The Pitons are two volcanic spires located in Saint Lucia, and are among the most iconic natural landmarks in the Caribbean.

The Pitons are two volcanic spires located in Soufriere, Saint Lucia. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are one of the most famous landmarks in the Caribbean. The Gros Piton is 798.25 m high, and the Petit Piton is 743 m high. They are linked by the Piton Mitan ridge. The Pitons offer breathtaking views and are a popular spot for hiking and photography. /n The Pitons are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The area around the Pitons is protected as a marine reserve and offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The Pitons are a symbol of Saint Lucia and appear on the national flag.

The Pitons are two volcanic spires that are a must-see in Saint Lucia.

Visit a working cocoa plantation, learn about the chocolate-making process, and sample some delicious chocolate.

Saint Lucia is known for its high-quality cocoa, and a visit to a cocoa plantation is a must for any chocolate lover. The plantations in Soufriere offer guided tours where you can learn about the process of cocoa production, from the planting of the cocoa beans to the harvesting and processing. /n But the highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the tasting session. You'll get to sample some of the finest chocolates in the world, made from the freshest cocoa beans. The rich, intense flavor of the chocolate is sure to leave you craving for more. So, if you're a chocolate lover, make sure to add a visit to a cocoa plantation to your Saint Lucia itinerary.

Visit a cocoa plantation in Soufriere, Saint Lucia for a unique cultural experience.

Experience the tranquility of Saint Lucia's secluded beaches, away from the hustle and bustle. Perfect for a relaxing day under the sun.

Secluded Beach in Saint Lucia is a haven for those seeking tranquility and a break from the bustling tourist areas. This hidden gem is nestled away from the usual tourist hotspots, offering a serene escape for those looking to connect with nature. /n The beach is characterized by its pristine, white sandy shores, gently lapped by the clear, turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The surrounding lush greenery provides a beautiful backdrop, adding to the beach's charm. Despite its seclusion, the beach is well-maintained and clean, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply relaxing with a good book. /n For those seeking a bit of adventure, the beach's clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and exploring the vibrant marine life. The beach is also a great starting point for hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views of the island. Despite its remote location, Secluded Beach is easily accessible by car or boat. There are no facilities on the beach, so visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks. /n Overall, Secluded Beach is a must-visit for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience in Saint Lucia. Its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.

Secluded Beach is a hidden gem in Saint Lucia, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist areas.

The Botanical Gardens are a must-see for nature lovers. The gardens are home to a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers, as well as a stunning waterfall and mineral baths.

The Botanical Garden in Soufriere is a lush, tropical oasis filled with exotic plants and flowers. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. /n The garden is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, many of which are native to Saint Lucia. The garden also features a beautiful waterfall, which is a popular spot for photos. The Botanical Garden is a great place to spend a few hours, whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful spot to relax.

The Botanical Garden is a lush, tropical oasis filled with exotic plants and flowers.

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.

Pitons

Start your day with a visit to the bustling local market. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, sounds, and scents of fresh produce and local delicacies.

Enjoy a traditional Creole lunch. Savor the unique blend of African, East Indian, French and British influences that make up Saint Lucian cuisine.

Spend the afternoon exploring the iconic Pitons, two volcanic spires that are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a guided hike for breathtaking views.

Dine on fresh seafood while enjoying a stunning sunset view over the Caribbean Sea.

Relax with a glass of locally produced rum, while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Exploring Castries and the Iconic Pitons

Cocoa plantation

Visit a Cocoa plantation and learn about the process of chocolate making, from bean to bar.

Have a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery of the plantation, sampling the chocolate you've seen being made.

Take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters of a natural hot spring, believed to have healing properties.

Experience a farm-to-table dinner, with ingredients sourced from local organic farms.

Enjoy a moonlit walk on the beach, with the waves lapping at your feet.

Cocoa Plantation and Natural Hot Springs

Secluded Beach

Explore the vibrant underwater world with a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion.

