Ever wonder what it is like to visit a tropical paradise in the Caribbean or perhaps, figuring out what Caribbean island you want to see? Look no further; located in the West Indies stands the island of St. Lucia. The constant tropical temperature, beautiful landscape, and friendly locals draw many tourists to this stunning island. To find out if St. Lucia is the right island to visit, continue reading and see if this dream getaway is ideal for you!
Before we begin our journey to the island, one must ask what makes St. Lucia so majestic? St. Lucia’s beauty comes from the island’s landscape and the local culture. It’s an island for adventurers and people looking for captivating views with the dramatic mountain terrain, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, overflowing stunning gardens, volcanic beaches, drive-through volcano, and unique fishing villages. The local culture is extraordinary and top-notch from the delicious food, colorful festivals, talented entertainers, and friendliness from the local people. One must marvel at the variety you capture from an island that’s only twenty-seven miles long and fourteen miles wide. St. Lucia is also the only sovereign nation in the world named after a female. So let her inspire you with her beauty and adventure.
Know Before You Go
When is the best time to go to St. Lucia?
St. Lucia’s weather is tropical and stays pretty consistent; however, there are certain times of the year that it’s better to go than some.
- December – April is considered the high season for tourism. The weather is dry and sunny, but this brings high prices and more crowds.
- April- June is the best time to go as far as weather and crowds are concerned. Crowds will slowly diminish as summer approaches, and the cost of travel tends to come down.
- June- November is claimed to be St. Lucia’s rainy season, with September and October being the heaviest rainfall during the hurricane season.
It is not uncommon for the weather to report multiple days with rain in the forecast; it is a tropical island with a rainforest. However, things to consider are what one side of the island may have, the other may not. Unless there is a storm system passing through, most of the time, it’s quick showers that some people may enjoy when it’s hot and humid. It gives you that extra time to fill up your drinks at the nearby bar or grab some food.
My husband and I have gone four times to St. Lucia at the beginning of December. For us, we found it the best time. Coming off Thanksgiving holiday travel in the US. and right before the Christmas season picks up. So far, each time we have gone, there has been beautiful weather and sunshine.
Covid Entry Protocols
As the Covid Pandemic is constantly changing, so are travel restrictions. To avoid any issues, stay current by visiting stlucia.org leading up to visiting the island. Whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, every traveler must fill out a Health Screening Form. Those vaccinated ( two weeks have passed since the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or a single-dose vaccine) are required to show valid proof of vaccination upon check-in for boarding and entry into St. Lucia. Those who are unvaccinated or under the age of 5 must have a valid negative Standard COVID-19 PCR test done within five days before arrival and bring the results for entry. If you or a person in your party forgets the results or has had the wrong type of Covid Test, you will be retested at your own expense and remain in quarantine till the results come back. Check the website to see the required testing and what information needs to be on the results.
Documentation that must be printed out and taken with you on the day of travel are:
- Health Screening Form
- Negative PCR test taken within 5 days of arrival- Only if unvaccinated
- Valid Vaccination Record Card- Only if vaccinated
- Passport
- Travel Insurance (if applicable)
Departing from your place of origin, the ticket agent will verify and check your vaccination record (if applicable) or your Negative PCR test result (if applicable) to ensure validity to board the plane. Once everything is confirmed, the desk agent will check you in and give you your boarding ticket.
Arriving in St. Lucia, you will have to go through a few checkpoints. The first point is stopping for a temperature check before heading into the tented area. Once you are clear, you will enter a line that will ask for hard copies of your negative Covid-PCR test (if applicable) or your Vaccination Record Card (If applicable), and your Health Screening documentation. After verifying documents, you will either get a white wristband or a pink/red wristband. The different colors will represent your vaccination status. White indicates that you have been fully vaccinated and will be able to skip the quarantine process and move about the island freely. The pink/red wristband indicates you are not fully vaccinated and will have to go to Covid-Certified accommodations and only participate in covid-certified activities and excursions. (Most Resorts and AirBNBs are Covid- Certified accommodations, but check your place of stay before visiting the island). For those non-vaccinated, you will be able to move about the island freely after the seven days of quarantine are completed.
Arriving in St. Lucia
Unless you’re coming from a neighboring island, the typical airport you will arrive at is the Hewanorra International Airport (UVF).
If you want the island’s best view when coming in for a landing, it’s best to sit on the plane’s left side.
Once touched down and taxied in, the aircraft will release the front and back doors, allowing you to deplane faster. From there, you will venture through several tents for their Covid-protocol. (Note: As the pandemic constantly changes, read up on the stlucia.org website of what needs to be preauthorized before boarding the plane to the island.) Once you complete those steps, you will enter the customs line, and then the last step is grabbing your luggage and being ushered to the pickup point.
