Explore Saint Lucia: top things to do, where to stay and what to eat

A fizzing carnival season, aquatic adventures and a food scene built on boat-fresh fish and tropical fruit – there are endless tempting reasons to visit Saint Lucia. Active types can climb the iconic Gros Piton for breathtaking panoramic views or hike through rainforest trails to discover hidden waterfalls, while beach bums can sink into white sand lapped by the Caribbean Sea. Swish resorts tumble down hillsides and look over crystal-clear bays, while private villas offer the ultimate in luxury. Whether you’re after a beach escape, buzzing nightlife or boots-on adventure, we've rounded up the very best of this Caribbean island.

Saint Lucia is no stranger to famous holidaymakers. A-list celebrities including Oprah Winfrey, Mick Jagger and Beyonce have all vacationed here, attracted by the laid-back atmosphere and the quiet luxury of the island’s five-star hotels, where ocean views, private plunge pools and spas offering world-class treatments come as standard.  

Wellness is a big trend here, and the island is filled with therapeutic plants, fruits, honey and minerals used in beauty products and tonics intended to benefit the mind and body. Meanwhile, the mud baths and hot pools at Sulphur Springs Park – home to the world’s only drive-in volcano – are said to treat everything from eczema to sunburn.  

Music and food are at the heart of Saint Lucian culture and they combine beautifully at the Friday Night ‘Jump Up’ street party in Gros Islet, which includes live music and food stalls offering delicious barbecue and traditional island dishes. When the sun goes down the nightlife starts up around Rodney Bay and Castries, the capital, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a night of the week without a band playing somewhere.

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

After a night of dancing, you can recover on some of the best beaches in the world, which – unlike some islands in the Caribbean – are almost all available to the public. Anse Chastanet, located west of Soufriere, offers a mile of white sand ringed by palm trees and turquoise warm waters. Or there's the peaceful sandy coves of Marigot Bay, sheltered on three sides by forested slopes with cafés, restaurants, bars and shops nearby.

Watersports fans can head to the Atlantic side of the island and locations like Anse Des Sables Beach, where the wind and waves offer thrilling conditions for surfers.  

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

Explore Soufriere 

This charming historic town in the southwest of the island is located near the Pitons and is well worth exploring. Here you'll visit Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, where you can wander through tropical flora and take a dip in the mineral-rich waters of the Diamond Falls baths, which date to the 1780s. Don't miss a visit to Sulphur Springs Park for a guided tour and a soak in the therapeutic mud bath.

Or, head out on the relatively mellow Tet Paul Nature Trail for panoramic views of the Pitons, the Caribbean Sea and the verdant surrounding countryside. 

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Discover incredible landscapes 

Located near Rodney Bay, Pigeon Island in the northern part of Saint Lucia is a historic park with beaches, hiking trails and remnants of military structures. Climb to the top of the Fort Rodney Lookout for sweeping views across land and sea.

You can discover Saint Lucia's lush rainforests through a wide array of activities: zipline through the treetops or take a guided hike to discover hidden waterfalls with Rainforest Adventures, or go on a thrilling ATV ride to explore off the beaten path.

See musical icons at the Saint Lucia Arts and Jazz Festival

Held annually in May, the Saint Lucia Arts and Jazz Festival hosts some of the world’s most respected musicians, who play at various venues across the island from Pigeon Island National Landmark to Rodney Bay Marina. The line-up offers something for every type of music fan and around 10,000 visitors attend daily over the 10-day festival.

It proudly champions Caribbean acts like reggae dancehall legend Buju Banton and Ezra D'Fun Machine, who brings the energy with a troupe of dancers and MCs. For jazz fans, there’s usually a night dedicated to notable local and international figures. Recent performers include Saint Lucian Luther Francois, who played to a rapt audience with an orchestra of local musicians including youth players and military bands.

The closing night is usually reserved for the main headliners, and previous years have seen Grammy-winning artists such as George Benson, Jill Scott and Kool & the Gang. In 2023 Shaggy and Sting performed as an unlikely but unmissable duo, duetting on their respective hit songs ranging from Roxanne and Englishman In New York to Angel and It Wasn’t Me.  

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

Despite the exuberant atmosphere, the festival is a family favourite, lined with food stalls and bars and offering a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Make sure to wear sensible footwear as the ground in the park is uneven and it can be dark in places. Getting to and from Pigeon Island is best done by boat to avoid the long traffic queues at closing time. You can book pre-arranged water taxis through your hotel or check the tourist board website to find drop-off points near where you're staying. 

