A serene and stunning eastern Caribbean island, St Lucia’s lush landscape is punctuated by the dramatically tapered Pitons that peak out of the tropical jungle terrain, offering a mesmerising view from almost any angle.

On top of this, there’s the gorgeous powdery white sand beaches, as well as a helping of striking black sands, and even the jaw dropping natural phenomena like the world’s only drive-in volcano. Plus, on holiday in St Lucia you’ll immerse yourself in cultural experiences like no other with delicious local cuisine, bustling markets and energetic nightlife.

Whether you’re an adventure or culture seeker, looking to just soak up the rays on a beach or explore the island’s lush nature, it’s a destination that will deliver on all counts. The year round balmy temperatures are just another draw with the dry season between December and April, and the best time for great value cheap holidays to St Lucia, between May and November.

Natural beaches

St. Lucia’s beaches are world renowned, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful surroundings, it’s a fantastic destination for beach lovers. St Lucia holidays are known for both lively beach resorts and the more serene, secluded spots, so there’s plenty to choose between.

• Reduit Beach in Rodney Bay is one of the most popular beaches on the island, especially for families. It’s a 2 kilometre long stretch of golden sand with plenty of space to relax, plus it offers easy access to restaurants, shops, and bars in the nearby Rodney Bay area. Also, there’s plenty of watersports like jet skiing, sailing, and parasailing available, or you can take a boat trip from here to the nearby Pigeon Island.
• Known for its amazing views of the Pitons, Anse Chastanet, in Soufriere, is one of the most iconic beaches on St Lucia. The water is calm and clear making it perfect for snorkeling and diving, especially given the nearby coral reef. The beach is more secluded, so it provides a peaceful and scenic atmosphere for those looking for tranquility. Spend the day relaxing under the palm trees before heading inland to enjoy the divine restaurants.
• Sat between Castries and the Pitons, Marigot Bay is a picturesque, sheltered bay known for its tranquility. Enjoy calm waters perfect for swimming, lay back and enjoy the views across the Caribbean sea or hit the local restaurants for some tasty seafood. If you are a bit more adventurous, you’ll still find watersports options in this quiet bay so there’s something for everyone.

Diving and snorkelling

St. Lucia is a diving and snorkeling paradise, offering some of the most vibrant and diverse underwater ecosystems in the Caribbean. The island’s crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and underwater volcanic formations make St Lucia holidays incredibly popular for both beginners and experienced divers alike.

• Anse Chastanet is one of the most famous snorkeling and diving spots in St. Lucia. It has a coral reef just offshore, which is brimming with incredible marine life and is part of the protected marine reserve, preserving the biodiversity and ensuring it continues to thrive. The area is known for its rich underwater ecosystem, including vibrant coral, tropical fish, and other marine creatures like rays and turtles.
• The waters around the Pitons, particularly in the Soufrière Marine Reserve, also offers some of the best diving in the Caribbean. Made up of dramatic underwater landscapes, including volcanic slopes, coral gardens, and lava tubes, plus the Pitons’ towering presence above sea level all makes it an awe inspiring place to be. Scuba divers can explore the volcanic rock formations and vibrant coral reefs while encountering a variety of marine life such as parrotfish, angelfish, and sea turtles.
• Turtle Reef, as the name suggests, is famous for its local sea turtles which you can often spot while snorkeling or diving here. Swim or snorkel in the shallows alongisde the turtles or head downunder to explore the deeper sections of the reef and encounter the larger species and vibrant corals.
• Typically the best time for snorkelling in St Lucia is from December to April, which is the dry season, meaning the weather is more predictable and visibility is better!

Places to go

Holidays in St Lucia offer an incredible blend of natural beauty, adventure, culture, and relaxation. There are plenty of must-visit places for anyone on holiday, each showcasing a different side of the island’s charm. Whether you’re into hiking, beach lounging, exploring history, or immersing yourself in the local culture, St. Lucia holidays activities for everyone.

• Pigeon Island National Park is a must-visit being a historical and natural gem on St Lucia. It’s a tranquil park with a remote beach, winding hiking trails with picturesque panoramic views, and historical ruins – plus, a museum to learn all about them. Admission to the National Park is very cheap and you can explore the grounds yourselves, or you can pay and opt for a tour guide.
• If you like to immerse yourself into the local culture, head to Castries Market. Filled with locals selling everything from fresh fruits and spices to traditional crafts and souvenirs, it’s a great day to pick up something unique or just enjoy some window shopping. You could even sample the local produce and snacks and find a new favourite!
• Huddled between the Pitons sits one of the most beautiful beaches across the Caribbean, Sugar Beach. Known for its contrasting white sands and turquoise waters, it’s a divine sight and makes for the perfect secluded and tranquil day out. Head here for the day, lay out your towel and soak in the views and the rays, hit the watersports, or dabble with some snorkelling – all without the holiday crowds around you.

