While Caribbean islands have an undeniable allure, St Lucia takes the cake when it comes to the authentic Caribbean experience. This beautiful country borrows different aspects from African, French, East Indian, and English cultures, culminating in the perfect blend. When you are not enjoying the local culture, you can get lost in the Pitons, spend fascinating days at the beach, take baths in the sulfur springs, hike the rainforests, explore the marine life, learn the island’s history, or spend a day at Soufrière. And while these may seem like tons of activities, they barely scratch the surface of what this beautiful paradise has in store for you!
Interestingly enough, the island only measures 40 kilometers by 22 kilometers and is able to offer these and more amenities to tourists. In this guide, we take you through the best things to do in St. Lucia, enabling you to create an itinerary that fits your preferences. Let’s get started.
1-5: Pitons and Soufrière Exploration
Photo: shutterstock.com
A trip to St Lucia would not be complete without a stop at the iconic Pitons, some of the most beautiful mountains you will ever see. These mountains stand 700 meters above the sea, giving you an amazing view of the waters and the environs. You can even see St Vincent and Martinique from here if the sky is clear. Soufrière is just as outstanding. This old capital is near the Pitons and boasts incredible French colonial architecture. So, once you are done working up a sweat in the mountains, you can head to this volcanic territory and learn more about what makes it such a hotspot for tourists and cultural festivals.
Let’s consider the best things to do in St. Lucia when you are in Soufrière :
1) Hike the Pitons: Getting to the top of the Pitons is a great idea if you are up for a workout. You can do so without equipment, as the climb is generally easy to moderate. However, since the mountains don’t have a specific trail, hiring a professional guide who can show you the best way to get to the top is best. Ensure you choose the Gros Piton as it is the safer option, despite its big size. As you make your way up, you will have the lovely treat of the scenic views around you, which make for great picture backdrops. Once you reach the top, you can take in the unbelievable views, have a picnic, and gaze at the beauty all around you.
- What will you need for a good hike?
- Carry enough water and snacks as the hike is quite challenging.
- Wear comfortable yet sturdy shoes to help you navigate the rough terrain.
- Have a knowledgeable guide who has been on the trail often.
Of course, a good camera is a good idea as you will want to snap many photos to take in all the unique aspects of these mountains!
2) Take a helicopter ride: While hiking is a great way to explore the mountains, flying around the Pitons may appeal more to you. Not only do you get to see the mountains in all their glory by exploring them from all angles, but you also enjoy the adrenaline rush of doing so while in the air. You can take in the contrast of the mountains against the sea, save yourself the hike up the mountains, and enjoy the ride. From this vantage point, the pictures look amazing, and you will go home with memories that will last a lifetime!
3) Enjoy the view from The Beacon: There are many viewpoints in Soufrière. But few do it as much justice as this one. The Beacon is a bright pink restaurant that allows you to take in the sights around Soufrière. You can marvel at the sea’s contrast with the mountains, feast your eyes on the towering mountains, take in the beautiful marina, and take many photos while here. As a plus, it serves local cuisines, and you can stop here to calm your hunger pangs as you embark on the next leg of your trip.
4) Visit the Morne Coubaril Estate: What would you say to a tour that allows you to sample local rum and have chocolate on the go? For many people, this is but a dream. But for anyone touring this plantation, this is the sweet reality. The tour starts with the estate tour, where you learn more about the plantation, which has been operating for over 200 years. You learn everything from how cocoa gets produced to how it becomes chocolate, all the while as you sample the rum. Once the tour ends, you can buy some souvenirs to take back home.
5) Tour the island: The best way to get to know the town of Soufrière is to tour it in a day. You can do this alone or with a guide, based on your preferred pace and how much research you have done on the town. Renting a car or walking through the town is often the best option as it allows you to take the winding streets and see what each has to offer. At some points, you will be staring at lush vegetation; at others, you will be awwing at the mountains, and at others, you will delight in the fishing villages. There is a lot to see, and it is thus best that you consider the following stops in your itinerary:
- The Anse La Raye Fishing Village: This village will wow you with its unique picturesque appearance. And you also get to learn a lot about the town’s history.
- Soufrière Market: If you want authentic souvenirs, shopping here will allow you to see what local crafts are available. If you can, visit the market on a weekend as this is when most vendors showcase their goods.
- The Cathedrals: Combine a historical tour with these lovely buildings and learn more about the people of St Lucia.
It’s also a good idea to try the eateries in the town as they will not leave you disappointed.
