sainte lucie road trip

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Scenic Drives in St. Lucie

Planning a scenic and fun Florida road trip this year? Here are our top 4 scenic drives to take while you visit St. Lucie. Don’t forget to snap a pic!

1. State Road A1A, Fort Pierce

Beach bound? This beautiful drive on both North and South Hutchinson Island parallels the Atlantic shore along our 21 miles of uncrowded beaches . Drive for miles with the windows rolled down and the cool, salty ocean breeze flowing through the air. Caution: You may have to stop for a sea bird, gopher tortoise or a crab crossing the road.

2. Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce

Take a drive on the wild side as you coast along Indian River Drive. Check out the beautiful historic homes, the sparkling Indian River Lagoon and nature parks along the way. On the lagoon, you may even spot a dolphin or manatee peeking out of the water – so keep your eyes peeled.   If you are an early bird, be sure to hit this roadway to see a stunning sunrise over the water.

Caution:  Most of Indian River Drive is a residential neighborhood. Please be respectful of the local residents and obey all traffic laws, especially speed limits.

3. Crosstown Parkway, Port St. Lucie

This new highway in Port St. Lucie makes a statement. Be sure to check out the unique art & sculptures as you guide along this bridge that connects visitors from east Port St. Lucie to West Port St. Lucie. The best views along this drive are take place when the sun is setting. Relax and take deep breaths that you’ve conquered another day of fun in St. Lucie.

Insider Tip:  As one of Port St. Lucie main thoroughfares, be mindful of stop and go traffic. And please do not text or take photos while driving.

4. North Causeway, Fort Pierce

As you are on your way to visit the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum , or a day of kayaking along the waterways around North Hutchinson Island, you’re guaranteed to enjoy the views out your car window. Drive over the North Causeway draw bridge, pass by sailboats and fisherman enjoying our pristine waterways, and then you will make your way over the historic Little Jim Bridge.

Insider Tip:  Little Jim Bait & Tackle is located on this road and isn’t just a bait and tackle shop. This local hot spot is a great place to grab a cold beverage, fish tacos and take in some live music.

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10-day St. Lucia Itinerary: The Ultimate 2024 Guide

Explore the beauty of St. Lucia, a stunning Caribbean Island with sandy beaches, gorgeous snorkeling, and the iconic Pitons, through this 10-day St. Lucia itinerary. While often recognized as a popular cruise destination, the St. Lucia offers numerous off-the-beaten-path adventures for the more adventurous traveler.

Whether you prefer a secluded getaway or indulge in a resort experience, St. Lucia caters to both. During our 10-day St. Lucia Itinerary, we opted for a mid-range travel experience. We rented a car for seven days , but it’s also easy to rent for the entire trip.

Ten days proved enough to explore everything the island has to offer. On our final day, as we prepared to depart for the airport, Wilhelm and I agreed that we had covered all the sights and activities we wanted to experience!

Feel free to use and adapt this 10-day St. Lucia itinerary as you see fit or explore it in the reverse order.

Pro tip: I recommend you bring your own snorkeling equipment sans the slippers.

This post contains affiliate links.

10-day St. Lucia Itinerary

This itinerary starts off on the Western coast of St. Lucia, which is more built up for tourism. It ends on the Eastern coast where you’ll have a final few days of relaxation. For prices, I’ve quoted either dollars or Eastern Caribbean dollars (EC) depending on what currency we paid in.

Day 1: Laborie

Spend 1 night at Sunset Lane  ($75/night)

Morning/Airport

When you arrive at the airport, you can exchange money or use the ATM. The ATMs are not in operation between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM daily, not just at the airport, but throughout the island from what I experienced. We took out about $200 worth of EC and took out more later in the trip. To avoid another ATM trip, I’d suggest taking out $400 for 10 days for 2 people.

To get to Laborie, you can taxi or pick up a rental car that you’ll use for the rest of your trip. If you take a taxi, negotiate the price upfront at the taxi stand. I suggest you pay $20. We booked through Discover Cars and got a local Hertz SUV when we went to the capital

If you follow this itinerary, you’ll end up taking public transportation back around the airport tomorrow to get to your next city anyway, so it does make sense to rent a car immediately. However, we wanted the adventure of using some public transportation during our 10-day St. Lucia Itinerary.

Afternoon/Laborie

Laborie is an off-the-beaten-path destination and a chill way to make your arrival to St. Lucia . There are just a few lodging options, and almost everyone seems like a local. The main attraction here is Mama Tilly’s, a lobster experience like no other .

Sunset Lane is a cute and simple place to stay in Laborie . This is also going to be the cheapest accommodation you’ll have for the rest of the trip at just $75 per night. Our room didn’t have any windows, but it was fine because we just stayed for the night. The balcony view was amazing though, and we had a lovely evening watching the sunset.

After checking in and freshening up, visit the famed Mama Tilly’s for a lobster lunch. We were lucky and I hope you are too because she makes the best lobster available! We ordered one lobster to split between the two of us along with the daily provisions, which is a medley of different vegetables. Lunch at Mama Tilly’s cost 140 EC /$50; we used EC in cash though she accepted dollars.

After lunch, walk around town and visit the church .

Walk down the beach.

Day 2: Castries and Gros Islet

Spend 2 nights Gros Islet Airbnb ($170/night)

Visit Cafe en Ville for breakfast in Laborie; it’s right next to the church and offers a great breakfast as well as an all-day dining selection. Some items, like the omelet and salt fish, are reasonably priced, while others may feel like a bit of a scam, such as the 18 EC ($7) fruit platter. We splurged a little more than we expected and spent 100 EC on coffees, smoothies, two mains, and the fruit platter.

I highly recommend trying the local St. Lucian breakfast with salt fish ; it was excellent! Afterward, you can continue to walk through the neighborhood or head back to pack up.

Transferring to Gros Islet

Start your journey from the bank bus stop in Laborie toward Vieux Fort . I suggest you leave before 10am so that you are assured the bus will fill up and leave quickly (with people heading out for their jobs). I forgot to note how much the bus charged but I think it was 4 EC per person.

A short 5-minute walk in Vieux Fort will lead you to the next bus station at the Vision Express heading towards Castries , the capital of St. Lucia. We waited only 10 minutes for the bus to fill up. It costs 9 EC each to Castries . Our bus departed at 10:15 and we were told it takes 45 min to 1.15 hours, depending on the driver.

