st lucia travel reviews

9 things to know before visiting St Lucia

Oct 3, 2023 • 7 min read

Make your trip to St Lucia the vacation of a lifetime with our top insider tips from a local in the know © Maridav / Shutterstock

Traveling to St Lucia is an experience like no other, from the volcanic beaches and emerald-dipped landscape to the mouthwatering cuisine.

I was born and raised on the island and still find it impossible to exhaust the wonders of my favorite Caribbean jewel. I will always book a window seat on the left side of a flight back home just to see the magnificent Pitons slowly come into view, and I will never tire of searching for the best bakes and accras outside of my grandmother's.

St Lucia has a well-earned reputation as one of the most tranquil and exquisite places to visit, but if you've never been, you might have some questions. What is the best way to take it all in? What attire suits the tropical climate? What about the hurricane season? What if you’re flying solo?

Here are a few of the most important things to know before you pack your bags for the Helen of the West Indies.

1. A greeting goes a long way

St Lucians are very courteous people, as you will quickly observe. You will hear some variation of "good morning," "good afternoon" or "good night" (which is interchangeable with "good evening") when you enter any store, public bus, restaurant or pretty much anywhere.

Not reciprocating might draw some curious looks and get you branded with the dreaded “unmannerly” label. When the chance arises, don’t be afraid to engage in some light banter when interacting with local residents, especially vendors or people who are providing some sort of service. The community's elders are typically treated with respect as well.

2. Marijuana was only recently decriminalized

The casual use of marijuana is a common Caribbean trope. In reality, St Lucia decriminalized – not legalized – the personal use of small amounts of 30 grams of cannabis or less in 2021 . A second piece of legislation cleared the records of people whose only crime was being caught with less than 30 grams of cannabis.

St Lucia's government has discussed plans to launch a public awareness campaign, a medical marijuana program, and a bill to legalize cannabis production on the island. These plans, however, are in the early stages of development.

3. Always carry some cash

Credit and debit cards are accepted forms of payment at most major businesses, hotels and various other establishments. However, cash is still the most common form of payment, and the official currency of the island is the Eastern Caribbean dollar.

When riding public transportation or purchasing from vendors along the roadside, having cash to hand will be especially helpful. You can get by with US dollars or euros as well, but it is a good idea to have some EC dollars on hand just in case.

You can find ATMs and banks all over the island to exchange currency, but verify whether your home bank will charge any foreign transaction fees for using your card abroad before you leave.

4. The roads are a maze of sharp turns and bends

The island’s roads are filled with unexpected turns, and there are a few potential hazards you should be aware of before getting behind the wheel . St Lucians drive on the left-hand side of the road, which is a departure from the United States, Canada, Brazil, Vietnam and multiple European and African countries.

Drivers frequently make sudden stops in traffic without warning – especially public buses – and speeding is common. Keep an eye out for motorcycle riders who may weave between other cars.

5. Hurricane season is not off-limits

St Lucia is usually warm and balmy throughout the year, but the hurricane season – which coincides with the rainy season – begins in June and runs until November. But it is very rare for it to rain nonstop for a whole day or several days at a time.

Even though St Lucia is technically in the hurricane belt, the strongest part of the belt is to the far north of the island. Most of the time, hurricanes in the Atlantic get stronger and more dangerous as they move west, away from St Lucia and toward the United States.

So, the hurricanes that do hit the island are usually much weaker than those that wreak havoc on islands to the northwest and on the US mainland.

However, it is still important to know what to expect during hurricane season. Be sure to check the latest weather forecasts and hurricane precautions before making any final plans for your trip.

6. Dress for the occasion

During carnival celebrations, revelers shed layers of fabric, seemingly in a nod to the tradition’s roots in emancipation. But there is a limit to liberation on the island’s beaches . It is a major no-no to go topless or nude on the beach.

The majority of St Lucians identify as Christians and attitudes are quite conservative. All Catholic holidays and sacraments are observed throughout St Lucia and churches can be found everywhere.

Other denominations include Anglican, Methodist, Baptist, Seventh-Day Adventist and Jehovah's Witness. If you wish to join residents in worship, there is no specific dress code but err on the side of modesty – moderate-length dresses and skirts, blouses, and trousers. Think casual and comfortable but not revealing. Remember to throw a cover-up over your swimsuit if you’re heading into a restaurant or any other place of business.

7. Is St Lucia welcoming to the LGBTQIA+ community?

St Lucia, like the rest of the Caribbean, has a generally conservative attitude toward the LGBTQIA+ community. Public displays of affection (such as hand-holding or kissing) between both same-sex couples and heterosexual couples are rare.

Certain homosexual acts are still illegal in St Lucia, though the law is rarely enforced. Travelers identifying as LGBTQIA+ should be aware of cultural norms and understand that showing affection in public may draw unwanted attention.

However, the island has been taking steps towards fostering inclusivity. St Lucia became one of the few countries in the Caribbean to provide legal protection to same-sex couples who are victims of domestic violence on March 8 when its Parliament passed the historic Domestic Violence Act, 2022 .

Additionally, it is the only country in the region that expressly forbids discrimination in applying such laws based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

8. Don’t be afraid to feed the strays

Dogs and other pets are welcome at various Airbnbs, apartments and villas. It’s also not unusual to find a few cats roaming freely around the premises of some hotels and outdoor restaurants.

But larger pets like dogs are not generally allowed into business places and eating establishments. You will, however, run into stray dogs along the beaches, particularly in the Pigeon Island area. Those dogs are generally friendly and accustomed to receiving food from kind visitors and locals.

9. Is St. Lucia safe for solo female travelers?

Traveling around St. Lucia by yourself is generally safe. Public transportation, such as taxis and buses, is usually a risk-free option for travelers. But like many popular tourist destinations, crowded areas are prime spots for petty theft like pickpocketing and bag snatching.

And as busy as the capital city Castries is during the day, it’s much more deserted at night. You should always take some measures to protect yourself while traveling.

• Always have your cell phone handy in case of an emergency. If you need a local SIM card, pre-paid mobile phone cards are available island-wide at telecommunications companies Digicel and FLOW.
• Do not get in a car with a complete stranger, even if they seem nice. If possible, use public transportation or a taxi. Authorized buses have green number plates beginning with the prefix M and taxis sport light blue plates with a TX prefix.
• Avoid carrying around large sums of cash. Instead, pay with a debit or credit card where possible and just keep small bills to pay for snacks and drinks where cards aren't accepted.
• Never leave your accommodation without telling someone you trust where you are going and when you expect to return.

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Home » Central America » Travel Safety

Is Saint Lucia Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Saint Lucia is one of the Caribbean island paradises that is becoming increasingly popular with independent travellers. It’s no wonder: with its natural wonders including the UNESCO-approved twin peaks of the Gros and Petit Pitons, the island is a marvel to explore.

Combine this with pristine beaches, a laid back lifestyle, plenty of rum, street parties and Creole culture and cuisine and we have Saint Lucia – a destination that’s so much more than just all inclusive resorts. At the same time, however, it’s not quite the paradise that everybody thinks it is…

Violent crime against tourists isn’t unheard of  and neither is petty theft. Robberies and break ins also do occur. Then there’s the natural world to worry about such hurricanes. It seems paradise comes at a price!

Please don’t let it put you off, though. We’ve created this epic guide to staying safe in Saint Lucia, so you can travel around with plenty of tips and information that will put your mind at ease. Hopefully this guide will make getting to grips with real life in this island nation a whole lot easier.

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How Safe is Saint Lucia? (Our take)

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Saint Lucia is an Eastern Caribbean gem, with a volcanic landscape, plenty of beaches and rainforests thrown in for good measure. It’s a very popular destination for people who rock up on cruises and honeymooners, but independent travellers do also find their way to this island – and they have a fun time.

Of course, it isn’t all palm trees and pina coladas. There is real life on this island and there is crime, too; not just petty crime, but serious crime has made the news a few times – especially when tourists have been the targets.

Along with that, there is the natural world to be aware of. The hurricane season peaks in August/September and there are active volcanoes on the island.

That doesn’t mean that it’s an unsafe place to visit; plenty of people come here, have a blast, and then leave without any trouble whatsoever. It’s more the kind of place where local transport will be rickety and minibuses speed around winding lanes.

It’s the kind of place where you’ll casually get offered drugs (not aggressively), and locals travelling around in the backs of trucks with machetes. It’s all good.

Generally, Saint Lucia is fairly safe, but let’s get into the details…

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Saint Lucia Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Saint Lucia. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Saint Lucia.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

The answer is: yes, it is. “Most visits are trouble free,” according to the UK Government, “but there have been incidents of crime including murder, armed robbery and sexual assault.”

When it comes to visitors from other countries, they completely outnumber the local population. That doesn’t mean that all is good here.

Though there is nothing pressing that is particularly stopping tourists from visiting Saint Lucia right now, the gradual rise in violent and serious crime over the past few years is cause for some concern.

There have also been a number of high profile violent crimes reported from Saint Lucia, with wealthy tourists being the victims even within the confines of their own accommodation. All in all, robbery of all kinds is an issue in Saint Lucia and tourists are often targets.

In response, the Ministry of Tourism has collaborated with the Royal Saint Lucia Police to put in place a system of security at hotels, with regular checks and safeguarding measures put in place to help protect tourists from the threat of crime.

It’s good to be aware that muggings, car rental robberies, thefts from hotels, harassment, and other crimes towards tourists do happen. We’re not saying this to scare you, just to let you know that Saint Lucia isn’t a playground: it’s a real place with its own issues.

Aside from the threat of crime from other humans, there is also nature to contend with, which can cause some safety issues on the island.

Hurricane season runs from June to November and can batter this part of the Caribbean; if you are heading to Saint Lucia at this time of year, you should pay attention to the local news and follow international advice. Be aware of flooding, transport disruptions, flight cancellations.

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Saint Lucia, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, we’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Saint Lucia below.

Rodney Bay, or Rodney Bay Village is a little paradise spot in the North of Saint Lucia. Known for the laid-back vibe, super white sand beaches and quite a lively nightlife as well, it’s the ideal spot for first-time visitors or those that want to stay safe AND enjoy a bit of entertainment. 

It’s actually a man-made lagoon and you can find plenty of great accommodation options here. It’s one of the major tourist hubs, which means that police presence and security is higher than in other parts of Saint Lucia. While you’ll still need to keep your wits about you, a visit to Rodney Bay should be pretty safe and chill. 

Pigeon Island and Cap Estate 

Just like Rodney bay, Pigeon Island and Cap Estate are located in the North as well. It’s a bit more high-end than the first location. You can also find a massive National Park here. The park is filled with stunning nature, incredible beaches and naval ruins. You can even find some interesting pirate and war history here. 

A bit further from Pigeon Island, you can find Cap Estate. With luxurious properties and a massive golf course, this might be more a holiday destination than the typical budget backpacker hotspot. Still, it’s one of the safest and most relaxed areas in Saint Lucia.

If you look closely across the sea you might even see the island of Martinique across the sea! Martinique is also a cool place to stay if you have the time to visit.

Soufriere is a super popular destination in the South of Saint Lucia, thanks to plenty of attractions, activities and beautiful beaches. Note that the sand is a little bit darker in the South, so don’t expect blinding white sand. However, this makes the South a little bit more remote and therefore more peaceful and relaxed. There’s not as much nightlife as in the North, which makes it ideal for families and couples. 

While hotels and resorts are pretty expensive, you also get plenty of guesthouse and homestay options. This makes Soufriere especially popular among budget backpackers as well. From here, you can easily explore the rest of Saint Lucia’s South. Just keep in mind not to drive after dark! 

Places to avoid in Saint Lucia

Unfortunately, not all places in Saint Lucia are safe. You need to be careful and aware of your surroundings pretty much anywhere you go in the world, and the same goes for visiting Saint Lucia.

Areas with high rates of crime are the capital, Castries – including the neighbourhoods of Wilton’s Yard, Leslie Land, Chaussee Road, Marchand, Morn du Don – as well as the waterfalls in Anse la Raye.

As we mentioned above, staying out at night, no matter where you are located is a really bad idea. If possible, avoid it completely or opt to go out with a big group. 

It’s a bit of a no-brainer, but if an area or a street looks like tourists don’t belong here, you should probably stay away too. Stick with the busy tourist areas or get yourself a guide. Wandering off alone is pretty much the worst thing you could do. 

It’s important to know that Saint Lucia can be a safe place, but a bit of caution and research before you start your travels will go a long way. If you want to increase your safety during your stay, read on for our insider travel tips. Stick to those and you won’t have a single issue in Saint Lucia.

Saint Lucia Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Saint Lucia may seem like a scary place from what we have already said, but in fact, nothing could be further from the truth. It is a friendly, laid back Caribbean destination where locals are up for a chat and where the weather is (almost always) fine.

However, there are some things that you should keep in mind when you are visiting to make sure that you have the as safe a trip to Saint Lucia as possible…

• Don’t wander around at night by yourself – especially in isolated areas.
• It’s better to take a taxi than walk anywhere at night – we have more tips on Saint Lucian taxis later on in this article
• Be careful if you’re going out partying in local spots  – you might become a bit of a target; read reviews online of good spots
• Be prepared when you head out hiking  – the heat can really get to you, so make sure you’re prepared and have plenty of H20
• Be direct with street sellers  – if you don’t want to buy anything. A polite “no, thank you” will suffice – or ignore and walk on
• Protect yourself from street crime  – don’t make yourself a target! Protect your valuables while traveling by leaving them at home or (safely) in your accommodation.
• Don’t flash your cash  – don’t carry around a huge wad of cash with you
• Try to blend in  – obviously we’re not saying “be a local”, but we strongly suggest not dressing like a tourist
• Take care when swimming in the sea  – there can be deceptively strong currents and there aren’t always lifeguards or warning flags. If you’re not sure, you should ask a local
• Stay away from drugs  – there are severe penalties for all drug offences
• Consider a “throw down” wallet  – it may seem excessive, but having a dummy wallet filled with a few dollars that you can hand over in the event of a mugging is better than only having your actual wallet filled loads of money and your credit cards
• Wear a travel money belt   – more on this later, but having your money hidden on your person means having no wallet to worry about in the first place
• Leave your camouflage clothing at home  – it’s an offence (i.e. against the law) to wear it here, even for children
• Hands off  – public displays of affection between any type of couple will raise some eyebrows.
• Beware of ATMs and foreign exchange places – only withdraw and change money at reputable vendors
• Get yourself a good travel sim card that works in Saint Lucia  – we don’t need to explain the benefits of having a phone with data!
• Cover up against mosquitoes  – there is Dengue fever present, as well as Chikungunya virus and a risk of Zika virus. So cover up with loose clothing at dusk, use repellent with DEET, because who wants to get bitten by them anyway?
• Monitor local weather between June and November  – hurricane season can cause havoc
• Respect the sun  – don’t lay out in the hottest part of the day, cover up as much as possible, stay hydrated, wear a hat, slather on sunscreen because (trust us) sunstroke is horrible
• There are snakes in Saint Lucia  – one venomous one in particular: the Fer de Lance (brown, black and pale yellow bands with a big head). Watch where you tread!

