4-Day Saint Lucia Tour: Sightseeing, Shopping & Wine Culinary Delights
Saint Lucia
4 days
About Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia, a gem in the Caribbean Sea, is a paradise for travelers seeking sun, sea, and serenity. This tropical island boasts of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests. The iconic Piton Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer breathtaking views and adventurous hiking trails. Explore the vibrant local culture in the capital, Castries, with its bustling markets and colonial architecture. Indulge in the island's unique Creole cuisine, and don't miss the world-renowned St. Lucia Jazz Festival. For relaxation, visit the Sulphur Springs for a rejuvenating mud bath. With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Saint Lucia promises an unforgettable vacation.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Historic Plantation Visit and Coastal Boat Tour
Morning
Visit a Historic Plantation where you can learn about the island's colonial past and its important sugar and cocoa industries. You'll also have the opportunity to sample and purchase locally produced chocolate.
Lunch
Have lunch at a charming restaurant offering stunning views of the Pitons and the sea. Try the national dish of saltfish and green fig (banana), accompanied by a refreshing local beer.
Afternoon
Take a boat tour along the coast, stopping at secluded beaches and snorkeling spots. You'll also pass by the picturesque Marigot Bay, a popular yachting destination.
Dinner
Enjoy a seafood feast at a restaurant overlooking the marina. The menu features fresh catch of the day, lobster, conch, and other local delicacies.
Evening
End the day with a stroll along the marina, admiring the luxury yachts and the twinkling lights reflecting on the water.
Day 3
Botanical Gardens, Volcano Visit, and Shopping in Castries
Morning
Explore the lush Diamond Botanical Gardens, home to a diverse range of tropical plants, a waterfall, and mineral baths. You can also visit the nearby Sulphur Springs, the world's only drive-in volcano.
Lunch
Lunch at a hilltop restaurant with panoramic views of the island. Sample dishes like roti, jerk chicken, and callaloo soup, made with local ingredients.
Afternoon
Head to the capital city of Castries for some shopping. Visit the duty-free shops at Pointe Seraphine for designer goods, and the Craft Market for local arts and crafts.
Dinner
Dine at a stylish restaurant in the city, offering a modern take on Caribbean cuisine. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from their extensive list.
Evening
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Castries, with live music, dancing, and entertainment at various venues around the city.
Day 4
Pigeon Island National Park and Rodney Bay Exploration
Morning
Spend the morning at Pigeon Island National Park, where you can hike to the historic Fort Rodney for stunning views, and relax on the beautiful beaches.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, with sandwiches, fresh fruits, and cold drinks purchased from a local deli.
Afternoon
Visit the charming town of Rodney Bay, known for its marina, shopping centers, and beautiful beaches. You can also take a horseback ride along the beach for a unique experience.
Dinner
Have your farewell dinner at a fine dining restaurant, where you can indulge in a multi-course meal showcasing the best of Saint Lucian cuisine.
Evening
Spend your last evening in Saint Lucia enjoying a romantic walk along the beach, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of your trip.
Attractions in Itinerary (11)
1Local Market
A bustling hub of local vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional St. Lucian goods.
2Pitons
The Pitons are two volcanic spires located in Saint Lucia, and are among the most iconic natural landmarks in the Caribbean.
3Historic Plantation
A visit to the historic plantation offers a glimpse into Saint Lucia's colonial past. Visitors can tour the plantation house, explore the grounds, and learn about the island's history of sugar cane production.
4Marigot Bay
A beautiful natural harbor offering water sports, beachside relaxation, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
5Diamond Botanical Gardens
A beautiful garden featuring a waterfall, mineral baths, and a variety of tropical plants.
6Sulphur Springs
Known as the world's only drive-in volcano, Sulphur Springs offers visitors a chance to experience the natural hot springs and mud baths.
7Pointe Seraphine
Pointe Seraphine is a popular shopping destination and attraction in Saint Lucia. It's a duty-free shopping complex that offers a variety of shops selling everything from local crafts to high-end luxury goods. It's also a popular stop for cruise ships.
8Craft Market
The craft market is a great place to shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and food items. Visitors can interact with local artisans, learn about their craft, and support the local economy.
9Pigeon Island National Park
A historical park featuring military ruins, hiking trails, and two beautiful beaches.
10Fort Rodney
Fort Rodney is a historic site located on Pigeon Island. It's a well-preserved fort that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The fort was built by the British in the 18th century and played a crucial role in the battles between the French and the British for control of Saint Lucia.
11Rodney Bay
Rodney Bay is a bustling area known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food and drink options. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering a variety of entertainment and dining experiences.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Green Fig and Saltfish
This is the national dish of Saint Lucia, made with green bananas (locally known as figs) and salted cod fish. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that reflects the island's rich cultural heritage.
