Step into paradise with a holiday of a lifetime on the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia.

The home of mesmerising scenery and welcoming locals, you’ll discover never-before-seen flora and fauna as well as bustling cities and a thriving culture. Lay back in blissful relaxation on one of the many sensational sugar-white beaches dotted along Saint Lucia’s coastline, with views of neighbouring islands, majestic mountains and the vast Caribbean Sea. Shallow, aquamarine shores invite adults and children to experience fun under the surface, with awe-inspiring coral reefs and marine life waiting to be admired. Spend wondrous hours walking through the capital, Castries, a centre of historical architecture and heritage, with an array of landmarks and lush, open spaces for families and couples to enjoy. First-time visitors to Saint Lucia won’t have to worry about crafting the perfect itinerary or panic over the best time to visit, as this guide has everything you need to know about this exceptional holiday island.

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Top Attractions

Saint Lucia is brimming with must-see attractions, suitable for families, couples and travellers seeking solo adventures. Dominating the skyline on the island’s south western coast are the twin volcanic spires of the Pitons, a wondrous UNESCO world heritage site. Gros Piton offers more accessible hiking trails than Petit Piton and is home to an abundance of exotic flora and fauna. Reach the peak for incredible views of the island and neighbouring St Vincent. Couples will enjoy romantic moments at the Sulphur Springs in Soufrière. Famously the only “drive-in” volcano in the world, you can spend lazy afternoons soaking in the mud baths and hot springs. The nearby Diamond Botanical Gardens are also a favourite attraction, where you’ll discover the dazzling Diamond Waterfall amongst lush foliage. For those looking to brush up on Saint Lucian history, Pigeon Island boasts many ruins, particularly from the French and British colonisations. Most notably, you’ll find the cannon-equipped 18th-Century Fort Rodney.

Best Beaches

Boasting exquisite coastal scenery and endless hours of scintillating sunshine, Saint Lucia is a beach holiday paradise. For those looking to remain close to the luxury hotels of Rodney Bay and all of its amenities, Reduit Beach is perfect. With five miles of shoreline and calm waters, families will find this spot particularly special. Likewise, Vigie Beach is surrounded by world-class eateries and bars, located close to the capital, Castries. If you’re seeking a blissful afternoon, you can take in the sights of swaying palm trees and turquoise sea from its shaded areas. Couples can enjoy peaceful moments on the divine Jalousie Beach. It’ll be as if you’re stepping into a postcard, with the white sand nestled between the two Pitons mountains. Dip a toe into the serene waters of Anse Chastanet, where a spectacular coral reef provides the opportunity for some unrivalled scuba diving and snorkelling.

Adventure Activities

Holidays in Saint Lucia are all about unparalleled adventure activities. Being surrounded by the Caribbean Sea allows for a number of epic water sports, including water skiing, sailing, kayaking and diving. A catamaran cruise is a brilliant way for the whole family to enjoy the scenery and spot exotic marine life like dolphins or reef and nurse sharks. In the sea off Reduit Beach is family-friendly Splash Island floating water park. On the base of Mount Gimie, you’ll find the Chassin rainforest offering exhilarating zip-lining and canopy exploration. For nature-lovers, a scenic hike up Gros Piton will reveal idyllic landscapes and awe-inspiring sights. Don’t fancy walking? Soaring around the peaks on a helicopter ride is sure to create long lasting memories. A trip to the Iyanola Zoo should be at the top of your bucket list, with the chance to see colourful peacocks and the rare Saint Lucia parrot on offer.

Cultural Experiences

You’ll be wowed by the number of cultural experiences in Saint Lucia. Castries is a hub for historic landmarks and immersing yourself in Saint Lucian heritage. Visit the largest cathedral in the Caribbean, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, to admire the intricately designed architecture and magnificent interior decorations. Opposite is Derek Walcott Square, located in the heart of the city. Stroll through the public park where you’ll see colonial buildings and a 400-year-old monkey pod tree. Creole heritage is also upheld in Saint Lucia, with many locals using a French-based patois as their first language. This is specific to Saint Lucia but shares similarities with islands like Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago. For the whole of October, Creole traditions are celebrated with authentic clothing, music and food. Your tastebuds will thank you when you sample traditional Saint Lucian cuisine, including the national dish, green figs and saltfish, macaroni pie and Johnnycakes.