There you have it – a whole lot of safety tips for travelling around Saint Lucia to bear in mind when you touch down on the Caribbean island.

Solo travelling is great. We are all for it. Not only is it rewarding to grow as a person whilst travelling alone, but it can also lead you to get in touch with communities and local life that you might miss out on otherwise.

This Caribbean island is definitely known as a couples getaway and family holiday destination. However, it can be done and it is safe to Saint Lucia travel alone. Here’s how…

• Whilst there aren’t many party hostels , or many hostels at all for that matter, there are some good options for solo travellers out there. Saint Lucia has a number of family-run hotels and guesthouses for travellers and backpackers on a budget .
• With that in mind, insider knowledge is key. Ask a local friend, the staff at your hotel, resort, or hostel – even your guide or taxi driver – for their local tips on where to go , where’s safe, what to eat and what to do.
• Get your phone stocked up with apps . We’re are talking everything from earthquake apps and Maps.me (offline maps), to Google Translate, currency exchange apps (like XE), and online banking.
• When you are walking around in local areas, walk around purposefully like you know where you’re going (even if you don’t). Avoid walking around looking like a lost tourist who has no idea what’s going on because, chances are, this will make you a target.
• Let people back home know your travel itinerary and tell them if it changes, or if you plan to stay in just one place. Having your friends and family back home know where you are is a lot safer than nobody knowing where you are.
• Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone : we’re talking your hotel, a taxi company, emergency services, your parents. These are numbers that you’ll want to be able to call without scrolling through your contacts, so save them with a # before their name to make sure they appear at the top of your contacts.
• If you’re out and about on a day trip or out exploring by yourself, make sure you are back at your accommodation before dark – especially if you have no contingency plan for after dark travel.
• Travel with enough money . Take credit cards, back up credit cards, a dummy wallet with old credit and debit cards (and a few notes) in it… Just make sure that you are financially stable whilst you’re away, because there’s nothing quite as stressful as trying to micromanage your bank from afar – and those calls get expensive, too!
• If somebody does try to rob you, just hand it over . Your petty cash is not worth dying for, so diffuse the danger by just giving them what they want.
• Be careful with going out at night partying. You are just going to put yourself in danger if you go out by yourself . If you do want to do this sort of thing, head out as a group with likeminded people from your accommodation – never alone.
• Speaking of which, try to hit up beaches outside of your resort in groups , too; unattended items very easily go missing (especially when you’re by yourself), so make sure you travel around in a group.
• Keep your important documents, including your passport, safe . They’re important for a reason. Don’t take it out and about with yourself.

Make sure you stick to the basic tips of safe travel : don’t put yourself in bad situations, stay in secure accommodation, and always let people know what you’re up to.

Saint Lucia may not be the best destination in the world for solo female travellers. Yes, it’s true that you have to be more than a little bit careful in certain areas, however, you should still be fine.

There are all sorts of ways to enjoy Saint Lucia as a solo female traveller, so let us run through those with you so that this laid back destination seems like a less daunting option…

• It’s a good tip for solo female travellers to not go where no one else goes . If a beach isn’t busy with locals or tourists, don’t go; if a road is completely deserted in a town (even in broad daylight), don’t walk along it by yourself. Remote areas like this are just riskier . End of story.
• Get yourself a guide . It’s good company, a go-to local expert and will act as security. However, do make sure to get a fully vetted, certified guide and only book through a reputable agency even if it means paying a bit more.
• Be very careful if you want to go out partying. It’s really not a good idea to go out by yourself , so if you want some night time fun, it’s best to go as a group.
• Dress to fit in as much as possible . It’s not a good idea to walk around wearing flashy and/or revealing clothes when you’re a solo female traveller. Err on the side of modesty.
• Choose your accommodation wisely . There are a lot of options, from Saint Lucia’s gorgeous private villas or all-inclusive resorts to a family-run guesthouse or budget hotel. Make sure that you read reviews super carefully.
• Once you arrive at your accommodation, make sure that it is secure . Make sure that your doors and windows can lock. Make sure that those locks are adequate.
• We always recommend that solo female travellers trust their gut . Being a female you will most likely be used to being on guard anyway, but that feeling comes into play especially when you’re in a situation that feels like it isn’t right.
• One great thing about travelling solo as a female is the amount of female-specific resources there are on the internet. Get online and join groups like Girls Love Travel and Women Who Live On Rocks (that’s women who live in the Caribbean), ask questions, for advice, and general tips. People often want to meet up on these groups, so take them up on it and get shown around a local area.
• Make sure your phone is charged at all times and that you have a data plan that will last you. Both these things will be crucial in case of emergencies, so maybe get yourself an extra battery pack and pick up a local sim if you need it for the data.

For any sort of solo traveller, Saint Lucia doesn’t exactly stick out as the number one destination. It seems like, and in some ways is, more of a place for cruise ships, couples, honeymooners and families who stay at all-inclusive resorts. However, solo travellers do come here.

We’ve covered the main safety concerns already, but there are a few more things to know. Read on for more detailed information on how to have a safe trip to Saint Lucia.

Is Saint Lucia safe to travel for families?

Despite the levels of crime, Saint Lucia is actually perfectly safe for families to visit. With all of its all-inclusive resorts, hotels and Airbnbs , you will have no trouble having a comfortable adventure when you and your children visit this Caribbean island.

There is plenty going on here to keep both adults and children entertained during your vacation – that means nobody is going to be getting bored here.

Although there’s not a ton of children specific attractions located on the island (don’t expect crazy amusement parks and soft plays), there is a lot on offer for a fun-filled whale of a time.

When it comes to safety, pay attention to the weather, not just in terms of hurricane season and downpours, but the sun.

Young children are affected much more than adults by the symptoms of sunstroke. Ensure that your children don’t spend too long in the sun, take frequent shade breaks, apply sunscreen and are covered up with sun hats and T-shirts.

Another thing to note is the necessity of protecting against mosquito bites . Again, children are more at risk than adults, so ensure to use a child-friendly mosquito repellent, burn mosquito coils (if possible), and make sure your little ones are covered up.

When it comes to food, don’t worry: there will be plenty on offer for even the pickiest of eaters at the all inclusive resorts and hotels. That said, there are plenty of places to eat outside of the resorts which are family friendly and cater to children, such as La Petit Peak in Soufriere, with local Creole food and great views.

Other than that, being such a well-trodden destination – especially for families – you should have absolutely no worries if you’re planning a trip to Saint Lucia!

Is it safe to drive in Saint Lucia?

Driving in Saint Lucia is not always straightforward, but it can be done. They drive on the left hand side of the road here (good news if you’re from the UK) and the main roads of the island tend to be in a pretty good state.

To be able to drive in Saint Lucia, first of all, you will need to purchase a Temporary Driving License; you can buy these at the car rental company you plan to use and costs $22 USD. However, by some accounts, it seems as though some car rental agencies are accepting International Driving Licenses.

Hiring a car is most easily done at the airport or in a larger town (we would recommend pre-booking, for ease and possible savings). Note that you have to be over the age of 25 years in order to rent a car, and have at least 3 years worth of driving experience under your belt.

Speaking of hazards, when driving be careful at night time; in fact, it’s best not to drive after dark as a lot of the roads are unlit and there are hazards that you will be unable to see.

Roads can also be quite slippy after a heavy downpour, so take extra care when heading out after rain.

Though you will notice pedestrians standing at the side of the road trying to get a lift ( travelling by hitchhiking is fairly common in Saint Lucia), it’s not a good idea for you – a tourist – to be picking up passengers. As a side note, make sure you keep your car doors locked when you’re driving.

It is pretty safe to drive in Saint Lucia; you can do it and it is pretty fun to do so, but unless you have the necessary experience or you love driving, we would recommend sticking to taxis.

Is Uber safe in Saint Lucia?

No Uber here!

You’re left with either using local taxis or trying out the recent addition to the private transport scene in Saint Lucia: PayCab.

This is an app that you can download that, not surprisingly, works like Uber. It partners you with licensed taxi drivers and any qualified driver across the island.

It began in Antigua in 2018 and helps people earn a second income. Apparently they have strict eligibility guidelines in place, but being such a new company it’s difficult to tell at this stage just how legitimate and effective PayCab ends up being on the island.

Are taxis safe in Saint Lucia?

Taxis are a pretty standard way to get around in Saint Lucia. There are a load of licensed taxis who will ferry you around the island pretty comfortably… and a load of taxis which aren’t licensed, too.

You can pick up a taxi at the airport, at the harbour, in front of hotels, at taxi ranks in towns – those sorts of places.

Be aware, however, that they are not metered. Instead, there are standard taxi fares between (most) destinations on the island, but it is important to agree on a fare in the local currency before you set off on your journey.

Rates can vary depending on a number of factors such time of day, what day it is, whether it’s a holiday or not, how much luggage you have, and how many people are in your party. Basically, the consensus is that the drivers just make the rate up on the spot, so it’s important to don your haggling hat and negotiate a good price.

Authorised taxis can be spotted by their light blue number plate with a “TX-” at the start of the registration number.

Apart from occasional scams, taxis are a good way to get around. In fact, in many cases, you can arrange for a taxi driver to take you around for the day, which is something that can be organised through your accommodation and a great way to see the island with a local.

Taxis are safe in Saint Lucia, for the most part, there aren’t too many scams going on – the most unsafe thing you could do is get into an unlicensed taxi.

Is public transportation in Saint Lucia safe?

To be honest, public transportation in Saint Lucia isn’t that developed. Your only option is a bus – minibuses, to be exact.

If you want to get out and about and see the island’s culture and soak up local life, then you’re probably going to want to take advantage of the island’s minibus network.

In towns and urban areas, the bus will stop at bus stops, but if you’re somewhere a little rural between towns there won’t be any specific bus stops. In these instances, if you want to catch a bus, you’ll have to wave one down. When you want to get off, you simply say, “Stopping, driver!” It’s as simple as that.

There are, in fact, three major bus routes that run around the island: the Vieux Fort to Soufriere route; the Soufriere to Castries route; and the Castries to Vieux Fort route.

It’s generally pretty easy to get around if you know what you’re doing. A big tip from our side would be to ensure you can make your way back to your accommodation before the buses stop running.

Another way to get around is a water taxi. You can hop on one of these on the west side of the island. The routes for this water-based system of public transport usually run between Rodney Bay in the north to Soufriere or Marigot Bay in the south.

To conclude, the public transportation in Saint Lucia is safe. Just be aware of your belongings, try not to get lost, plan routes ahead of the journey, and make sure you are able to get on a bus to your accommodation before they stop running.

Is the food in Saint Lucia safe?

The Caribbean islands have some pretty tasty food on offer and Saint Lucian cuisine is no different. The food on this island is full of deliciously exotic fruits, exciting spices and succulent meat. The Creole culture means a mouthwatering mix of European and African cuisine.

Here’s how to eat your way around like a pro…

• Your hotel will most likely offer an abundant array of dishes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between. Whilst this is all well and good, sometimes what’s been sitting around in a metal tray all morning won’t be as good for you as, say, a freshly cooked plate of Creole cuisine from outside your resort compound.
• Make sure to eat at places where food has been freshly cooked; if you can see something being fried up right in front of you, chances are it won’t make you feel ill later on.
• If you want to go somewhere local to eat, then make sure you go somewhere that’s filled with locals. If local people are filling up the place, then it should be good.
• Though it’s not always possible, try to choose places to eat that look clean. At the same time, if there’s a clean place with no customers next to a place that looks rougher around the edges, but which is packed with people, chances are the “dirty” one will be a better bet.
• When you eat is a factor in how good the food will be, too. Going at lunchtime will mean a high turnover of customers, a hot grill, and things being freshly cooked.
• Don’t go all in! We know the food is amazingly tasty here, but the spiciness of it all, coupled with the probably extreme change in diet with eating food you’re not used to, can do crazy things to your stomach.
• This is very simple tip, but it’s a good one: wash your hands. It’s a no-brainer.
• Some dishes to try: accra (fried fish, usually salted cod, served with greens), green fig salad (like a potato salad, but with boiled green bananas in place of potatoes), the national dish of green figs and salted fish (unripe bananas and preserved fish), French-influenced bouyon (a red bean soup with meat and vegetables), and cocoa tea and bakes (breadfruit served with chicken or fish).

If you’re at all a foodie worth your salt, you should head out and explore the culture of the island by trying out its national dishes; not only will it blow your tastebuds away, but you may meet some friendly locals along the way. Always finish up with a Piton – the local lager here.

Can you drink the water in Saint Lucia?

You can drink the tap water in Saint Lucia. It’s chlorinated and totally safe to drink.

Don’t add to the world’s plastic problem and instead bring a refillable water bottle, where you can fill up at your hotel or accommodation as much as you want; they may even have filtered water, too.

If you feel like being on the extra safe side, boil your water vigorously for a minute or more – though it really doesn’t need to be done.

Is Saint Lucia safe to live?

More of a vacation destination than somewhere that’s famous for being a liveable expat haven, Saint Lucia is – in fact – a pretty safe place for people to be living.

As with a lot of nations within the Caribbean,  there are issues with crime and poverty. Living somewhere is often very different to vacationing there.

A good place to base yourself if you are a foreigner looking to move here is somewhere between Cap Estate and Rodney Bay. Bonneterre is also nearby and has a mix of easy access to entertainment and a population of young professionals and young families.

There’s a lot of nightlife you can get involved with in Saint Lucia, and the nature is always beautiful to explore – from the rainforests of the interior, to the beaches. However, that natural world is offset by human problems like a high unemployment rate and not enough jobs to go around.

Jobs aren’t easy to come by on the island. It’s probably a good idea to be a digital nomad , already employed by somebody on the island, or otherwise remote working.

As a tourist visiting the island, you are unlikely to encounter crime. However, the reality is that the longer you’re somewhere, the more likely something is to happen.

Generally, the people are pretty laid back and friendly. There’s big rum drinking culture here and beer is abundant too.

The best thing to do if you’re planning on staying on Saint Lucia for the foreseeable future is to head online, check out expat groups, Facebook pages, ask questions and get some insider knowledge.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Is it safe to rent an Airbnb in Saint Lucia?

Renting an Airbnb in Saint Lucia is a great idea. And it’s perfectly safe, as long as you read the reviews. Staying at an Airbnb during your trip will also open up new possibilities and options to experience the country. The local hosts are known to take great care of their guests and give the absolute best recommendations of what to do and what to see. Local knowledge always goes a long way, so be sure to reach out to your hosts if you’re unsure about how to fill up your Saint Lucia itinerary!

On top of that, you’ll stay safe with the reliable Airbnb booking system. Both hosts and guests can rate each other which creates a very respectful and trustworthy interaction.

Is Saint Lucia LGBTQ+ friendly?

Saint Lucia used to rank as one of the worst LGBTQ+ travel destinations worldwide. However, times have changed a little bit. While it’s still not openly accepted, in fact, even hetero partners can’t show affection in public, you won’t be put into prison for being gay. 

