Essential information for St Lucia

Getting around

There are two airports servicing the island – Hewanorra International Airport in the south and George F.L Charles Airport in the north. Most tour operators include transfers as part of package holidays to St Lucia and, as it’s a small island, getting to your resort is easy. If you plan to drive in St Lucia you need to get a temporary driver’s permit, which costs approximately EC$54 or £16 and is available from most car rental companies.

A network of minibuses provides public transport to most corners of the island, and fares are cheap, however services are intermittent. Taxis are widely available with fixed fares but it’s still advisable to establish the cost of a journey before you set off. Water taxis will drive you along the coast to nearby beaches.

When to go

The weather in St Lucia is typical of the Caribbean, boasting a hot and tropical climate throughout most of the year, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 32°C. Peak season coincides with the dry season, so from December to April the weather is at its best.

May is a great time to source cheap holidays to St Lucia, as you’ll find less crowds before the summer period. What’s more, the island hosts its vibrant annual jazz festival promising lots of live street performances and an exciting party atmosphere at this time.

Health and safety

While there are no specific vaccinations required for visitors travelling to St Lucia, you may wish to exercise precaution and get vaccinated against hepatitis B. Check with your GP at least four to six weeks before your trip to make sure you’re up to date with routine immunisations, including tetanus.

As with any holiday, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself and family on your trip. If you’re visiting St Lucia specifically to take part in sports or watersports, including hiking, you should make sure your insurance covers this.

See our holiday extras page for more information and for the latest health and safety information visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/st-lucia/health.

Passports and visas

British passport holders don’t require a visa to visit St Lucia but your passport should be valid for at least six months from your date of exit from the island. Upon entry you will be granted a specified period to stay and, should you wish to stay longer, you’ll need to apply for an extension through the St Lucia Immigration Department.

For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/st-lucia/entry-requirements.

Advice for travellers with children

Those looking for family-friendly, All Inclusive holidays to St Lucia have plenty of resorts to choose from. The island’s tropical climate and diverse landscape are an exciting treat for the whole gang. If you’re travelling with little ones, enjoy the benefits of resorts with on-site waterparks, organised activities and easy dining.

North of the island faces the Caribbean Sea, which is much calmer than its Atlantic neighbour. The water is warm and shallow, so perfect for paddling toddlers. Older children will enjoy the array of water activities on offer from banana boats to wind surfing, while you join in or relax in the sun.

Electricity

Connector type: UK standard three-pin square plugs

Voltage Info: 220 volts

Emergency information

Emergency services are on call 24 hours a day. Dial 911 for an ambulance or fire brigade and 999 for police assistance.

British Consulate

If you’re a victim of crime or affected by a crisis overseas, or if something happens to a relative or partner contact the British Consulate in Castries. Due to security reasons, public access is by appointment only but consular assistance is available 24 hours by telephone. Opening hours are 9am to 4pm Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 1pm Friday, excluding public holidays.

Address: British High Commission Castries, Francis Compton Building, 2nd Floor, PO Box 227, Waterfront, Castries, St Lucia

Telephone: +1 758 452 2484

Hospital

You’ll find private medical facilities across the island with the main public hospital, St Jude Hospital, located in Vieux Fort.

Address: St Jude Hospital, P.O. Box 331, St Jude Hwy, Vieux Fort, St Lucia

Telephone: +1 758 459 6700