Festivals and Events

Saint Lucia festivals are something to remember as the island comes to life in a buzz of energy and joy. Holidaymakers will feel at home during the Jazz & Arts Festival, the premier celebration of jazz in the whole Caribbean. Every April or May outstanding shows are put on, with singers like Rhianna and Elton John headlining, as well as delicious food, street parties and family-friendly activities. In July, the biggest party across the Caribbean, Carnival, is celebrated. Feel the appreciation Saint Lucia has for its culture through the traditional steel drum music and flamboyant, colourful costumes. Original to Saint Lucia is the La Rose and La Marguerite festivals. Respectively celebrated on the 30th August and 17th October each year, this tradition dates back to the island’s pre-emancipation days and observes cultural memory and history. Locals choose a “society” and dress in red or purple before singing, parading through the streets and going to church.

Best Time To Visit

You’ll be spoilt for choice as to when you can visit the paradisiacal island of Saint Lucia. Because of its tropical climate, you can expect sublime year-round sunshine. The average temperature pleasantly stays between 24 and 31℃, with the hottest month being September. January is classed as the coldest month, though the conditions are still enjoyable compared to the weather the UK is used to at this time of year. This is a perfect time for getting out on the water, partaking in some out-of-this-world aquatic fun, or exploring the picturesque cities. Hurricane season is between June and November, when up to 255 millimetres of rain can fall, peaking in September and October. To experience the best conditions, warm temperatures, dry weather and constant sunshine, we recommend visiting during December to March. Families, couples and solo adventurers will find everything they need at this time of year, as this is when you’ll come across the best deals, whether it be something all-inclusive or budget-friendly.

“Experience heaven on earth on this outstanding Caribbean island.

“Saint Lucia is one of the world’s leading beach holiday destinations, with many spectacular spots boasting unrivalled views, dazzling shores and soft, white sand. Whether it's lively Reduit Beach or the secluded Jalousie Beach, everyone will find bliss in the Caribbean sunshine.

“Experience unique activities found only on Saint Lucia, including a visit to the world’s only drive-in volcano. The famous hot springs and mud baths are sure to leave you feeling refreshed and your friends at home jealous. Challenge yourself with a hike up Gros Piton where the views of this paradise will make all the effort worth it.

“A hive for history and heritage, a stroll around Derek Walcott Square in the heart of Castries will illuminate how the past influences the future of this tropical island.

“First-time visitors are welcomed with open arms and are invited to return again and again to discover the treasures hidden here.”

Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa

Located in Rodney Bay Village, the Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa is the perfect spot for families looking to soak up the sun and spend quality time together. Many of the amenities are suitable for all ages with the lagoon-style swimming pool being the show-stopper. A kid’s club and floating water park provides more excitement for children while adults can enjoy the Jacuzzi, gym and spa. Spacious bedrooms offer the comfort you deserve while also being furnished to a high standard.

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Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort

The stunning Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is nestled in a picturesque bay with its own private beach. Relax here as a couple, enjoying the palm tree and sea views, or as a family, splashing in one of the glistening swimming pools. Aromatic flavours will fill the air from the restaurants serving international and local fare. Experience something new, with a scuba diving centre on site and dance lessons available, while excursions can be arranged to explore the island.

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Zöetry Marigot Bay St. Lucia

Treat yourself to luxury with a stay at the 5-star Zöetry Marigot Bay St. Lucia. Here, your every whim will be catered for while you melt away in the sublime infinity pools and spa facilities. The white-sand beach, Las Bas, can be reached via a modern pontoon, which will ferry you back and forth whenever you want. Numerous world-class bars and restaurants will leave you completely satisfied while the chic suites offer a private balcony or terrace for complete peace and relaxation.

Check out the Zöetry Marigot Bay St. Lucia