You will, however, need to be very respectful of the local culture and religion. The Caribbean is still a very conservative place, so you might be forced to keep your relationship behind closed doors. 

There is plenty of nightlife in Saint Lucia, but unfortunately none targeted towards the LGBTQ+ community. That being said, you can still have a great time here – IF you go by the rules of course…

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Saint Lucia.

What should you avoid in Saint Lucia?

Avoid these things to stay safe in Saint Lucia: – Don’t wander around at night by yourself – Don’t walk at night in areas that you don’t know – Don’t underestimate the heat, especially during any physical activities – Avoid drugs completely

What natural disasters make Saint Lucia unsafe?

Hurricanes are a massive threat to locals and tourists alike. Luckily, hurricane season is only a problem during a couple of months of the year – June to November. Either avoid this time completely or if you’re already on the island, keep an eye on the news and weather forecast.

Is Saint Lucia safe for LGBTQ+ travellers?

Unfortunately, it’s not safe for LGBTQ+ travellers in Saint Lucia yet. The Caribbean attitudes can be very conservative, so it’s best to avoid any trouble and either avoid Saint Lucia completely or keep your sexual preferences hidden.

What areas are dangerous in Saint Lucia?

These are the dangerous areas in Saint Lucia: – Castries – Wilton’s Yard – Chaussee Road – The waterfalls in Anse la Raye

Even with the levels of crime, St Lucia, for the most part, is safe for visitors.

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Lily Allen-Duenas

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Saint Lucia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

But you don’t have to be on a honeymoon to enjoy this paradise!

First known as “Louanalao” by the indigenous Arawak in 200 CE, the island is filled with beautiful birds, orchards full of banana, coconut, mango, and papaya trees, world-class diving, and crystalline blue waters. It’s part of the Lesser Antilles chain of volcanic islands in the Caribbean and caters mostly to couples, families, and luxury tourists so it’s not the best island to visit if you’re traveling on a budget.

That said, it’s incredibly beautiful here so, for a short trip, it’s worth the cost.

No matter your budget or travel style, this St. Lucia travel guide has all the practical information you need to help you plan your visit so you can make the most of what this tropical utopia has to offer!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on St. Lucia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in St. Lucia

1. Go snorkeling and scuba diving

St. Lucia is a great place to explore the ocean because of its clear waters and vast array of sea creatures, including parrot fish, trumpet fish, needlefish, and more. It’s a volcanic island with spectacular reefs, white sand sea floors, shipwrecks, and everything divers could want in a diving site. Some of the most popular spots are Le Sport, the Dinosaur Reef, Smugglers Cove, Pigeon Island, La Roche (the Rock) and Birdshit Rock (yes, that’s really the name!). The Anse Chastanet Reef is another popular spot and diving starts at 297 XCD for a two-tank dive for certified divers. Guided dives for beginners start around 360 XCD. SNUBA (combo of snorkeling gear with long tethered breath tube) costs 228 XCD. Snorkeling tours cost around 162 XCD.

2. Experience Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens

This stunning six-acre tropical site is nestled in a natural gorge and is home to a lush botanical garden, Diamond Falls, and Hot Mineral Bath Springs. The waterfall is laced with natural minerals, giving the 15-meter (50-foot) waterfall a vivid, colorful appearance. There are other waterfalls to admire on the island too (like Piton Falls and Toraille Waterfall), but this one stands out from the rest. You can also go soak yourself in the therapeutic warm waters of the hot springs on the site that dates back to the 1700s. Admission is 19 XCD.

3. Tour the Pitons

The Pitons are two twin-peaked dormant volcanoes: Gros Piton and Petit Piton. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the top excursions you will do in Santa Lucia. The Gros Piton hike is a challenging 3 hours from the trailhead (and includes some stairs too) with a summit point of almost 800 meters (2,600 feet) above sea level. However, the trail rewards you with incredible panoramic ocean views, and lush jungle vegetation, and you can even spot the nearby Saint Vincent Island. You must have a guide, which costs around 135 XCD. Petit Piton is more difficult (it takes 4 hours) and a guide is needed here too. Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, bug spray, and water for the hike!

4. Visit Castries

Founded in 1650, Castries is the capital, situated on its own harbor on the western coast of the island. Don’t miss Fort Charlotte, the 18th-century fort, which offers beautiful views over the city, as well as La Toc Battery fort and Saint- Etienne, the 19th-century cathedral. Visit Morne Fortune (Hill of Good Luck) for incredible panoramic views over the city and head to gorgeous La Toc Beach for golden sand and turquoise water where you can swim or rent a kayak.

5. See Pigeon Island

Pigeon Island is a 44-acre national park that was occupied first by the indigenous Caribs, then by Captain Francois Le Clerc and his pirate crew in the 16th century. Check out the marked trails that take you to the remains of an 18th-century British fort as well as Fort Rodney, which was used during battles between the French and the British. The main trail leads to panoramic viewpoints over the north side of St. Lucia. If you’d rather relax, there are two beautiful beaches here where you can chill. You can visit the park on your own (admission is 27 XCD) or as part of a tour that includes transportation for around 100 XCD.

Other Things to See and Do in St. Lucia

1. go birdwatching.

St. Lucia offers numerous opportunities for birdwatching. The Bois D’Orange Swamp, the Rain Forest, and Boriel’s Pond are the best places to find species like the St. Lucian Parrot, the White Breasted Thrasher, the St. Lucia Peewee, the St. Lucia Oriole, and the St. Lucia Wren. On the Frigate Island Nature Reserve, you can see thousands of stunning migrant Frigate birds.

2. Explore the weekly market in Castries

This is the largest and most colorful open-air market in St. Lucia. Other than tropical fruits and veggies, the market sells handwoven baskets, mahogany statues and bowls, and other souvenirs. Come here to take in the local pace of life and pick up some St. Lucian coffee to bring home!

3. Hike the trails

St. Lucia has many scenic hiking trails, including the Barre de L’isle Rain Forest Trail, which takes you to the top of Morne la Combe. The hike takes three hours in total and it’s very steep — but you’re rewarded with views of Mount Gimie, deep valleys, the Caribbean Sea, and the Atlantic Ocean. Another favorite of mine away from the crowded resort areas is the Enbas Saut Trail, where you can immerse yourself in the island’s rainforest. It ends up at the Enbas Saut waterfall where you can cool off with a swim. Bring water and good hiking shoes no matter what trail you take!

4. Swim in Sulfur Springs

These hot springs are just south of Soufriere and one of the main attractions on the island. You can walk through the crater full of steaming, bubbling pools, and hot springs, and there are warmer sulphuric pools where you can bathe. Admission to the springs is 22 XCD and includes access to the Black Water Pool (Mud Bath).

5. Go zip-lining

If you’re looking for something adventurous, try zip-lining through the rainforest canopy. Adventure Tours St. Lucia has a total of 12 lines, including the highest, longest, and fastest line on the island. There are also five net bridges and lots of opportunities to catch some gorgeous views over St. Lucia. Expect to pay 245 XCD for the TreeTop Canopy Adventure and 420 XCD for a full day of zip lining. Note that flip-flops aren’t allowed so bring closed-toed shoes!

6. Visit Gros Islet

The village of Gros Islet has a huge party every Friday night. Vendors sell local food and drinks (including tasty barbecue), and a general carnival atmosphere turns the village into a giant street party. Listen to local bands and DJs crank out Caribbean music and spend the evening dancing in the steamy tropical heat.

7. Hang out on the beaches

St. Lucia’s beaches offer turquoise waters, powder-white sands, and plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun’s golden rays. Reduit Beach is one of the longest beaches on the island, with 8 kilometers (5 miles) of sand on Rodney Bay. If that’s too crowded, check out photogenic Jalousie Beach between Gros and Petit Piton, or Marigot Bay on the western coast with its scattered, secluded beaches.

8. Hike Tet Paul Nature Trail

Located near Soufrière Tet Paul Nature Trail is part of the World Heritage-listed Pitons Management Area. It’s an easy to moderate hike. From the top of some steep steps called the “Stairway to Heaven,” it offers spectacular panoramic views of St. Lucia and, on clear days, of Martinique and St. Vincent. Admission is 27 XCD.

9. Visit Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park

Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park offers a combination of adventure and history. It has 8 zip lines, a historical plantation estate, and a traditional village tour. You can also take a horseback ride to the beach or volcano and hike to a mineral waterfall. The historical estate tour costs 30 XCD, the rum and chocolate tasting tour is 205 XCD, and the zip line canopy adventure also costs 205 XCD.

For information about other Caribbean destinations, check out these guides:

• British Virgin Islands

St. Lucia Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Unfortunately, St. Lucia currently doesn’t have any hostels. Hotels, bed & breakfasts, and guesthouses are your only options here.

Wild camping is also not possible here.

Budget hotel prices – A room with a private bathroom in a two-star hotel starts at around 440 XCD per night. Most hotels include free Wi-Fi though sometimes it’s only available in the common areas. For a hotel that includes breakfast, expect to pay upwards of 875 XCD per night.

Airbnb is available everywhere in St. Lucia, with a private room starting at 175 XCD per night but averaging closer to 400 XCD. A full apartment averages 300-675 XCD per night. Book early to find the best deals.

Food – Like its neighbors, St. Lucia is home to typical Caribbean food, including rice and beans, plantains, sweet potatoes, coconut, chicken, and fish. The island’s national dish is fig greens and saltfish, a dish made from green bananas and cod (it tastes better than it sounds!). Bouyon , a meat stew; and lambi , a dish made with conch and spices, are two other popular staples on the island.

For a cheap meal at a casual restaurant, expect to pay around 17 XCD. If you want to splash out for a three-course meal and drinks, you’re looking to spend closer to 80-100 XCD.

Fast food (think burger and fries) costs about 21 XCD. A large pizza is about 40 XCD. Beer is 5-8 XCD while a latte/cappuccino costs around 7 XCD. Bottled water is around 2.50 XCD.

If you want to try St. Lucia’s national dish of salt fish and green figs, you can splash out at The Coal Pot for 54 XCD.

Avoid restaurants near cruise ports and resorts, as this is where the biggest influx of tourist crowds come through and prices are much more expensive than elsewhere.

If you plan on cooking your food, basic groceries for the week cost around 175-200 XCD. This gets you staples like rice, beans, pasta, produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking St. Lucia Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking St. Lucia, my suggested budget is around 295 XCD per day. This budget covers staying in a private Airbnb room, taking the bus to get around, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free activities like hiking and enjoying the beach. If you plan on drinking, add 10-15 XCD to your daily budget.

A mid-range budget of 510 XCD covers staying in a private Airbnb apartment, eating out for most of your meals, enjoying a few drinks, taking the occasional taxi to get around, and doing more tours and activities like diving or snorkeling.

For a “luxury” budget of about 1,000 XCD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in XCD.

St. Lucia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Although St. Lucia caters to vacationers and resort goers, there are lots of ways to explore the island on a budget. Here are a few ways to save money in St. Lucia:

• Shop duty-free – St. Lucia has a wealth of duty-free shops where you can pick up discounted designer goods such as perfumes and jewelry, clothing, etc. If you’re going to shop, do it here.
• Book online – If you’re planning on going diving, or doing any other expensive excursions, be sure to check online with tour companies for discounts beforehand. You can usually find some deals if you do a bit of research.
• Look for discounts and deals – The tourism board for St. Lucia has a whole section dedicated to seasonal discounts and deals on their website (mostly for accommodations). Check stlucia.org for more info.
• Enjoy nature – Relax on the beach, go for a hike, or take in a sunset. St. Lucia’s natural beauty is breathtaking and (mostly) free!
• Stay with a local – Use hospitality networks like Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free. There are plenty of hosts on the island and people are very welcoming!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is not safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in St. Lucia

As a luxury destination, budget-accommodation is few and far between here. You’ll need to book early to find deal. Here are my suggested places to stay in St. Lucia:

• Casa del Vega (Castries)
• Bay Gardens Hotel (Gros Islet)
• Somewhere Special Guesthouse (Gros Islet)

How to Get Around St. Lucia

Minibus – Minibuses are the primary mode of transportation in St. Lucia. Routes form a loop around the main towns. They can get you just about anywhere you need to go for 2.50-8 XCD.

Taxi – Taxis are readily available around St. Lucia (authorized taxis have a light blue number plate with a TX prefix). A taxi from Hewanorra airport to Castries costs about 230 XCD, while Castries to Soufriere is about 245 XCD. Rodney Bay to Gros Islet is about 30 XCD, while Rodney Bay to Pigeon Island is about the same price.

Bicycles – If you want to bike around, you can rent a city bike for as little as 67 XCD per day.

Car Rental – A small economy-sized car costs around 250 XCD per day, making this a much more economical and efficient way to get around than taxis. ACE Rent a Car and SIXT usually have some of the best rates. Renters need to be at least 21 and have had their license for three years (some agencies require renters to be 25). An IDP (International Driving Permit) is usually required.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to St. Lucia

December to April is peak season in St. Lucia, with room rates spiking as the island experiences an influx of tourists. The weather is pleasant and breezy during this time, with temperatures hovering between 22-28°C (72-83°F). There isn’t much rainfall during this time either.

The shoulder season of May to June is a good time to visit for more affordable room prices and lovely temperatures in the high 20s°C (mid-80s°F). The island isn’t as busy either.

If you want to take a chance on hurricane season between July and November, you can find the cheapest rates during this time. Just get cancellation insurance just in case of a hurricane!

How to Stay Safe in St. Lucia

St. Lucia is very safe. It’s a small island with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, though petty theft can occur so keep your belongings secure and out of reach just to be safe. Don’t leave valuables unattended at the beach either.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

There have been a few physical assaults against tourists reported in the Rodney Bay Village area over the past few years, but the St Lucian authorities have since opened a new police station there. Just to be cautious; you may want to avoid this area alone after dark.

Hurricane season is from June through November. Avoid visiting during this time if you can. If you do visit, make sure you buy travel insurance and keep an eye on the weather.

If you experience a medical emergency, dial 911. If you need police, dial 999.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

St. Lucia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

St. Lucia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling the Caribbean and continue planning your trip:

9 Ways to Explore the Caribbean Sustainably

My 16 Favorite Things to Do in the Virgin Islands

Bermuda: The Impossible Budget Destination? Maybe Not!

How to Save (and Not Save) Money in the Virgin Islands

I Didn’t Like Curaçao (But I Didn’t Hate it Either)

The Best Places on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast

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• Related Blogs

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St. Lucia Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth St. Lucia travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

St. Lucia, a sovereign island nation in the southeastern Caribbean, has become one of the most sought-after travel destinations in recent years. From its gorgeous scenery to its easy-going vibe, St. Lucia is the perfect place to relax and escape the daily grind.

From a tourist’s perspective, the island is probably best known for its all-inclusive resorts (including the many Sandals properties and Sugar Beach).

