St Lucia

What to do in St Lucia

Diamond Falls and Mineral Baths

These impressive falls come down through the sulphur springs, changing the color of the water to brilliant shades of yellow, green and purple. The warm mineral waters have colorfully stained the rock face behind the cascade, making this a truly spectacular "must see" site. Adjacent are sulfuric mineral baths built in 1784 by order of Louis XVI. French soldiers stationed in the area often soaked in the "curative" water. Bring your bathing suit and you, too, can "take the waters!".

La Soufrière (Sulphur Springs)

Though touted as the world's only "drive-in" volcano, tourists should not expect to go peering down into a volcanic crater when visiting these natural springs. The crater walls have long since eroded away, leaving behind 7 acres of barren hillside terrain pocked with pools of boiling mud and steaming vents.

Discover the City of Castries

The island's capital and commercial center, Castries has several cultural and historical attractions to explore. This bustling port is set on a large natural harbor and, as a tourist hotspot, is surrounded by the majority of the island's resorts.

Castries Market

This lively open-air market at the intersection of Jeremie and Peynier Streets, just south of the port, is a 100-year old tradition with locals selling their tropical fruits, vegetables, spices, and handmade arts and crafts.

Derek Walcott Square

Three disastrous fires destroyed most of the city's original 18th-century buildings, but a few 19th-century buildings survive in this central square, named after a St Lucian native and 1992 Nobel laureate.

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

An imposing structure adjacent to the square, this cathedral reflects St Lucia's mix of English, French, African, and Caribbean influences. The building itself is of French design with an interior painted in bright African-inspired colors. It is highlighted by portraits of a black Madonna and child, and the Roman Catholic services are delivered in English.

Natural Wonders

St Lucia is treasure trove of natural attractions. Volcanic soil and a tropical climate combine to create the perfect environment for lush vegetation and exotic wildlife. The island's coasts, interlaced by coral reefs and beautiful beaches, are among the world's most beautiful, and the panoramic views from the mountainous interior will take your breath away.

The Rain Forest

Stretching over 19,000 acres from coast to coast, the national rain forest has outstanding locales for birdwatching and hiking. The sprawling lush foliage covers mountains and valleys, interrupted only by verdant fields and plantations. There is a 7-mile nature walk with guided tours.

The Pitons

Gros Piton (2,618 ft) and Petit Piton (2,438 ft) are twin volcanic peaks that provide a stunning backdrop to the southwest coastline. Take a boat over for the best view.

Mount Gimie

This is St Lucia's highest point. The mountaintop rises up to a pinnacle of 3,145 feet, with a great view of the rain forest and valleys further inland.

Scuba Diving

St Lucia consistently ranks tops in the Caribbean, with sites like Anse Chastanet Reef, one of the island's best spots with shallow reefs, deep walls, and a plethora of little sea creatures packing the corals. With water temperatures ranging from 78°F to 82°F and visibility averaging 60 - 100 feet year-round, every dive is a success!.

Golf

St Lucia's only public golf course, the Cap Estate, has scenic views, a well-stocked "19th hole," and a resident golf pro who's happy to share pointers on perfecting your swing.

Water Sports

The options are plentiful in addition to scuba diving. Play at your favorite or pick up a new diversion from windsurfing, to sailing, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, water-skiing, parasailing, and good old-fashioned swimming!.

Birdwatching

Home to some of the world's most exotic species of our feathered friends, St Lucia is a avian aficionado's dream come true. Several rare and indigenous birds can be seen at the rain forest, Boriel's Pond, and the 2 nature preserves found off the eastern coast.

Pigeon Island

This national park was first used as a French military base in the 16th century, was later fortified by the occupying British army in the 18th century, and then again by American forces during World War II. You'll have fun exploring the island along walking paths that wind through the scenic ruins.