St Lucia, Saint Lucia - Travel Guide

St Lucia is a lush Caribbean island dominated by the iconic Pitons - twin volcanic spires rising dramatically from the sea. This honeymoon haven offers volcanic beaches, rainforest adventures, the world's only drive-in volcano, luxury all-inclusive resorts, and some of the Caribbean's most romantic settings. From zip-lining through rainforest canopy to soaking in volcanic mud baths, St Lucia blends adventure with relaxation.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days

Budget$100/day

Mid-range$200/day

Luxury$600/day

Known For

st_luciapitonssoufrierecastriesrodney_baymarigot_baygros_pitonpetit_pitonsulphur_springsjade_mountainsugar_beachhoneymoonromantic_destinationcaribbeanvolcanorainforesthikingdive_sitesnorkelingzip_liningmud_bathschocolate_tourrum_distillerycatamaranall_inclusiveluxury_resortbeach_weddingtropical

🇱🇨 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

Tropical climate with temperatures 75-90°F (24-32°C) year-round. Wet season June-November with afternoon showers. Dry season December-May is peak tourist season. Trade winds moderate the heat. Hurricane season officially June-November.

Best Time to Visit

High Season: December
April (dry season, best weather, highest prices)
Shoulder: May
June, November (good weather, better rates)
Low Season: July
October (rainy season, hurricane risk, lowest prices)
Peak Honeymoon: December
March

Getting There

Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in the south receives most international flights from US, UK, and Canada
The smaller George FL Charles Airport (SLU) serves regional flights
UVF is 60
90 minutes from northern resorts
Direct flights from Miami, New York, Atlanta, Toronto, London, and Frankfurt

Getting Around

Rental cars drive on the left (British style) on winding mountain roads
Taxis available but expensive for long distances
Many visitors use resort transfers and day tours
Water taxis connect some coastal areas
Roads are mountainous and can be challenging

Health & Vaccinations

Hepatitis A and Typhoid recommended
Routine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, flu) suggested
Zika virus present
pregnant women should consult doctor
Dengue fever possible
use mosquito repellent
Good medical facilities in Castries

Staying Connected

LIME and Digicel local carriers
eSIM providers (Airalo, Holafly) work well
4G coverage in main areas, spotty in mountains
WiFi good at resorts and restaurants
Consider local SIM for best coverage

Local Cuisine

Green Fig and Saltfish must_try

The national dish of St Lucia - salted cod cooked with green bananas, onions, peppers, and spices. A hearty local breakfast or lunch staple.

Bouyon must_try

Traditional one-pot stew with meat or fish, root vegetables, dumplings, and provisions cooked in coconut milk. Creole comfort food at its finest.

Fried Bakes & Accra local_favorite

Fried dough (bakes) served with saltfish fritters (accra). Perfect for a quick local breakfast or snack, especially at Friday Night Fish Fry.

Cocoa Tea must_try

Traditional hot chocolate made from locally grown cocoa sticks, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Rich, warming, and truly local.

Piton Beer local_favorite

The local lager named after the famous Pitons. Light and refreshing, perfect with spicy island food or at a beach bar.

Book in Advance

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

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Catamaran Day Sail tour_or_activity

Book 3-14 days in advance

Most popular day activity on the island. Peak season tours sell out days ahead.

Sugar Beach Day Pass Attraction

Book 3-14 days in advance

Limited daily passes available. Popular destination for non-guests.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Gros Piton Hike tour_or_activity

Book 2-7 days in advance

Guides must be arranged in advance. Best guides book up in peak season.

Romantic Dinner Reservations Dining

Book 3-14 days in advance

Top restaurants at resorts and Soufrière book up for honeymoon couples.

Fun Facts

1. St. Lucia is the only country in the world named after a woman - the Catholic Saint Lucy of Syracuse.
2. The Pitons, twin volcanic spires, are visible from space and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
3. St. Lucia has the world's only drive-in volcano at Sulphur Springs, where you can literally drive into a volcanic crater.
4. The island has two Nobel Prize winners - more per capita than any other nation on Earth.

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