Things To Do in St Lucia: Our Top 10
You couldn’t wish for a more sun-soaked Caribbean holiday destination with a party atmosphere and lots to do than St Lucia. As if swapping a rainy UK summer for a few weeks in paradise isn’t enough, there are some fascinating and soul-inspiring places to visit. St Lucia holidays offer plenty of entertaining activities for the whole family.
To save you the trouble of all the online research, we’ve selected our top 10 things to do in St Lucia, whether you enjoy immersing yourself in the local culture, visiting historical landmarks, snorkelling or discovering the island’s natural attractions, here’s something for everyone.
Conquer the Twin Peaks of The Pitons
This is on everyone’s bucket list of St Lucia activities. You’ll soon find out why, as you gaze out over the endless horizon on one side and the whole island on the other. These volcanic peaks tower over the island – if you look at a picture of St Lucia, you’ll see them immediately. They’re almost cult symbols. It will only take you about two hours to hike to the top, but take it easy and bring lots of water with you.
But, as they say, that’s not all. The sea at the base of these peaks hides the best place to snorkel on St Lucia. This is called the Piton Wall. Hiring a boat trip is the only way to reach it, but it’s absolutely worth the effort.
The Gateway to Heaven: Tet Paul Nature Trail
The Tet Paul Nature Trail is another relaxing way to find some of the most stunning vistas that St Lucia holidays can offer. Known locally as the gateway to heaven, you’ll get great side views of the Pitons and, even more impressively, you can see to the other Caribbean islands of St Vincent and Martinique when the visibility is good.
This is also where you can learn about St Lucia’s local heritage by touring a traditional island house and watching the age-old craft of cassava plant processing. The hike itself only takes about 45 minutes and is moderate enough for kids to come along.
Pigeon Island: St Lucia’s Living Museum
Pigeon Island is one of St Lucia’s most important historical landmarks. It has a whole host of monuments that commemorate significant West Indian events. These include military ruins from the era when the British and French fought for control of the island. It also has great swimming beaches and a very special beach where turtles nest during breeding season. You can sample local cuisine at the restaurant and take a walk up to the lookout point at Fort Rodney if you want more St Lucia things to do here.
Sulphur Springs: Bathing in Volcanic Mud
St Lucia’s Sulphur Springs take things beyond most others. You can slide into the warm thermal mineral water to rejuvenate as normal, but you can also get proper down and dirty. Cover yourself in the rich volcanic mud and let the natural nutrients sink into your skin. Then wash it off by standing under the nearby Toraille Waterfall. It’s one of the most invigorating St Lucia activities, with loads of health benefits. Of course, the chance to snap yourself covered in volcanic mud is also a perfect Insta opportunity.
A Feast of Nature at Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens
One of the most fulfilling things to do in St Lucia is to visit the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the island. It’s an unforgettable insight into the indigenous plants, fruit, vegetables, spices and animals of the island. A tour guide will happily accompany you to point them all out. After your ramble, you can cool off under that waterfall itself or soak away your cares in the natural hot springs. You can use the public mineral baths or book yourself a private one.
Yachting and Nightlife at Rodney Bay
Rodney Bay isn’t only the most popular marina on St Lucia; it’s one of the island’s most vibrant meeting spots. It skirts a large lagoon, which is one of the most prestigious in all of the Caribbean. You can walk along it and see the ridiculously luxurious mega-yachts that dock there. Have lunch with a waterfront view and return later for St Lucia’s best nightlife. There are plenty of clubs and bars, plus the island’s only casino.
Thrill-seeking in St Lucia Rainforest
Besides its natural beauty, this rainforest offers some of the most exciting things to do in St Lucia. You can walk the many trails, see exotic local birds and marvel at the seemingly boundless forest canopy. If you fancy some adrenaline, you can float above the trees on a gondola or zip line from one platform to another high up in the canopy.
Castries Market Overflows with Local Flavours
Castries is the capital of St Lucia, and its market is famous throughout the island. It’s also an important historic landmark, established in 1891. You can visit it on any day from about 7 am to 1 pm, except Sundays. It’s just the place to buy souvenirs or gifts to take home. There are handwoven baskets, wood carvings and all manner of other local trinkets. There’s also plenty of different foods on offer – St Lucia’s traditional breakfast tea is especially recommended for its locally grown cocoa. We have plenty more ideas for a romantic 48 hours in Castries.
Aquatic St Lucia Activities at Splash Island Water Park
Splash Island was the first open-air water park in the Caribbean. Here, the whole family can enjoy an inviting range of St Lucia activities, safely under the eyes of certified lifeguards. There are obstacle courses and monkey bars, swings and slides, and a climbing wall. You can also play water volleyball and more. Note that no matter how old you are, you must wear a life vest.
Spiritual Nourishment at Immaculate Conception Church
The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is filled with light and stained-glass windows, and has a huge mural showing various scenes from the Bible. It was built in 1897 and combines traditional European architecture with Caribbean flair. It’s one of the largest in the West Indies. It’s an active church, not a monument, so if you are observant, you’re free to join Sunday Mass. It’s one of the more memorable things to do in St Lucia.
Conclusion
This Caribbean getaway promises so much more than sunshine and beach resorts. It’s filled with natural attractions, has a strong cultural heritage and offers activities for all ages. From mucking in the muddy volcanic springs to exploring historic monuments to whizzing above the treetops, you’re not likely to run out of things to do in St Lucia.
FAQs
Where exactly is St Lucia?
St Lucia is in the Caribbean island chain that runs from the Dominican Republic in the north to the coast of Venezuela. It lies between Martinique and St Vincent & the Grenadines, just north-west of Barbados.
How big is St Lucia?
The island covers about 236 square miles, which is roughly the same size as Rutland County in the East Midlands. In other words, it’s tiny by comparison to the UK, but all the St Lucia things to do make up for that in spades.
How long is the flight to St Lucia from the UK?
A direct flight to St Lucia from London takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes. Flights from other major UK airports are indirect, taking between 12 and 14 hours.
When is the best time for St Lucia holidays?
Temperatures are roughly the same year-round, from a low of about 22 degrees Celsius in January and February to around 31 degrees from August to October. So you can avoid peak season by holidaying in October and November. Read our guide to find more detailed info on the best time to visit St Lucia.
