Escape the Winter Chill: St. Lucia for a Warm January Vacation

Flying into Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), you’ll notice the breathtakingly beautiful and mountainous island from above. January's weather is a delightful blend of warmth and sunshine, with average temperatures hovering in the mid-70s, making it an ideal warm vacation spot in January.

If you’re like me, you’ll be itching to take a dip in the pool or ocean upon checking into your hotel. Spend the afternoon unpacking and unwinding from your travels with your welcome drink by the pool or beach. I would recommend a local restaurant serving traditional St. Lucian cuisine for dinner. Anything local is amazing - green figs and saltfish, breadfruit, cassava bread, fried flying fish and fried plantain.

Start off the day with a challenging yet rewarding hike up the Gros Piton, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take in breathtaking views of the island's lush landscapes and volcanic peaks.

Following the hike, relax and indulge in a therapeutic mud bath at the Sulphur Springs.

After all that activity, you’ve earned yourself a nice poolside drink and some time to soak up the afternoon sun.

On your third day, visit the Castries Central Market, a bustling marketplace where you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. Pick up some trinkets as gifts for family or t-shirts for yourself, and be sure to stop and take the time to chat with the locals. They’re so welcoming and kind. For lunch, grab some local fare at one of the many food stalls.

Once you’re refueled, learn about the island's history and culture at the St. Lucia National Museum. The museum is conveniently located on Vigie Beach, so take the time to stroll along the coastline afterwards.

You may already be lodging at a resort or hotel with a beautiful beach and pool, but I highly recommend spending a day at Reduit Beach, one of the most popular beaches in St. Lucia, or Anse Chastanet, known for their beautiful coral reefs. Bring a book to lounge on the white-sand beaches and gaze at the crystal clear waters. If you’re up for some more activity, there’s some water sports such as kayaking, snorkeling or paddle boarding available. I would recommend having a picnic lunch on the beach to maximize all that sun; it is after all, a warm-weather vacation that you’re on. Grab dinner at one of the restaurants and watch the sunset over the Carribean Sea.

Pigeon Island National Park is an activity you’ll want to start your day with - explore the ruins of Fort Rodney when it opens and you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself. Admire the stunning views from the top of Signal Peak. Afterwards, you can head down to one of the two beaches to have a beachfront lunch or visit the nearby fishing village of Gros Islet.

To close out this memorable warm-weather vacation, have a delicious dinner in Rodney Bay, where many restaurants offer live entertainment.