Planning a trip to Saint Lucia and curious about the best places to visit? Saint Lucia is an island nation nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. It’s close to the islands of Martinique and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Saint Lucia is incredibly rich in traditions and heritage while also boasting stunning natural beauty. The island features dramatic mountains, volcanic beaches, reef-diving spots, luxury resorts, and charming fishing villages. The numerous scenic hiking trails in the mountains and rainforest lead to breathtaking viewpoints.
Intrigued? Then get ready to pack your bags and explore Saint Lucia!
Here are the top spots to include in your itinerary:
The Pitons
The Pitons are two volcanic mountains located near the town of Soufrière. Gros Piton stands at 798.25 meters, while Petit Piton is 743 meters high. These mountains are connected by the Piton Mitan ridge. Gros Piton is particularly popular for hiking because it’s easier to climb. Another great hiking option is the Tet Paul Nature Trail, which offers amazing views of both Pitons. While in the area, explore the local waterfalls like Toraille Waterfall, Piton Falls, Spyke Falls, Sapphire Falls, and Superman Waterfall. Nearby, you’ll also find sulphur springs. Relax at Anse de Pitons, a man-made beach with pristine sand nestled between the two Pitons. Snorkelling here is a must-do activity, making it one of the best experiences in Saint Lucia.
Soufrière
Soufrière is a charming town located about 10 km north of Gros Piton. With the Pitons and the rainforest as its backdrop, it’s one of the island’s most picturesque places. Despite its beauty, Soufrière remains laid-back and relatively undeveloped. Don’t miss the Diamond Botanical Gardens, a park featuring ornamental plants and geothermal mineral baths, also home to the famous Diamond Falls. Another great spot is Anse Chastanet Beach, known for Anse Chastanet Reef, which is perfect for snorkelling.
Marigot Bay
Marigot Bay is a delightful harbor on the western coast of Saint Lucia, close to the capital, Castries. This idyllic bay is surrounded by hills, with anchored boats and white sand beaches, making it one of the best places to visit on the island. The bay was once described as “the most beautiful bay in the Caribbean” by the American novelist James A. Michener and was featured in the 1967 film “Dr. Dolittle.”
Castries
Castries, the capital of Saint Lucia, is famous for Vigie Beach, its cruise ship port, and duty-free shopping near the harbor. A highlight is the lively Castries Central Market, the largest open-air market in Saint Lucia. The market sells everything from handwoven baskets and clothes to food and tropical fruits and veggies, and it’s open every day except Sunday. Also, don’t miss the Pink Plantation House, a restaurant with beautiful views that serves traditional Creole food and offers a few rooms for rent.
Pigeon Island National Park
Located in northern Saint Lucia, Pigeon Island National Park is a significant landmark and one of the best places to visit on the island. It features a lush tropical forest with historical military ruins, including Fort Rodney, a historic hilltop fort with old cannons. The park offers beautiful hiking trails leading to Fort Rodney and Signal Peak, both providing panoramic views. After your hike, unwind at Pigeon Island Beach for some relaxation and snorkelling.
Lastly, for an adventure within a magnificent rainforest, try activities centered around nature. Enjoy gondola and zipline rides, hiking, and birdwatching tours. Treetop Adventure Park offers a family-friendly activity course with various obstacles such as zip lines, rope bridges, cargo nets, and Tarzan swings. It’s a fantastic way to experience the treetops and take in gorgeous views of Saint Lucia.
Enjoy your trip to this incredible island!