Due to the various checkpoints, If standing in a queue for possibly two hours long isn’t your cup of tea, start your trip off on a pleasant note and take a look into the fast track. Many people have purchased the Fast Track Arrival and Fast Track Departure from Island Taxi & Tours Co., which can become extraordinarily beneficial, allowing you to get through the lines at a faster rate.
Understanding the layout of the island is that the airport resides on the south end of the island, whereas most of the resorts, depending on which one you choose, will be located more so on the North end. It takes about 90-minutes via a shuttle car (private with a local company or resort shuttle that’s complimentary) or ferry boat with Fun to See Island Ferry to reach the opposing end of the island.
Suppose you want to start your trip off with a beautiful sightseeing helicopter ride and get to your resort faster. The helicopter transfer will take you from Hewanorra to George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU); from there, you will take the remaining 15-minutes or less to your resort by a shuttle transfer. Things to consider while choosing is that a minimum of six people are needed for the helicopter to fly, check the schedule to see if they will be taking flight on the day you come in, and you’re only allowed a small personal item onboard. The rest of your luggage will be put on a shuttle and taken to your respective resort.
The last option for transport is a bit on the boujee side but beneficial to avoid traffic congestion. Island Taxi and Tour Co. have just rolled out a new upgrade package where you will get your private transfer with a police escort. The fastest land transportation you can get!
When I first heard about this upgraded package with Island Taxi and Tour, I thought I read something wrong, but as we made our way to the resort, we actually saw this happen in real-time. The people who upgraded got the ride of their lives that day! So check this upgrade out if you want to arrive in style.
Accommodations
Whether you’re on a budget or want to spend your time in a paradise full of luxury, there are a variety of options for everyone. For those wanting to stay like a local, looking at AirBNBs are a great way to get a feel of living in a tropical paradise. There are various beautiful resorts located throughout the island for a more luxurious experience. Jade Mountain, Ladera Resort and Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort are all located on the western coastline and will give you stunning views of the Pitons. Staying at Marigot Bay Resort and Marina will provide you with beautiful views of the historical inland landmark.
Taking JJ’s speedboat or Joe Knows Land and Sea excursion will go past Marigot Bay and make a stop for lunch at one of their restaurants during the tour.
If you want to immerse yourself in the Sandals experience, Sandals All-Inclusive Resort & Spa has three resorts on the island. Each one of these resorts brings its own one-of-a-kind experience. Before Covid, you could stay at one but “play” at the other two by being shuttled. Since the ongoing pandemic is always constantly changing, check before departing to the island to see if this option is available. Split stays are something to look at if you want to try the different ones as well. Visit my Sandals Blog to learn more about Sandals Grande St. Lucian Resort.
Now that we have discussed various options for accommodations, the next big question is where to stay?
Located on the North side of the island that forms around Rodney Bay is Gros Islet. Gros Islet offered a unique experience before Covid by opening its streets and bars to locals and tourists every Friday. In the past, the Gros Islet street party brought together people from all over to drink, dance, and eat some yummy seafood. Unfortunately, that is currently still on hold.
You will also find Sandals Grande St. Lucian Resort and Pigeon Island National Park by visiting Gros Islet. Pigeon Island has beautiful hikes and picnic areas overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Rodney Bay on the peninsula.
Castries is the Capital of St. Lucia and the main port where you will see cruise ships dock. Castries tends to be more crowded than most but offers things to do with proximity to beautiful beaches and visiting marketplaces, shops, and restaurants. However, If you prefer quietness, you may want to look at other options. Anse La Raye offers a quaint stay in the fishing village where you immerse yourself in local culture, food, and nature. If you’re looking for a place to unwind, perhaps this fishing village is a place to stay for a couple of days.
Soufriere is where you will find the captivating picturesque backdrop of the Piton Mountains, the drive-through volcano, sulphur springs mud bath, beautiful Toraille waterfall, and flourishing plantations. Once known for being St. Lucia’s capital while under French rule, Soufriere is where the tourist industry thrives in today’s day of age. Offering various day tours, many tourists and locals will come from all over the island via boats or cars to enjoy what this area provides.
Situated between steep hillsides, lush forest, and turquoise water on the western coast just south of Castries is Marigot Bay. If you want the feeling of seclusion and luxury, this place is for you! Many villa resort options overlook the bay and marina. Marigot Bay Resort and Marina offer guests staying on property the option to add on and set sail with their boat vessels, choosing between boat charters, luxury yachts, catamarans, or speed boat excursions. The voyages are fully customizable, from day trips to overnights that range from two days to as many as ten days at sea. Marigot Bay has been in films throughout the years. The most talked-about one on the island is the 1967 film of Dr. Doolittle. Marigot Bay also made a cameo in the first Pirates of the Caribbean movie when Capt. Jack Sparrow looks up and sees the skeletons hanging from the natural arch.
