St. Lucia Cruise Port: A Guide to Your Day on Shore
Written By: Global Grit and Glam
March 2025
The famous Pitons (St. Lucia)
You’ve made it to St. Lucia, the “Helen of the West” – congratulations! Beck has now visited St. Lucia three times and it is, without question, one of her favorite Caribbean islands. Stopping in Castries, the capital of St. Lucia (sometimes also written as Saint Lucia), is a popular destination for cruise passengers and will offer you a day filled with everything from vibrant cultural experiences, to beautiful beaches and land-based adventures … and everything in between!
The St. Lucia Cruise Port (also known as Port Castries) greets visitors warmly to the eastern Caribbean Sea with open arms, and an easy-to-navigate cruise terminal offering you ready-made shore excursions and local vendors the moment you step foot off the ship. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, St. Lucia is a must-visit destination in the Caribbean.
We’ve prepared here for you, fellow adventurers, some tips and recommendations for your day in St. Lucia. Follow these (or pick and choose from them as you please!) and you’ll be assured to make the most of your visit to this vibrant Caribbean country.
Let’s get started!
Quick Tips
Duty-free shopping (Pointe Seraphine, St. Lucia)
Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to St. Lucia.
The St. Lucia Cruise Port boasts two main piers: Pointe Seraphine and La Place Carenage.
The official currency of St. Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, though the U.S. dollar is widely accepted.
Getting to and from the St. Lucia Cruise Port – as well as around the island – is easy, and it’s within a stone’s throw of the capital city of Castries.
St. Lucia is famed for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Heading to Rodney Bay Marina is a great way to spend the day, with numerous attractions within arm’s reach.
Indulge in St. Lucia’s natural hot springs and soak in the island’s geothermal mud baths.
Visit the only drive-in volcano in the Caribbean.
Wander through the lush tropical oasis that is the Diamond Botanical Gardens or zipline with Rainforest Adventures.
Whatever you do, don’t miss the Pitons – whether hiking to the summit of Gros Piton or simply awing in their magnificence from sea level.
Consider joining an organized group tour to take in as many of St. Lucia’s attractions as you can in one day.
Time your visit with one of St. Lucia’s incredible annual festivals.
Tantalize your taste buds with some of the island’s local Creole cuisine.
St. Lucia is committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices and environmental conservation. Play your part as a visitor to help the country reduce its carbon footprint and preserve its natural resources.
Follow these tips and you’ll be ready to visit St. Lucia and enjoy your day ashore!
Plan Your Trip
Marigot Public Beach (Marigot, St. Lucia)
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Where Exactly Is the St. Lucia Cruise Port?
Point Seraphine (St. Lucia Cruise Port)
The St. Lucia Cruise Port is located on the northwestern coast of the island in the heart of Castries, the vibrant capital city of St. Lucia. Upon arrival you’ll be immediately surrounded by lush green mountains and afforded breathtaking scenic views of the surrounding area.
The cruise port boasts two main piers: Pointe Seraphine and La Place Carenage (also known as the Queen Elizabeth II Wharf). Pointe Seraphine, the larger and newer of the two piers, is a duty-free terminal situated on the northern side of the Castries harbor, within walking distance of the capital. La Place Carenage – the older pier, with a smaller terminal building – on the other hand, is located in the Castries town center itself. Both piers serve numerous cruise lines, including some of the largest ships to roam the Caribbean sea.
Local artwork (St. Lucia Cruise Port)
Both terminals at the St. Lucia Cruise Port are ultimately conveniently located to Castries, providing visitors a welcoming gateway to the rich culture and natural beauty of St. Lucia, and offering easy access to popular attractions both in and around the capital.
The government of St. Lucia, in partnership with local stakeholders, continues to invest in the development of new port infrastructure as part of a 30-year initiative to strengthen tourism within the country. This includes the completion of the Vieux Fort pier extension at the southernmost tip of St. Lucia, boasting a 500-foot finger pier that is open 24 hours and will permit the country to accommodate even larger vessels than can Castries.
What Facilities and Services Are Available in the Port Terminal?
St. Lucia Cruise Port terminal (St. Lucia)
The St. Lucia Cruise Port – whether you’re docking at Pointe Seraphine or La Place Carenage – offers visitors all the convenient modern necessities to start your day in port off strong, including well-maintained restrooms and free wifi (and it works!).