6-10: Relax on Stunning Beaches
Photo: shutterstock.com
Most people vacation in the Caribbean for the amazing beaches. They want to spend their days lying on the white sandy beaches and looking at the clear blue waters as the sun warms their bodies. And in St Lucia, this combination is even better as its beaches are varied to allow you to do whatever you want – get good views, participate in water activities, read books, eat out – everything! Consider the following beaches and what makes them unique when looking for the perfect spots:
6) Marigot Bay: If you take a guided tour in St Lucia, the chances are high that you will end up at this beach on the island’s western shores. And there are many reasons why tour guides count this as one of the incredible things to do in St. Lucia. First, it is a long stretch of soft sand against beautiful blue and calm waters. As such, you can wade in the water or lie by the beach without worrying about crashing waves interrupting your picnic or wetting your belongings. Secondly, it has a wide array of eateries, including beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite or two. And the icing on the cake is the water activities – you can swim, kayak, or take a boat on the water for the perfect finish.
Other amazing beaches for relaxing days are as follows:
- Soufriere Beach,
- Anse Mamin,
- Anse Chastanet Beach,
- Anse Cochon Beach,
- Anse Galet, and
- Gros Islet Beach.
7) La Toc Beach: Like many beaches in St Lucia, this one boasts blue waters, beautiful golden sand, and an amazing view. But it has another quality that draws visitors – it has low traffic. You can spend an entire day here without running into crowds, making it the best spot for anyone who wants a slow and relaxed day. And thanks to the calm surf, you can watch the water levels rise gradually, giving you a sense of relaxation. On top of the serenity, it is near a historic fort where you can stop for a tour highlighting important aspects of the past.
8) Jalousie/ Sugar Beach: This beach is quite striking as it is at the foot of the mountains. So, you get the incredible combination of mountains, sea, and sand, making it one of the most sought-after beaches in St Lucia. Below are things you can do at the beach:
- Relax on the sand: The soft sand stretches for quite a distance, allowing you to find a spot to enjoy the warm sun on your skin.
- Snorkeling: This part of the sea boasts a wide variety of marine species which you can explore without moving far from the shore.
- Gaze at the mountains: How about spending the day appreciating the beauty of the lush forests and palm trees around the beach?
- Scuba Diving: The waters are calm and perfect for divers who want to explore marine life at a deeper level.
9) Grande Anse Beach: Are you in the mood for adventure? If yes, this is a fantastic choice. The fun starts on the journey to the beach as you must go through some lush scenery. Once you are past the trees, you gaze at a long sandy stretch against calm blue waters that blow your mind away. And the waters? They are just right!! While the waves and wind are quite strong for swimming, they are ideal for watersports. You can do boating, kayaking, jet skiing, kite surfing, or any other activity that takes your adrenaline to the next level. Reduit Beach is another top choice for water activities.
10) Anse de Sables Beach: Kiteboarding is one of the most exhilarating things to do in St. Lucia. The feel of the wind against your hair as you steady yourself in the water is indescribable. But that is not the only thing to look forward to on this southeastern beach. It also boasts soft white sand, clear blue waters, and incredible views. And thanks to the strong winds and currents, you can enjoy windsurfing and other high-adrenaline watersports.
With many other beaches, you cannot lack a spot that will cater to all your preferences. To get the most out of your beach days, remember the following tips:
- The sun is hot, and wearing protective clothing and sunscreen is important. Also, carry water if you are going to a secluded beach.
- You will need private transport to access most beaches. But you can get around this by hiring a car or visiting beaches with easier access.
- Insect repellent is a good idea if you will be at the beach early in the morning or late in the evening.
You should also note that all beaches are open to the public, allowing you to set up beach picnics as you please.
11-15: Sulphur Springs and Mud Baths
Photo: shutterstock.com
Does geology sound fun? Most people would say no. It is thus interesting that most St Lucia visitors make a point of stopping at the inactive sulfur springs in Soufrière. But they are not just after geological tidbits. Instead, they wish to soak in the hot springs and mud pits that exist following the volcano’s last eruption in the 1700s. By soaking in these pits and springs, you get to experience their healing benefits, physically and mentally, making this trip one of the most relaxing things to do in St. Lucia. Let’s cover what natural baths and hot springs you can include in your itinerary:
11) The Soufrière Volcano (Sulphur Springs): Many people believe that soaking in mud baths not only erases years from their skin but also treats ailments like sore joints and sunburns. And in this spring, you will be in for quite the treat. Visitors get to soak in boiling mud where they can scrub themselves, enjoy the warmth of the steam, and learn more about the volcano’s last eruption. Sitting so close to the site of eruption is an added advantage.
12) Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths: This six-acre plot of land is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Nestled among lush vegetation with tropical plants are mineral baths that have existed for several hundred years. The establishment offers private and public baths, allowing you to choose what best suits your preferences. The public baths are warm and allow you to soothe your muscles, while the private ones feature hot water from the spring as they are at the outlet.
13) Sapphire Falls & Jungle Spa: If you want to soak in a mud bath away and enjoy a quiet session, this is a great option. It is in the middle of a jungle and offers a quiet ambiance that augurs well with the soothing bath. As you relax, you can enjoy the view and sounds of the waterfalls, enabling you to sink even further into your state of pure bliss.
14) Piton Falls & Mineral Pools: Hiking Petit Piton is not necessary to get to these healing pools as they are right at the base of the mountain. The naturally hot water flows from the Piton Falls and enters the mineral baths, allowing you to enjoy its warm feel as it envelops you. While the pool is manmade, everything else is natural, creating the perfect environment for losing yourself in the moment.
15) New Jerusalem Mineral Baths: Mud baths often attract many visitors. So, if you want some seclusion, you might want to opt for mineral baths as they have much less traffic. This one, in particular, features three hot pools and one cool one inside the hill, creating a beautiful infinity pool effect. You also get cool shade from the nearby plants as you soak in the water, allowing you not to get too hot.
As you emerge from the springs and baths feeling relaxed, you will likely want a shower. Why not do it in the natural waterfalls as the perfect finish for a truly healing experience?
16-20: Water Adventures and Snorkeling
Photo: shutterstock.com
By lying on the beach, hiking the Pitons, and soaking in mud baths, you will have learned a lot about St Lucia’s history. But if you want to uncover what ebbs and flows beneath it, the trick lies in enjoying water adventures. You can explore marine life, look at St Lucia from another perspective, and make memories that will enhance your trip. The best-rated activities are as follows:
16) Scuba Diving: Picture deep blue seas filled with different aquatic species. All you need to do is adorn a scuba suit, fill up your tank, and dive into a world of adventure. Scuba diving in St Lucia is quite easy, even for beginners, as there are many professional trainers, and the dive sites are usually minutes away from the surface. The best spots are as follows:
- Turtle Reef,
- Grande Caille,
- Staircase,
- Pinnacles,
- Devil’s Hole,
- Sugar Beach Reef, and
- Jalousie.
Most of these sites are untouched, and the coral is thus full of beautiful aquatic life.
17) Snorkeling: How would you like to interact with schools of fish while enjoying the sun’s warm glow? Snorkeling is a fun activity for all ages. And even if you do not have a snorkeling kit, you can easily get one from your tour operator or hotel. You can enjoy snorkeling in the scuba diving sites or try the spots at Anse Chastanet, Anse Mamin, and Piton Wall. If you want a cross between scuba diving and snorkeling that allows you to reach deeper levels, you can try SNUBA.
18) Go on a catamaran excursion: Many tourists rank catamaran tours as some of the best things to do in St. Lucia as they encompass everything. Once on board, you can enjoy riding out the waves as you bask in the sun and take in the views around you. The catamarans usually stop at different places where you can take pictures, do some snorkeling, enjoy lunch and drinks at the beach, or go on a short hike. The full experience is quite fun! You can enjoy this excursion on almost all beaches as tour operators traverse a huge distance.
19) Try sailing: Yacht tours combine the thrill of a catamaran tour with the luxury of an all-inclusive trip. Like catamarans, they are available for half and full-day tours, allowing you to travel as far as you wish. As you cruise the coast, you can enjoy refreshing drinks and gaze at the island’s beauty from a vantage point. It’s a great way to spend a day at the sea and you can do it all without getting your hair wet!
20) Watch whales and dolphins: Would you like to interact with these majestic animals? Well, you can! Tour operators set off early in the morning for whale and dolphin sightings. If you are lucky, you might set your eyes on an orca whale, a spotted dolphin, or a spinning dolphin. You just need to be ready with your camera for that shot!
Other amazing water activities include deep-sea fishing, sunset cruises, and kitesurfing. You can book these with your hotel or find a trusted tour operator to take you.
