Saint Lucia is a Caribbean island nation known for its stunning natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and unique cultural heritage. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Saint Lucia has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about visiting Saint Lucia, including transportation options, things to do, dining and accommodation options, and tips for making the most of your trip.
Saint Lucia will always have a special place in our hearts, as that's where Hunter popped the question! It was the perfect proposal on beautiful Hummingbird Beach.
Getting to Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is well-connected to major cities in North America and Europe, with regular flights from New York, Toronto, London, and other major cities. The island has two airports: Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in the south, and George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU) in the north. Most international flights arrive at Hewanorra International Airport, which is located about an hour's drive from the capital city of Castries.
If you're flying from the United States, direct flights to Saint Lucia are available from several major cities, including New York, Miami, Atlanta, and Charlotte. If you're flying from Canada, direct flights are available from Toronto and Montreal.
For travelers coming from Europe, several airlines offer direct flights to Saint Lucia, including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic from London, and Air France from Paris. If you're coming from other parts of the Caribbean, there are several regional airlines that offer flights to Saint Lucia.
Things to Do in Saint Lucia
Visit the Pitons
The Pitons are two iconic volcanic peaks that rise out of the sea on the west coast of Saint Lucia. The Pitons are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are one of the most photographed landmarks in the Caribbean. Visitors can hike to the top of Gros Piton, the larger of the two peaks, for stunning views of the island and the sea.
Note: the Gros Piton hike is HARD! It's essentially 2.5 hours of stair-stepper and it's hot and humid. Bring PLENTY of water if you decide to do this hike!
Catamaran Tour, Snorkeling and Diving
Right after Hunter proposed on Hummingbird Beach, we embarked on a full-day private Catamaran tour. We did our tour with Beateau Mygo and had a lovely time. The captain sailed us around the island, stopping for snorkeling and local lunch.
Saint Lucia is home to some of the best snorkeling and diving sites in the Caribbean. The island's crystal-clear waters are teeming with colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine life. Some popular snorkeling and diving sites include Anse Chastanet, the Pitons, and Soufriere Marine Management Area.
Sulphur Springs
The Sulphur Springs are a unique natural wonder located near the town of Soufriere. The springs are the site of the world's only drive-in volcano, and visitors can take a guided tour of the area to learn about the geology and history of the site.
Beaches
Saint Lucia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Some popular beaches include Reduit Beach, Anse Chastanet, and Sugar Beach.
Where to Stay in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia has a wide range of dining and accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. The island is known for its luxurious resorts, but there are also plenty of budget-friendly options for travelers looking for something else.
Luxury Resorts in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the Caribbean, including the iconic Jade Mountain Resort and the romantic Ladera Resort. These resorts offer world-class amenities, stunning views, and unparalleled service.
We stayed at the Stonefield Villa Resort and HIGHLY recommend it. It is on the Soufriere side of the island, which to us was much more enjoyable and less touristy than the other side of the island that is home to resorts like Jade Mountain. The property has just 17 French Colonial-style villas, each equipped with its own private pool. We LOVED our private villa and truly felt secluded from the world, while still being just steps away from amazing amenities such as the bar/restaurant, spa, and resort pool. The grounds were pristinely kept and the staff could not have been more friendly and accommodating.
Boutique Hotels in Saint Lucia
For travelers looking for a more intimate experience, Saint Lucia has several boutique hotels that offer personalized service and unique accommodations. Some popular options include the Cap Maison Resort and the Rabot by Hotel Chocolat.
Budget-Friendly Hotels in Saint Lucia
For those looking to enjoy the beauty of the island on a budget, there are some wonderful options. Harbor Club, Curio Collection by Hilton is in the Rodney Bay Village and features a pool, fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Other options include Coco Palm, and Palm Haven Hotel.
Best Time of Year to Visit Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is nestled in the eastern Caribbean Sea, so the scenery is gorgeous year-round. That said, some times of year will be better than others for visiting the island.
December to April: Dry Season and Festive Vibes
If you prefer sun-kissed days and minimal rainfall, the dry season from December to April is the perfect time to visit Saint Lucia. With temperatures averaging around 80°F (27°C), you'll have endless opportunities to bask in the warmth and explore the island's natural wonders. The dry season is also ideal for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities, as the clear waters provide excellent visibility.
Additionally, this period coincides with several exciting events and festivals. December kicks off the festive spirit with the annual Festival of Lights, where the island sparkles with vibrant displays and joyful celebrations. In February, Saint Lucia's Carnival takes center stage, immersing visitors in a whirlwind of music, parades, and colorful costumes. This season offers a vibrant and culturally rich experience for travelers.
May to June: Shoulder Season Serenity
For those seeking a quieter and more budget-friendly experience, the shoulder season of May to June presents an excellent opportunity. During this time, Saint Lucia experiences a slight decrease in tourist crowds, making it an ideal period for those looking for a more intimate getaway.
While there may be occasional showers during these months, they are usually brief and followed by sunny spells. It's a great time to explore the island's natural wonders, including the iconic twin Pitons, rainforest hikes, and the Sulphur Springs in Soufrière. Plus, with fewer visitors, you'll have more flexibility in choosing accommodations and can take advantage of lower rates.
July to November: Adventure and Refreshing Rain
The summer and early fall months from July to November bring the rainy season to Saint Lucia. However, don't let the rain deter you from experiencing the island's beauty. The lush greenery and occasional showers give the landscape a refreshing makeover and offer a unique perspective on Saint Lucia's natural wonders.
This period is ideal for adventure enthusiasts, as the island offers thrilling activities such as zip-lining, waterfall hikes, and rainforest treks. Additionally, keep in mind that this is the prime time for eco-tourism, as you can witness sea turtles nesting on the island's shores.
We visited Saint Lucia in mid-November and the weather was gorgeous. The locals told us that on days with rain in the forecast, it would be 'liquid sunshine,' and they were right! When it did rain, the sun stayed out and it was really gorgeous. Led to some amazing rainbows, too!
How Long to Stay in Saint Lucia
We stayed in Saint Lucia for 4 days and felt it was the perfect amount of time. It was a great mix of exploring while also taking time just to relax by the pool. We're also not the type of people that can stay still for too long while traveling...lol.
Takeaways from Saint Lucia
After visiting, it was clear why this is such a popular destination for couples and honeymooners. The island is stunning, there's a wide array of world-class resorts, the locals are kind and accommodating, and the views/adventures/waters are some of the best in the world.
We definitely think it's a spot worth visiting and perfect for a romantic getaway!
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