Storytime : Our driver turned out to be hilarious because he was going quite fast for a good portion of the trip, and then eventually the St. Lucian started complaining he was driving too fast. So, then he slowed down significantly and they were annoyed he was driving too slow! They jokingly said they wanted him to drive “medium rare,” not “rare” or “well-done.” Hahha. It was funny, but I could easily see how this time variation could happen because of how fast the drivers go on the highway.

In Castries, catch another bus to Gros Islet for 4 EC per person. Despite a couple of transfers, the process felt smooth, especially as we spent about two hours exploring Castries.

If you rent a car and then just head straight to Castries to spend 2 hours, then continue on to Gros Islet.

In Castries, we spent the afternoon going to the Central Market and checking out one of the small museums before taking the bus to Gros Islet. We also stopped at the Digicel store to buy a sim card. There was a nice park right across from it and the public library.

The Central Market offered a small but nice selection of items, with hot sauces and sea moss being particularly interesting. I learned sea moss can be used as a thickening agent in drinks and has a unique aloe-like texture. (Later, I tried it out having found a sea moss drink at the grocery store… honestly, I didn’t love it but even later I had a fresh smoothie made with sea moss and that was excellent!). There is also fresh veggies and fruits for sale.

Noteworthy items at the market include spice packets, bird earrings priced at $10, and hanging hummingbirds ranging from $15 to $20. Even though I didn’t end up buying anything, the experience of exploring the market was enjoyable and I’d recommend it!

A note on the Google Maps location: it looks like it’s on the waterfront but it’s actually across the street.

If you need groceries for your Gros Islet trip, stop here at the Massy .

There was an ad hoc fish market outside the Central Market that was cool.

For lunch we had an amazing roti wrap and a fish burger at Green Eats. This will probably be the best fish burger of your life. We spent 28 EC on two juices (get the passion fruit!) and our two meals.

Next, you visit the Walcott House Museum , dedicated to the life and works of Derek Walcott, a Nobel-winning poet. Entrance is free but donation is suggested. The most interesting thing about the museum is the house itself, it’s so pretty.

The museum is very small, but my grandma actually took a course on Walcott’s poetry, so I thought it would be fun to visit, though if you skip this you won’t have fomo.

After visiting the museum, take the 35-minute bus ride to Gros Islet. We stayed in this charming Airbnb , located about a 10-minute walk outside of town. I highly recommend this accommodation, which could serve as a great base for your stay in Saint Lucia, too. It offers all the amenities, including a full kitchen and bathroom, as well as a small private beach area, featuring a breathtaking view.

Instead of wandering around Castris, you could go on an ATV tour !

In the early evening, we walked back into town and had dinner along the beach at The Thirsty Parrot. There are several restaurants in the area, but this looked the most authentic and it turned out to be excellent! We had an option of rice or pasta with our protein of choice. I got the fish and Wilhelm got the veg option. Don’t skip out on eating here for dinner while in Gros Islet.

The walk to and from town in the evening is dark from the Airbnb. We were advised not to walk in the dark “just in case,” but it seemed silly to spend $15 on a taxi to go so close… There is a taxi stand across from the Sandals Resort where you can get a taxi if needed , but be prepared to spend $15 to get anywhere around town. The call number for the taxi stand is 455-2084.

Day 3: Pigeon Island + Street Party

We bought some groceries in Castries, so we had breakfast at the Airbnb before heading out for the day—I suggest you do the same!

Pigeon Island is a highlight in Gros Islet . It’s a great way to spend your morning and early afternoon. The park entrance fee is around $10 per person.

In the park, you’ll find two small hikes – one to a fort and the other to the island’s highest point. Despite appearing a bit challenging, both hikes are quite manageable, even in the heat.

Hiking to the Fort

Hiking to the highest point and views (look at the super yacht!)

After completing both hikes, you can explore the Old Fort area and a small museum before heading to the beach.

Pigeon Island National Park has two beaches. We opted for the second one as it seemed to have more shade, but the first beach has rental chairs available. Snorkeling gear can be rented for $50, or you can bring your own. There is also diving equipment for rent for $90, and there are showers and bathrooms available.

We set up our things in the shade on the beach and enjoyed nearly an hour and a half of uninterrupted snorkeling, particularly in the area between the two beaches. The water was lovely, and it felt safe to leave our belongings on the beach.

Lots of fun fish to see but there are better snorkeling spots later on in this guide!

At around 1:30 PM, leave the beach and take a taxi to The Naked Fisherman for $15; there is a taxi stand right outside the national park. Be sure to book the restaurant in advance if you’d like to go!

Despite our high expectations due to its difficulty in booking and high ratings, I was personally disappointed with the experience at The Naked Fisherman. The service left much to be desired; we had to repeatedly ask for our table, menus, napkins, silverware, food, and water. I wouldn’t opt to dine here again. The food was generally underwhelming and expensive; though I really enjoyed the Island Saltfish Beignet.

I also found the two cocktails we got unappealing… The Spicy Mango margarita had pickled jalapeno juice in it which was not a vibe in my opinion.

The most notable feature of the restaurant is the hanging egg off the side of the cliff , which is super unique! However, I don’t consider it a must-visit, and you won’t miss out if you choose otherwise.

As an alternative, go horseback riding on the beach in Gros Islet. I’ve done this in Cape Town and it was such a cute experience if you haven’t done it before. Or, you can charter a boat (with drinks included)!

When planning your 10-day St. Lucia itinerary, aim to arrive in Gros Islet for the Friday Fish Fry party aka FRYday . If, like us, you arrive on Thursday, you’ll have a day to explore before the party. The street party is a unique experience and a definite must-do on the island . I have so much to say about the evening that it needs its own blog.

FRYday Fish Fry: A Must-Do in St. Lucia

Day 4: exploring on the way to soufriere.

Spend 2 nights at Samfi Gardens ($200/night)

In the morning, take the bus back to Castries, pick up a rental car at the airport, and then drive to Soufriere. We didn’t think we needed a car for the beginning portion of our trip and it was fun to take public transport. However, if you’re into ease and accessibility from the beginning, then you would have already rented a car when you landed on day one. Therefore, if you did this drive straight to Soufriere.

Between Castries and Soufriere, there are a couple of charming shops worth stopping at if you’ve got your own car. Be prepared for the immediate shock of navigating intense inclines to reach these locations. I’ve never driven on such steep inclines before; it made me a little nervous, and I kept my hand on the handbrake half the time. I was quite relieved to head back down to sea level.

