Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia - Travel Guide

St. Lucia is a picturesque Caribbean island known for its stunning volcanic peaks (the Pitons), lush rainforests, and beautiful beaches. It's a popular destination for honeymoons, adventure, and relaxation, offering a mix of natural beauty and luxurious resorts.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days

Budget$100/day

Mid-range$250/day

Luxury$1000/day

Known For

Saint LuciaCaribbeanLesser AntillesWest IndiesEastern CaribbeanWindward Islands

🇱🇨 Country Information: Saint Lucia

CapitalCastries

CurrencyEastern Caribbean dollar ($)

Language English , Saint Lucian Creole French

Phone Code+1

Electricity240V (Type G)

Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

Tipping is expected for good service, typically 10
15% for restaurant staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides; porters and hotel staff appreciate small tips
It is customary to tip hotel housekeepers daily

Money & Payments

* ATMs are available, but not universally found, especially in rural areas; cash is widely used; credit cards are accepted at major hotels and restaurants but less so in local shops; no significant black market for cash

Cultural Norms

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or local villages
Politeness and respect are highly valued in interactions with locals
"Liming" is a popular social activity, similar to hanging out with friends; participation is a good way to experience local culture

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal for men in Saint Lucia, with penalties including imprisonment. There are no laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination, and public attitudes can be conservative.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

Legal drinking age is 18
Drug laws are strict, with severe penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs, including marijuana

Special Laws

It is illegal to wear camouflage clothing
Nudity is illegal in public places, including beaches; swimwear should be confined to beaches and resorts

Common Phrases

HelloKonnichi (koh-nee-chee)

Thank youMèsi (meh-see)

Climate

General classification for the island of St Lucia.

Climate Zone: Tropical Savanna

Best Time to Visit

Hurricane season: Jun
Nov

Getting There

Fly to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) from major North American and European cities (5
8h, $400
800+)
Cruise ships frequently visit
Private boat charters available

Getting Around

Taxis are widely available
Minibuses are a common and affordable local transport
Rental cars are an option for independent exploration
No major ride
sharing apps like Uber/Lyft typically operate here

Health & Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations recommended
No specific altitude sickness concerns
Motion sickness remedies if prone on boat trips
Malaria risk is generally low, but consult local health guidelines

Staying Connected

eSIMs available
Digicel and Flow are major providers
Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad eSIM should work well

Local Cuisine

Green Figs and Saltfish must_try

Considered the national dish of Saint Lucia, this hearty meal consists of boiled green bananas (referred to as 'green figs') and flaked salted codfish

Bouyon regional_speciality

A rich, flavorful one-pot stew common throughout the island, featuring meat (chicken, pork, or beef) or saltfish, and ground provisions like yams, swe

Lambi (Conch) street_food

A local seafood delicacy, Lambi (conch meat) is typically cooked in a spicy, perfectly-seasoned Creole sauce with ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, a

Piton Beer alcohol

The local St. Lucian lager, named after the island's iconic volcanic peaks. It is a light, refreshing beer perfect for enjoying on the beach. While av

Cocoa Tea non_alcoholic_beverage

The Caribbean version of hot chocolate, this drink is lighter and less sweet. It is usually made from grated local cocoa sticks, simmered with spices

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Luxury/Boutique Accommodation (e.g., Jade Mountain, Sugar Beach) Accommodation

Book 3–6 months in advance

Saint Lucia's most exclusive resorts and private villas have limited inventory and book up quickly, especially during peak season (December–April).

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Dining Reservations at Jade Mountain Club Dining

Book 2–8 weeks in advance

Highly acclaimed restaurants like Jade Mountain Club (if not staying there) have very limited non-guest seating, which is released a short time before the date.

Guided Hiking Tour of Gros Piton tour_or_activity

Book 1–4 weeks in advance

Guided tours, especially to popular sites like Gros Piton, have limited guide availability and fill up, particularly if you want a specific morning time slot.

Fun Facts

1. Saint Lucia is the world's only country to be named specifically after a woman, Saint Lucy of Syracuse.
2. The island holds the world record for the most Nobel Prize Laureates per capita, having produced two winners: Derek Walcott (Literature) and Sir Arthur Lewis (Economics).
3. Saint Lucia is home to the world's only drive-in "volcano," Sulphur Springs, which features boiling mud pools and releases sulfur gas.
4. The national bird, the Saint Lucia Parrot (Amazona versicolor), is endemic to the island and can be found nowhere else in the world.

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