And if you’re docking at Pointe Seraphine specifically? This terminal features a variety of additional amenities, including duty-free shops, several dining options at restaurants and bars, and easy access to shore excursions. In contrast, La Place Carenage offers visitors a more intimate arrival experience, just a few short steps from downtown Castries and the bustling Castries Market.
The St. Lucia Cruise Port (commonly referred to as Port Castries) is also accessible-friendly at both terminals, with ramps for wheelchairs and other mobility devices, as well as flat pathways throughout the port.
Getting Around St. Lucia: Transportation Tips for Cruise Ship Passengers
Boats at Trou Garnier (St. Lucia)
In great news, getting around St. Lucia to the numerous attractions it offers to visitors is easy! Navigating Castries and the surrounding areas is simple, thanks to several transportation options available to visitors and locals alike.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available outside the St. Lucia Cruise Port. Look for light blue license plates with the letters “TX”, to ensure you’re using government-authorized taxis. Rates are fixed, but make sure you confirm the fare with your driver before you set off.
Water Taxis
Water taxi to Castries (St. Lucia)
Water taxis are a popular and convenient way to travel short distances between the cruise port and private beaches or resorts and other coastal towns (think Marigot Bay and Rodney Bay Village, which we’ll get to a little later…).
By Foot
Walking into downtown Castries from the Pointe Seraphine pier is quick and easy: you’ll be there in around 15 minutes. And of course, the La Place Carenage pier is already right in the heart of the capital! This means that many of Castries’ main attractions (including Derek Walcott Square, the Cathedral Basilica, and Castries Market) are all within walking distance of the cruise port. Bonus!
To/From Hewanorra International Airport
Perhaps your cruise starts or ends in St. Lucia? Then you’ll probably be flying into, or out of, the Hewanorra International Airport in the far south of the country, in Vieux Fort. Shuttles and taxis are readily available to take you directly from the airport and whisk you straight to the cruise port in Castries. Note the trip can take up to 1.5 hours, depending upon traffic.
Things to See and Do in Castries, St. Lucia
Castries Market (St. Lucia)
Once your cruise ship has docked and you’ve been cleared by customs, it’s time to start exploring! Let’s start in the capital of St. Lucia, Castries.
Downtown Castries
Located on the north-west coast of St. Lucia, you’ll find its capital city, Castries. Whether you choose to arrive from the cruise port by taxi, or prefer to take the leisurely 15-minute stroll into town, you can’t get much closer to a capital city from a cruise port than here. In fact, most passengers disembarking from a cruise ship in St. Lucia will find themselves navigating the vibrant streets of Castries at some point during their stay.
And whilst there may not be a lot in the capital for tourists to see and do, it’s an excellent gateway to the rest of the island, and still holds a few must-see gems amidst its captivating mix of old and new.
Derek Walcott Square
Consider starting your time in Castries at Derek Walcott Square (formerly Columbus Square), a public square and beautiful green park named after the country’s Nobel Prize-winning poet. The park is surrounded by numerous colorful buildings and is home to various statues, fountains and other small national monuments.
Across the street from the park you’ll find the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a notable architectural landmark with brightly-colored walls (the interior is adorned with a mural by St. Lucian artist Dunstan St. Omer) and stunning stained-glass windows. This cathedral is the largest church in the Caribbean (and as such was given the honorary status of a Minor Basilica in 1999), so make sure to stop by whilst you’re in the capital! At the opposite end of Derek Walcott Square, across Bourbon Street, you’ll find the Castries Central Library.
Castries Market
Local spices (Castries Market, St. Lucia)
The Castries Market, less than a 5-minute walk from the Derek Walcott Square, is a bustling hub of activity where local vendors sell fresh produce, handmade crafts and a large variety of souvenirs. The market provides visitors a wonderful glimpse into daily St. Lucian life, as well as the large array of different Caribbean nations represented within the market walls.
The Beaches of St. Lucia
Anse Cochon (St. Lucia)
St. Lucia is famed for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for beach-lovers and water enthusiasts alike. Close to the Saint Lucia Cruise Port you’ll find some of the island’s most popular beaches: Vigie Beach, Reduit Beach, and La Toc Beach. Water activities also abound in St. Lucia, so whether you’re keen for some snorkeling or scuba diving, or staying on the water in a kayak or sailboat, there’s something here for you.