Your first stop is Howelton Estate which is also home to a little tourist shop with batik prints . The home itself is quite large and has a great view overlooking the capital. You can buy chocolates, postcards, jewelry, gifts and more. I picked up a couple of postcards and regret not buying one of the gorgeous batik scarves.

Next, stop at Eudovic’s Art Studio . You’ll be guided around this woodworking studio . The large wooden sculptures are quite expensive and upwards of thousands of dollars, but there are some smaller items for sale in the gift shop. Unfortunately, they’re just not as nice or intricate as the larger pieces and seem a little too touristy. Just view this stop as an art gallery instead of an art shop!

Get lunch at the Pink Plantation . Unfortunately, we didn’t realize we had to make a reservation in advance to eat here and just drove up. However, we were turned away. It looks really good and it’s worth a stop because there are not that many other options on the way to Soufriere. Make a reservation!

On the way to Soufriere, on your right-hand side, you’ll pass a viewpoint of the Gros and Petit Pitons —a scenic highlight of St. Lucia. Although you’ll have even better views at Samfi Gardens, you’ll likely get as excited as we were and stop here to take some pictures. I thought I pinned the correct location on Google Maps for the lookout but as I reflect on it, I can’t be sure if this is right or not… In any case, you’ll notice the cute pagoda and the view; there is also a pull-out area for your car. If you don’t stop, don’t worry because the view at Samfi Gardens will blow your mind.

Samfi Gardens is a must-stay during your 10-day St. Lucia Itinerary. This was my favorite location. Just look at this view!

The rooms are all self-catering with the basic kitchenware though you’ll need to go out to purchase your own oils and spices. There is no restaurant on-site, but you can pre-order breakfast if you want. The grocery shop in Soufriere is well stocked and the town has plenty of restaurants to visit for lunch and dinner. However, if you’re sick of eating fish like I easily am on island vacations, then I suggest going to the grocery store and picking up some pasta stuff for dinner. There is also a variety of meat alternatives at the grocery store.

The room at Sami Gardens was spacious and comfortable with the best views I’ve ever seen. Book here .

And I became BFFs with this cute cat!

Take a walk around Soufriere. You can park your car at the bus station.

Seashell Beach Restaurant is a good place to get dinner on your first night. I had the Creole fish and although the price was good at $15, I didn’t like the fish of the day, unfortunately. But the rest of the provisions/sides were great. Instead, I wish I got one of the wraps or sandwiches. That said, the views here are lovely and the fish fritters were incredible! I got two orders of the local sorrel juice too.

The view of the Petit Piton was amazing from the restaurant

Day 5: Snorkeling at Anse Mamin

The main activity planned for today is snorkeling at Anse Mamin Beach ! While this beach is accessible only through the Jade Mountain Beach Resort, you can park at the resort and walk through to reach Anse Mamin Beach for free.

Upon reaching the restaurant area at Jade Mountain Resort beach area, take a right at the tennis courts. Ignore the sign indicating “guests only,” and continue until you pass a beach with a ton of umbrellas.

Finally, you’ll reach a stunning deserted strip.

During our three-hour visit to the beach, there was literally no one around . It was truly a special experience. The snorkeling was fantastic, and for the first time in my life, I snorkeled continuously for almost two hours because the water was clear, and there was so much to see!

Normally, I feel anxious about being too close to corals, but here, the rock formations were far enough beneath me to avoid anxiety, yet close enough to observe all the marine life!

My GoPro pictures don’t do justice to everything we saw.

When you’re done snorkeling, drive up to Adeline’s Art Cafe. You need to book lunch in advance, or you can just have a juice like we did. There are some local crafts for sale, but honestly, a few things look like items I’ve seen throughout markets in Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, and more… We got juice and plantain chips for 27 EC.

Next visit, Cacao Sainte Lucie . It’s a great spot to get lunch or pop in for a bite of chocolate. We bought some chocolate bars here. I’d avoid coming on Sunday because they only have a set menu that day; instead, the regular a la carte menu has an array of dishes that incorporate chocolate that sounded a lot more interesting than the Sunday set menu.

If you have time, visit Project Chocolate for a cool bean to bar experience .  Lunch is included plus you’ll try a ton of chocolate.

During our 10-day St. Lucia itinerary, this evening coincided with New Year’s Eve so we had pre-booked a special New Year’s Eve dinner at the nearby Treetops Restaurant .

For NYE there was a set menu that definitely gave the impression that all their meals will be excellent so I  recommend dining here during your trip. There were great views over the Pitons and lovely service . I love the eclectic Moroccan/Indian kind of vibe as well.

The cocktails were exceptional; the bartender inquired about our preferences and crafted a special drink for each person. To cap off the night, we had a fire drink that literally burned as you sipped it.

Day 6: Soufriere Activities

Spend 3 nights at Fond Doux (or stay longer at Samfi Gardens)

Fond Doux: around $200 a night. Look for deals on booking.com

Unfortunately, when we booked our stay around Soufriere, Samfi Gardens wasn’t available for the 5 days we were planning to spend. Although Fond Doux Resort was very nice, it did not compare to Samfi Gardens because the views there were just so much more magnificent. However, I enjoyed the pool and the service, as well as the jungle-like experience at Fond Doux. Consider a longer stay at Samfi or one of the other hotels around the area. Book Fond Doux.

Spend the entire morning soaking in the views and going in the pool at Samfi Gardens.

In the afternoon, visit the Soufriere Botanical Gardens for $7 and spend the extra $3 to go into the mineral bath. At the botanical gardens you can see a small waterfall and go on a little walk.

I thought the baths were included in the ticket, but no! The bathwardens came to get our money immediately when we put on our swimming suits. The baths apparently have medicinal properties . And although we weren’t suffering from anything, we stayed in for about 15 minutes for fun. The water was so nice and warm.

There is a changing room and shower by the baths as well as a little touristy shop.

Although we didn’t visit, the Soufriere Drive in Volcano is definitely a unique thing to do on this 10-day St. Lucia itinerary. We weren’t that intrigued with the mud baths that were also listed as a feature, but now I think we should have gone as I’m writing up this itinerary… Hmm.. We were also pretty tired and just wanted to take it easy though. You should check it out if you’re feeling up to it! There is a tour that will make the whole experience easy for you.

