Mid-Range Hotels: Bay Gardens Beach Resort and Spa, Coco Palm, and Marigot Bay Resort and Marina;
  • Budget Hotels and Hostels: Harmony Suites, The Ginger Lily Hotel, and Back Packers Paradise.

What to Buy in Saint Lucia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Batik Clothing - beautiful and colorful clothing made using the ancient wax-resist dyeing technique, often sold in markets and souvenir shops on the island;
  • Saint Lucian Chocolate - made using locally grown cocoa beans and known for its rich, deep flavor and smooth texture;
  • Island Rum - a classic Caribbean rum that is distilled locally on the island and available in many varieties.

Local Culture and Customs of Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia is a welcoming and friendly island, and visitors are encouraged to embrace its unique culture and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Dress Code - Saint Lucians dress modestly, so it’s essential to cover up when visiting places of worship and public places;
  • Greetings - Saint Lucians greet each other with a warm smile and handshake;
  • Tipping - tipping is common in Saint Lucia, and it’s customary to leave 10-15% of the bill in restaurants and for other services.

Best Time to Visit Saint Lucia

The best time to visit Saint Lucia is from mid-December to mid-April when the weather is dry, and the temperatures are comfortable. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, and prices are at their peak. The rainy season lasts from June to November, but this is also the best time to find deals on accommodations and activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saint Lucia

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages;
  • Learn about the history and culture of the island;
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended on the beach or in public places;
  • Drink tap water;
  • Smoke in public places.

Safety and Health

Saint Lucia is a relatively safe island, but visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. Here’s what you need to know about safety and health in Saint Lucia:

Safety in Saint Lucia

  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in secluded areas;
  • Use common sense when withdrawing cash from ATMs;
  • Be cautious of pickpockets in tourist areas and markets.

Health in Saint Lucia

  • Before you travel, make sure you are up to date on routine vaccinations;
  • Protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases, such as Zika, by using repellent and wearing protective clothing;
  • If you need medical assistance, the Tapion Hospital in Castries is the best option.

Getting to Saint Lucia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Saint Lucia is easily accessible by air and sea. Here’s what you need to know about getting to the island:

Airports Near Saint Lucia

  • Hewanorra International Airport - located in Vieux-Fort, on the southern end of the island, and is the main airport for international flights;
  • George F.L. Charles Airport - located in Castries, on the northern end of the island, and is used for regional flights.

Bus Stations Near Saint Lucia

  • La Place Carenage - located in downtown Castries and is the main bus station for the island’s public transportation system.

Other Options

  • Ferry - There are ferry services available from Martinique, St. Vincent, and Dominica;
  • Car - visitors can rent a car at the airports or in major towns to explore the island independently.

How to Get Around in Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and taxis, that can take you to most places on the island. However, renting a car is the best option, allowing you to explore the island’s natural beauty at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Saint Lucia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Saint Lucia is a gateway to a range of fascinating destinations in the Caribbean. Here are some nearby excursions and destinations to consider:

  • Martinique - a French territory known for its beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine, and historic architecture;
  • Barbados - a beloved tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals;
  • Grenada - known as the “Spice Island” for its abundant supply of nutmeg and other spices.

Conclusion

Saint Lucia is a unique and wonderful destination with much to offer visitors. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, there is no shortage of things to see and do on this beautiful island. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, good food and drink, or a relaxing beach vacation, Saint Lucia has it all. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to have an enjoyable and memorable trip to Saint Lucia.

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    Vieux Fort