Vigie Beach
Less than a half hour walk from the Pointe Seraphine cruise terminal lies the picturesque Vigie Beach, right behind the George F.L. Charles airport, St. Lucia’s inter-island airport. Vigie Beach offers visitors white sand and clear waters in a tranquil setting, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
La Toc Beach
Seeking a quieter beach experience than the popular Vigie Beach? Then La Toc Beach, a 15-minute drive south-west of the cruise port, could be the perfect place for you! La Toc Beach provides a peaceful oasis with soft white sand and swaying palm trees. Talk about the idyllic Caribbean scene!
Anse Chastanet Beach
On the southwestern side of the island, a solid 1.5-hour drive from the Saint Lucia Cruise port (but oh! the drive!), you’ll find Anse Chastanet Beach. This secluded beach is famous for its spectacular views of the Pitons and crystal-clear waters – definitely a favorite amongst visitors for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Rodney Bay
Crystal-clear Caribbean waters (St. Lucia)
The Rodney Bay Marina, located 20 minutes by road north of the St. Lucia Cruise Port, is a bustling tourist hub where you can explore numerous shops, dine at waterfront restaurants and bars, and either simply laze about or enjoy horseback riding along pristine beaches – all in one day! The marina is also a great place to book boat tours and snorkeling trips that will take you a little farther afield.
The main beach in Rodney Bay is the picturesque Reduit Beach, known for its crystal-clear calm waters and powdery white sand. This beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and enjoying a variety of other water sports. Reduit Beach is also home to the ever-popular Spinnakers Beach Bar and Carvery, serving up delicious food for breakfast, lunch (a menu that changes daily!) and dinner. Ingredients at Spinnakers are sourced locally where possible, and food is made fresh daily, with both local and international dishes on the menu at decent prices. Definitely head here for a meal surrounded by a lively (yet relaxing) Caribbean atmosphere with stunning beach views!
Splash Island
Do you love adventure parks? What about ones that are actually in the ocean? Then Splash Island – the Caribbean’s first open-water sports park – could be something to consider adding to your itinerary whilst in St. Lucia! Located 12km (7.45mi) north of the St. Lucia Cruise Point (allow at least half an hour for the drive, depending on traffic), you’ll find Splash Island, just off the sandy shores of Reduit Beach in Rodney Bay. This small adventure park – literally out in the ocean – with its various obstacles and water sports offerings, appeals to both tourists and locals alike.
Beyond the Beaches
Sulphur Springs (Soufriere, St. Lucia)
If the weather is not playing nice on the day, or you’re feeling a tad beached out from visiting other islands prior to docking in Castries, or you’re simply not a beach person at all, fear not – St. Lucia still has plenty for you to explore!
Once you’ve docked at the St. Lucia Cruise Port, you may want to consider an excursion (you can book a tour independently in advance, through a local tour operator upon arrival, or through your cruise line itself) to one (or more!) of the following attractions on the island.
Pigeon Island National Park
14km (8.7mi) north of the St. Lucia Cruise Port, and only a quick 7-minute drive along the Castries-Gros Islet Highway from Rodney Bay Marina, you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pigeon Island National Park.
Complete with coral reefs, historical ruins, and hiking trails with breathtaking views, Pigeon Island National Park is a popular excursion for visitors around the globe. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are perfect for snorkeling.
To get to Pigeon Island National Park, you can take a water taxi from Rodney Bay (US$15 per person round trip), or hike in from the gate (note that this is a steep climb, with little shelter from the sun). The option to hike, although certainly more strenuous, does afford the visitor two different viewpoints along the way, with panoramic views of the National Park and the ocean spread out beneath it.
Note that the park does close at 5pm (which should remind you, if you remain until closing, that it’s time to get back to the ship for departure!) and entry fees are US$10 for adults and US$3 for children aged 5-12.
St. Lucia Sulphur Springs
Getting muddy (Sulphur Springs, St. Lucia)
Fancy a mud bath? Great, because St. Lucia has one for you! Always popular, and always brimming with tourists, are St. Lucia’s very own natural hot springs. These sulphur springs – about 1.5 hours south of the St. Lucia Cruise Port, just outside of Soufrière – afford visitors the opportunity for a unique and relaxing experience on the island: soaking in a geothermal mud bath! Some say these mineral baths have medicinal and other special healing properties.
Soufriere Drive-In Volcano (St. Lucia)
Within walking distance from the sulphur springs you’ll also find the La Soufrière Drive-In Volcano, the only one of its type in the Caribbean. Soufrière means “sulphur mine”, and here you can literally walk into the crater of this dormant volcano (which don’t worry, hasn’t erupted since the 1700s), wandering between the bubbling sulphur springs and hissing pools of hot steam. Note that the area smells strongly of sulphur, so if that’s not really your thing, be prepared to bring a nose plug! You can hire a local guide (always dressed in a green polo) once you arrive, to help you learn more about the area – make sure to tip them at the end, as they don’t have a set charge for their services.