Nearby is the Hotel Chocolate which is also a popular destination for chocolate tours and food!

Instead, we went back to Soufriere for lunch at Waterfront De Belle View and were amazed at how great the meal was. The local fish cakes were the best I had on St. Lucia. We had the salt fish and the veg dish of the day as our mains. The local juice was delicious too.

In the late afternoon, we checked into Fond Doux .

Welcome rum punch!

Each cottage is a little bit old-school plantation style and very comfortable. Honestly, I fell asleep for 3 hours after we checked in, woke up for dinner, and then went back to sleep. I was exhausted.

Dinner at Fond Doux was a bit disappointing . The prices were high, more suitable for those coming off cruise ships or on a tour package. We ordered the chili Pasta for $32 and the fish of the day for $30. The pasta was definitely not worth the cost for an oil and simple chili flakes.

Overall, in St. Lucia, I felt that food was challenging due to the mix of unique spots with excellent food and tourist traps catering more to cruise ship or tour package travelers.

Day 7: Tut Paul Hiking and Anse L’Ivrogne Snorkeling

In the morning before breakfast, go on the Tet Paul Trail for the hiking portion of this 10-day St. Lucia itinerary. The trail starts right outside of the Fond Doux so that’s a great incentive to stay there. You can also do it to prepare a little for the Gros Piton hike you’ll do tomorrow.

The trail, with a stop at the viewpoint, from the hotel and back will take under 1.5 hours. The trail isn’t that strenuous except that it’s all uphill. Just take your time. You’ll pass the cocoa plantations along the way. The fee is $10 per person; a guide is included but the trail is easy and we said we wanted to do it on our own. Pay the fee at the hut and then return back up and follow the trail.

There are two viewpoints, the first is to see the Gros Piton, which looks less majestic from this angle…

And the second is the Petit Piton. There is a “ staircase to heaven ” that leads to the Petit Piton viewpoint; in order to use this, at the trail intersection that loops back around, keep left. The views are lovely! There is a hut available at the top that says there are drinks and things available, but it wasn’t open when we reached at 8am.

After taking some photos, head back to your lodge for breakfast. If you’re at Fond Doux, one of the most interesting things for breakfast there is the cocoa tea, which is a grind of cocoa with milk and some other spices. The breakfast buffet was excellent each day at Fond Doux.

In the early afternoon, visit the Anse L’Ivrogne beach for snorkeling . The beach is at the base of the Gros Piton, so it’s quite cool. It’ll also give you a hint of what you’ll climb tomorrow…

This beach is not on Google Maps and we only read about it on our trail hiking app, Mapy. To reach the beach, park at The View Restaurant . Then hike 15-20 minutes down, following the dirt road. Eventually, you’ll keep to your left where some colorful houses are and then you’ll reach the beach. As you pass the View, if you want to have dinner here (like we did) you must let them know beforehand; so be sure to yell about to secure your dinner.  

Follow the train down from The View

It does look like there was some sort of parking at the bottom, but depending on your car, you may not want to waste the effort driving down.

The snorkeling was incredible. We saw lots of fish, lobsters, eels, and more . It’s hard to show in all the photos, but just know that it was stunning. We probably snorkeled for about 3 hours on and off, and I just loved the experience. There was no one else there the entire time.

One of the most amazing things about snorkeling here was swimming with 1 million fish . I had never done anything like that before, and I was literally part of the school. I felt like I could touch the fish, but whenever I reached forward, they would swim away! Again, this was so hard to capture on camera…

For dinner at The View, we had fish and provisions for $30 per plate. It was delicious!

As we ate, we were rewarded with an incredible rainbow over the top of the Gros Piton as we were eating dinner. Photos can’t show how amazing it was, and at one point, it actually was a double rainbow.

And, as we drove back to Fond Doux, the views of the Petit Piton towering in the background were beautiful.

Day 8: Hike the Gros Piton

The Gros Piton hike is a highlight of this 10-day St. Lucia itinerary . At the end of the hike, you’ll get a view over the coastline and the southernmost tip of the island. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see St. Vincent as well.

Check out the blog to learn how to hike the Gros Piton.

The Gros Piton Hike: The Ultimate Adventure in St. Lucia

In the afternoon, we lay by the pool for several hours and went into town in the early evening for dinner.

We walked around Soufriere again before dinner.

The Island Chef had good reviews online and said it had vegan and veg meals . Although Google Maps suggests it’s open all day, we found it only occasionally open for dinner—so calling ahead is necessary to book your spot and confirm. Priced at $30 per plate, I felt that the portion size was insufficient, and I left a little hungry…

If you’re up for a fancy alternative, check out Orlando Restaurant & Bar . I would have liked to try this restaurant, but they only have a set menu for $70.

Day 9: Travel to Micoud

Spent 2 nights at Spice Bay Suites  ($180 per night)

Today, you’ll mostly have a chill day, going to the beach and then transferring to your next location.

Fond Doux has a deal with Sugar Beach Resort, where you can use their beach for free . I’m not sure of the actual benefit of this because technically, all the beaches in Saint Lucia are free, so you should be able to enter. Apparently, sometimes the resort charges you to access their road down to the beach. IDK. That said, we told the security guard we were staying at Fond Doux, and therefore we didn’t run into any complications.

Park at the guest parking and then walk down for 10 minutes to the beach. We were not allowed to use the hotel lounge chairs, and because it was during New Years time (and the hotel was full) we were not allowed to use the restaurants either. That was fine for us, but just beware in case you’re looking for a snack.

We set up our stuff on the beach (even though we did attempt to use one of the chairs but were told we weren’t guests…) and had a great time.

The snorkeling at Sugar Beach is incredible , located at the base of the Petit Piton. The best spot to snorkel is off to the right side of the dock. We saw lots of squid and fish and even an octopus! It may not show up in these photos though…

You can spend the day here if you bring enough food and water . However, after about 2 hours we were done. The tourist group started entering the water on mass around 11:00 AM and so we took that as our cue to leave.

Check out from Fond Doux at 12pm and then make your way to Micoud, your last destination on this 10-day St. Lucia itinerary. Micoud is a lovely little town on the eastern coast. Be sure to stop to buy some chocolate at the Fond Doux chocolate shop.

Stop along the way in Vieux Fort to get Abi’s Doubles , an incredible, cheap dish with chickpeas and tons of sauces. I suggest getting two and having this for lunch.

