Amanda PhillipsLike all Caribbean islands, Saint Lucia is adorned with beautiful white sands that slowly fade into crystal-clear azure waves. Then when you head away from the coast and arrive inland you’ll be greeted by the lush emerald rainforest. There’s no denying that Saint Lucia is a natural wonder (many consider it to be the Caribbean’s most beautiful island) – but is it the right choice for you?
Saint Lucia’s main draw is its splendid beauty, so it’s no surprise that many of its top activities revolve around its striking landscape. While water sports and beach parties are still a common sight, it is definitely the island of choice for nature enthusiasts. Here are our top four things to do.
Piton Mountains
If you’ve ever looked at a brochure for Saint Lucia, you’ve probably caught a glimpse of these sister peaks popping out over the top of the bright blue shoreline. They have UNESCO World Heritage Status and are Saint Lucia’s must-see spot. You’ll find them framing the edges of Jalousie Bay on the southwest coast of the island. You can admire the leafy peaks from across the water but more adventurous travellers can climb to the peak along the Pitons Trail (it takes approximately 4-5 hours) and will be rewarded with outstanding views of the island.
Pigeon Island National Park
Found in Rodney Bay, Pigeon Island is home to beautiful beachy picnic spots and historic military bases. Back in the 1970s a sandy causeway was constructed linking the island to mainland Aruba, so you can even watch the sunset and not worry about catching the last boat home.
Sulphur Springs
Journey through the Caribbean’s only drive-through volcano. Inside the volcano, you’ll find pools and hot springs bubbling with sulphur, while outside you can take a dip in the warm hot springs known for their soothing properties. Tour guides are also available and can take you on a historical journey with stories of how the crater was created and learn how the Sulphur Springs forms part of the story of the creation of the entire Caribbean basin.
Diamond Botanical Gardens & Waterfalls
This is another place where you can discover the relaxing properties of Saint Lucia’s hot mineral water. The waterfalls originate from an underground thermal spring, and the colourful marks you see on the rocks are caused by minerals. There are mineral baths on site as well as tour guides who can take you on a tour of the garden and explain the medicinal benefits of the plants.
Saint Lucia – like a lot of the Caribbean islands – is well-versed in luxury all-inclusive accommodation. Sandals Resorts has three resorts on the island (Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort, Sandals Regency La Toc Golf Resort & Spa and Sandals Halcyon Beach) that are perfectly suited for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Other luxury options also include St. James’s Club Morgan Bay, 4* Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa and 3* St Lucian Hotel by Rex Resorts.
Like most of the Caribbean islands, Saint Lucia is at its best during our winter and spring months. June through to November is the wet season.
The official currency of Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (which we can exchange for you), but the US Dollar is accepted. A visa is not required for British travellers who are on holiday.
- The plugs used in Saint Lucia are the same as the UK
- English is the official language but you will hear the Patois language being spoken between the locals
- Check with your GP for an individual assessment but Tetanus and Hepatitis B vaccinations are usually recommended by the NHS.