There is no need to buy tickets for either the Sulphur Springs or Drive-in Volcano in advance (though there is an entrance fee for each upon arrival), though it can get crowded – consider visiting early in the morning, else last thing in the day once the crowds have dispersed (making sure to leave plenty of time to get back to your ship before it sets sail!).
Diamond Botanical Gardens
The lush tropical oasis of the Diamond Botanical Gardens is definitely worth a visit. Located near Soufrière – and therefore an excursion that pairs well with a visit to the Sulphur Springs and Drive-in Volcano! – these beautiful gardens feature a multicolored waterfall, mineral baths, and exotic plant species. During your visit, make sure to also look out for hummingbirds!
The gardens are mobility-friendly and don’t require any strenuous activity. You can hire a guide once inside the grounds, though it’s not necessary. Restrooms are available and there is a small, hassle-free shopping area within the vicinity – including some excellent souvenirs!
Insider Tip. If you’re traveling independently, head to the Diamond Botanical Gardens early in the day to avoid the cruise ship excursions that often include a short stop here around lunch time.
Marigot Bay
Marigot Bay pier (St. Lucia)
Consider a brief stop in the small island enclave of Marigot Bay as you explore St. Lucia. It’s considered one of the most beautiful bays in the Caribbean, complete with luxury accommodations, numerous local eateries, and stunning views.
Rainforest Adventures
If any of the above aren’t providing you with enough adventure or adrenaline spikes for the day, consider heading half an hour east of the St. Lucia Cruise Point to Rainforest Adventures. Rainforest Adventures allows visitors to soar through the lush rainforest canopy on a zipline: the friendly and welcoming staff put your safety and comfort first and foremost, and there’s no experience necessary! Several local St. Lucian tour companies offer return transport to, plus entrance fees into, the Rainforest Adventures.
Pitons
The Pitons (St. Lucia)
If there’s something that really sets St. Lucia apart from many of its neighboring islands, it’s the striking Pitons (“piton” means “mountain peak” in French). These are an absolute must-visit, either from land or sea.
Just south of Soufrière on the southwest coast, you’ll find this World Heritage Site, comprised of two mountainous volcanic spires climbing majestically skyward, straight out of the St. Lucian coastline. The Pitons are made up of Petit Piton (743m / 2,438 ft high) and Gros Piton (the taller of the two, at 798.25 m / 2,618.9 ft high – making it the second-highest peak on St. Lucia), linked by the Piton Mitan ridge.
Gros Piton (St. Lucia)
The Pitons are a certain attraction for hikers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the top. Gros Piton is far more popular amongst hikers, as it’s an easier – though still considered challenging (it’s quite steep and rocky) – trek. In fact, it’s possible to summit Gros Piton without ropes or any climbing experience, and return back to sea level in just a few short hours. You are required to take a local guide with you on the hike (guides are provided by the National Park), included in the entrance fee (US$50 per person). Take some additional cash for guide tips and walking poles (if you don’t have your own and need/want them), and be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry plenty of water with you. The views from the top are definitely something to behold!
Fun fact. The neighbouring Caribbean islands of Dominica, Martinique, Barbados, and St. Vincent can all be seen from the summit of Petit Piton.
Coral reefs cover almost 60% of the Pitons Bay marine area (Jalousie Plantation Beach is the main beach here), making it a popular snorkeling and diving spot. Underwater you’ll have the chance to encounter everything from finfish to sponges to sea turtles. The Pitons themselves are home to an abundance of bird species (five of them endemic), bats, reptiles, amphibians and indigenous rodents.
Fun Fact. St. Lucia's local beer – made by the Windward & Leeward Brewery – is named after the Pitons.
Tours and Excursions
Sailing in the Caribbean Sea (St. Lucia)
Perhaps you’re keen to hit up a few of the places mentioned above but, because you’re only on land for a few hours, want to ensure you maximize your time ashore. A guided tour or local excursion could be exactly what you’re seeking, and can be booked independently in advance, through your cruise line, or with local vendors upon arrival (you’ll find dozens of tour touts at the St. Lucia Cruise Port as you step off the ship).
