This is the island that you've always dreamed of. The perfect mix of tropical bliss and European charm, St. Lucia is known for its pristine beaches, awe-inspiring views, and welcoming people.
St. Lucia is an island paradise in the Caribbean Sea brimming with natural beauty and vibrant culture. It is part of the Lesser Antilles archipelago, which includes Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Dominica. Located just east of Dominica and south of Martinique, St. Lucia is one of the most visited islands in the Caribbean. This island is perfect for families, couples, and even solo travelers who want to relax in luxury while taking advantage of all St. Lucia has to offer.
Of course, we can't talk about St. Lucia without mentioning its abundant natural attractions. The island is home to the Pitons, two towering mountains that rise out of the sea and are considered by many to be one of the most beautiful sights in the world. Furthermore, the island boasts 19,000 acres of rainforest that beckons adventurers to hike and explore. Overall, this island is a Caribbean paradise with a beach-filled coastline dotted with palm trees and topped with a volcanic mountain range.
To help you plan your trip to this beautiful country, we've put together a guide that covers everything you need to know before jetting off to St. Lucia.
Why Visit St. Lucia
St. Lucia is an island with a lot to offer. If you're looking for your next getaway location or just want to know the ins and outs of this destination, here are some reasons why St. Lucia might be right up your alley:
It's not too far away. The small country is located in the Caribbean, so if you live in North America, it'll take less than five hours to get there.
The climate is temperate, and the weather is warm year-round. A tropical climate means that you'll never be too hot or too cold at any given time of year; the average temperature sits around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with highs in the summer months hitting 85 degrees. So, throw on some sunscreen or a light jacket and enjoy.
It's an excellent place for people who love the beach. If you're not into swimming in salt water and lying out on the sand, St. Lucia might not be for you; but if you are, it's an ideal choice. The island has over 30 different beaches ranging from quiet and secluded to bustling activity.
If you're worried about a trip to St. Lucia depriving you of quality food, fear not! The island has its own culinary traditions and boasts some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean. You'll find that most meals feature locally-grown and caught ingredients; fresh seafood is a specialty, as are local meats like lamb and goat. Meals are often served with rice or plantains, and you can find fantastic seafood dishes at many resorts on the island.
The island's coastline is stunning. St. Lucia makes for a perfect honeymoon or family vacation destination with miles of white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters. You can't get any better than this when it comes to a seaside getaway.
Know Before You Go:
When to Visit: For maximum sunshine, the best time to visit St. Lucia is between December and April. However, if you're looking for a more laid-back vibe with fewer tourists, the 'wet' season from June to November is also a great choice.
Currency: The official currency used throughout Saint Lucia is East Caribbean Dollar (EC$), but US dollars are also widely accepted.
Language: English is widely spoken throughout St. Lucia, with the occasional use of French Creole.
For up-to-date COVID restrictions, check out the St. Lucia tourism website.
What to See & Do in St. Lucia
The Pitons are St. Lucia's centerpiece. These two volcanic mountains tower over the island, offering great views from their peaks and making them a popular tourist attraction in St. Lucia. You can hike along one of the many trails or take a guided tour to learn more about the region's rich biodiversity. If you're looking for an adventure, consider visiting one of the waterfalls (like Victoria Falls) or even rappelling down one!
Take a boat tour around different parts of St. Lucia's coastline for a day of relaxation and sightseeing. Or, enjoy one of the island's gorgeous beaches with calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. St. Lucia also has lovely gardens where travelers can spend time admiring flowers or just relaxing in a peaceful atmosphere. One popular spot is the Diamond Botanical Gardens, home to 6-acres of vibrant foliage for you to explore.
In addition to all the natural wonders that await you during your visit, there is also plenty to see and do in the city. For example, St. Lucia boasts an impressive culinary culture with plenty of mouth-watering dishes to try. Excellent fusion restaurants are scattered throughout the island and offer the freshest organic, locally grown ingredients. Visit Castries Market to try some local tropical fruit and vegetables. Dine on the freshest seafood on the island and catch a breathtaking view of the Pitons from the tables at Soufrière restaurants.
Overall, there's so much to see and do in St. Lucia from the stunning beaches to the lush rainforests.
Where to Stay in St. Lucia
St. Lucia is home to some of the most stunning hotels in the world, with resorts that boast everything from luxury amenities and gourmet cuisine to water sports and activities for kids. If you're looking for a romantic getaway with your partner or just want to relax solo at a luxurious spa resort, St. Lucia has something that will please every traveler.
