5-Day Local's Guide to Saint Lucia: Sightseeing, Cuisine & Relaxation
Saint Lucia
5 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.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Cocoa Plantation and Natural Hot Springs
Morning
Visit a Cocoa plantation and learn about the process of chocolate making, from bean to bar.
Lunch
Have a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery of the plantation, sampling the chocolate you've seen being made.
Afternoon
Take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters of a natural hot spring, believed to have healing properties.
Dinner
Experience a farm-to-table dinner, with ingredients sourced from local organic farms.
Evening
Enjoy a moonlit walk on the beach, with the waves lapping at your feet.
Day 3
Underwater Adventures and Beachside Relaxation
Morning
Explore the vibrant underwater world with a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion.
Lunch
Enjoy a beachside barbecue, with fresh fish and tropical fruits.
Afternoon
Relax on the pristine white sands of a Secluded Beach, with a good book or simply the sound of the waves.
Dinner
Dine under the stars, with a menu inspired by the island's bounty of fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Evening
Listen to live local music, from reggae to calypso, at a beachside bonfire.
Day 4
Historic Plantation and Botanical Gardens
Morning
Visit a historic sugar plantation, where you can learn about the island's colonial past.
Lunch
Enjoy a Creole lunch in a historic plantation house, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Afternoon
Take a leisurely stroll through a Botanical Garden, admiring the island's diverse flora.
Dinner
Experience a candlelit dinner in a historic plantation house, with a menu featuring traditional Saint Lucian dishes.
Evening
Relax with a glass of locally produced rum, while listening to the sounds of the tropical night.
Day 5
Boat Tour and Local Art
Morning
Take a boat tour around the island, taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
Lunch
Enjoy a seafood lunch on board, with fresh catch of the day.
Afternoon
Visit a local art gallery, showcasing the work of Saint Lucian artists.
Dinner
Have your final dinner on the island at a waterfront restaurant, with a menu featuring the best of Saint Lucian cuisine.
Evening
End your trip with a relaxing evening stroll along the marina, taking in the twinkling lights of the city.
Attractions in Itinerary (4)
1Pitons
The Pitons are two volcanic spires located in Saint Lucia, and are among the most iconic natural landmarks in the Caribbean.
2Cocoa plantation
Visit a working cocoa plantation, learn about the chocolate-making process, and sample some delicious chocolate.
3Secluded Beach
Experience the tranquility of Saint Lucia's secluded beaches, away from the hustle and bustle. Perfect for a relaxing day under the sun.
4Botanical Garden
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.
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
Lightweight clothing for warm tropical weather
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Underwear and socks
Comfortable walking shoes
Flip flops for the beach
Sun hat
Sunglasses
Lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Formal wear for upscale dining or events
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
After-sun lotion or aloe vera
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Makeup and makeup remover
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
International power adapter
Digital camera or GoPro
Charger for camera
Headphones
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks for travel
Books or e-reader for leisure reading
Travel guidebook for Saint Lucia
Reusable water bottle
Beach bag
Beach towel
Snorkeling gear
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