Things To Do
- Sulphur Mud Bath– Step into the hot volcanic waters to rejuvenate the skin and replenish the body’s minerals. Not only will your skin feel soft and fresh, but also the mud bath is known for its healing components. Examples include but are not limited to common skin problems, mosquito/ insect bites, and in our learned experience, even sunburns.
- Piton Mountains– The Pitons are volcano twin spires that are the backdrop to the beautiful scenery near the town of Soufriere. Standing tall is the peak of Gros Piton, with Petit Piton linked via ridgeline. If you want an up-close and personal encounter with the Pitons and are moderate to the advanced hiker, try taking your trip to new heights and hike the Pitons. This hike lasts around 3-hours and, although challenging, will provide breathtaking views of the island. If you plan to hike the Pitons, be sure to stay hydrated and wear comfortable hiking shoes.
- Diamond Botanical Gardens– Stopping at the Diamond Botanical Gardens, you will transcend into breathtaking foliage and blooms that provide a refreshing 6-acre walk throughout the property. As you make your way through the property, you will hear the rushing water from the unique Diamond Falls. Diamond Falls is impressive because it changes color throughout the year due to the rainwater and minerals that flow down from the surrounding geothermal area. Visiting Diamond Botanical Gardens can be part of a tour or paying a small entrance fee.
- Toraille Falls– Hidden in the lush rainforest is the beautiful Toraille Falls. The plunging waterfall allows visitors to experience the gushing waters while standing directly under the falls. However, be prepared for some chilly water temperature. I will say that this is a welcoming stop after visiting the Sulphuric Mud Bath. Toraille falls can be enjoyed as part of a tour or paying the entrance fee and going it alone.
- Nature Trails- St Lucia has an abundance of nature and rainforest trails throughout the island. Get lost in the beauty of the lush green rainforests, find a cascading waterfall, and take in the coastlines’ scenic views. Most hiking trails are part of a guided tour that will give you a better perspective of island life, but you have options to walk on your own. Just be mindful of wildlife, caution signs and leave no trace behind.
- Diving/ Snorkeling- There are many areas where guided snorkeling and diving tours occur. One of the top sites is located right off the coast of Anse Chastanet Beach; the reef is a top attraction for swimmers and divers alike. Trumpet, Parrot, and Needle Fish are just some to name that welcome you under the sea. Located at the base of the Pitons is another excellent spot for snorkeling and diving. Just be aware and listen to your guides to understand the reef and not disturb the habitat. St Lucia offer various tours from several local dive shops around the island, and also check with your resort to see if they offer any snorkel and diving tours.
- Zip Lining through the Rainforest- Is flying through rainforest canopies and seeing some of the island’s best views what you envision for an adventure experience on the island? If so, check out this tour led by experienced guides that take you through various zipline courses and a net bridge—definitely recommended for adventure seekers looking to have a great time.
- ATV Rides- Gear up and take off on this guided ATV tour through tropical landscapes, banana plantations, farming communities, and visiting historical sites. These tours typically take a half-day exploring and getting panoramic views of the beautiful island. Things to consider before taking off are wearing comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting down and dirty.
- Pigeon Island National Park – Pigeon Island National Park is located on the island’s north side and overlooks Rodney Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. One could spend hours here walking the grounds, having a picnic, hiking to the fort, and if you want the added challenge try hiking to Signal Mountain. If you make it to the top of Signal Mountain, the views you capture are breathtaking. One can only marvel at the mountainous views in the distance and, if you’re lucky, see the island of Martinique in the distance on a clear day. Be sure to start your hikes early to avoid the hot, humid weather that creeps in later in the afternoon.
If you’re looking for tour options, check out Island Routes tours that have many various options, Joe Knows tour company, and also checking with your resort concierge desk to see what options they have as well.
My husband and I have done Joe Knows land and sea tours twice and loved it each time. The tour included a speedboat that picks you up at your resort, a therapeutic sulfur mud bath, a waterfall, snorkeling, and authentic lunch at a Marigot Bay restaurant. I highly recommend this tour, it gives you a little bit of everything and is a half-day excursion. Before booking a tour, read up on which tours are open and available during this time due to the pandemic.
Language
The communication between locals is effortless since English is spoken on the island. However, 95% of locals speak their second native language, St. Lucian French Creole.
Currency
The currency on the island is the Eastern Caribbean dollar which is accepted everywhere. St. Lucia will take the US dollar, but exchange rates may vary. If you’re staying at a resort, credit cards will be acceptable, but if you plan on venturing out and doing a few excursions, bringing cash is a good idea for tipping your guide or even spending a few dollars for what local vendors offer.
Overall Thoughts
St. Lucia offers so much for those looking for romantic getaways, seeking the next big adventure, and those who want to experience the food and cultural life of the island. I hope this St. Lucia Travel Guide will help inspire your next getaway or your travel bucket list!
When are you ready to take the plunge in the Caribbean waters?