Let go at the Saint Lucia Carnival 

The Saint Lucia Carnival is a vibrant explosion of colour, music and revelry that takes place annually. Held at various venues across the island, including Derek Walcott Square in Castries and the National Cultural Centre, this celebration showcases the rich cultural heritage and spirited energy of Saint Lucia.

It typically takes place in July, energising the streets with parades filled with extravagant costumes and lively calypso music. Previous headline acts have included Soca sensations Machel Montano and Kes.

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

Get out on the water 

For a fun and easy afternoon, hop on board an open-top speed boat with Knotty Girl Boat Tours to see the island from the water, while sipping tropical cocktails and (if you’re lucky) spotting dolphins and whales. The knowledgeable crew usually bring a cooler of Piton beers, rum punch and soft drinks and impart their extensive local knowledge while playing music. You'll explore the island's awesome coastline, including coves used as filming locations for Pirates of the Caribbean, while snaking past fishing villages and through holes in the cliffs, stopping to admire local wildlife.

If you prefer something more sedate, try a morning of bamboo rafting within the protected mangroves of the Roseau Valley. Welcome drinks are served before the crew expertly manoeuvres these basic yet comfortable vessels with a long pole, similar to those used for punting or on the gondolas of Venice. This eco-friendly form of transport allows access to the nooks of these remarkable trees without startling the birds, fish and butterflies. Some packages offer lunch on a private beach cooked by a local chef and the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters before you are picked up and returned to base. 

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

Saint Lucia is a paradise for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts too. Anse Chastanet Marine National Park and the Soufriere Marine Management Area are popular spots, offering vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Discover the stunning Pigeon Island Beach where adventure awaits with Seatrek, who offer an exhilarating 'snuba diving' experience blending snorkeling and scuba.  

READ MORE: 50 experiences you didn't know you could have in the Caribbean

Cas-en-Bas in the north is a haven for kitesurfing – take lessons with Kitesurfing St Lucia guided by renowned local instructor Beth Lygoe, who set up the company. Meanwhile at Reduit Beach you can indulge in non-motorised watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing, or bounce around on the beach’s inflatable assault course at Splash Island Water Park. 

Make your own chocolate in historic surroundings 

Established in 1896, Howelton Estate sits within eight acres of vegetation with a Victorian-era plantation house at its centre. After a tour of the house, where you’ll find out more about the history of cocoa production on the island, you can try a handcrafted bean-to-bar chocolate-making workshop under the guidance of the house chocolatier. Using a pestle and mortar, you’ll be led through the process and get to smell and taste the chocolate at various stages until you leave with your very own bar.

Afterwards, visit the boutique where all the estate’s hand-crafted products are available, such as hand-dyed batiks and natural soy candles scented with cocoa, coffee and lavender. There's also a café serving coffee, cocktails and juices made from fruit grown on the estate. 

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

From luxurious resorts enveloped by lush tropical landscapes to boutique hotels offering personalised experiences, Saint Lucia has something for every traveller with options that cater to different preferences and budgets. 

The north of the island – including the areas of Rodney Bay and Gros Islet – is known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling marina, restaurants and shops. It boasts a lively atmosphere and is a popular choice for those seeking entertainment and dining options. The south, on the other hand, feels more secluded and tranquil and is perfect for those seeking a serene and intimate escape in natural surroundings.  

Accommodation prices may vary depending on season and availability, so it's advisable to check with the specific properties for the most up-to-date information. 

Hotels 

Windjammer Landing is a family-friendly resort made up of more than 360 Mediterranean-style villas, rooms and suites that cascade down 65 hillside acres, overlooking Labrelotte Bay and the Caribbean. After a $12 million (£9.2m) renovation project, the refreshed villas and new raft of luxury modern waterfront properties offer complete comfort and chic Instagram-worthy interiors. While the resort, like much of Saint Lucia, involves some steep hills, there are minibuses available 24/7 to ferry guests between the main hotel amenities and the accommodation, and it means every villa has an amazing view.