21-25: Rainforest Adventures
Photo: shutterstock.com
The forests in St Lucia are so beautiful that even sedentary people feel moved to hike the forest trails when vacationing. They get to explore the unique flora and fauna, gaze at incredible views from the peaks of the mountains, embark on historical lessons, and breathe in fresh air between baths at natural waterfalls. If you’d like a similar experience, consider the following trails:
21) Gros Piton: This hike is a bit challenging as it requires moderate effort and takes about five hours to complete. But its rewards are worth the sweat. You get to climb a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with beautiful trees and overlooking the ocean. It’s perfect for your fitness levels and your photo album.
22) Petit Piton: Hiking the Gros Piton is a great idea, but some people cannot make it up this mountain. Luckily, you can still enjoy the beauty of the sea contrasting with the mountain under the clear skies by hiking this smaller trail. Once you come down, you can soak in the ocean to soothe your muscles.
23) Volga Nature Trail: This trail leads you straight to the Sulfur Springs and is thus a great way to prepare for that hot soak. It is lush with beautiful vegetation that hugs you along the way. And after about one hour, you should be reaching the mud baths. Of course, the hike can take longer if you stop at the attractions along the way, including the old French architectural homes.
24) Edmund Rainforest Trail: If you think the Pitons are outstanding, wait till you see Mount Gimie, the tallest mountain on the island! It stands tall, towering over the island, giving you an incredible view of the surroundings. Getting to the top takes a while as the trail is about seven miles long – but if you are up for adventure and want those views, you have no option but to keep going.
25) En Bas Saut: Try this shorter option if the Edmund Rainforest Trail feels too challenging. With two waterfalls awaiting you in this magnificent rainforest, keeping pace should not be an issue. And once you get to the falls, you can bathe as you prepare for the way back.
With these beautiful trails, it’s easy to see why hiking ranks as one of the best outdoorsy things to do in St. Lucia. Try one option and see how you like it. And if you are into bird watching, the Millet Bird Sanctuary and the Des Cartier Rainforest trail are great choices.
26-30: Culinary Delights
Photo: shutterstock.com
Travelers should always try to explore different cuisines. Doing this helps you uncover tastes you never would have thought were delicious, discover different textures, and thus expand your palate. And in St Lucia, these opportunities are countless as the island excels in offering top-tier foods. Here is how you can embark on a culinary adventure that will blow your taste buds away:
26) Eat local foods: St Lucian dishes are spicy and flavorful and are thus a great way to step out of your comfort zone. Since most of these dishes are unavailable elsewhere, it would be a shame not to try them on the island. Make a point of having the following:
- Bouyon: This meal features sweet potatoes, pork, pumpkins, yam, and ham in one delicious stew. Once you have tasted it, you will see why it is a mainstay in St Lucian celebrations and why enjoying it ranks as one of the top things to do in St. Lucia.
- Lobster: There are many ways to prepare this meal, from steaming to raw. No matter how you have it, you will appreciate the effort that goes into making it – it’s just delicious!
- Lambi: St Lucians take conch to the next level with their unique preparation style. They first spice it up before frying it – by the time you get it, you will hardly believe this is the same conch you would eat on another Caribbean island.
- Accra: This food is so popular that you can get it on the streets. It comprises salted and spiced codfish that has been deep fried, making it the perfect snack for those long trips.
Consider eating Callaloo soup and fry bakes to complete this culinary journey.
27) Try local drinks: What can you wash down the local foods with? Here are some great ideas:
- Rum: The signature rum on this island is fruity and smooth, making it the perfect way to end a meal. To get a taste of the different rums, consider a rum-tasting tour that will have you appreciate the island a lot more.
- Piton: A crisp and light pilsner lager might be all you need to refresh your taste buds and mind after a long day in the sun. It tastes even better with the view of the Pitons.
Cocoa tea, especially with some spice, is also common and a great way to start the day.
28) Try the local snacks: Enjoying small bites on the go is a great way to keep your energy up and learn more about the local foods. Most visitors enjoy the following options: banana bread, avocado balls, cassava bread, and breadfruit. They taste great on their own, but you can always amp them with drinks.
29) Learn how to cook local foods: Why not learn how the different ingredients combine to produce these tasty local treats? Many tour guides offer cooking tours where you can interact with the foods and borrow some tricks you can use back home.
30) Eat at local restaurants: Tourist restaurants often have extensive international menus. Step outside your comfort zone by eating at a local restaurant where you can enjoy the authentic St Lucian tastes. Try the top options below that have made it to the list of things to do in St. Lucia:
- Martha’s Tables,
- Liz Roti,
- Gros Islet Jump Up,
- Castries Central Market,
- Mama Tilly’s Bar,
- Marie’s Local Cuisine, and
- Jambe de Bois.
Once you are done with these local experiences, you will have a lot more appreciation for the island.