That being said, there are many ways to experience the island on any budget! From guest houses to boutique hotels , there are many accommodations to choose from and ways to design a vacation that’s perfect for you. It’s even one of the best islands for solo female travel .

St. Lucia’s beaches are the country’s main draw, but there is plenty to explore beyond the shore!

Want to learn more about the history of St. Lucia?

Head to Pigeon Island , a small island connected to the mainland by a man-made bridge that was once home to pirates and British and French military forts. You can see the ruins of the British base at Fort Rodney, which also makes for an excellent hike.

Speaking of hiking , head inland to explore St. Lucia’s lush rainforest by foot or by zipline.

Still want more suggestions? Don’t worry, you’ll find plenty more St. Lucia travel tips below!

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to St. Lucia, one of the top Caribbean travel destinations .

Note: This guide to St. Lucia travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

What would you add to this St. Lucia travel guide?

St. lucia map.

Use this St. Lucia travel map to begin planning your trip!

Click here for an interactive version of the above map.

Places To Visit In St. Lucia

Learn about where to go in St. Lucia .

Adventurous Couple’s Guide To Marisule, Castries & Rodney Bay, St. Lucia

6 Secret Beaches To Visit In St. Lucia

Adventurous Couple’s Guide To Soufriere, St. Lucia

Where To Stay In St. Lucia

Learn about the best places to stay in St. Lucia !

Cocoa Experiences At Saint Lucia’s Hotel Chocolat

3 Romantic Hotels In St. Lucia That Aren’t Sandals

3 Luxury Caribbean Wellness Retreats In St. Lucia & Antigua

An Unforgettable Romantic Getaway For One At St. Lucia’s Jade Mountain Resort

An Amazing Solo Wellness Getaway At St. Lucia’s BodyHoliday Resort

Caribbean Travel Tips

Make your Caribbean vacation even more memorable with the help of the following travel guides!

13 Best Caribbean Islands For Solo Travel (+ Tips!)

3 Best Luxury Caribbean Wellness Retreats & Resorts

Top St. Lucia Tours

Book a St Lucia tour and get to know the culture through a local.

• Majestic Gros Piton Hike
• Rainforest Adventures St Lucia Aerial Tram and Zipline Tour (with Transfer)
• St Lucia Snorkeling Tour with Lunch
• Treetop Adventure Park Canopy Tour

Renting A Car In St. Lucia

Need a rental car for your St. Lucia trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Top Hotels In St. Lucia

Click here to browse hotels in St. Lucia!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

St. Lucia Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a St. Lucia tour. When visiting St. Lucia — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your St. Lucia itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

St. Lucia Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling St. Lucia .

Q: What are some of the best places to visit in St. Lucia?

St. Lucia is probably best known for its beautiful beaches. Reduit Beach, located right near the lively town of Rodney Bay , is a favorite among both tourists and locals for its clear waters and white sand. Anse Chastanet is perfect for divers and snorkelers looking to spot some of the local marine life. If you’re looking for a more secluded spot, try Malgretoute Beach , where you can swim under the island’s iconic Pitons, or volcanic plugs.

Beyond the beach, St. Lucia is perfect for hikers and those who love adventure travel . Hike the above-mentioned Pitons for incredible views of the island, then chill out in the mineral water baths of Sulphur Springs Park .

Moreover, the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens show off the diverse flora of the islands as well as the gorgeous Diamond Falls waterfall.

And check out the Mourne Coubaril Estate , where you can fly over coconut trees and lakes on a zipline!

Bonus: St. Lucia is also home to some of the best Caribbean wellness resorts !

Q: Is St. Lucia safe to visit?

St. Lucia is considered quite safe for visitors. Crime is pretty low and the St. Lucia authority works with the local tourism industry to keep resort and hotel areas safe. Petty crimes like pickpocketing, theft, and automobile break-ins do still occur, so always be aware of your surroundings and don’t leave valuables unattended in public to avoid pickpockets .

If you are renting a car, be sure to lock it and keep any personal items out of view. And of course, avoid walking around alone at night, whether you’re in town or on the beach.

Q: What do I need to know before going to St. Lucia?

There are a few things to know before heading to St. Lucia. First of all, there aren’t many ATMs on the island and some have trouble connecting to banks outside of the country. Bring some cash with you and exchange it for Eastern Caribbean dollars upon arrival. Most businesses do accept U.S. dollars but some may charge extra if you pay in foreign currency.

Along these lines, most restaurants and hotels automatically add a 10% service charge onto your bill. You can certainly tip extra if you’d like, but know that it’s not required.

All beaches on St. Lucia are public, so you are more or less free to visit whatever beach you’d like. If you’re visiting a beach at a resort, though, you may not be able to use their facilities, like the bathroom or beach chairs. Bring your own chair and towel just to be safe.

Finally, St. Lucia does not adhere to Daylight Savings Time. This means that they are UTC -4 year round. Keep this in mind if you are visiting the country between November and March.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit St. Lucia?

Citizens of the United States, Canada, the European Union, and many other countries do not require a visa to visit St. Lucia. You will need to show proof of your return ticket, accommodations, and ability to cover travel costs upon entry. St. Lucia requires citizens of several other countries to obtain a visa before entering the country.

It’s recommended to view your country’s St. Lucia International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Consulate General Of St. Lucia In New York.

Q: What is the best month to travel to St. Lucia?

The best time to visit St. Lucia is at the end of the dry season, from mid-May to late June. The weather is still very pleasant during this time as it is out of the hurricane season. Winter and early spring are also great weather-wise but tend to be busier and more expensive on the island.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in St. Lucia?

While large hotels, resorts, restaurants, and attractions often accept credit cards, small establishments in St. Lucia rarely do. For this reason, it’s wise to always have some cash on hand.

Q: What is St. Lucia’s international airport?

The main airport serving St. Lucia is Hewanorra International Airport at Vieux Fort (UVF), located on the southern end of the island. Keep in mind, this means that depending on where you are staying it can sometimes take a lot of time to get to your hotel from the airport.

Q: What is the local currency in St. Lucia?

The local currency in St. Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean dollar.

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ELLE Escapes: St. Lucia

There’s something magical about St. Lucia that’s almost difficult to put into words. I’ve been to many islands in my lifetime (my mom is from Antigua), but this West Indies destination is truly transportative. Lush rainforests, majestical waterfalls, otherworldly black sand beaches, and of course, the iconic Pitons (“peaks” in French) will leave you wondering why you opted to live anywhere else in the first place.

What to See

Carnival sailing luxury charters.

To fully experience all of St. Lucia’s beauty, choose a boat. After all, who doesn’t love a glamorous day on the water? Opt for a half-day catamaran sail with lunch included (think: fish tacos, shrimp caesar salad, perfectly cooked steak with veggies, and coconut ice cream for dessert) as you literally soak up the coastline view en route to the town of Soufrière. Before heading back to your resort (many properties like Windjammer Landing pick you up directly from the dock), stop off for some snorkeling or a refreshing plunge into the Caribbean Sea. I promise, the only question you’ll have is: can I have another glass of champagne?

Sulphur Springs

Maybe it’s the air, maybe it’s the relaxed attitude, maybe it’s the daily sea moss intake—but it is extremely hard to discern how old anyone is on an island like St. Lucia. This writer had to know its secret to eternal youth. Turns out, locals credit it to the natural sulfur mud baths courtesy of the dormant volcano (which last erupted in the 1700s but is closely monitored, by the way). Accessible via car or bus, you’ll smell the springs before you see them, not necessarily in a good way. Don’t let this deter you, remember youth awaits! Slather yourself from head to toe in the mineral-rich mud, allow it to dry, then brave the naturally heated pools that vary in temperature. Do yourself a favor and wear a dark-colored swimsuit.

Toraille Waterfall

TLC may have told us not to go chasing waterfalls, but your trip to St. Lucia wouldn’t be complete without visiting one. Post-Sulfur Springs, I made my way to Toraille, located a few minutes from Soufrière. The stunning 50-foot drop was intimidating at first, but once you descend down into cool water and let the pressure work out those pre-vacation knots and tangles, you’ll be in absolute bliss. Pro tip: bring swimming shoes to avoid the rocks.

HUNZA G Metallic seersucker swimsuit

Teva Hurricane Drift Sandal

Dagne Dover Ace Water Resistant Fanny Pack

Where to eat, the perch at dragonfly.

There’s nothing like al fresco dining, especially on island time. While you can’t go wrong with any of the restaurant options on property, The Perch is the Windjammer’s newest rooftop bar and lounge. Sushi lovers will enjoy classic and signature rolls (try the Dragonfly Twister!), while seafood enthusiasts will enjoy Caribbean-infused dishes, like snapper ceviche in aji amarillo sauce and the freshest paella you’ve ever had.

Rabot Restaurant

Dubbed as one of the island’s “most popular foodie destinations,” diners at Rabot Restaurant are truly in for a treat. The cacao-inspired menu offers a true farm-to-bar experience, using everything from the pod to the pulp to reduce waste. Imagine dishes like handmade cacao cannelloni with fresh local vegetables, served with a roasted pumpkin purée. Drink your dessert with the signature Midnight Tiramisu cocktail topped with Hotel Chocolat Espresso Chocolate, velvetized cream, Kahlúa, amaretto, Frangelico, and of course, cacao.

Martha’s Table

You can’t leave the island without tasting iconic creole-style dishes, which is why this family-run restaurant comes highly recommended. Taste everything from breadfruit balls to freshly-caught lobster in a white wine sauce paired with your choice of fresh vegetables, rice and beans, mac and cheese, and potato salad.

Meshki Adeline Rose Halter Top

Etro Cropped Printed Silk-Twill Straight-Leg Pants

Gucci Interlocking G Sandal

Where to drink.

Nestled in the Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia, this tapas-style bar and restaurant specializes in—you guessed it—rum. Make sure to request a tasting of the locally-distilled Chairman’s Reserve bottle—if possible, the vintage 2009.

Naked Fisherman

In a natural cove right below Cap Maison Resort & Spa you’ll find this waterside jaunt, which is exactly what you envision when someone says “beach bar.” It will be pretty hard to just have one drink, but the TNF Rum Punch is a great starter before trying other one-of-kind cocktails on the menu.

Perfect for locals and tourists alike, Irie Bar is located around the corner from the weekly Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party. Grab a local Piton beer and listen to live reggae music before the festivities really get going.

By Anthropologie Puffy Raffia-Wrapped Headband

Helsa Sheer Ruffled Long Dress

Loewe Petal Stiletto Sandal

Where to stay, windjammer landing villa beach resort.

All-inclusive resorts can sometimes get a bad rap, but Windjammer Landing has broken the mold. After undergoing a whopping $12 million renovation earlier this year, the 65-acre hillside estate is well on its way to five-star status. Ball out (because why not?) with family or close friends by booking one of the newly built Ocean Point Residences boasting multiple patios, soaking tubs, and a private plunge pool. Those who don’t mind a hike (or a short shuttle ride) will love staying at the family-friendly villas. Thankfully for you, there are no bad views—every single room gives you a direct eye line to the ocean. Food-wise, select from one of seven on-property restaurants, or coordinate an in-villa dining experience with a private chef. Parents will appreciate perks like the kids-only Jacquot Fun Club to keep their little ones entertained while they enjoy a drink (or two) on the beach.

Green Fig Resort & Spa

This 25-room, treehouse-like boutique hotel sits on a slope overlooking the town of Soufrière, Petit Piton, and Caribbean Sea. Venture down to Hummingbird Beach—about a five-minute walk—or hang out at The Onion, the on-property bar. Pro tip: BYOBS (bring your own bug spray); this property is technically located in the rainforest, so packing a strong repellent is essential.

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

Part of the Viceroy Hotel Group, this 100-acre resort is housed on the site of an 18th-century sugar plantation and is surrounded by the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pitons. Choose between beachfront bungalows or mountain cottages to take in the breathtaking rainforest fauna. Watch the sunset with a cocktail while digging your toes into powder-white sand of Anse des Pitons.

Mother Denim The Itty Bitty Scoop Neck Tee

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Beauty picks.

Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Hydrator Mist

The Caribbean is hot—so give your face the equivalent of a cool glass of water with this new hydrating mist. With just a few spritzes, you are treating your face to an oxygenating mist mixed with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and kombu extract. Say goodbye to dull, dry skin!

Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse

Make sunscreen fun again. This SPF 30 formula is presented like whipped cream, but goes on smooth without leaving a white caste like your favorite sunscreen. If you’re looking for an easy way to get your kids to apply (or reapply) their sunscreen or a suggestive way for your partner to sun-protect your back—this is it. No matter who it’s for, this will be a guaranteed conversation starter.

Kinfield Golden Hour Wipes

Bites, be gone! These natural, long-lasting, and easily packable insect repellent wipes are a must for outdoor adventures.

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Where To Stay in St. Lucia Ultimate Guide (Which Side Of The Island Is Best)?

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2023

Categories St. Lucia , Travel Guides

St. Lucia is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Caribbean Islands. Which makes it a top location for honeymooners and vacationers alike. While the island only stretches 27 miles (44 km) in length and 14 miles (23 km) in width, there is still plenty to see and many different places to stay. Each cardinal direction offers a different perspective of the island. So in this guide, we will help you decide where to stay in St. Lucia. 

The north and west part of the island are definitely the most popular places to stay in St. Lucia. The North is known for a big nightlife scene and plenty of large resorts to choose from.

And the mountainous west side is much quieter but has the best outdoor adventures and natural scenery in St.Lucia. Most notable of course is the stunning twin Piton Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While the east and south tips of the island of St. Lucia have hotels and resorts, they are far less popular.

Whether you are looking for luxury overwater bungalows, unique villas with private plunge pools, or budget hotels, St Lucia has accommodation to suit all tourists. This detailed guide will break down the different areas of the island, and decipher which area is best for you.

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North, South, East, West

St. Lucia is shaped kinda like an American football, it’s longer than it is wide (north to south). The northern and southern tip are the most populated areas. The west coast is mountainous and has more accommodations for tourists. And the east coast has more locals and is less touristy.

On the west side, you will have the Caribbean Sea where you will find calmer, warmer water and that stunning emerald blue color. On the windward east side, you will find the Atlantic Ocean which will be a little rougher and less ideal for beachgoers. 

You will find far fewer hotels and resorts on the east side of Saint Lucia. And typically many tourists skip this area altogether. 

For getting around the island of St. Lucia , most people just take a taxi or shuttle to their hotel or resort. And then maybe book a tour or excursion to explore the island.

Though a rental car can be a good option if you really want to get out and explore the whole island. But be aware that the narrow mountain roads may be a challenge for some. Before hopping in a rental car in St. Lucia , <- be sure to check out our detailed review.

So unless you are out to explore the whole island, it’s probably best for most tourists to just stick to the north or west coast of the island. There are tons of resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, and many things to do in St. Lucia on the west side.

How To Get To S aint Lucia

There are two airports on the island of St. Lucia: Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and George FL Charles Airport (SLU).