Catamaran sightseeing cruise (St. Lucia)
Organized group tours often include at least four or five activities or scenic stops as you tour the west coast of St. Lucia, several also including opportunities to snorkel or scuba dive. Beck jumped aboard a small group tour run by a local vendor as soon as she stepped off the cruise ship during her first two visits to St. Lucia, and during her third visit she opted for a full-day catamaran sightseeing cruise along the west coast. This sea-based tour stopped in at Marigot Bay, the Sulphur Springs and Drive-in Volcano, Toraille Waterfall, and Morne Coubaril Estate, with an opportunity to snorkel in one of the many protected bays as we took in the breathtaking views of the Pitons along the way. Beck booked directly through Sea Spray Cruises and can’t recommend them highly enough! Drinks (unlimited!), lunch (a Creole buffet!), snorkel gear, transportation and entrance fees to all sights were included in the tour cost.
Local Events and Festivals
Hanging out with the locals (Soufriere, St. Lucia)
St. Lucia has a rich cultural heritage, mixing together African, European, and Caribbean influences, and is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene. This merging of cultures is highlighted through a variety of St. Lucia’s festivals and events that truly bring the island to life throughout the year. If you’re able to coincide your visit to St. Lucia with one of these annual events, we highly recommend you do so!
St. Lucia Jazz Festival
The St. Lucia Jazz Festival is one of the most anticipated events of the year (and in fact one of the most established music festivals in the Caribbean), held each May at the Pigeon Island National Park, a short drive from the Rodney Bay Marina. First held in 1992, this annual festival takes place outdoors and attracts both local and international world-class talent to showcase jazz, R&B, and calypso music. Local artisans and food vendors also join in the festivities.
St. Lucia Carnival
In July each year, the island bursts into color with the 3-week long St. Lucia Carnival. This lively celebration features pulsating and infectious music, elaborate costumes, spirited dancing, parades, and non-stop celebration, providing visitors an authentic taste of Caribbean culture.
National Festival of Lights (St. Lucia Day)
The Festival of Lights is celebrated each year on December 13, St. Lucia’s National Day, honoring Saint Lucy (also known as Saint Luce), the island’s patron saint and the patron saint of light. Celebrating the triumph of light over darkness, good overcoming evil, and the renewal of life, the National Festival of Lights is filled with celebrations that highlight St. Lucia’s culture, history, and identity, providing visitors a unique opportunity to take a deep peek into the island’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can witness parades and fireworks, but perhaps the two biggest highlights of the festival are the stunning Lantern Competition and the lighting of decorative lights throughout the capital city of Castries.
Fun fact. The Festival of Lights is also celebrated in Sweden, Norway and Finland.
Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party
The Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party, just north of Rodney Bay Marina, provides longer-stay visitors a regular dose of local island flavor. This weekly street party comes alive with live music, freshly-cooked street food, and refreshing drinks, creating a festive atmosphere under the stars that’s perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers alike.
Shopping and Dining in St. Lucia
Creole buffet lunch (Morne Coubaril Estate, St. Lucia)
Local Cuisine
St. Lucia’s cuisine is a delightful blend of Creole and Caribbean influences, creating tantalising flavors with fresh catches dominating most menus. When visiting St. Lucia and hunger strikes, be sure to try some of the local delicacies available to you. Throughout the island you’ll find traditional dishes that include jerk chicken with rice and peas, saltfish with green banana, callaloo soup (made of … that’s right … callaloo! – a leafy green vegetable, similar to collard greens – mixed with coconut milk, potatoes, okra, garlic, other vegetables, and often fish, lobster, crab or conch), and plenty of fresh seafood.
If you find yourself north of the St. Lucia Cruise Port, at Rodney Bay Marina, make sure to stop in at Spinnakers Beach Bar and Carvery on Reduit Beach, for everything from burgers and hot wings to more traditional Caribbean-inspired seafood and catch-of-the-day mains.
Souvenir Hunting
Souvenir hunting (Castries Market, St. Lucia)
The St. Lucia Cruise Port (Port Castries) itself offers a range of shopping options for visitors, including duty-free shops and local markets. Look out for local rum, chocolate and various handicraft items.
You can also take the short stroll into the Castries town center, where you’ll find Castries Market. This market is at the heart of activity for St. Lucia’s local industry, and the perfect place to find wonderful local handicrafts and a large range of souvenirs (think hand-carved trinkets, spices and jewellery), as well as fresh produce.
St. Lucia Practicalities
Island conveniences (Morne Coubaril Estate, St. Lucia)
Okay, so you’ve got your day planned and you’re raring to get off the ship and explore the island as soon as you’ve docked and the ship has been cleared by customs. What else do you need to know before you set foot on St. Lucia?
