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Best things to do in Saint Lucia

Get the lowdown on the best things to do in St Lucia.
Saint Lucia’s all about adventures, storybook scenery and downtime on the beach. This Caribbean island combines tropical rainforests, secluded sandy coves, and crystal-clear waters to create the ultimate tropical retreat. From driving into a volcano to zip-lining through the emerald-green rainforest, we’ve rounded up seven once-in-a-lifetime activities you can do in Saint Lucia. Already got that holiday feeling? Check out our deals on last-minute holidays to Saint Lucia

1. HIKE THE PITON MOUNTAINS

These sky-scraping peaks are the symbol of Saint Lucia – you’ll find them emblazoned across everything from brochures to beer labels. And, you can explore them in any way you fancy, whether that’s hiking to the top, admiring them from a luxurious catamaran cruise, or just taking a selfie with them in the background. Gros Piton is the tallest of the two mountains, but it’s easier to climb than Petit Piton. If you hike right to the top, you’ll be greeted by sweeping views along Saint Lucia’s south west coast and might even spot humpback whales splashing around in the Caribbean Sea. If you’re after a beach day while you’re in the area, Anse Mamin and Anse Chastanet are two of the best.

Browse our holidays to Soufriere

2. DRIVE THROUGH A VOLCANO

You probably associate drive-throughs with fast food and caffeine fixes, but Saint Lucia is home to a different kind of drive-through. This one’s a natural number crafted by Mother Nature herself – a dormant volcano. You can cruise right up to the edge of the sulphur springs, and stroll around the lava-filled craters. While you’re there, treat yourself to a natural spa treatment by dipping into the thermal pools and mineral baths.

See it all on the Tout Bagay St Lucia Catamaran Cruise 

3. EXPLORE PIRATE HISTORY ON PIGEON ISLAND NATIONAL PARK

Channel your inner Jack Sparrow on this former pirate base turned national park. Pigeon Island – at the top of Rodney Bay – is full of vine-wrapped ancient forts and crumbling ruins that date back to the 1800s. There’s a lookout point at the top of the fort, which offers up panoramic views along the northwest coast, dotted with palm trees and a necklace of sandy coves.

Find your perfect hotel in Rodney Bay

4. ZIP-LINE THROUGH SAINT LUCIA’S JUNGLE

There’s no better way to explore Saint Lucia’s rainforest than zooming between the trees. You’ll fly over the forest canopy at 30mph on a zip-line, taking in jaw-dropping views of the tropical landscape below. If you’d rather take things at a more leisurely pace, you can ride an air gondola – a type of open-air cable car – through the jungle – look out for tropical flowers and exotic birds as you go. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might be lucky enough to spot a rainbow-coloured Saint Lucian parrot. Another good place to see these beautiful birds is at Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, which is also home to a postcard-pretty waterfall.

Book your spot on our Adrenaline experience 

5. TRY TRADITIONAL TREATS AT CASTRIES MARKET

Castries’ huge, vibrant market is the biggest on the island, so it comes as no surprise that’s it’s the number one place to buy your souvenirs and spices. Here, you can also browse handmade crafts, mingle with the locals and, best of all, sample fresh Creole cuisine like fried fish cakes and hot bakes, and drink fresh coconut water. You can also try spiced cocoa tea, which is a local favourite. It’s made from freshly grated cocoa sticks, cinnamon, nutmeg and bay leaves.

Stay in Castries to soak up St Lucia’s culture.

6. JOIN A STREET PARTY WITH THE LOCALS

It wouldn’t be a holiday to the Caribbean without experiencing some carnival spirit. Every Friday, Gros Islet transforms from a small fishing village into a huge street party venue, which attracts locals and tourists alike. Street vendors serve up freshly fried snacks and sweet rum, and everyone moves to the beat of an eclectic party playlist that includes classic calypso music and old-school R&B.

Take a look at our All Inclusive hotels near Gros Islet.

7. VISIT THE HOTEL CHOCOLAT COCOA PLANTATION AND MAKE A CHOCOLATE BAR

Cocoa is a big part of Saint Lucian culture – so if you’re a fan of chocolate, this is the destination for you. Not only are there cocoa-infused recipes and spa treatments everywhere you look, there are also cocoa plantations to visit. Plus, every August is dedicated to chocolate – aptly called Chocolate Heritage Month. Rabot Estate is the official Hotel Chocolat plantation, and you can do a ‘tree to bar’ experience there which involves picking your own cacao pod straight from the tree and turning it into a chocolate bar.

Get a cocoa-themed spa treatment at Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort.
Ready to book your escape? Take a look at our holidays to St Lucia.

Plus, check out our top tips for long-haul flights or which Caribbean island is best for you.

Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.

Author: Danielle Penny

Last updated: 28.02.2022

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