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Aqua aerobics and kids’ club activities take place around the main pool but you can always head to the private beach for some quiet time, where you can swim out to the hammocks that sway above the warm water. All the parasols come with a flag that you plant in the sand when you’re ready to order a cocktail or a snack, so there really is no reason to move. But if you do find yourself feeling restless there’s beach volleyball, ping pong tables, a home gym and free daily exercise classes, plus a tennis court with the option of lessons.

Additionally, guests can book excursions including ziplining, horseback riding and catamaran trips to Soufriere’s Sulphur Springs. If that sounds too strenuous, they also offer a number of wellness packages that incorporate exercise, meditation, healthy eating and therapeutic treatments at their gorgeous on-site spa. Practise your downward dog surrounded by native hummingbirds in the hilltop garden, or work on your breathwork during a mindful midnight dive as part of the Full Moon Ritual Package. 

Windjammer

Food is taken very seriously here, and there are different dining options for every mood and palette. Beachside restaurant Jammer's offers local specialities like breadfruit balls, pepper shrimp and pineapple and mahi mahi caesar salad, while the more laidback Embers serves tacos, jerk chicken sliders, sandwiches and cocktails. Special mention must go to attractive new restaurant the Perch, which boasts an illuminated tree at the centre of its dining space. It's perfect for a romantic meal overlooking the water.  

For the ultimate in luxury, Jade Mountain in the southwest provides unparalleled views of the iconic Pitons from suites that extend out into the open air. It regularly tops lists of the best hotels in the Caribbean and has numerous awards to prove it. Its sumptuous suites each have private infinity pools and 24-hour butler service.

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If you prefer a more secluded and intimate experience, Stonefield Villa Resort, situated in the southwest near Soufriere, is a near-perfect retreat. This boutique resort has private villas amidst lush tropical gardens, featuring stunning views of the Pitons. With a focus on wellness, Stonefield provides luxurious spa treatments, yoga classes and farm-to-table dining at its restaurant the Mango Tree. The restaurant attracts non-guests from all over, who come to try the healthy dishes with an island twist, like local fish chowders, root bowls and salads. 

Private villas 

The island also has a range of luxurious private villas ranging from hillside retreats with panoramic views to beach houses that open onto the sand. They tend to be the more expensive option, but you’re guaranteed private pools, spacious living areas and plenty of uninterrupted downtime with your loved ones.  

Villa Xhale, Cap Estate: Located in the ‘Beverly Hills’ of Saint Lucia, this contemporary four-bedroom luxury villa comes complete with an indoor waterfall, an infinity pool overlooking Anse Galet Bay and an outdoor lounge and firepit. Guests can enjoy the quiet gated residential community, private chef and bespoke services, or work out in the home gym or on the open-air yoga deck. The exclusive price point means almost anything can be arranged, from picking up groceries to spa treatments.  

Courtesy of Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

Villa Susanna, Cap Estate: This huge hillside villa complex offers multiple houses that can accommodate between two and 14 people. With luxurious amenities and a private infinity pool, Villa Susanna is perfect for those seeking elegance and seclusion.  

Budget options 

While the island is known for its luxurious resorts, Saint Lucia does have some budget-friendly options that provide comfortable and affordable stays for travellers. The Saint Lucia Travel Authority’s directory (Collection de Pepites) is a handy resource for finding affordable hotels, resorts, villas and guesthouses.  

Bay Gardens Inn, Rodney Bay: This modern hotel offers comfortable air-conditioned rooms – some with their own kitchenettes – in a great location not far from Reduit Beach and Rodney Bay Marina. Guests can enjoy the hotel's two pools and regular evening entertainment by local performers.  

Bay Gardens Inn

Mango Plantation, Castries: A classic Caribbean-style house dating back more than 100 years, Mango Plantation has a traditional wraparound veranda with beautiful sea views. There are also four bedrooms and two bathrooms, plus an outdoor barbecue grill, backyard, dining area, private parking and furniture for outdoor relaxation.  

Cozy Cottage, Soufriere: Perfect for a couple, this one-bedroom, one-bathroom modern cottage is conveniently situated in Soufriere’s town centre, within walking distance of supermarkets, banks, restaurants and beaches. Offering everything you need to self-cater, amenities include a kitchenette, living room, spacious en-suite bathroom, outside rain shower, AC unit, ceiling fans, washing machine, Netflix and wifi.