31-35: Adventure Activities
Photo: shutterstock.com
Adrenaline junkies look for fun everywhere. And if you fall into this category, you will love all St Lucia has to offer its visitors. From ziplining to ATV tours, the following adrenaline-pumping experiences will help you create the kind of memories that last a lifetime:
31) Zipline through the forest: The beautiful tropical forests in the island allow you to unleash your inner Tarzan as you move at top speeds from one side to the other. One of the best options is the Treetop Adventure Park, which has 12 ziplines, each more thrilling than the next. Thanks to their high settings, you get the best forest views and can get amazing shots as you scream or smile through the treetops.
32) Drive an ATV: This tour allows you to take the road less traveled and embark on a thrilling adventure where you dictate the speeds and destinations. You can enjoy riding on the beach, on remote roads in the forest, or wherever your tour operator permits. Some thrilling rides end with horse rides by the beach to perfect an already ideal itinerary.
33) Cycle in the forest: How about you take hiking to the next level by adding two wheels to the equation? Cycling is a great way to push yourself and allows you to make it across the forest trails even faster. Besides, you get to encounter different flora and fauna, enjoy the cool shade, and make stops at different waterfalls.
34) Drive a speed boat: Have you ever wanted to captain a boat? Now you can! Many tour operators offer this inclusion as part of their packages, allowing you to steer a fast-moving boat in the sea. The whole experience is just exhilarating.
35) Try a power snorkel: You have likely snorkeled in water and enjoyed interacting with marine life. But have you ever wished you could do it faster? Power snorkeling allows you to hold on to a powered snorkel that pulls you through the water, enabling you to marvel at the aquatic life at high speeds.
If you want exciting things to do while on vacation, these activities will meet your standards.
Travel Documents
Before you can take in the beautiful scenery and fantastic culture in St Lucia, you need to get through customs. Immigration officials will expect you to present the following documents, failure to which you will be denied entry.
1. An Identification Document
Your choice of ID will depend on how you will enter and leave the island. Consider your options below per your travel mode:
- Flights: If you will fly in or out of St Lucia, you will need to have a valid passport per international air travel guidelines. This rule applies to all people, including minors.
- Standard cruises (those that start or stop at a non-US port): You must have a valid passport to board such a cruise as you will enter a foreign land at some point. Such cruise lines will not allow you to board if you don’t meet the documentation requirements.
- Closed-loop cruises (those that start and stop at US ports): Some cruise lines require passengers to have passports, while others may accept WHTI-compliant documents such as passport cards and trusted traveler cards. You will need to confirm with the operator to ensure you have the proper documentation.
Even where a passport is not necessary, having one helps you evacuate in emergencies and explore more travel options. Ensure your passport complies with the following St Lucia rules:
- It must be valid throughout your stay on the island,
- It must have at least one blank visa page, and
- It must be in good condition, i.e., undamaged and unaltered.
Travel Visa Pro can help you get a passport that meets all these criteria in just a few days.
2. A Visa
Visa requirements depend on your travel purpose and the duration of your stay. Consider your options below:
- Tourism: If you are visiting for recreation, e.g., a vacation, you do not need a visa. However, immigration authorities may request the following documents before they allow you into the country:
- A return or onward travel ticket,
- Proof of enough funds to cover your stay, and
- Evidence of accommodation.
- Other travel reasons: Suppose you want to visit St Lucia for work, research, or other non-tourism purposes. In such cases, you will need to get the relevant visa per your travel needs.
Travel Visa Pro handles St Lucia visas and can help you get the right one for your stay in just a few days.
3. Additional Documents
While the documents below are not mandatory, they can help you stay ahead of any surprises you might get on the island. Consider including them in your travel documentation:
- An apostille: Did you know that St Lucia is a beautiful wedding destination? But before you can tie the knot legally, you will need to present apostilles for your official documents to verify their authenticity. The same applies to any official business, e.g., working on the island.
- Travel insurance: Injuries, illnesses, theft, and losses can put a damper on an otherwise great trip. A good travel insurance policy allows you to meet such costs and avoid denting your trip finances. Besides, it also gives you peace of mind.
To help you stay prepared, Travel Visa Pro offers the services above in all states. Talk to us today about getting a good cover or authenticating your documents for international use.
Coming up with a list of things to do in St. Lucia is a walk in the park. After all, the island has everything you need, from rainforest adventures to local culinary delights to exciting water sports to beautiful beaches. By considering your interests, you can come up with an itinerary that will help you make the most of your vacation.