Or, drive a little further and have lunch at Grill N Chill . The wraps here are well-priced ($15) for how huge they are.

Wow. I wish we just got one wrap to share because I couldn’t finish half of my fish warp. It literally felt like a whole fish was inside of it.

Reach out to Keramik via phone if you’re interested in some St. Lucian pottery . The mug we bought was the only souvenir we got on our trip! The pottery pieces are hosted at the potter’s home, and we chose a mug with a cool handle. I called the number listed on Google Maps and indicated what time we expected to be passing through the town to make an appointment.

Then, continue driving towards Micoud.

Book through Expedia as their website didn’t work when I tried it.

There was breakfast included and a really nice pool, as well as a full kitchen. I also really liked the little private balcony we had. Later, I found some of their rooms on Airbnb.

As an alternative activity , you could use the day to go on an exclusive catamaran experience and still make it to Micoud in the evening.

This area on the eastern coast of the island is mostly tourist-free, so there isn’t too much to do.

Walking around the Spice Bay Suites neighborhood

The water here is also a lot choppier than on the western side of the country. We enjoyed the view and made our own dinner for the last 2 nights with groceries we bought from Massy.

An evening dip in the pool

Day 10: Kayaking and a Fish Spa

Breakfast is included in your rate at Spice Bay Suites. I really enjoyed it and the cocoa tea here was the best!

After breakfast, drive to Paslin, just 15 minutes away. Here you’ll have an amazing experience with Kayak on the Bay. Kayak rentals are for two hours with lunch included for 130 EC per person. Read more about this adventure.

Kayak on the Bay

• If you want to continue the adventure, continue on the Treetops Adventure Park to go ziplining. Locals say that it’s one of the best things to do!

Or, if you want something more chill, stop at LaTille Falls and Garden for a small waterfall and fish spa experience ! This was such a fun way to end our 10-day St. Lucia itinerary. Be sure to check out the homemade products (the syrup was delicious).

The owner was very nice and was excited to show us his Ethiopian Orthodox shrine

Walk down to the small waterfall.

Then, experience the fish spa. There are little fish that will nibble at your feet in the pond ! And wow, I’ve never done anything like this before, so it was crazy to feel a little fish suckle on your feet.

The fish were a little bit interested in us, and then three St. Lucians arrived, and the fish just went crazy, so there must be something that makes them like the Saint Lucians more!

We made our own pasta dinner at Spice Bay Suites for last night. I suggest you do the same!

Bonus: Travel Day 11

Take it easy on the last day of your 10-day St. Lucia itinerary. By now, you should feel like you’ve seen and done everything on the island, which is why today barely counts as a real day.

 We enjoyed the morning by reading on the balcony and taking a little walk around. In the late morning, we drove to the beach by the airport for a last walk and then went to the airport to drop off the car.

Breakfast at Spice Bay Suites

We had no issues returning our rental car. There is a gas station right across from the airport .

Tour Options

St. Lucia is pretty small and most tour companies can pick you up from just about anywhere. If you have a car, you can skip their transport option and show up at the activity location.

Instead of managing all the logistics yourself, this full-day St. Lucia tour is top-rated. This tour will take you to the drive-in volcano, Toraille Waterfall, a Pitons photo stop, snorkeling, a bat cave, fishing villages… All with lunch included.

• Go on an ATV tour while you’re staying around the capital, Castries.
• You can go ziplining at Morne Coubaril Estate in St. Lucia.
• G o horseback riding on the beach in Gros Islet.

Boat Adventures

• Charter a boat (with drinks included)!
• Go on an exclusive catamaran experience
• Experience a sunset cruise with unlimited drinks
• Spot whales and dolphins on this boat tour that claims it has a 90% sighting average
• Visit Project Chocolate for a cool bean-to-bar experience .  Lunch is included plus you’ll try a ton of chocolate.
• See how cocoa, coconuts, and coffee were processed in this 18th-century estate around Soufriere
• From most locations on the Western part of St. Lucia, you can be picked up for a unique underwater experience . During this “SeaTrek,” you can explore the sea life without diving or swimming!

That’s it for the 10-day St. Lucia itinerary and, as always, leave a comment or get in touch via e-mail if you have any questions.

Thanks for the terrific tour of St. Lucia! We are visiting the island in a week and a half and look forward to visiting some of your suggestions!

Thank you so much for saying so! I hope you have a wonderful trip 🙂

46 Saint Lucia Travel Tips: Things to know before you go in 2024

• Updated on January 2, 2024
• Tips and Tricks
• Saint Lucia

What You Will Learn (Click to Expand)

Welcome to my Top 46 Saint Lucia Travel Tips !

If you’re thinking of visiting Saint Lucia , then this post is for you! I’ve put together a list of 46 Saint Lucia Travel Tips to help you make the most out of your trip.

From what to pack and where to stay to how to get around and what to do, these Saint Lucia travel tips will help you plan a fantastic vacation. So without further ado, let’s get started…

Prepare for your trip

1. do i need a passport to travel to saint lucia.

Yes, you need a passport to travel to Saint Lucia. You must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after the completion of your travel in Saint Lucia and an onward or return ticket.

2. Are there any special visas required for Saint Lucia?

No, a visa is not required if you visiting from the US and most of Europe for stays up to 28 days. Citizens of several other countries are required to obtain a visa before entering Saint Lucia.

It is recommended to view your country’s St. Lucia International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements.

3. Do I need travel insurance for Saint Lucia?

Yes, it is highly recommended to get travel insurance when traveling to Saint Lucia. Your primary medical insurance may not cover treatment outside of the U.S., so travel insurance is essential to protect your health and safety.

Additionally, travel insurance can provide coverage for lost luggage, travel delays, meals, and more.

4. Can I use my cell phone in St Lucia?

Yes, you can use your cell phone in St Lucia, but I don’t recommend it because you will incur roaming fees. Instead, you can use the hotel WiFi, or get a local sim card with internet access and save money.

Money and Budgeting

5. what is the currency in saint lucia.

The currency in Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean dollar ( XCD ), although U.S. dollars are often accepted.

The Eastern Caribbean dollar is the official currency used in countries like Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and the British Virgin Islands, as well as Saint Lucia.

6. Should I bring Cash to St Lucia?

When traveling to St Lucia, it is advisable to bring some cash with you. This is because there are some places that do not accept credit cards, such as local markets, and taxis may also require cash payments.