Hewanorra International Airport is located in Vieux Fort in the south part of the island. Most tourists arrive to the island here (unless coming from a nearby Caribbean Island)

Airlines that fly into Hewanorra International Airport are American Airlines, Delta Airlines, JetBlue, & United Airlines, Air Canada, Sunwing Airlines, Transat & WestJet, British Airways, Thomas Cook & Condor.

The George FL Charles Airport (SLU) is located in Castries in the northwest of the island. This much smaller airport only has short flights from nearby islands. Islands that fly here are Antigua, Barbados, Curacao, Fort-de-France, Pointe-a-Pitre, Port of Spain, Saint Kitts, Sint Maarten, and Saint Vincent. 

Airlines that fly into the George F.L Charles Airport (SLU) are Air Antilles, Air Caraibes, and LIAT.

Find cheap flights to St. Lucia with Kayak or Hopper (use code tworoamingsouls). 

Getting to St. Lucia via Cruise Ship

You can also visit Saint Lucia via cruise ship. The port is in Castries. But note that cruise ships often only stay for one day. So you need to plan a quick tour or excursion to see the island. 

Cruise lines that offer stops in St. Lucia are Norwegian Cruise, Celebrity Cruise, Carnival, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Windstar Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Holland America Line and more.

Book a cruise on Expedia . (Be sure to have the Rakuten extension running on your browser to get up to 10% cash back on your purchase).

Where to Stay in St. Lucia in the north

Gros Islet, Rodney Bay, Castries

The North side of Saint Lucia is best known for large all-inclusive resorts with nice beaches. 

Popular attractions in the North part of St. Lucia are Pigeon Island National Park, Reduit Beach, Splash Island Water Park, Naked Fisherman Beach Bar & Grill, water sports in Rodney Bay, and more. 

The north is where to stay in St. Lucia if you are into nightlife. Especially on Friday nights, there is the Gros Islet Friday night street party. The whole street is packed with food vendors, local restaurants offering great deals and many locals looking for a good time. But also, many of the luxury resorts will also have live entertainment at night. 

The biggest drawback to the north part of St. Lucia is the lack of view of the famous Piton Mountains, the crown jewel of the island. Tourists will have to take a tour, water taxi, or inland taxi to get to these famous landmarks. 

In the North of St. Lucia, you will find the 3 famous Sandals St. Lucia Resorts. Jake and I actually had the pleasure of honeymooning at Sandals Regency La Toc. But honestly, if we were to do it all over again, we would probably consider staying at Sandals Grande St. Lucian or Sandals Halcyon Beach. But there are lots of other places to stay in St. Lucia besides Sandals.

Top 3 Resorts in the North

Sandals Grande St. Lucian – Sandals Grande St. Lucian is a 5-star, adults only, all inclusive resort located in Gros Islet. The resort is as close as you can stay to Pigeon Island National Park. There are 12 restaurants, 7 bars, a golf course, water sports, a fitness center with tennis courts, salon, spa, etc.

Sandals is best known for its scuba diving package which is included for all guests. You are allowed to go out twice per day if you are scuba certified. And if you aren’t certified, Sandals will help you either finish a course or get you a temporary certification during your trip. 

The Landings St. Lucia – The Landings St. Lucia is a family-friendly, luxury, 5-star resort in the north of St. Lucia. They offer an all-inclusive package or you can choose an a la carte lunch and dinner buffet. Breakfast is included for all guests. There are 4 restaurants and 3 bars. They have a fitness center, spa, watersports, and more.

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort – The Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is a 4-star hotel up on the hillside of Labrellotte Bay. The resort is family-friendly but also offers that relaxed luxury feel. They have 5 restaurants, 4 bars, watersports, spa, etc. Guests have the choice of all-inclusive (including motorized watersports) or al a carte for dining and activities. 

Where to Stay in St. Lucia in the West

Marigot Bay, Anse La Raye, Canaries, Soufriere, Mamin

The west side of Saint Lucia is known for the famous twin Piton mountains (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). This mountainous area is home to many fancy and exclusive resorts, and also some more modest accommodations. 

The west side of Saint Lucia is a popular tourist hub for the most popular hiking , waterfalls , mudbaths, hot springs , etc. on the island. Therefore, when looking for where to stay in St. Lucia, the west side is easily the perfect place for nature lovers.

Howeverm the mountains do bring a little more clouds and rain.

Soufriere is the most popular town on the southwest side of St. Lucia. Marigot Bay is another popular location, but more remote for those luxury vacationers. 

The west side doesn’t quite have the nightlife atmosphere like the north, but rather a much chiller and relaxed vibe. The best way to experience nightlife is probably going out to a local bar and hanging with some partying Saint Lucians at Soufriere Beach Park.

There are also tons of delicious restaurants , amazing beaches , and even some adventures off the beaten path . 

Top 3 Resorts on the West Side

Ti Kaye Resort & Spa – Up on the cliffside of Anse Cochon Bay is Ti Kaye Resort & Spa. The resort is adults-only, 4-stars and probably the most secluded resort in St. Lucia. It’s the perfect place if you are looking for some solitude on the island of St. Lucia. Thier beach often feels completely private since it’s the only resort in this area.

Ti Kaye Resort & Spa has 2 restaurants and 2 bars, as well as an exclusive wine and cheese guided tour. They offer watersports, spa treatments, yoga, etc. 

Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia – In the famous Marigot Bay is the luxurious Zoëtry Resort. The resort is 5-stars up on the hillside, offering beautiful views over Marigot Bay. Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia has 7 restaurants, 4 bars, and a spa. Watersports are only available off the property. 

Sugar Beach Resort – On a (imported) white sand beach near Soufriere, you will find Sugar Beach Resort. This is where luxury meets nature. This family-friendly, 5-star resort sits right between the famous Petit Piton and Gros Piton. Sugar Beach Resort has 6 restaurants, 3 bars, watersports, spa, and more. All-inclusive packages are available to all guests. 

Where to Stay in St. Lucia in the South

Laborie, Vieux Fort, Balenbouche, Sapphire

The South part of St. Lucia is where the major Hewanorra International Airport is located. Most tourists will likely fly into this airport, unless traveling from a nearby island.

Some tourist attractions on the South of Saint Lucia are Moule a Chique, Maria Islands Natural Reserve, Morne Le Blanc, etc. While these attractions are beautiful, they are easily out-shined by the other main attractions of St. Lucia .

While there are still some resorts and touristy things in the area, many tourists hop in a shuttle and head to the west or north. The beaches in the south are known for more wind and waves, so most resorts put an emphasis on their pool amenities.

Top Resorts on the South Side

Coconut Bay Beach Resort – Coconut Bay Beach Resort is a 4-star, all-inclusive optional resort. It’s a great spot if you don’t want to travel far from the airport and get straight into vacation mode. 

The resort is broken down into 2 different stay options: Harmony & Splash. Harmony is adult-only. While splash is an adventure park stay that is family friendly. 

There are 9 restaurants, 7 bars, 5 pools, fitness center with basketball/tennis courts, salon, spa, waterpark, and more. But definitely expect the east winds over here. 

Serenity at Coconut Bay – Serenity at Coconut Bay is an adults only, all-inclusive, 5-star hotel that takes luxury to the next level. Each room comes with its own plunge pool and butler service, plus a shared resort pool. There is 1 restaurant on the property. Guests have access to Coconut Bay Beach Resorts 5 pools and restaurants.

Where to Stay in St. Lucia on the East

Dennery, Micoud, Praslin

The east side of Saint Lucia faces the rougher wind and waves from the Atlantic Ocean. This area is sparsely populated, less mountainous, and ultimately less touristy.  Dennery, a fishing village, is the biggest town.

Main attractions on the east side of Saint Lucia are visiting the fishing village of Dennery, Treetop Adventure Park, the Old Sugar Mill, and LaTille Falls & Garden. 

Top 3 Resorts in St. Lucia on the East Side

Fond Bay Suites Hotel – The Fond Bay Suites Hotel is a 3-star hotel that makes your stay on the east comfortable. There is 1 restaurant and 2 pools. This stay will not quite be as luxurious as many of these other resorts on the list for where to stay in St. Lucia, but rather a remote spot on the east side. This area is more about experiencing the unknown and a unique perspective of the island. 

The Fox Grove Inn – A small 3-star hotel on the east side of St. Lucia is The Fox Grove Inn. There is 1 restaurant and a pool. This area offers a nice view of Praslin Bay and the Frigate Islands Nature Reserve.

Spice Bay Suites – On the east side of the island is Spice Bay Suites. A 3-star hotel overlooking a private bay and surrounded by spice trees. There is a pool, hot tub, and breakfast included. Lunch and dinner are only offered upon request. 

When Is The Best Time To Visit St. Lucia

The best time to visit St. Lucia is from December to April. This time is considered peak season where you will likely experience tons of sunshine (with maybe some minimal rain storms).

But if you aren’t scared of the rain and looking for a bargain, you might consider visiting Saint Lucia in June-November. But do note, this is their wet/rainy season. You will likely still experience good sunshine, but you do need to be prepared for rain/ the occasional rain shower every day.

While hurricanes are very unlikely to hit St. Lucia since it’s so far south in the Caribbean, late into the rainy season (August & September) serves the most risk. 

No matter what, you should book travel insurance. But especially if you are traveling during August and September, you might prioritize having travel insurance. 

Takeaway For Where To Stay in St. Lucia

In conclusion, when looking for where to stay in St Lucia, the west and north part of the island are the two most popular destinations in St. Lucia. 

Jake and I had the pleasure of staying in both the north at a Sandals Resort and in the west at a vacation rental. While we liked over indulging on food and drinks at the all-inclusive stay, we also loved being in Soufriere staring at the Piton Mountains every chance we got. There were so many fun things to do in Soufriere , it kept us busy the whole time.

The island is home to everything from luxury resorts to modest hotels, which gives you tons of options for where to stay in St. Lucia. Or there’s a wide range of vacation rentals if you prefer to have your own private place. We hope this guide helps you decide the best area in St. Lucia for you.

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St. Lucia Travel Guide

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Take to the water

Best all-inclusive resorts in St. Lucia for the picturesque Caribbean getaway

Thoughts of St. Lucia naturally evoke visions of the striking Piton Mountains, lush, tropical landscapes and luxurious hotels. The eastern Caribbean island has something for everyone — discerning newlyweds looking for all-inclusive honeymoon resorts to group travelers looking for the best family beach vacations and well-heeled jetsetters looking for the convenience of luxury all-inclusives.

There's a lot to do and experience on St. Lucia, like scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and even family-friendly waterparks. Foodies can indulge in the culinary delights of the Caribbean, including African and French cuisines that showcase farm-to-table ingredients and fresh local seafood. Or, if you like to take it easy, there's no shortage of mesmerizing views to enjoy poolside.

Like a lot of islands, St. Lucia has a plethora of accommodation options, and plenty of them come with all-inclusive amenities to help keep the cost of your vacation under control.

Here are the best all-inclusive resorts in St. Lucia for a picturesque Caribbean getaway.

Hideaway at Royalton is on a private cove on the northern side of St. Lucia and is the adults-only counterpart to the Royalton St. Lucia (the next resort on our list).

Although Hideaway at Royalton is an all-inclusive resort, guests can choose to upgrade to the Diamond Club , which comes with access to the hotel's a la carte restaurants (where meals are normally supplemental) and a private beach and pool only available to club guests. It also includes butler service, an upgraded room service menu and private lounge access.

There are over 10 restaurants at the resort, including Calypso, featuring cuisine of the West Indies and Dorado, a fresh seafood buffet.

Every room at Hideaway at Royalton St. Lucia is a suite and features amenities like 24/7 room service in addition to all-inclusive dining and drinks, complimentary resort-wide Wi-Fi and an en-suite Jacuzzi. Each room has the option of an ocean view, while Luxury Junior Suites are also available in swim-out and garden-view room categories.

Rates at Hideaway at Royalton St. Lucia start at $669 or 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night for two adults.

Royalton St. Lucia is an all-inclusive Autograph Collection resort from Marriott that caters to families. Amenities include a splash park, playground, kids club (ages 4 to 12), teens club (ages 13 to 17), a spa and an array of culinary options for even the most discerning palate.

Of the nine dining options available at Royalton, there is Hunter Steakhouse, Gourmet Marche featuring an international buffet and Calypso, which serves West Indian cuisine.

Guests 7 years and older can enjoy facials, massages, manicures and more at The Royal Spa (additional fees apply). Daily entertainment and 24/7 room service are also part of the all-inclusive rate.

Royalton St. Lucia features eight room types, including a Luxury Family Suite and Luxury Presidential One Bedroom Suite, as well as Diamond Club rooms. Every room features a balcony or terrace, a Royalton Signature rain shower in the bathroom and a minibar with complimentary snacks and beverages.

Rates at Royalton St. Lucia start at $825 or 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night for two adults and two children.

Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia blends the indulgence of an all-inclusive luxury resort with a peaceful ambience designed to inspire personal well-being.

Part of World of Hyatt , Zoëtry Resorts are adults-only and encourage guests to immerse themselves in the culture, heritage and natural beauty of each hotel's location.

This particular St. Lucia outpost does this with on-site wine and rum tastings, as well as off-property adventure tours conveniently arranged through the activities desk.

Guests can also luxuriate at the tranquil spa, which features Natura Bisse products, spa and salon services. Or, they can take a dip in one of the two infinity pools before heading to the beach, where attentive staff are keen to cater to every need.

There are 11 restaurants and bars to choose from and 24/7 in-suite dining. Options include The Rum Cave featuring tapas and specialty rums and Le Bateau, where guests can savor Caribbean-inspired cuisine with a view of the marina. For casual dining, there's Hurricane Hole, a pub-style restaurant, while Meraki (additional costs apply) — a Mediterranean-fusion restaurant — promises a more unique culinary journey.

The all-suite resort has just 124 accommodations, all featuring Bvlgari bath amenities and a furnished terrace or balcony. Every room comes with a bay view or garden view and guests in some higher-category rooms also receive complimentary, personalized butler service.

Rates at Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia start at $325 per person per night, or 42,000 World of Hyatt Points per night for two adults.

A Hilton-affiliated hotel, and thus eligible for Hilton Honors points redemptions, the Harbor Club St. Lucia is located in the Gros Islet quarter on the northwest coast of the island and just a 30-minute drive from Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), the island's major gateway.

The resort features four outdoor pools along with cabanas to rent for more privacy. At the Spa Harbor Club, signature spa treatments include the Travel Rejuvenate spa package which includes a 30-minute facial and a 60-minute head, neck, shoulder and foot massage.

Harbor Club St. Lucia has a dozen different room and suite types, with either a mountain, marina or resort view. While this hotel isn't a true all-inclusive, there is a rate with breakfast included, which would guarantee the first meal of the day for each adult and child registered to the room.

Keep in mind that Hilton Honors Gold and Diamond status holders get a daily food and beverage credit at non-U.S. hotels that should help offset some of the day's other meal costs.

There are four dining options at the hotel, including a Swiss-style bakery serving hand-crafted chocolate and fresh-baked bread, and a coal-fire oven pizzeria.