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort
One of the most popular resorts in St. Lucia is Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort. Sugar Beach is located in one of the island's most picturesque locations, with luxury accommodations, top-notch service, and exquisite food. Each of the guestrooms at the resort is an indoor/outdoor paradise. Stay in a luxury beachfront bungalow where you can step out onto the sand to watch the sunrise.
Sugar Beach also offers a variety of activities to satisfy adventure seekers and sun lovers, with more than 100 acres of tropical rainforest and a welcoming white-sand beach on its doorstep. There's no better place in St. Lucia to make memories and find relaxation. With a spa, fitness center, infinity pool, and on-site beach bar, guests will find plenty of ways to enjoy themselves at this resort.
Overall, with breathtaking views and extensive activities, Sugar Beach offers guests an unforgettable experience in St. Lucia.
Jade Mountain
In terms of luxury resorts, Jade Mountain is the crown jewel of St. Lucia. Located in Soufrière, Jade Mountain features 24 infinity pool sanctuary suites that are perched on cliffs overlooking the ocean. Built without a fourth wall, these open-walled sanctuaries fully immerse guests in the beauty of St. Lucia. The views are truly stunning, and the amenities will make you feel like royalty. Of course, Jade Mountain offers a full range of dining options, including an East Indian and Caribbean fusion restaurant, three restaurants, and two bars shared with its sister resort Anse Chastanet.
In addition to its excellent accommodations, Jade Mountain is also known for its eco-friendly practices. They strive to create a resort experience that harmoniously immerses travelers in nature, connects them to the local community, and thoughtfully considers their impact on the environment. Furthermore, there are no televisions, radio, or phones in the sanctuaries, and guests are encouraged to put away their phones to enjoy the resort experience fully, making it the perfect honeymoon accommodation. Overall, Jade Mountain resort offers a true luxury escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Ladera Resort
The Ladera Resort is perched on a volcano ridgeline overlooking the Pitons, Caribbean Sea, and Soufrière Bay. The 37 suites and villas are the perfect exclusive getaway for travelers seeking privacy and seclusion. With a variety of activities and amenities to suit every taste, Ladera has everything you need to enjoy this island paradise.
Join in on a sunrise meditation, or take a leisure horse ride on the beach to start your day in St. Lucia. For dining, guests can experience eclectic, innovative cuisine at Dasheene, Ladera's award-winning restaurant. Enjoy live music and panoramic views as you indulge in the finest Caribbean dining. Or, dial up room service from your bedside phone for deliciousness delivered to your private villa.
Surrounded by lush vegetation and tropical flowers, the Ladera resort feels like paradise on Earth.
*Bonus Locations*
Sandals Grande St. Lucian: Located on the north coast of St. Lucia, Sandals Grande St. Lucian sits along the Atlantic Ocean's edge and overlooks the Pitons mountain range. This adults-only all-inclusive resort is perfect for honeymooners and couples looking to get away from it all. Of course, Sandals Grande St. Lucian has all the amenities you'd expect from a Sandals property: a beautiful beach, amazing restaurants, and endless activities to enjoy. For an unforgettable Caribbean experience, Sandals Grande St. Lucian is a perfect choice.
The Landings Resort & Spa: Tucked on the shores of Rodney Bay, The Landings Resort & Spa is the perfect family resort for a relaxing getaway. The resort offers guests a wide range of accommodation options, including marina view, ocean view, and beachfront villas with a variety of sleeping arrangements for families. The Landings also offers an array of amenities and activities for both adults and kids alike, including swimming pools, tennis courts, and a kids club. Overall, The Landings Resort and Spa is one of the best places for families to stay when visiting St. Lucia.
In Conclusion
If you're looking for the ultimate vacation in a tropical paradise, look no further than St. Lucia. This island has everything you need to relax and unwind, with natural beauty and activities on every corner. Whether you want to explore the island by car or on foot, visit an old fort or go zip lining through the trees, there is so much to see!
If you want to visit this island paradise, just reach out to the expert planners at Travel Queen LLC! As certified St. Lucia experts, we can help you find the perfect place to stay, as well as plan all of your activities and excursions. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway for two or hoping for a family vacation where everyone will have something fun to do, St. Lucia is the perfect spot for your next vacation.
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