Cash is also needed if you want to tip your servers or cab drivers, so have some small bills on hand. If you don’t want to carry too much cash on the plane, you can always withdraw it from an ATM once you are in St Lucia.

Additionally, it is important to note that some airports may require a departure tax in cash, so make sure to ask in advance if this is not included in your plane ticket.

7. Do they accept Credit Cards in St Lucia?

Yes, you can use credit cards in St Lucia in most places, like hotels, resorts, and large restaurants. However, some small establishments may not accept credit cards, so it’s wise to also have some cash on hand, just in case.

8. How much money do I need for a honeymoon in Saint Lucia?

Planning a honeymoon in Saint Lucia? You’ll need to budget for accommodation, food, and activities.

When it comes to accommodation, your choice will depend on your budget – a room with a private bathroom in a two-star hotel starts at around $150 USD per night, while a full apartment on Airbnb will set you back between $100 – 250 USD per night. 

If you’re looking for something more luxurious, Jade Mountain offers a cornucopia of organic architecture celebrating nature for a price that starts at $850 USD per night.

For food, a cheap meal at a casual restaurant will cost around $8 USD, while a 3-course meal and drinks will set you back around $40+ USD. A burger and fries will cost about $8 USD, and a large pizza is around $15 USD. Local beer is $8 USD, and a bottle of water is around $1 USD.

All in all, you’ll need to budget around $150 USD per night for accommodation and up to $70 USD for food, depending on where you eat.

9. Should I tip in St Lucia?

Yes, you should tip in St Lucia if you want to. Most restaurants and bars will add 10 percent for service to the bill, although you are also welcome to provide an additional amount should you feel that you have received exceptional service.

Gratuities in USD or Eastern Caribbean dollars are appreciated and encouraged. Drivers, guides, and other service providers work hard to make sure you have an enjoyable experience and should be rewarded for their efforts.

When to visit - Seasons and Weather

10. what are the seasons in saint lucia.

The seasons in Saint Lucia are High Season, Shoulder Season, and Low Season.

The high Season is from December to April when the island is busiest and most expensive, but it also experiences the best weather.

Shoulder Season lasts from May to June, and room prices are more affordable. Temperatures are usually in the high 80s°F during this time of the year.

The low Season runs from May through November. You can find great deals on flights and hotels, but be cautious about traveling during this time due to the risk of storms.

11. How is the weather in St Lucia?

The weather in St Lucia is consistently warm and humid throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 75-85°F and cooled by trade winds. During the wet season, from June to November, there is more rainfall, particularly in the rainforests.

Despite the rain, you can still expect sunny skies. The high season is the most popular time to visit the island because of the great weather, very little rain, and lower humidity.

Hair Tools Travel Bag

12. do they have a hurricane season in saint lucia.

Yes, Saint Lucia has a hurricane season that runs from June to November. Although the risk of a severe hurricane is low, with roughly one reaching the island every ten years, and even fewer of those were severe.

13. What is the best time to visit St Lucia?

In my opinion, the best time to visit St. Lucia is between May and June, when the weather is pleasant – high 70s to 80s – and hotel rates are lower.

Additionally, the St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival takes place at Pigeon Island National Landmark in early May, making it an ideal time for music lovers. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy during the summer months.

14. When is the cheapest time to go to Saint Lucia?

The cheapest time to go to Saint Lucia is during the wet season, from June through November. Flights, tours, and resorts are cheaper, but the weather is not the best. This is also hurricane season, and some attractions may be closed.

15. What should I pack for Saint Lucia?

When packing for your trip to St. Lucia, plan on packing clothes suitable for warm weather. Men can bring t-shirts, polo shirts, and button-up short sleeve shirts. Women can bring t-shirts, tank tops, and lightweight blouses. If you’re planning on golfing, make sure to pack clothing appropriate for the sport. You will spend most of your time on the beach or in the water, so don’t forget to bring your bathing suit and a pair of water shoes.

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on bag for convenience in case your checked bag is lost. Do not pack your valuables in your checked luggage, such as jewelry and cash. Pack light to make carrying your bags easier, and leave some room in your suitcase for souvenirs from the local markets.

For more details, check out my Complete Saint Lucia Packing List.

Travel and Transportation

16. how do i get to saint lucia.

The best way to get to Saint Lucia is by air. Fly to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in Vieux Fort, located 40 miles south of Castries, the capital city of Saint Lucia.

From the US, there are direct services available from Miami, Charlotte, and Philadelphia on American Airlines, New York and Boston with JetBlue, Atlanta with Delta, and New Jersey and Chicago on United Airlines.

If flying from Canada, book a flight from Toronto on Air Canada and WestJet or Montreal with Air Canada.

If you are traveling from Europe, you can find direct flights from Germany, France, and the UK.

17. Do I need to book my flights in advance for St Lucia?

Yes, you should book your flights in advance for St Lucia. Booking your flights in advance will help you secure cheaper fares and avoid any unpleasant surprises.

18. How do I get to my hotel once I arrive in St Lucia?

Once you arrive at the airport in St Lucia, you have several options to get to your hotel:

• Take a taxi or water taxi: There are plenty of taxis available at the airport to take you to your hotel. Before getting in, be sure to agree on the cost of the ride.
• Request an airport transfer: Some hotels and resorts offer airport transfers, so you can request one in advance.
• Rent a car: There are also rental cars available at the airport if you want to drive yourself to your hotel.

19. What is the best way to get around Saint Lucia?

The best way to get around Saint Lucia is by renting a car, especially if you want to explore more of the island than just the main tourist hubs. You can find rental cars at the Airport for an average rate of $50 a day. To rent a car, renters must be at least 21 years old, have had their license for three years, and have an International Driving Permit.

If you want to try the local public transportation, minibusses form a loop around the main towns and typically cost about $1 USD, depending on the destination.

Taxis are also available to go pretty much anywhere, just make sure you know the cost of the ride before leaving.

20. Can I drive in St Lucia?

Yes, you are allowed to drive in St Lucia with your US or European driver’s licence. However, cars in St Lucia are right-hand drives, so you must be familiar with driving on the left side of the road. If you live in the Uk, you will feel at home, but everyone else, please be cautious.

Hotel and Resorts

21. should i book my reservation for saint lucia in advance.

Yes, you should book your reservation for Saint Lucia well in advance. Booking 6+ months in advance will give you access to more options and better deals.

Additionally, the time of year you travel will have a significant impact on the price, with the winter months being the most expensive.

