St Lucia

Fall in Love with Pitons, Paradise & Passion

Holidays in St Lucia

Your Guide to St Lucia

Picture this: two majestic volcanic peaks, the Pitons, rising dramatically from a turquoise sea, lush rainforest cascading down hillsides, hidden coves revealing golden sand beaches, and the scent of tropical flowers in the air. That's St Lucia – an island widely hailed as one of the most scenically breathtaking in the entire Caribbean. Its natural beauty is simply staggering, making it an instant heart-stealer.


While famous as a top destination for honeymoons and romantic escapes (and it truly excels at this!), St Lucia offers so much more. It's an island where you can start your day hiking through the rainforest or soaking in volcanic mud baths, spend the afternoon relaxing on a beautiful beach or snorkelling in clear waters, and finish with delicious Creole cuisine or fine dining under the stars. For first-timers, the iconic views and unique attractions are unforgettable. For returners, there’s always a new trail to explore, a different coast to discover, or simply the familiar, irresistible beauty calling you back.

Airports in St Lucia

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St Lucia has two airports, serving different ends of the island:


Hewanorra International Airport (UVF): Located right at the southern tip. This is where your direct flight from the UK will land. It's conveniently close to the Soufrière area, home to the Pitons, Sulphur Springs, and many luxury resorts known for their incredible views.


George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU): Situated near the capital, Castries, in the north. This smaller airport mainly handles flights from other Caribbean islands. It serves the Rodney Bay area, known for its marina, restaurants, nightlife, and long beach.

Transport options in St Lucia

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Authorised Taxis: Plentiful at airports and hotels, Water Taxis, Rental Cars

Official Spoken Languages

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The official language of St Lucia is English, so you'll have absolutely no problem communicating. It's spoken everywhere in tourism and daily life.


You'll also hear locals speaking Saint Lucian Creole French (Kwéyòl), a vibrant French-based Creole language. 

Weather & Climate

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For the most reliably sunny and dry weather, aim for the Dry Season (Dec-May). For better value and fewer crowds, consider the Wet Season (Jun-Nov), perhaps choosing the earlier or later months (June/July or November) to minimise potential storm disruption.

Must-Do Expereinces in St Lucia

A view of a city surrounded by mountains and trees in St Lucia.

Gaze upon The Pitons

You simply cannot visit St Lucia without being mesmerised by Gros Piton and Petit Piton, the island's iconic twin volcanic spires (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Photograph them from viewpoints near Soufrière, admire them rising majestically from a boat trip on the water, or choose a hotel specifically for that breathtaking view. For the truly adventurous, hiring a guide to hike Gros Piton (allow 3-5 hours return) offers a challenging climb and utterly spectacular summit views (Petit Piton is generally off-limits for tourist climbs).

Smoke is coming out of a volcano in the middle of a forest.

Get Muddy at Sulphur Springs Park

Experience the Caribbean's only "drive-in volcano"! Walk close to steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools (brace yourself for the potent sulphur smell!). Then comes the fun part: cover yourself head-to-toe in therapeutic volcanic mud, let it bake dry in the sun (great photo op!), and rinse off in the warm, mineral-rich stream pools. A unique, slightly smelly, but memorable St Lucian experience!

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Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens

Escape into this serene and beautiful estate near Soufrière. Stroll along paths shaded by towering tropical trees, surrounded by vibrant heliconias, hibiscus, and countless other exotic flowers. The highlight is the picturesque Diamond Waterfall, its stream coloured by volcanic minerals. You can also take a relaxing dip in the on-site mineral baths (separate fee). A lovely, gentle immersion in the island's natural beauty.

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Chill or Thrill at Rodney Bay

Head north for a different vibe. Rodney Bay boasts a large, sheltered marina filled with yachts, numerous hotels and resorts, a wide variety of restaurants and bars, shops, a casino, and the popular Reduit Beach – a long stretch of golden sand with calm waters ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports (including an inflatable water park). It's the island's main hub for entertainment and nightlife.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

St Lucia's geography dictates its character. The South (Soufrière area) is dramatic, dominated by the Pitons, rainforest, waterfalls, and Sulphur Springs – ideal for romance, stunning views, nature activities, often quieter evenings. The North (Rodney Bay area) is generally flatter, livelier, with calmer beaches, more dining and nightlife options, shopping, and the marina. Consider what vibe you prefer or split your stay between both (remembering the ~1.5-2 hour winding drive between them).

North vs South: Choose Your Base Wisely

St Lucia has a fascinating cocoa history and is now home to excellent 'bean-to-bar' chocolate makers. Indulge your sweet tooth! Visit a cocoa plantation like the Rabot Estate (run by the UK's Hotel Chocolat) or Morne Coubaril Estate. Learn how chocolate is grown and made, taste different grades of cocoa, and even try making your own chocolate bar. A unique and delicious island treat!

Chocolate Lover's Paradise

Especially if staying in the south or travelling along the west coast, water taxis aren't just transport; they're a fantastic experience. They can be quicker than driving the winding roads for some journeys (e.g., Soufrière to Marigot Bay or Castries) and offer absolutely stunning coastal perspectives of the Pitons, villages, and bays that you just don't get from the road. Ask your hotel concierge or check licensed operators at local jetties.

Water Taxis = Scenic Shortcut

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD or EC$), which is pegged to the US Dollar (around US$1 = EC$2.70). However, US Dollars are widely accepted across the island, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tour companies – prices are often even quoted in USD. It’s useful to have smaller denomination US$ notes or withdraw/exchange some EC$ for smaller purchases at local shops, markets, or for minibus fares. Credit cards are accepted in most tourist-oriented businesses.

Money Matters: EC$ vs US$

St Lucia: Beauty, Romance, and Adventure!

St Lucia truly is a jewel of the Caribbean. Its dramatic landscapes captivate the eye, while its blend of relaxation and adventure caters to every mood. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, seeking thrilling activities in nature, or simply wanting to unwind on a beautiful beach with an unforgettable view, this island delivers.


With easy direct flights from the UK, English widely spoken, and that welcoming Caribbean spirit, St Lucia makes for a relatively easy yet incredibly rewarding escape. Prepare to be enchanted by its volcanic beauty, lush greenery, and vibrant soul. Your unforgettable island adventure awaits!