Bouyon
A hearty, one-pot dish made with a variety of meats, ground provisions, and dumplings. It's a popular comfort food in Saint Lucia, perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.
Lambi
Lambi is a delicious dish made from conch, a large sea snail. It's often cooked in a spicy sauce and served with rice, showcasing the island's fresh seafood and vibrant flavors.
Accra
These are tasty fish cakes made from salted cod. They're a popular snack or appetizer in Saint Lucia, often enjoyed with a spicy dipping sauce.
Bakes
Bakes are a type of fried bread that's often served with saltfish or cheese. They're a staple in Saint Lucian cuisine, enjoyed at any time of the day.
Roast Breadfruit
Breadfruit is a tropical fruit that's often roasted and served as a side dish in Saint Lucia. It has a starchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in many dishes.
Callaloo Soup
This is a rich, creamy soup made from callaloo leaves, a plant similar to spinach. It's a traditional dish in Saint Lucia, often served as a starter or a light meal.
Pepperpot Stew
A hearty stew made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and a unique blend of spices. It's a traditional dish in Saint Lucia, often served during special occasions.
Piton Beer
Named after the iconic Piton mountains in Saint Lucia, this is a refreshing lager that's perfect for a hot day on the beach. It's a popular local beer, enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.
Rum Punch
Rum Punch is a classic Caribbean cocktail made with local rum, fruit juice, and a blend of spices. It's a popular drink in Saint Lucia, often enjoyed at beach bars and parties.
Sea Moss Drink
This is a nutritious drink made from sea moss, a type of seaweed. It's often blended with milk and sweeteners, creating a creamy, refreshing beverage that's popular in Saint Lucia.
Cocoa Tea
Cocoa Tea is a traditional Saint Lucian drink made from local cocoa and spices. It's often enjoyed for breakfast or as a comforting evening drink.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Saint Lucia as a tourist is from mid-December to mid-April. This is the dry season, with less rainfall and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach time. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly time to visit, consider the months of May to June, when the weather is still relatively dry and the island is less crowded.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 2 | Tue | New Year holiday |
February 22 | Thu | Independence Day |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 20 | Mon | Whit Monday |
May 30 | Thu | Corpus Christi |
August 1 | Thu | Emancipation Day |
October 7 | Mon | Thanksgiving Day |
December 13 | Fri | National Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Boxing Day |
How to get around
Rental Car
Renting a car is a popular way to get around Saint Lucia, especially for those who want the freedom to explore at their own pace. You'll find several car rental agencies at the airport and around the island. Remember, driving is on the left side of the road in Saint Lucia.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Saint Lucia. They are not metered, so it's recommended to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Taxis can be identified by their blue number plates with a TX prefix.
Minibus
Minibuses are the main form of public transportation in Saint Lucia. They operate on fixed routes and are a very economical way to travel. Minibuses can be identified by their green number plates with an M prefix.
Ferry
Ferries operate between the two main towns of Castries and Soufriere, offering a scenic way to travel. They also connect Saint Lucia with nearby islands such as Martinique, Dominica, and Guadeloupe.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are not currently available in Saint Lucia. However, local taxi services often offer similar convenience and can be booked via phone or app.
Bicycle
Bicycling is a great way to explore the local area, particularly in the flatter parts of the island. Bike rentals are available in many tourist areas.
Foot
Walking is a viable option in the towns and resorts, and it's a great way to take in the local atmosphere. However, due to the hilly terrain and heat, it may not be practical for longer distances.
Helicopter
Helicopter transfers are available from the airport to various parts of the island. This is a quick and scenic way to travel, but it's more expensive than other options.
Water Taxi
Water taxis are a fun and convenient way to travel between beaches and resorts along the coast. They can be hailed from the shore or booked in advance.
Important information
Currency$ XCD
Time zoneUTC-4
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phone999, 911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Saint Lucia as a first time visitor
1
Saint Lucia is an Eastern Caribbean island nation, so its official language is English.
2
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (ECD), but US dollars are widely accepted.
3
The island operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-4).
4
Saint Lucia has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C) year-round.
5
The island has a rainy season from June to November, so pack accordingly if you're visiting during these months.
6
Saint Lucia is known for its friendly locals. Don't hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations.
7
Tipping is customary in Saint Lucia. A 10% service charge is often added to your bill, but it's customary to leave an additional tip if the service was good.
8
Public transportation is available but can be unreliable. Consider renting a car for more flexibility.
9
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road in Saint Lucia.
10
The island's tap water is safe to drink, but if you have a sensitive stomach, you might want to stick to bottled water.
11
Saint Lucia uses the same electrical outlets as the UK, so you may need a converter if you're coming from the US or other countries.
12
The island is generally safe, but like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.
13
Saint Lucia has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from African, French, and British cultures.