22. What type of accommodations can I find in St Lucia?

In St Lucia, you can choose from a variety of accommodations, such as Airbnb, private rentals, guesthouses, all-inclusive hotels, and resorts.

Unfortunately, there are no hostels available on the island, so budget travelers will have to try and find a cheaper Airbnb. My favorites are the all-inclusive resorts , they have a large selection of pools, bars, and restaurants on-site.

23. What are the best beach resorts in Saint Lucia?

When it comes to finding the best beach resorts in Saint Lucia, there are a few great options to consider:

• Sandals Grande St. Lucian Resort is a great choice for couples looking for a luxury, adult-only experience with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
• For a secluded mountaintop resort in the southwestern part of the island, check out Jade Mountain Resort . This beautiful property offers stunning views of the iconic Piton mountain peaks.
• For a family-friendly option, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa is an all-inclusive resort located along the island’s southeastern Atlantic coast, offering plenty of on-property activities.
• Finally, for an ultra-luxurious experience, Sugar Beach is located right between the Pitons and on a lovely white-sand beach. With chic, minimalistic rooms and villas, plus butlers and 24-hour room service, it’s an excellent choice for those looking for an unforgettable stay.

You will also enjoy my article on the Top Beaches in St Lucia .

24. How can I find budget accommodation in Saint Lucia?

I’ll be honest, Saint Lucia is not known for budget traveling or backpackers paradise. There are no hostels or other low-cost accommodations. But the time you visit will have the biggest influence on the prices. For the best value, visit Saint Lucia during the off-season, which is from May to November.

Your best bet will be to find private rooms on Airbnb. These can start as low as $30 USD and usually max out at around $70 USD per night. Book your accommodation way in advance to secure the best prices and the room of your choice.

Safety Tips

25. is saint lucia safe.

Yes, Saint Lucia is generally a safe place to visit. Thanks to the St. Lucia authority partnering with the local tourism industry, resort and hotel areas remain secure. While petty crimes like pickpocketing, theft and automobile break-ins do still occur, you can mitigate the risk by remaining aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended in public.

When renting a car, it is important to lock it and keep any personal items out of view. And avoid walking around alone at night, both in town and on the beach.

26. How do I prepare for a trip to Saint Lucia?

When preparing for your trip to Saint Lucia, you should take the following steps:

• Plan Your Trip’s Itinerary: Take the time to plan out what you want to do and see while on vacation in Saint Lucia. Having a plan in place ensures that you can see and do the things you want, and it will also make packing for your trip much easier.
• Make Copies of Important Documents: Before traveling, make photocopies of documents such as your ID, passport, and receipt for prepaid services in case of any misfortunes. Keep pictures of your important documents on your phone and also email them to yourself for extra peace of mind.
• Notify Financial Institutions of Your Travel Plans: Be sure to notify your bank, credit card companies, and other financial institutions of your travels. This will prevent your accounts from being put on hold when international charges appear.
• Pack Efficiently: Try to take only the essentials with you on your trip. Rolling your clothes tightly instead of folding them will save you valuable space and reduce deep creases. Keep any essential items such as ID, passport, any paperwork, money, credit cards, traveler’s checks, contact information, and medication on your person at all times, or stow them in the hotel safe.
• Activate International Data on Your Phone: Most carriers these days offer add-ons for international travel but only use roaming only for emergencies. If you need access to the internet outside your hotel, buy a local sim card with internet access.
• Notify Family and Friends of Your Plans: Let at least two people know your exact plans, flight info, and resort name, just in case. Check in daily or every other day and let your loved ones know you are ok.

27. What is the legal drinking age in St Lucia?

The legal drinking age in St Lucia is 18. They don’t really check your ID that often unless you look very young.

28. How is the medical system in Saint Lucia?

The medical system in Saint Lucia is very good. For minor injuries, you can get some supplies from a local farmacy, like disinfectant and bandaids. It’s always good to have some on hand when exploring around.

For more serious problems, there are two public hospitals, Victoria Hospital in Castries and St. Jude Hospital in Vieux-Fort, and one private hospital, Tampion Hospital, near Castries. It is important that you get travel insurance that includes coverage for emergency medical care when traveling to Saint Lucia.

29. Are there any scams in St Lucia?

There are a few scams in St Lucia, but they are rare. It is important to use common sense when taking taxis, tours, and engaging with strangers on the street. It is also wise to keep your belongings secure and out of reach to avoid theft.

Solo female travelers should feel safe but should take the proper precautions, such as not leaving drinks unattended and not walking home alone while intoxicated.

30. What are the things NOT to do in Saint Lucia?

We often think of things to do on our vacation, but we also have to consider the don’ts:

• Don’t dress inappropriately, Saint Lucia is a conservative island.
• Don’t venture into unknown territory alone, stick to the tourist areas.
• Don’t pet the stray animals.
• Don’t carry obscene amounts of cash, especially in crowded areas.
• Don’t rent a car unless you are prepared to drive on the left, amongst fearless local drivers and pot-hole-ridden roads.

Fun Activities

31. what are the best things to do in saint lucia.

Saint Lucia is full of amazing sights and activities that are sure to delight visitors from all over the world. One of the best things to start off with is to go snorkeling and scuba diving. The waters off of St. Lucia are clear, and its reefs are home to numerous species of tropical fish.

Next, you’ll want to check out the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens. This six-acre site is nestled in a gorge and features a beautiful 50-foot waterfall, which is laced with natural minerals that give it a vivid, colorful appearance.

The island also boasts two famous volcanoes, Gros Piton and Petit Piton. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular excursion for visitors. Gros Piton is a 3-hour hike from the trailhead and offers incredible views of the ocean, while Petit Piton is a 4-hour hike that requires a guide.

Another must-see is Castries, the capital of the island. Founded in 1650, it is situated on its own harbor and has many attractions, including Fort Charlotte, La Toc Battery fort, and Saint-Etienne Cathedral. There are also some beautiful beaches to relax on, such as La Toc Beach.

Pigeon Island is also worth a visit. This 44-acre national park was home to the indigenous Caribs and a pirate crew in the 16th century. There are marked trails that lead to the remains of two forts and panoramic viewpoints over the north side of St. Lucia.

Finally, bird-lovers should head to the Bois D’Orange Swamp, the Rain Forest, and Boriel’s Pond, where they can spot a variety of stunning birds, including the St. Lucian Parrot, the White Breasted Thrasher, the St. Lucia Peewee, the St. Lucia Oriole, and the St. Lucia Wren.