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your St. Lucia Cruise Port (Port Castries) visit:
Currency. The official currency of St. Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD or EC$), though U.S. dollars are widely accepted. The XCD has been pegged to the U.S. dollar since the mid-1970s, at an exchange rate of US$1 to EC$2.70. Most larger restaurants and bars, as well as duty-free stores, also accept credit cards.
Language. English is the official language of St. Lucia, making communication with the welcoming and friendly locals easy for most visitors. Many St. Lucians also speak French patois, adding to the island’s rich cultural tapestry.
Opening Hours. Shops and restaurants on St. Lucia are typically open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, with the capital city of Castries bustling with activity throughout the week. Restaurants may stay open a little later during the peak tourist season (mid-December through mid-April). Weekends can be a little quieter, with some stores choosing to close early if they don’t have many customers.
Safety Considerations in St. Lucia
Mooring at Trou Garnier (Castries, St. Lucia)
Saint Lucia is a generally safe destination for visitors – Beck has now visited the island three times and never once had any issues whatsoever. The Saint Lucia Cruise Port itself prioritizes visitor safety and security: it’s equipped with numerous CCTV cameras and security personnel are stationed throughout the terminals. Cruise passengers are advised to always follow safety instructions and guidelines provided by the cruise line, as well as port authorities.
Here are some additional safety tips to help you enjoy your visit to Saint Lucia with peace of mind:
Use reputable taxi services. Look for light blue license plates with the letters “TX”, to ensure you’re using government-authorized taxis. Rates are fixed, but make sure you confirm the fare with your driver before you set off.
Keep a low profile. It’s always a good idea to avoid showing the rest of the world – including your fellow travelers – obvious signs of wealth (for example, expensive jewelry or fancy electronics), which could otherwise make you an easy target for pickpockets and other troublemaking types. Also keep your wits about you, especially in crowded public spaces or places tourists generally frequent.
Be mindful of your belongings. Similar to the point above, keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas (including the Castries Market). Consider carrying your bag on your front through busy markets, and leaving large amounts of cash and your passport in your cruise ship’s safe. Carry only what you need for the day, only use credit cards at reputable locations, and consider storing cash in different parts of your clothing or bags when you’re out and about.
Stay informed. Ensure you always keep up-to-date with local and national news within St. Lucia, and be sure to follow any advice given to you by local authorities. Also make sure to check your country’s official government website for the latest travel advisories and safety information.
By taking the above precautions (which, let’s be honest, you should take anywhere you travel!), you’ll be able to focus on enjoying all that this wonderfully sun-soaked country has to offer, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free, and certainly memorable visit.
Environmental Considerations
Morne Coubaril Estate (St. Lucia)
Saint Lucia is a stunning island with a strong focus on environmental conservation – indeed, with the island home to several national parks and protected areas, the government of Saint Lucia promotes sustainable tourism. Visitors – whether disembarking from a cruise ship or adventuring to the island independently – are encouraged to respect the island’s natural beauty by following some simple, general guidelines:
Use designated waste bins.
Avoid using single-use plastics (including store-bought plastic water bottles).
Stay on marked trails in protected areas (for example, at Pigeon Island National Park and the Diamond Botanical Gardens).
Respect the island’s natural environment and wildlife by not interfering with (and certainly not taking home with you!) local flora or fauna.
Final Thoughts
The famous island sign (Port Castries, St. Lucia)
A day in St. Lucia, no matter how you ultimately choose to spend your time, will certainly be a memorable one. This beautiful, welcoming Caribbean nation provides visitors a wonderful mix of friendly locals, delicious cuisine, relaxation, breathtaking natural beauty, adventure and cultural immersion. Whether you choose to hike to the summit of Gros Piton, lounge the day away on Vigie Beach, or shop-til-you-drop at the Castries Market, St. Lucia will certainly afford you a brightly-colored, authentic Caribbean experience.
Consider taking an organized tour of the island to see and do as much as you possibly can whilst you’re ashore – getting outside your comfort zone and heading a little bit off-the-beaten-path is where growth occurs and cultural immersion truly begins. Let your visit to St. Lucia be the trip that continues to fuel your love of travel, provide you with unforgettable shared adventures, and afford you the opportunity to experience something a little different from your normal, everyday life back home.
Safe travels, fellow wanderers — may your adventures to St. Lucia be just what your soul was seeking!
Now … it’s time to plan your trip!