Enjoy a beachside barbecue, with fresh fish and tropical fruits.

Relax on the pristine white sands of a Secluded Beach, with a good book or simply the sound of the waves.

Dine under the stars, with a menu inspired by the island's bounty of fresh seafood and tropical fruits.

Listen to live local music, from reggae to calypso, at a beachside bonfire.

Underwater Adventures and Beachside Relaxation

Botanical Garden

Visit a historic sugar plantation, where you can learn about the island's colonial past.

Enjoy a Creole lunch in a historic plantation house, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Take a leisurely stroll through a Botanical Garden, admiring the island's diverse flora.

Experience a candlelit dinner in a historic plantation house, with a menu featuring traditional Saint Lucian dishes.

Relax with a glass of locally produced rum, while listening to the sounds of the tropical night.

Historic Plantation and Botanical Gardens

Take a boat tour around the island, taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

Enjoy a seafood lunch on board, with fresh catch of the day.

Visit a local art gallery, showcasing the work of Saint Lucian artists.

Have your final dinner on the island at a waterfront restaurant, with a menu featuring the best of Saint Lucian cuisine.

End your trip with a relaxing evening stroll along the marina, taking in the twinkling lights of the city.

Boat Tour and Local Art

UTC-4

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

Green Fig and Saltfish

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.

Bouyon

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.

Lambi

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.

Accra

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.

Bakes

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.

Roast Breadfruit

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.

Callaloo Soup

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.

Pepperpot Stew

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.

Piton Beer

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.

Rum Punch

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.

Sea Moss Drink

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.

Cocoa Tea

New Year's Day

New Year holiday

Independence Day

Good Friday

Easter Monday

Labor Day / May Day

Whit Monday

Corpus Christi

Emancipation Day

Thanksgiving Day

National Day

Christmas Day

Boxing Day

A French Caribbean island known for its lush landscape and beautiful beaches

Martinique

An island nation known for its beautiful beaches and colonial architecture

Barbados

A southern Caribbean nation comprising of a main island, St. Vincent, and a chain of smaller islands

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Known as the 'Spice Isle', Grenada is famous for its beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and spice plantations

Grenada

A French Caribbean island known for its beautiful beaches and the La Grande Soufrière volcano

Guadeloupe

A dual-island Caribbean nation known for its distinctive Creole traditions and cuisines

Trinidad and Tobago

Known as 'Nature Island', Dominica is famous for its lush, unspoiled rainforests, hot springs, and native culture

Dominica

Saint Lucia is an Eastern Caribbean island nation, so its official language is English.

The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (ECD), but US dollars are widely accepted.

The island operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-4).

Saint Lucia has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C) year-round.

The island has a rainy season from June to November, so pack accordingly if you're visiting during these months.

Saint Lucia is known for its friendly locals. Don't hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations.

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.

Public transportation is available but can be unreliable. Consider renting a car for more flexibility.

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road in Saint Lucia.

The island's tap water is safe to drink, but if you have a sensitive stomach, you might want to stick to bottled water.

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.

The island is generally safe, but like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.

Saint Lucia has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from African, French, and British cultures.

The island is known for its vibrant music scene, particularly reggae, soca, and calypso.

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.

The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Saint Lucia parrot, the island's national bird.

Saint Lucia has a dress code that prohibits camouflage clothing, as it's reserved for military personnel.

The island has a strong rum tradition. Be sure to try some local rum or visit a distillery.

Saint Lucia is a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, thanks to its beautiful beaches and romantic atmosphere.

The island hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival and the Saint Lucia Carnival.

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 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 sees a slight increase in temperature, with highs reaching up to 31°C. It's an excellent time for water sports and hiking.

April is a bit warmer, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C. The weather is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

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.

Cookie consent

5-Day Local's Guide to Saint Lucia: Sightseeing, Cuisine & Relaxation

About Saint Lucia