Things to see

St. Lucia is a treasure trove of stunning sights, blending natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re into adventure, relaxation, or exploring local heritage, there are plenty of amazing sights to see on holiday in St Lucia. With all its’ sights to see, it’s the ultimate romantic, proposal-pending or honeymoon destination.

• Soufriere is a popular resort due to its proximity to the islands fascinating volcanic activity, in fact, it’s right nearby the Sulphur Springs, the only drive-in volcano in the Caribbean. Here, you can see the geothermal activity up close and take a dip in the rejuvenating mud baths that are thought to have great detoxifying benefits for your skin due to the mineral content.
• Of course, St Lucia’s most famous and iconic landmarks, Gros Piton and Petit Piton (AKA the Pitons), are an UNESCO World Hertiage Site and another must-see on holiday in St Lucia. Embark on a four hour hike to the summit of Gros Piton and revel in the spectacular views across St Lucia, or if you’re an experienced hiker, Petit Piton offers a more challenging trail. Even if hiking isn’t for you, the Pitons themselves are an incredible view from the surrounding areas.
• For a day with a slower pace and laid-back experience, head to the south of the island to Vieux Fort. Enjoy the stunning beaches, including Choc Bay for a blissful and tranquil day, and explore Savannes Bay to admire it’s natural beauty with green vegeation and mango trees in every direction. It’s great for a day out away from any tourism and instead an authentic Caribbean experience.

Cuisine in St Lucia

St. Lucia’s cuisine is rich and diverse, and heavily influenced by a combination of African, French, East Indian and of course, Caribbean traditions. There’s a huge focus on fresh cuisine, made from local ingredients sourced right here on the island and all of this combined creates a unique blend of powerful flavors and seriously delicious and hearty meals that you’ll enjoy on holiday to St Lucia.

• Being an island, seafood is indeed a staple in the cuisine here. Expect fresh fish like snapper, lobster and shellfish, which is often grilled or served in a hearty stew. What’s more, plantain is a common side dish to main meals, either boiled, fried or grilled and this is a popular ingredient across the Caribbean islands.
• To create the rich and powerful flavours, coconut milk is very prominent, particualrly in curries and stews, as well as herbs and spices like thyme, garlic, scallions and hot peppers.
• A must-try dish on holiday in St Lucia is their national dish, green fig and saltfish. Made from boiled green figs (unripe bananas) and served alongisde salted codfish with a drizzle of spicy dressing it’s a hearty breakfast or lunch and a great way to get your day started.
• Streetfood is a easy and causal way to enjoy something authentic on the go. Pick yourself up some fried fish and fritters for an easy and tasty snack, then wash it down with soursop juice, a sweet and tangy drink made from soursop fruit.

Nightlife in St Lucia

The nightlife in St. Lucia is vibrant and diverse, although not as intense as some of it’s neighbouring Caribbean islands. The island’s nightlife scene caters to both those seeking to party all night long and those looking for a more low key atmosphere to unwind, so there is something for everyone. Expect a mix of reggae, calypso and soca music at most venues, and some calm acoustic sessions in those more laid back settings.

• Rodney Bay is where you’ll find most of the bars and clubs as it’s typically the main hotspot for lively evenings. Head to the strip for plenty of choice with upbeat music, lively crowds and tons of energy. Start the evening at the Cellar Lounge for flowing cocktails before heading to the trendy nightclub of Cafe Ole where you can dance the night away to Latin and Caribbean beats.
• Being St Lucia’s Capital, you’d be right to expect the nightlife in Castries to be bustling too! There’s not as many nightclubs, but plenty of bars and lounges with live music for lively evenings. Head to The Tapas on the Bay to aosk up the waterfront views while enjoying a mix of cocktails and tapas with live performances.
• Soufrieres nightlife is a popular pick too, predominantly because of the all day and all night mesmerising views of the Pitons. Enjoy the laid back and rustic charm in one of the many boutique lounges or beach bars, perfect for a romantic night or low-key vibe with friends.