Rates at Harbor Club St. Lucia start at $225 or 72,000 Hilton Honors points per night for two adults and two children.

Calabash Cove Resort & Spa is a boutique, adults-only resort on a secluded beach in Marisule Gros Islet.

The resort offers bed and breakfast rates and what it calls Unconditional All-Inclusive , which even includes lobster at Windsong Restaurant at no additional charge. Serving international cuisine with Asian influences, Windsong is one of three food and bar options at the resort. C-Bar boasts live music, while the swim-up pool bar also serves lunch.

There are just 26 rooms and three accommodation types at Calabash Cove Resort & Spa. Guests can book one of the Water's Edge Cottages with a private plunge pool and outdoor shower, Swim-up Junior Suites in front of the hotel's plunge pool, or Sunset Ocean View Junior Suites perfectly positioned to take in a stunning St. Lucian sunset.

Enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking and yoga, as well as an infinity pool and fitness center. The spa offers treatments focusing on the island's traditional use of plant- and food-based ingredients, such as aloe vera, seaweed and Dead Sea mud.

The resort has a unique offering called Whispers , a room designed for people looking to unwind with classical music or a quiet place to read. If you prefer to find peace in the great outdoors, you can make your way to the Cove Gardens, where the wind sings through chimes, and colorful plants dot the landscape.

Rates at Calabash Cove Resort and Spa start at $462 per person per night.

Jade Mountain is one of St. Lucia's best-known resorts thanks to its unparalleled views of the Petit Piton and Gros Piton mountains and its unique design, which reflects the distinctive landscape. While not a strictly adults-only resort, children younger than 15 years old are not permitted.

Guest rooms, called sanctuaries, are anchored around infinity pools and are all at least 1,650 square feet. To encourage guests to truly disconnect on vacation, there are no phones or televisions in the sanctuaries, though guests can connect to Wi-Fi.

Guests can choose among three rate plans : room only, breakfast and dinner, or all-inclusive. All rates are based on single and double occupancy with additional guests starting at $150 per day. There is one restaurant, The Jade Mountain Club, and it's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menus, created by James Beard Award-winner Chef Allen Susser, fuse Caribbean flavors, locally sourced ingredients and contemporary techniques.

Rates at Jade Mountain start at $1,385 per night for two guests.

Serenity at Coconut Bay is one of St. Lucia's newer all-inclusive, couples-only luxury resorts.

The property boasts amenities like personal butler service and private plunge pools in every suite. There is one restaurant, The Greathouse at Serenity, where the chef's signature dishes incorporate fresh local produce. This resort is just steps away from its sister property, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa (mentioned below), where guests can also dine.

Serenity at Coconut Bay has only 36 suites, all featuring a private patio. The rooms are decked out with handcrafted furniture made of St. Lucian mahogany, with river rock and granite adorning the en-suite bathrooms.

Rates at Serenity at Coconut Bay start at $2,650 per room per night based on double occupancy.

There are 17 Sandals Resorts throughout the Caribbean, and three of them are in St. Lucia, with reciprocal benefits for guests staying at any of them.

The first of three Sandals Resorts on our list, Sandals Grande St. Lucian is in Rodney Bay and boasts overwater bungalows, a championship-level golf course, complimentary water sports equipment like wakeboards and Hobie cats, and so much more.

Guests can choose among a total of 27 restaurants; 12 at this resort and another 15 at the two nearby Sandals properties. Among the dozen restaurants at Sandals Grande St. Lucian, there's Gordon's, a seafood restaurant located on the pier; The Jerk Shack featuring Caribbean cuisine; and Bombay, an Indian restaurant.

There are a whopping 19 room categories at Sandals Grande St. Lucian, including suites with butler service, club-level rooms and overwater bungalows. You can book the Over-the-Water Honeymoon Butler Bungalow for $1,838 per person per night when booking multiple nights and upwards of $4,900 per person per night for a one- or two-night stay.

Additional amenities that are excluded from the otherwise all-inclusive rate include the spa, local tours and golf. Round-trip airport transfers are always included at Sandals resorts.

Rates at Sandals Grande St. Lucian start at $301 per person per night.

Sandals Halycon Beach is a more intimately scaled Sandals Resort option than Sandals Grande St. Lucian, but you can still expect the same deluxe amenities.

The resort features tropical gardens and white-sand beaches along with six restaurants and seven bars, including Japanese teppanyaki at Kimonos, as well as a seaside grill, Beach Bistro.

Greens fees are complimentary on two golf courses, Sandals Regency La Tog Golf Club, located on the premises, and Sandals St. Lucia Golf and Country Club at Cap Estate.

Just like Sandals Grande St Lucian, guests can visit the other Sandals resorts in St. Lucia when staying at Sandals Halycon Beach and enjoy their restaurants and amenities.

There are 13 room categories at Sandals Halycon Beach, and all but one come with either concierge services or a butler. Room views include a tropical garden, beachfront or oceanfront, and some accommodations have soaking tubs and private pool sanctuaries.

Rates at Sandals Halycon Beach start at $263 per person per night.

Sandals Regency La Toc is located on the 220-acre La Toc Estate and the resort has an executive-style golf course and Sunset Oceanview Bluff Village , an exclusive resort within a resort that offers guests personal butler service and two-story villas.

It's smaller than its sister resort, Sandals Grande St. Lucian, with just nine restaurants and eight bars for guests to enjoy, but the included amenities are just as generous. Guests benefit from daytime and nighttime entertainment, can borrow snorkeling equipment and kayaks or simply enjoy the three pools. Plus, guests can visit the other two Sandals St. Lucia resorts and enjoy their amenities as well.

Though not the largest of the three Sandals resorts on St. Lucia, it does have the most room categories – 22 in total – including the Sunset Oceanview Bluff Millionaire Butler Villa with Private Pool Sanctuary. Here, all but two room levels come with either concierge services or private butler.

Rates at Sandals Regency La Toc start at $239 per person per night.

Stonefield Villa Resort is set in the lush interior of St. Lucia rather than on the beach, making it feel quite unique. Relaxation, rejuvenation and well-being are central to the resort's appeal.

Guests can enjoy holistic wellness retreats, yoga sessions and spa treatments, all without stepping foot off the grounds.

The only restaurant at the hotel, Mango Tree Restaurant serves farm-to-table cuisine with a menu that changes seasonally.

There are 17 one- to five-bedroom French colonial-style villas at Stonefield Villa Resort, and although it's an adults-only resort, there is one villa available for families. Each villa comes with a private pool and outdoor shower. Daily breakfast is included in all room rates, and there are also all-inclusive meal package options.

Rates at Stonefield Villa Resort start at $345 per person per night.

Cap Maison is a boutique hotel with a focus on food and wine. With two on-site restaurants led by Caribbean Chef of the Year award-winner Craig Jones , this family-friendly hotel is a great option for travelers who consider themselves foodies — or at least consider quality cuisine an integral part of their ideal vacation.

The hotel is in Rodney Bay and has a secluded beach for guests to enjoy. Activities on the property include tastings at the walk-in wine cellar and water sports. There's also evening entertainment and a spa. For more active guests, the hotel's owners provide maps of excellent hiking and running trails along the Atlantic. Note that there is no kids club at Cap Maison.

There are four room categories at Cap Maison, including villas and suites. More sequestered villas are equipped with a full kitchen, as well as a washer and dryer. There are two- and three-bedroom villa suites available for large families or groups that need more space but would like to be in the same room.

Rates at Cap Maison start at $480 per person per night for a bed and breakfast rate. All-inclusive rates start at $600 per person per night. A three-night minimum stay is required.

Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa is just five minutes from St. Lucia's Hewanorra International Airport (UVF). It comprises three resorts: Serenity at Coconut Bay ; Harmony (an adults-only resort); and Splash , a family-friendly resort that features the island's largest water park. The family-friendly side of the resort is casual and features a kids club, making it a great option for multi-generational groups. Non-inclusive resort activities include kitesurfing and paintball.

The resort sits on 85 acres and has nine restaurants , seven bars and five pools, in addition to the water park. Guests can expect a blend of Creole and Latin flavors at Calabash restaurant or keep it casual at The Jerk Treehouse , which features the chef's secret jerk sauce. Bars are throughout the property and include a swim-up bar, poolside bar and lobby bar.

There are six room categories among the 250 guest rooms at Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa. All rooms come with a private balcony or patio, flat-screen TV and mini refrigerator.

Rates at Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa start at $994 per night for double occupancy at either resort (Harmony or Splash).

Sugar Beach is on an 18th-century sugar plantation set in the St. Lucian rainforest. The hotel recently underwent a renovation, reopening in 2021 with new beachfront bungalows, mountain cottages and suites, plus a new poolside bar and cabanas.

Guests can choose among seven on-site restaurants and bars ranging from casual fare to fine dining, such as Boopa's, where you can grab a quick bite or Saltwood, where you'll enjoy a view of the Pitons over steak and seafood. There is also 24-hour room service.

Sugar Beach takes its role as a luxurious family-friendly resort seriously, with a kids club for guests ages four to 12 years, a teens club and babysitting services. Additional activities around the resort include movie nights at the moonlight cinema, scuba and snorkeling.

There's no shortage of accommodation options at Sugar Beach, either. All but the beachfront accommodations are simply decorated with white walls, linens and flooring. Rooms come equipped with Nespresso coffee machines and feature ROIL and Natura Bissa bath amenities.

All room categories are available with half-board or full-board meal plans (with discounted rates for children). All-inclusive meal plans cost $360 per adult per day, and $198 per child, per day. Half-board meal plans are $210 per adult per day, and $116 per child, per day. A child is considered any guest under 18 years old.

Rates at Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort start at $493 per night for double occupancy.

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort brings Mediterranean-style design to the Caribbean and has a lot of activities to keep guests, young and old, entertained during their time on the island, including a kids club.

There are five restaurants and four bars, including Upper Deck, an upscale seafood and steak restaurant, and Jammers, a casual restaurant that offers beachside service. Two types of board options include bed and breakfast and premium all-inclusive , which comes with unlimited a la carte dining at all restaurants, watersports including wakeboarding, complimentary dining for kids under 11, and more.

Guests can choose among 10 room and villa categories, ranging from guest rooms to four-bedroom ocean-view villas that can accommodate up to 12 guests. Rooms are decorated in a coastal theme with splashes of blue and coral amidst wooden furniture and white walls. Each room comes with Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a coffee maker.

Rates at Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort start at $517 per night for two adults and two children with the all-inclusive package.

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The 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In St. Lucia

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S t. Lucia is known and celebrated for many things—including hotels that are as iconic as the country's mountain landmark. This 27-mile-long island nation is home to some of the Caribbean's most sublime resorts, offering cultural immersion, adventure and rejuvenation. For travelers who prefer cost predictability and stress-free convenience, many of the hotels on the island are fully or partially all-inclusive. The best all-inclusive resorts in St. Lucia range from adults-only hideaways to family-friendly properties with plenty of activities.

There are numerous all-inclusive resorts to choose from, like the adults-only Calabash Cove , which grants travelers access to kaleidoscopic coral reefs and offers daily lobster dinners meals in season, and East Winds , where four-course dinners and sailing lessons are included with one of the more affordable rates on the island. Celebrity favorite Sugar Beach offers an add-on plan that includes all meals and drinks, while wellness-focused BodyHoliday also includes fitness classes, activities and a daily massage. Below, our selections for the best all-inclusive resorts in St. Lucia in 2024.

• Best All-Inclusive Resort In St. Lucia Overall : Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa

Best High-End All-Inclusive Resort In St. Lucia: Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

Best boutique all-inclusive resort in st. lucia: anse chastanet, best value all-inclusive resort in st. lucia: east winds, best all-inclusive resort in st. lucia for couples: sandals grande st. lucian, best all-inclusive resort in st. lucia for families: windjammer landing resort & residences, best adults-only all-inclusive resort in st. lucia: calabash cove resort & spa, best all-inclusive resort in st. lucia for spa and wellness: bodyholiday, all-inclusive resort in st. lucia with the best pools: jade mountain, all-inclusive resort in st. lucia with the best amenities: royalton saint lucia, an autograph collection, best all-inclusive resort in st. lucia overall: coconut bay beach resort & spa.

The real splash comes from the 50,000-square-foot waterpark, the island's largest, where guests of all ages can dive into fun times.

Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa

Who Will Love It: Seclusion-seeking couples; foodies; multi-generational families; pool lovers

All-Star Amenities: Indoor and outdoor eateries; full-service salon; unlimited à la carte and buffet dining; top-shelf liquors; family-friendly and adults-only wings; seven bars; gym; five swimming pools

What Not To Miss: Splashing around at the largest water park in St. Lucia

Location: Vieux Fort

With five inviting pools and seven bars, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa ensures your glass is always full and your days are sunshine-soaked. But the real splash comes from the 50,000-square-foot CocoLand Waterpark, the island's largest, where guests of all ages can dive into fun times. The resort thoughtfully divides its world into two wings: the family-oriented Splash wing, home to a Kidz Klub that entertains children from babies to 12-year-olds, and the adults-only Harmony wing, where the Kai Mer spa and its eight treatment rooms are found.

The all-inclusive package at Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa is generous, covering everything from hassle-free airport transfers—Hewanorra International Airport is a mere six-minute drive away—to endless dining options across nearly a dozen restaurants, not to mention the inclusive water sports, bonfires, beach parties, jazz concerts and rum tastings that add a dash of local flavor to your stay.

The opulent accommodations include plush villas, beachfront bungalows and luxury rooms, all with private plunge pools.

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

Who Will Love It: Off-duty celebs; well-traveled families; luxury-focused couples; style travelers

All-Star Amenities: In-room dining; three bars; kids and teen clubs; babysitting; meal plan options; tennis courts; beach volleyball; chocolate boutique; PADI dive center; personal trainers; sunset cruises; 180-minute massages; pet-friendly accommodations; rum-rich cocktails at the Cane Bar; heated outdoor pool

What Not To Miss: An audio art tour through the sprawling resort

Location: Soufrière

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort has all the expected hallmarks of a high-end stay. Private plunge pools? Check. Four-poster beds? Absolutely. Spa treatment rooms in their very own treehouses? Why not. A-list clientele? Sure thing. The likes of Matt Damon, Brad Pitt and Gwyneth Paltrow have all rested their heads on this hotel’s Egyptian cotton linens and walked its halls, which are graced with masterpieces from renowned artists like Banksy and Andy Warhol.

There is an array of opulent accommodations here, including plush villas, beachfront bungalows and luxury rooms, all with private plunge pools, full-sized Natura Bisse amenities and pristine, white interiors. Butlers pander to every guest’s every whim; for dining, those who stay can choose between a half-board or full-board meal plan. Opt for the full-board plan to stay wallet and worry-free as you dine on gourmet cuisine at the six restaurants and bars dotted around the resort.

Take your pick between deluxe accommodations that have semi-open designs or the Piton Pool Suite for ocean-meets-mountain views.