Pineapple House, Marigot Bay: This charming wooden cottage can be found amidst fruit trees and coconut palms on the scenic south ridge above Marigot Bay and comes with a private porch. A leisurely 20-minute walk leads to the marina village, where you'll find a choice of good bars and restaurants. Perfect for solo travellers or couples, the self-contained cottage is part of the 'Summerbreeze' property, where the hosts reside year-round with their three cats. Amenities include wifi, AC, kitchen appliances, private pool access and mid-week servicing.

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Saint Lucian food and drink reflects the island's rich cultural heritage. Local cuisine features a delightful blend of flavours, incorporating fresh seafood, tropical fruits, spices and influences from African, French and Indian traditions. From mouthwatering dishes like green fig and saltfish to refreshing rum punches and coconut water, the cuisine has its roots in the fertile agriculture of the many family farms and small holdings that cover around 18% of the island.

You may see ‘ground provisions’ on menus, which covers staple carbohydrates like yams, plantains, cassava and breadfruit. Try the beloved dish known as callaloo – leafy greens served with grilled fillets of tilapia fish or chicken – and the spicy pumpkin soup that's traditionally eaten on a Sunday, no matter how hot the weather.

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

Fruit is abundant and delicious here. Saint Lucia grows and exports coconuts and bananas around the world and is nicknamed the mango-shaped island for good reason – they grow in their thousands and are almost always on the menu. Try zingy prawn, mango and avocado tacos, sweet mango daiquiris and mango ice cream, while sipping coconut water fresh from the tree.

Where to eat 

Whether you're seeking home-cooked comfort, fine dining elegance or local street food delights, Saint Lucia offers a wide range of dining options for every diet and budget. 

For a taste of authentic Saint Lucian cuisine, seeking out local home-cooking is a must. Many guesthouses and small establishments offer traditional dishes, allowing you to savour local favourites like callaloo soup and hearty seafood stews. 

If you're looking for a fine dining experience, the island has an array of upscale restaurants too. The Boucan Restaurant at Hotel Chocolat offers a unique chocolate-inspired tasting menu, where each dish incorporates the island's cocoa flavours into savoury and sweet creations. From cocoa-crusted venison to decadent desserts, it's a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.

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Don't miss the traditional roti shacks scattered across the island, which are usually filled with regular customers grabbing a working lunch. These small eateries serve up delicious and filling rotis: a Caribbean delicacy consisting of a warm, flaky flatbread wrapped around fillings like curried chicken, shrimp or vegetables. 

For a taste of local cuisine in a casual setting, Golden Taste Restaurant is a popular choice. Chef Robbie serves up mouthwatering dishes like jerk chicken, curry goat and seafood according to what’s in season, and the friendly atmosphere and affordable prices make it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. 

Named after the island's staple foodstuff (a starchy root vegetable also known as taro), Soufriere’s Dasheene Restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Pitons. This award-winning restaurant serves up a fusion of Caribbean and Californian-style cuisine, with an emphasis on local ingredients. Don't miss the signature dish – the green fig and saltfish, a Saint Lucian delicacy. Also in this pretty town, local favourite Stone Yard is a family restaurant that serves up a buffet of delicious home-cooked food like fried plantain, fish with peppers and breadfruit. 

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

Overlooking the marina in Marigot Bay, the menu at Jacques Waterfront depends on what the local fishermen bring the chef that day. So alongside jumbo prawns and black Atlantic salmon, you can find octopus and conch used in traditional creole dishes.

Owned by the same family for more than 40 years, The Coal Pot in Castries is a renowned waterfront restaurant known for its romantic ambience and delicious seafood dishes. It offers a blend of French cooking techniques and Caribbean flavours, plus stunning views of the harbour. Make sure to reserve a table in advance.

English is the official language, while Saint Lucian French Creole (Kweyol) is also spoken by 95% of the population.

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, and visitors with a valid UK driving licence can use it for up to three months.

The official currency of Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). However, US dollars are widely accepted and major credit cards are also commonly used in hotels, restaurants and tourist establishments.

The ideal time to visit Saint Lucia is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This period offers pleasant weather with a lower chance of rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach exploration. Saint Lucia can experience hurricanes and tropical storms between June and November.

Saint Lucia has a lot of mosquitoes, so bring insect repellent and take necessary precautions to prevent bites.

No visa is required for stays of up to six weeks. All travellers will need a passport valid for at least 90 days following your departure date from Saint Lucia.

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Lead image: Saint Lucia Tourism Authority