14
The island is known for its vibrant music scene, particularly reggae, soca, and calypso.
15
Saint Lucia's cuisine is a blend of Creole, Indian, and French influences. Don't miss out on trying local dishes like green fig and saltfish.
16
The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Saint Lucia parrot, the island's national bird.
17
Saint Lucia has a dress code that prohibits camouflage clothing, as it's reserved for military personnel.
18
The island has a strong rum tradition. Be sure to try some local rum or visit a distillery.
19
Saint Lucia is a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, thanks to its beautiful beaches and romantic atmosphere.
20
The island hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival and the Saint Lucia Carnival.
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear (4-5 pairs)
Socks (4-5 pairs)
T-shirts (4-5)
Shorts (2-3 pairs)
Long pants or jeans (1-2 pairs)
Dresses or skirts (for women, if applicable)
Swimwear (2-3)
Sleepwear
Lightweight jacket or sweater
Rain jacket or umbrella
Walking shoes
Sandals or flip-flops
Hat or cap for sun protection
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Lip balm with SPF
Makeup (if applicable)
Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash (both local currency and US dollars)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones or earbuds
Camera
Charger for camera
Power adapter or converter
Portable power bank
E-reader or books
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Travel guidebook
Pen and notebook
Ziplock bags
Laundry bag
Tote or daypack for daily excursions
Weather Conditions
Saint Lucia, a beautiful island in the Caribbean, is known for its tropical weather. The island experiences warm temperatures throughout the year, typically ranging between 70°F (21°C) and 90°F (32°C), making it a great destination for sun-seekers. The island has a dry season from December to May and a wet season from June to November. If you're planning to visit Saint Lucia, it's important to consider these seasons. The dry season is the most popular time to visit due to the lower chance of rain. However, the wet season can still be a good time to visit as the showers are usually short and followed by sunshine. If you're a fan of water activities like swimming, snorkeling, or diving, you'll be pleased to know that the sea temperature is consistently warm, usually around 80°F (27°C), throughout the year. Despite the generally sunny weather, Saint Lucia is in the hurricane belt, and hurricanes can occur between June and November. While the risk is relatively low, it's still something to consider when planning your trip. Make sure to check the weather forecast regularly and consider travel insurance that covers weather-related disruptions. Remember to pack lightweight, breathable clothing due to the warm temperatures. Don't forget your sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong Caribbean sun. Even in the wet season, the sun can be intense. An umbrella or raincoat could be useful if you're visiting during the wet season. Lastly, while the weather in Saint Lucia is generally warm and sunny, it can be cooler and more prone to showers in the mountainous interior, so if you're planning on exploring the island's beautiful natural parks, it might be worth packing a light jacket or sweater.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 30° / 23° | January is a great time to visit Saint Lucia, with temperatures ranging from a low of 23°C to a high of 30°C. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, perfect for beach activities. |
February | 30° / 23° | February is similar to January, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the island's natural beauty. |
March | 31° / 23° | March sees a slight increase in temperature, with highs reaching up to 31°C. It's an excellent time for water sports and hiking. |
April | 32° / 24° | April is a bit warmer, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C. The weather is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. |
May | 33° / 25° | May is the start of the rainy season, but temperatures remain high, ranging from 25°C to 33°C. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind occasional showers. |
June | 33° / 26° | June is in the middle of the rainy season, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 33°C. Despite the rain, the weather is still warm and suitable for indoor activities. |
July | 33° / 26° | July is similar to June, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 33°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy tropical rain showers. |
August | 33° / 26° | August is one of the hottest months, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 33°C. Despite being in the rainy season, there are still plenty of sunny days. |
September | 33° / 26° | September is also a hot month, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 33°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy the heat and don't mind the occasional rain shower. |
October | 32° / 26° | October sees a slight decrease in temperature, with highs reaching up to 32°C. The weather is still warm, making it a good time for beach activities. |
November | 31° / 25° | November is a bit cooler, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 31°C. The weather is pleasant, perfect for exploring the island's natural beauty. |
December | 30° / 24° | December is a great time to visit Saint Lucia, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, perfect for beach activities. |
Did you know?
Places near by Saint Lucia
Martinique
A French Caribbean island known for its lush landscape and beautiful beaches
Barbados
An island nation known for its beautiful beaches and colonial architecture
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
A southern Caribbean nation comprising of a main island, St. Vincent, and a chain of smaller islands
Grenada
Known as the 'Spice Isle', Grenada is famous for its beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and spice plantations
Guadeloupe
A French Caribbean island known for its beautiful beaches and the La Grande Soufrière volcano
Trinidad and Tobago
A dual-island Caribbean nation known for its distinctive Creole traditions and cuisines
Dominica
Known as 'Nature Island', Dominica is famous for its lush, unspoiled rainforests, hot springs, and native culture