Anse Chastanet

Who Will Love It: Family vacationers, outdoorsy couples; divers; chocoholics

All-Star Amenities: Relaxing treatments at Kai Belté Spa; sailing; top-tier diving facilities; jungle mountain biking; Emerald Estates Regenerative Farm; coral nursery program; suites decorated with traditional local fabrics; kingsize beds; handmade bathrobes; "Tree to Bar" chocolate tours

What Not To Miss: The once-a-week Harvesting excursion with the Executive Chef

Guests would be forgiven for spending excessive amounts of time in their rooms at Anse Chastanet. The resort's 49 individually designed accommodations have a patio or balcony, feature Coralina or clay tiles and are either nestled amidst lush tropical gardens at sea level or perched on verdant hillsides. Take your pick between categories including the Hillside Deluxe accommodations that have semi-open designs or the Piton Pool Suite for expansive ocean-meets-mountain views from the comfort of a 160-square-foot private pool.

All-inclusive at Anse Chastanet means all drinks by the glass and meals made with fresh ingredients from the hotel’s organic farm, roughly 20 minutes away by car. Resort dining is a treat, with scintillating and varied options like the lionfish conservation dining experience or the fresh Caribbean seafood bar at Balawoo. The resort's activity roster is brimming with activities like windsurfing, art workshops, jungle biking, a chocolate lab, birdwatching and ocean restoration programs. Hammock swinging and lounging on the sand are equally enticing activities here, with access to two captivating beaches, Anse Mamim and Anse Chastanet Beach.

East Winds hosts its guests in traditional cottages set against a backdrop of 12 acres of lush, sweet-smelling flora.

Who Will Love It: Budget savvy all-inclusive devotees

All-Star Amenities: Private beach gazebos for meals and celebrations; complimentary weddings; premium drinks; beachfront restaurant; vegetarian options; gym; afternoon tea; private chauffeur service; swim-up bar; temperature-regulated pool; weekly garden tours

What Not To Miss: Sailing lessons at no extra charge

Location: Gros Islet

It's infinitely easier to budget when you know that practically everything is included in the rate of your stay. This is the case when choosing East Winds as your St. Lucia base. Your wallet will be unnecessary for tips, unlimited Champagne from breakfast to dinner and all on-property meals, from four-course dinners to packed picnics when heading out for island exploration. Body nourishing activities like sailing, snorkeling, pilates, yoga or cooking with a resort chef are also complimentary. Should you decide to exchange vows on the property, your wedding will be thrown in for free, too. The only thing you'll have to shell out for at East Winds is a treatment at the indulgent on-site spa.

What sets the resort apart is its policy offering guests the chance to enjoy gourmet dining at Sandals Regency La Toc and Sandals Halcyon Beach.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian

Who Will Love It: Active couples; divers

All-Star Amenities: Purpose-built water-skiing boats; VIP airport transfers; swim-up bars; glass bottom boats; wakeboarding included in the rate; roundtrip shuttles to Sandals' two other St. Lucia resorts; swim-up suites; 12 restaurants; aqua fit classes; beach parties

What Not To Miss: The “Scents of Love” couples massage at Red Lane Spa

A world unto itself, Sandals Grande St. Lucian sprawls across a private peninsula and is an idyllic retreat for couples seeking an all-inclusive experience that blends romance with adventure. Couples can go paddle boarding in Rodney Bay—which is said to have some of the calmest waters in St. Lucia—or jump into the warm sea after waking up together in an over-the-water bungalow. PADI-certified diving enthusiasts will appreciate the unlimited scuba diving opportunities here, while windsurfing, wakeboarding, water-skiing, kayaks and sailboats are just some of the water-based pursuits that guests have free reign to limitlessly enjoy.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian is all-inclusive in the truest sense—listing all its inclusions would be too extensive. What sets the resort apart from other all-inclusives in St. Lucia is its "Stay at One, Play at Three" policy, offering guests the chance to enjoy the facilities and gourmet dining at Sandals Regency La Toc and Sandals Halcyon Beach , both of which are connected by roundtrip shuttles. Further sweetening the deal, each evening presents opportunities for diversion, dancing and connecting with your special someone during the themed soirees celebrating everything from reggae music to Broadway shows.

Reborn from a $12 million renovation, Windjammer Landing is a Mediterranean-style village offering something for every visitor.

Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences

Who Will Love It: Families with kids of all ages

All-Star Amenities: Spa; waterskiing; complimentary non-motorized water sports; private plunge pools; certified nannies; tennis; paddleboard and hummingbird yoga; diving; ocean-view rooms; six restaurants; villas with kitchens; gym with fitness classes

What Not To Miss: The milk, cookies and teddy bear in-room turndown service for parents with little ones

Reborn from a $12 million renovation, Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences is a 65-acre Mediterranean-style village offering something for every visitor—those in love, those seeking tranquillity and those wanting to move their bodies in the spa or fitness center. Families in particular will find their groove here. The resort is ideal for multi-generational vacations, offering a range of activities that cater to both the young and the young at heart. Children aged between four and 12 have access to countless supervised activities at the Kids Fun Club, including kiddies yoga, Creole dance lessons, nature walks, horseback riding, crafts, storytelling from Jacquot the Parrot (the resort's mascot) and mocktail making classes.

Meanwhile, parents can relish some downtime indulging in tipples and culinary delights across six diverse restaurants, from classic Italian cuisine at Papa Don's to sunset cocktails and Caribbean oxtail at Jammers. Fortunately, Windjammer Landing's premium all-inclusive package includes unlimited beverages—including top-shelf liquor—and meals, as well as in-between snacks. Children under 11 eat for free.

Calabash Cove encourages outdoorsy jaunts and adventure with a range of off-site excursions and leisurely strolls through the Cove Gardens.

Calabash Cove Resort & Spa

Who Will Love It: Honeymooners; empty nesters

All-Star Amenities: Unlimited wet bar; secluded beach; nearby coral reef; dedicated reading rooms with classical music; Ti-Spa; infinity pool; garden and nature hikes; swim-up suites; a Pop The Question Package; welcome fruit and wine

What Not To Miss: Happy hour at the swim-up bar

With only 26 keys, the adults-only Calabash Cove Resort & Spa maintains an intimate and cozy atmosphere that seldom feels crowded. All room categories offer four poster king beds and oversized jacuzzis, and the all-inclusive package is comprehensive, covering everything from room service to wines by the bottle, premium in-room drinks and a daily lobster meal when in season. The on-site Windsong restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients with dishes like Saint Lucian seafood pot au feu and pan-seared scallops with carrot ginger sauce, while the sky-high C-Bar grants views of the sea and the resort's infinity pool below, which has charmingly been named "Sweet Waters." Calabash Cove encourages outdoorsy jaunts and adventure with a range of off-site excursions, though many find comfort within its grounds whether it's through peaceful yoga sessions, leisurely strolls through the Cove Gardens or snorkeling by the coral reef a stone's throw away.

BodyHoliday's Wellness Centre is an award-winning temple dedicated to the art of feeling good, with treatments that draw from the ancient and avant-garde.

BodyHoliday

Who Will Love It: Fitness buffs; spa obsessives; yogis; digital detoxers

All-Star Amenities: Pro golf lessons; complimentary massages every day; British afternoon tea; premium alcohol; one-on-one consultations; Chavutti massages; weight loss programs; six restaurants; vegan cuisine; ocean view rooms; sailing school

What Not To Miss: Synchronized abanygaha, a four-handed rhythmic massage using a combination of herbal oils.

Location: Cap Estate

At BodyHoliday, all-inclusive is redefined. Sure, you can have your piña colada (and sip it by the sea), but here, the real joy is the all-you-can-treat-yourself menu of activities. Guests can conquer the waves with windsurfing, learn water skiing, take archery classes, practice golf with a PGA professional or find their inner Federer on the tennis courts. The resort's slogan is “Give us your body for a week, and we’ll give you back your mind,” so expect anything but a fly-and-flop vacation.

BodyHoliday's Wellness Center is an award-winning temple dedicated to the fine art of feeling good with treatments that draw from the ancient and the avant garde. The 75-minute West Indies Signature Facial leaves you glowing like a St. Lucian sunset, and there is one 50-minute massage thrown in complimentary for every day of your stay. Time your visit for one of the nine themed months during the year, ranging from "Spring Sail" to "Octoba Yoga."

This retreat boasts suites without a fourth wall or windows, replacing traditional barriers with open vistas of the sea and the Pitons.

Jade Mountain

Who Will Love It: Newlyweds; fans of unique architecture; globetrotters; lovers of bucket list hotels

All-Star Amenities: Helicopter transfers available; hot tubs; in-sanctuary dining; Chocolate Lab; tours and excursions; mountain bike trail within the estate; organic farm; private catamaran; vegan culinary program; cooking classes; microbrewery; hilltop views; access to facilities at Anse Chastanet

What Not To Miss : A visit to Kai en Ciel spa which has chocolate-infused treatments

Perched above its sister property, Anse Chastanet , Jade Mountain is an architectural gem in St. Lucia. Designed by Nick Troubetzkoy, this retreat offers suites—known as sanctuaries—without a fourth wall or windows, replacing traditional barriers with open vistas of the sea and the Pitons. Serenity is emphasized via the omission of phones, TVs, and clocks. The award-winning resort features accommodations of various sizes, with the largest Galaxy Sanctuaries featuring private infinity pools averaging 900 square feet. Notably, there are only full-length private infinity pools at the resort—no communal pools.

Highlights at Jade Mountain include in-sanctuary yoga sessions, round-the-clock butlers called Major Domos, and seasonal dishes at the on-site restaurant, Jade Mountain Club, which is only open to hotel guests. There are three rate plans to choose from: without meals, with breakfast and dinner or all-inclusive. The resort also offers seasonal packages with tempting offers designed for honeymooners, divers, wellness aficionados and active travelers looking to keep up with their fitness routines.

Tailor-made for the variety-conscious, the Royalton has an impressive roster of 450 suites, four sparkling outdoor pools and a splash park.

Royalton Saint Lucia, An Autograph Collection

Who Will Love It: Active families; spa fanatics; true all-inclusive devotees

All-Star Amenities: Swim-up bars; splash park; exclusive chef’s table experience; Royalton Signature rain showers; restocked minibars; non-stop room service; tennis; beach volleyball; kayaking; kids’ and teens’ clubs; the largest spa in St. Lucia

What Not To Miss: Donning your loveliest white attire during the weekly white party

Royalton Saint Lucia, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort is blissful for holidayers who want the best amenities wrapped in the beauty of St. Lucia. Tailor-made for the variety-conscious, it has an impressive roster of 450 suites, four sparkling outdoor pools, a splash park, scuba diving lessons for beginners, a supervised kids' club and a teenagers' lounge with speedy Wi-Fi and PlayStation games.

Culinary adventurers will find themselves on a global tour at the resort's nine restaurants, with flavors spanning from Tex-Mex tastes at Armadillo to the international buffet at Gourmet Marché. Evenings at Royalton Saint Lucia are lively, with eight bars serving sublime cocktails and a weekly white party that's suitable for families. For active travelers, the resort offers high-intensity boot camps, and there's tennis, pickleball, aqua aerobics, beach volleyball, sunrise yoga and dance classes to rev up your heart rate.

About Rosie Bell, Your St. Lucia All-Inclusive Resorts Guide

I am a travel writer and location independence educator at DiscoverySessions.io . I have written for publications on both sides of the Atlantic, including BBC Travel, BBC Worklife, Condé Nast Traveler, Fodor’s, Travel + Leisure, National Geographic Traveller, Cosmopolitan, Atlas Obscura, and Lonely Planet. I am also the author of ‘ Escape to Self ’ and have been featured as a travel and life design expert in Business Insider, ABC News, NBC News, South China Morning Post, and Scandinavian Traveler. Follow my travels on Instagram ( @TheBeachBell ) and read more of my writing at RosieBell.net .

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This Beachfront St. Lucia Resort Just Got a $12-million Makeover

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort on St. Lucia just got a stunning remodel — here's why it's worth a visit.

Courtesy of Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort

Driving through the southernmost part of St. Lucia, I was immediately reminded of all the things I love about this part of the island: jungly mountainsides with pastel-colored homes and roadside bars; small corners boasting panoramic views of the emerald-colored ocean; tight-knit towns, like Dennery, that are producing some of the best soca music coming out of the Caribbean; and those iconic volcanic plugs — the Piton Mountains — that sprout from the sea. 

This was my third visit to the eastern Caribbean island. I was headed to Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort , on the more commercial northwest coast of the island in Labrelotte Bay. The 65-acre resort unveiled a $12-million renovation this year, including revamped villas and new culinary and wellness programs — and I was here to experience it all.

As the driver made his way down the property’s private driveway, a row of whitewashed Mediterranean-style villas emerged from the sidelines and the ocean appeared in the distance. I was greeted with a glass of Champagne to kick off the afternoon in the newly redone open-air lobby, which is decked with chandeliers and has nautical blue-and-white accents.

I checked into the newly built beachside Ocean Point Residences, which come with a dedicated concierge team available to guests throughout their stay. These two- and three-bedroom beachfront villas include multiple outdoor terraces with ocean views, fully equipped kitchens, smart TVs, and a private infinity pool — I spent most afternoons here with a glass of rum punch in hand. After a nearly 12-hour journey from my place in Los Angeles, I eagerly welcomed this home away from home, particularly the living room’s spacious couch and vibrant touches of turquoise and teakwood. 

Doublespace Photography

Windjammer Landing has 220 accommodations for guests, between rooms, suites, villas, and the Ocean Point Residences. Tucked away at the very top of the hill are six renovated luxury villas, called the Manor Collection, which feature jaw-dropping views, plus new kitchens, bathrooms, furniture, and artwork. Later this year, the property’s largest village — the 4,000-square-foot Presidential Villa — will debut, equipped with its own swimming pool, driveway, and living space.

Exploring the property for the first time, it’s clear that Windjammer Landing appeals to a wide range of travelers. There’s a kids’ club with daily activities like volleyball and puppet shows. Solo guests and couples can unwind at the poolside bar for a cocktail and enjoy live entertainment in the evenings. In addition to the six pools and the beach, there are an array activities to pick from, like a rain forest zip line, volcano tours, deep-sea fishing, dolphin and whale watching, horseback riding, scuba diving, golf, bird-watching, and scenic helicopter tours.

When hunger struck, I had no shortage of options to choose from. Guests can choose between à la carte and all-inclusive packages. (Because I love to eat, I chose the latter.)

Under culinary director Aurelien Duarte and executive chef Sebastian Francis, the property’s five restaurants received some upgrades. This includes fire pits at the casual beachside Jammers restaurant, a new Mediterranean menu at the hillside eatery Papa Don’s, and a wine lounge coming soon to the Upper Deck steakhouse. The resort’s signature restaurant, Dragon Fly, opened a rooftop bar and lounge with ocean views. Its small plates of piri piri king prawns and rum-based cocktails are sure to attract locals and hotel guests alike. 

