Curator’s statement
St. Lucia is one of my favorite Caribbean islands because it’s a unique blend of African, French, and English culture, history, and food! You’ll love the beaches, rainforest activities, stunning vistas, incredible water activities, picturesque villages, and world-class hotels and vacation homes for every budget and preference.
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Things to do
Sail along the Caribbean side of the island to see the Pitons, Pigeon Island, Rodney Bay, and Marigot Bay. I recommend a small catamaran for an intimate experience that includes over-water hammocks, snorkeling, lunch, water, snacks, and drinks.
Hike Gros Piton or the Tet Paul Nature Trail. Gros Piton is a challenging guided hike (2600-foot ascent over three miles), but the views of the island from here are awe-inspiring. For hikers who want an easy hike that still offers incredible views, opt for the Tet Paul Nature Trail. This moderate hike takes about 30 minutes and gives you stunning views of both Pitons.
Go horseback-riding on the beach. I suggest riding along the northeastern coast. You’ll start by riding through a picturesque, authentic neighborhood on your way to Cas En Bas Beach. Then you can ride bareback in the ocean with your guide!
Explore Pigeon Island. This island has been a pirate hideout, colonial military base, whaling station, and a U.S. Naval Air Station. Today, it’s a place where you can enjoy near-deserted beaches, learn about the island’s history, have lunch on the beach, explore ruins, and hike to Fort Rodney and Signal Peak for some of the best views on the island.
Ride The Aerial Tram. This Aerial Tram is an open-air gondola (don’t worry, you’re in a harness!) that lets you experience the island’s wildlife and rainforest in a unique way. Your naturalist guide will educate you about St. Lucia’s environment, and help you spot birds and animals.
Go snorkeling or diving. St. Lucia has incredible coral reefs for divers or casual snorkelers. You can book a boat trip, or many resorts offer shore diving and snorkeling.
Sea kayak. St. Lucia’s many coves allow you to kayak in the Caribbean Sea while remaining in relatively calm water. Most resorts and hotels will provide or rent kayaks to their guests for self-guided paddling. Or, you can book guided paddling tours to different parts of the island.
Eat at The Naked Fisherman. This is my favorite restaurant on the island! Its beachfront, and you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Places to eat & drink
*These restaurants are grouped by their location/area on the island
Soufrière: Dasheene Restaurant & Bar (amazing views), Jah Lamb’s Vegetarian (also has vegan food), Orlando’s Restaurant & Bar, The Big Yard, Anse la Raye Friday Night Fish Fry, a farm to drink and table tasting at Boucan by Hotel Chocolat.
Pigeon Island: Jambe de Bois, Barnacles, The Thirsty Parrot.
Castries: The Pink Plantation House, Chef Robby’s Caribbean Pirates, Brown Sugar Restaurant and Bar, The Coal Pot, Antillia Brewing Company.
Rodney Bay: Jacques Waterfront Dining, Big Chef Steak House, Matthew’s Rooftop Restaurant, Buzz Seafood and Grill, Sakuragi Restaurant & Sushi Bar.
Marigot Bay: Masala Bay, Julietta’s, Roots Beach Bar, Chateau Mygo House of Seafood, Rum Cave, Pirate Bay Marigot.
Cap Estate: The Naked Fisherman, The Cliff at Cap – home to Rock Maison and its champaign zipline that’s been described as “one of the most romantic tables for dinner anywhere in the Caribbean.”
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to The Caribbean.