Newest to the culinary lineup is Masala at Embers, serving up Indian cuisine under the helm of chef Vikrham Singh. I got a sneak peak at the menu here one night and was instantly reminded of some of the best meals I had during a visit to New Delhi years ago, including bites of smoky paneer, tandoor-cooked chicken, and fish topped with citrusy chutneys. 

Whenever I travel, I make it a point to get off the property, and in St. Lucia, heading to the lush south side of the island is a perfect reason to do just that. Windjammer Landing offers both group and private boat excursions around the island. Riding the waves is a good way to see a different perspective of the island’s diverse topography – from towering hillsides to glittering beach coves. The day excursion includes a stop at the natural sulfur springs for a dip and detox, as well as lunch at a no frills, family-owned restaurant called Fedo’s , where I devoured a tender stewed chicken with ground provisions like yam and cassava.

Back at Windjammer Landing, my last afternoon ended at Serene Wellness & Spa with a customized massage so soothing that I am not ashamed to admit I can only briefly recall it. The spa has a steam room, juice bar, and an assortment of services like massages, body wraps, facials, and scalp treatments. The spa also offers two unique yoga experiences: hummingbird yoga in a garden and paddleboard yoga on the water for those with superior hand-eye coordination. Later this year, the spa will debut the island’s first medi-spa with treatments focused on rejuvenation. It’s fitting considering rejuvenated is exactly how I felt upon leaving the resort after my four-day stay. 

TripAdvisor Reviews  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

We just returned from our honeymoon in Saint Lucia. We thought we would book a private transfer to and from the resort for a little extra luxury and we are so glad we did! Randy was exceptional! After a long day of travel Randy made the long drive to the resort from the airport extremely comfortable and enjoyable. He made a few stops along the way at look off points and the tastiest homemade bread shop! He was quite knowledgeable in the history of the island as well. We can’t say enough good things about Randy. Next time we travel to Saint Lucia we will definitely be calling Randy again!!

Let me start by saying I rarely write Internet reviews but this time I had to make an exception. My wife and I recently returned from a week-long getaway to St. Lucia, and Randy LaFontaine was an integral part of our trip’s success. Over the course of our stay, we hired him for transfers from airport to resort, resort to resort, an afternoon of touring (volcano, mud bath, waterfall, snorkeling in the Caribbean) and for transfer back to the airport. Throughout our travels with him, Randy was warm, courteous, conscientious (always punctual) and patient; above all, he is a masterful driver which is critical given the very narrow and ever-curvy roadways up and down the island. In his hands, a passenger can relax and enjoy the view while he takes charge and carefully navigates the east side of the island’s numerous hairpin turns. On top of everything, his vehicles feel luxurious: very comfortable and impeccably maintained. In addition to his investment in making St. Lucia Travel and Tours a premier enterprise, Randy impressed us with his commitment to giving back to the community and in inspiring the youth of Saint Lucia on how to grow their own entrepreneurial spirit. As you can see, Randy LaFontaine is an extraordinary young man and I recommend him and his business to you without reservation.

Prior to arriving in St. Lucia, we arranged for a private transfer to Hideaway at the Royalton. We chose to book with St. Lucia Travel and Tours based on the excellent reviews we saw on Trip Advisor and Randy did not disappoint! Randy met us promptly after we exited the arrival area, had ice cold towels, fruit, water and beer (the local Piton beer is excellent!) in the car, stopped so we could take pictures along the way and provided us wih information regarding the different areas we drove through. He is an excellent driver and we thoroughly enjoyed the 90 minute drive to our hotel. Randy also did our return transfer and again provided the same excellent level of service. We will definitely book with Randy on our next trip to St. Lucia! BTW Randy was the recipient of the 2018 Young Entrepenuers Award

Where do I start? I would never use anyone besides Randy for our private transfers or city excursions!

I had scheduled with Randy a private round trip transfer from the airport to our resort several months in advance. This was all coordinated with Randy over email. Randy is extremely attentive and responds to email in a timely manner. We were able to coordinate times, locations and other details with him. No monies were exchanged and you don’t pay anything until you are dropped off at your resort.

We had an experience you only read about with our flight to St Lucia. We had an emergency landing in San Juan Puerto Rico and were delayed approximately 10 hours. We were supposed to get in at 3:15 pm but ended up arriving at 1:00 am or so. We figured Randy was long gone and we would have to take the Sandals shuttle to the resort. To our surprise we exited the airport and Randy was waiting for us with a smile and a sign with our name on it. He was also dressed professionally which was a nice touch. Randy quickly met with us and took care of our luggage. We were off to the Resort in a very well cared for car. My wife and I were exhausted, hot, irritated and Randy made that go away. He provided fresh fruit for us which was perfect and much needed! We also had rum punch and beer but we passed on it since it was so late. Randy offered to provide it for us on our return transfer even though that wasn’t a part of it. We quickly accepted.

Randy drove us to our resort and happily answered our questions along the way. Randy was a safe driver and we felt very comfortable with him. It was a relaxing drive. We arrived at the resort in about 1.5 hours. It was now approximately 2:30 am. Randy had to drive home afterwards which got him home at 4:00 am. He than had to start his day by 6:00 am. What a hard worker. Never a complaint and always with a smile.

I spoke to Randy about maybe taking a private tour of the island with our friends. Randy stated he would do whatever we wanted and to email him. We decided to book Randy again and we were picked up by Tyson for our private island tour. We explained to Tyson where we wanted to Gond what we wanted to do. Tyson made it all happen. We had the BEST time! We went to the rum factory, Antillia Brewery and shopping in Castries. Tyson was very flexible and was never worried about the time. We even went over our originally planned time and it was no problem.

For our return transfer I confirmed this with Randy the day before we were leaving. He responded immediately. Randy was at the resort early waiting for us. Again dressed well with a clean van waiting. We arrived at the airport safely with plenty of time to catch our flight.

Randy…..thanks for your exceptional service, fair pricing, professional demeanor, promptness, flexibility, and sense of humor. We really enjoyed our time with you and Tyson. Hope to see you again one day!!

From the the initial email and our first meeting at the airport Randy was such an impressive young business man who did everything right! He was impeccably dressed and the car was immaculate. The ride was an hour and forty five minutes to the hotel and Randy gave us a tour all the way. Besides the water he had for us in the car he stop to buy St Lucia’s local beer Piton. He also picked us up for the return trip to the airport. He arrived at the exact time he said. What a pleasurable ride. I highly recommend St Lucia Travel and Tours! Thank you Randy!

Chose Randy and his team based on TripAdvisor reviews. Good decision. Nice cars, prompt and professional drivers providing a nice monologue of island highlights on the 1:45 drive to our destination private villa. Two of our party missed their connection and needed to be picked up the next day – quick email to Randy and we were all set. Trip back to airport was uneventful – just what you want!

“ Essential help in St. Lucia ” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“My wife and I were married in St. Lucia on June 10th of 2016, and we don’t know what we would have done without Randy.

There were multiple phases to our trip. First, we came from several locations across the US to the UVF airport. My parents and siblings arrived a day earlier than the rest of us, and Randy arranged for their transportation from UVF to their two night home rental, simply based on their flight itinerary. Super easy.

Later in the week, we needed Randy to:

-find a catamaran sunset cruise for our entire wedding party -pick up our photographers that we flew in from Mexico, take them to their hotel -get our photographers to our rented villa for the wedding ceremony -find a very specific getaway car for after the ceremony

-get our photographers back to their hotel after the ceremony -rent us a small boat for a trash the dress photography session -get our photographers back down to the dock from their hotel -get all of us back to the Crystals treehouse villas to coordinate photograph transfer for my wife -take our photographers back to their hotel room -take our photographers back to the UVF airport the next day

We were getting exhausted just thinking about it. Randy handled it all with minimal input from us and aligned everything to our tight schedule. Just thinking about it again gives me a panic attack. If we had been working with anyone but Randy, I don’t think our wedding would have been as perfect as it was.

On top of all this, Randy then coordinated our travel from Crystals to Sandals Halcyon on the north side of the island, and made sure we went to an excellent ziplining tour on our way up north. We had a great driver who ended up being an excellent tour guide as well.

Randy’s organization covers a lot of ground, but the takeaway is that they’re people you can rely on for a variety of services. They know the island better than you do, and their expertise and dependability ensured that our wedding + honeymoon in St. Lucia was the experience of a lifetime. No matter what you find yourself needing help coordinating in St. Lucia, give Randy at St. Lucia Travel the opportunity to help you out. You’ll be glad you did.”

-Joe Handzik

“ Sunset Cruise – Randy the Photographer ”  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“My husband and I spent our honeymoon in St. Lucia at Sugar Beach Resort. It was lovely! We decided to take a sunset cruise excursion and Randy Lafontaine was a photographer on the boat rides. He took pictures of my husband and I; they were outstanding! As many honeymooners know, it’s very difficult to get pictures of the both of you. A lot of times, you just have to take pictures of each other or selfies. It was SO NICE to have someone take pictures of us that I will cherish forever. Not to mention – they are awesome shots! Randy Lafontaine knows what he is doing, and he is a very likable, easy-going guy. Great personality”

“ Randy is Awesome!!! ”  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“We did an amazing tour with Randy, he picked us up from the port and took us on a tour of the island. He took us along the coast of the island and giving us information about the towns we passed on the way. We visited the mud baths and then on the way back up to the port we stopped at an amazing waterfall, we were the only people there, it was really beautiful. He also took a lot of photos for us and emailed them over to me the next day. We had such an amazing time. Thanks Randy!!”

-Danny Werner

“ The Only Way to Travel in St Lucia ”  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Our initial taxi service coming into St. Lucia was pretty dismal, luckily for us, we had a contact refer Randy prior to our leaving and what an amazing referral he was! Randy became our personal

driver when we could schedule him in the rest of our trip. He was warm and kind and had an amazing playlist. I didn’t get car sick with Randy like I did with a previous driver and it’s easy to do in St. Lucia with it’s winding undeveloped roads. Randy greeted us every morning with a sugar apple and when we got back to America, for a full week, we genuinely missed his presence. He was always early, always accommodating, always fantastic. There really is no other way to travel or taxi around St. Lucia. He has all the islands secrets and makes every event and tour a treat.

“ Amazing photography!! ”  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“My wife and I and another couple had our vacation in St. Lucia taken to the next level by our friend Randy, whom we hired to shoot us at our various excursions throughout the island.

Not only is Randy a top-notch pro photographer, he was also very knowledgeable and helpful in providing us guidance for our outings in order to optimize both our fun and the photo quality!

Wish we had Randy available for all our vacations!

Brian Meckley

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At the Viceroy -affiliated Sugar Beach, you don't have to book a lavish villa to experience high-end amenities. Each room features a private walled garden, a plunge pool and personalized butler service. In addition to the plush accommodations, Sugar Beach boasts easy access to some of St. Lucia 's best dive spots, including "Superman's Flight," a popular drift dive around the base of Petit Piton . Travelers can arrange scuba excursions, as well as island tours, through the resort. If you want to experience Petit Piton in a more laid-back atmosphere, consider indulging in a treatment at the Rainforest Spa, located at the base of the mountain. Refuel for more island exploration and relaxation at the four on-site restaurants, including the casual Jalousie Grill and elegant formal dining at Saltwood. Reviewers love the property's clean accommodations, superb service and incredible cuisine, although some warn that a stay here isn't cheap and is best suited for couples (especially honeymooners).

• Hotel Class 5.0
• Critic Rating GREAT

Tripadvisor Traveler Rating

U.S. News analyzed more than 35,000 hotels to find the best in the USA, Europe, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean, based on reputation among travel experts, guest reviews and hotel class ratings.

• # 2 in Best St. Lucia Hotels
• # 2 in Best St. Lucia Resorts
• # 18 in Best Caribbean Hotels
• # 17 in Best Caribbean Resorts
• # 2 in Soufriere

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Critic Reviews

Other Awards

• Condé Nast Readers' Choice List 2023
• Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2023
• AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2023

Fodor's

The accommodations are exquisite, the service is superb, the amenities are extensive, and the scenery is unparalleled.

Frommer's

It's dreamy, yes, but priced to match.

Condé Nast Traveler

Unbeatable views and spacious, butler-serviced accommodations make this a no-brainer for a relaxing getaway.

Guest Reviews

A hotel's guest rating is calculated using data provided under license by Tripadvisor. A total of 2779 have reviewed the Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort , giving it a rating of 4.5 , on a scale of 1-5.

Tripadvisor Travel Rating: 

Guest Rooms

• Personal butlers
• Largest residence has four bedrooms
• Residences are outfitted with kitchens and living rooms

Standard room size :  374 square feet

• Premium channels
• Workspace/desk
• Bathrobes/slippers
• Shower/tub combo
• Separate shower
• Separate tub
• Wireless internet
• Free internet
• Fee for internet usage
• Guest rooms with patios and balconies
• Adjoining rooms available

Location & Parking

• About 20 miles northwest of Hewanorra International Airport
• No airport transfers
• 24-hour valet parking
• 24-hour self-parking (free)
• Airport shuttle
• Car service

Within walking distance of :

• Restaurants
• Movie theater
• Train station
• Subway/metro stop
• Grocery store
• Beach and poolside service
• Room service available 24 hours a day

Number of restaurants :  3

Cuisine Types :  American

• Fine dining
• Casual dining
• Quick service cafe/coffee shop/marketplace
• Room service
• 24-hour room service
• free breakfast
• Food and beverage service available at resort pool and beach
• On-site dive center
• Complimentary motorized and nonmotorized sports at beach
• Wading pool
• Family pool
• Infinity pool
• Whirlpool/hot tub
• Adults-only pool
• Lifeguard on duty
• Poolside service
• Deck chairs or cabanas
• Monthly spa specials
• Teens and couples treatments

Services offered :

• Body Treatments (i.e. scrubs, wraps)
• Salon services
• Outdoor treatment area
• Babysitting services (charges apply)
• Children's menus
• Kids 3 and younger must be accompanied by a parent or babysitter in Sugar Club
• Free Kids Club
• Fee for Kids Club
• High Chairs
• Personal trainers (charges apply)
• Fitness class options include yoga and Pilates
• Weight equipment
• Cardio equipment
• Free fitness classes
• Premium fitness classes (with fee)
• On-site catering services
• Business center
• Meeting rooms
• Meeting and event planners available
• Dog bedding, bowls, water and treats provided
• Pets allowed (with fee)
• Dog walking
• Pet-sitting
• Bridal hair and makeup services
• Honeymoon packages
• The beach can accommodate receptions with up to 200 guests and seated banquets with up to 120 guests

Maximum wedding guest capacity :  220

• Hotel hosts weddings
• Outdoor space for weddings
• Wedding planners available

Editor’s note: Hotel information is updated periodically. If this is your property and you notice any inaccuracies, please let us know . If you are interested in obtaining a badge to display on your website or in other media, please contact us .

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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Stonefield, hands down

Private cottages all with private pool, great food, stunning views, shirt ride to the beach. You can hike around the resort and you're a short drive to multiple hikes, etc. Great snorkeling all around you .

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