I wrote an entire article on the Best Things to do in St Lucia .

32. Are there any festivals in St Lucia?

Yes, there are amazing festivals in St Lucia all year round. Here are my favorites:

• Saint Lucia Carnaval – July 1 – 19
• La Rose Flower Festival – August 30
• Saint Lucia Dive Fest – September 16 – 23
• National Day – Festival of Lights and Renewal – December 13

33. Are there any excursions or tours in Saint Lucia?

Yes, there are many excursions and tours available in Saint Lucia. From hikes up Majestic Gros Piton to ziplining through the rainforest, there are many ways to explore the beauty and culture of the island with a local guide. You can book tours ahead of time or get help from your hotel or resort once you arrive.

34. Where are the best beaches in Saint Lucia?

In my opinion, the best beaches in Saint Lucia are Marigot Bay Beach and Reduit Beach, located near Rodney Bay, which is the most popular spot.

Anse Chastanet provides a stunning view of the local marine life, while Malgretoute Beach is perfect for those seeking a more secluded spot under the iconic Pitons.

35. Where are the best diving sites in St Lucia?

The best dive spots in St. Lucia are Le Sport, the Dinosaur Reef, Smugglers Cove, Pigeon Island, La Roche, and Birdshit Rock. All of these locations offer crystal clear waters and a variety of sea creatures such as parrot fish, trumpet fish, and needlefish.

Anse Chastanet Reef is another popular spot for divers and is home to a variety of marine life, as well as sunken ships and white sand sea floors. Diving tours are available, and prices start at $100 USD for certified divers.

SNUBA – a combination of snorkeling gear and a breath tube, is also available for $80 USD.

36. What are the best places for snorkeling in Saint Lucia?

The best places for snorkeling in Saint Lucia are Anse Chastanet, Anse Mamin, Piton Wall, Smugglers Cove, and Reduit Beach. All these spots feature clear waters, stunning reefs, and abundant sea life. Snorkeling tours to Anse Chastanet Reef cost around $50 USD.

37. How is the surfing in Saint Lucia?

Surfing in Saint Lucia is pretty good but not world-famous. Some good spots are Pigeon Point, Winjammer, and Commaret Point. The spots offer cross-shore winds and clean waves, and the nearby rental shops have equipment rentals for those looking to learn.

38. Can you go hiking in St Lucia?

Yes, there are amazing hiking trails in St. Lucia. There are many scenic trails to explore, such as the Barre de L’isle Rain Forest Trail and the Enbas Saut Trail.

Both hikes take approximately three hours and are quite steep, but offer stunning views and the opportunity to refresh yourself at the waterfall. Make sure to bring plenty of water and suitable hiking shoes.

The island also has two volcanos: Gros Piton and Petit Piton, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are great for hiking.

39. Do they have nightclubs in Saint Lucia?

Yes, they have a few nightclubs in Saint Lucia, but not a lot. If you want to have fun, every Friday night, locals and tourists gather for the Gros Islet Jump Up, a street party in the small town of Gros Islet that features Caribbean music, beer, lobster, and people-watching.

If you want to go to an actual nightclub, try Zen Nightclub, Ultra Lounge, or Club Red.

Language and Local Customs

40. what language do they speak in saint lucia.

In Saint Lucia, the official language is English, but most of the locals also speak French Creole. The place names often have a French origin, though they are not pronounced in the same way as French words.

Despite the strong French influence in the culture, the tourism industry is mostly oriented towards American and British visitors, with flights to the international airport coming mostly from major cities in the United States or London.

41. What are some common phrases used in St Lucia?

You can get along just fine with English when visiting the island, but if you want to learn a few local words, here are some greetings:

• Bonjou (Hello)
• Koman ou rele? (What is your name?)
• Koman ou apre? (How are you?)
• S’aw fè? (How are you?)
• Byenbé (Goodbye)
• Orevwa (Goodbye)
• Mèsi (Thank you)
• Pandanmèsi (Please)

42. What local customs should I be aware of in Saint Lucia?

When visiting Saint Lucia, there are a few local customs to be aware of. It is important to dress appropriately and respectfully. When entering any establishment, it is polite to say hello to people.

Additionally, given the conservative attitudes in the country toward the LGBT community, it is important to avoid public displays of affection.

Food and Drinks

43. how is the local food in saint lucia.

The local food in Saint Lucia is truly unique, drawing influence from many different cultures. From traditional dishes like green figs and saltfish, Lambi (conch), and Paime (dessert), to the national dish of stewed saltfish with boiled green bananas.

Barbecued pork and chicken are also very popular here, and for breakfast, you can enjoy cocoa tea made with local cocoa, spices, and milk, as well as hot, deep-fried bread.

44. Do they have seafood in St Lucia?

Yes, they have a lot of seafood in St Lucia! It is an island after all so fresh seafood is served pretty much everywhere. One of the best places to find it is at the Gros Islet Fish Fry, which is held every Friday night.

Most of us go the all-inclusive resorts, where all the meals are included, but I would suggest going to dinner one of the evenings and trying some local dishes.

45. Can I take a cooking class in Saint Lucia?

If you want to experience the local flavors, a cooking class in Saint Lucia is a great way to do it. Cook Like A Lucian offers classes focused on teaching local recipes and spices, while Cacoa Sainte Lucie will teach you to make fresh chocolate using cocoa grown from St. Lucian soil.

46. Do they have any special drinks in St Lucia?

St Lucia’s local beer is called Piton, a pilsner named after the Piton mountains. They are also famous for rum, which is known as the Spirit of St Lucia.

Sugar was first introduced to St Lucia in the 1700s and has since had a huge impact on the island’s culture, so rum is a big deal here, and each Caribbean island tends to have its own signature rums. Make sure to try a local Rum punch.

Made by travelers, for travelers, check out the Barefoot Caribou Products below!

Top Saint Lucia Travel Tips

Thank you for reading my Saint Lucia travel tips. I hope this guide has given you everything you need to know before you travel to Saint Lucia. If you have any other questions or tips to share, please leave a comment below. Safe travels!

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How To Get Around St. Lucia

By Author Jake Junda

Posted on Last updated: October 31, 2022

Categories St. Lucia , Travel Guides

Wondering how to get around St. Lucia for an upcoming trip to this incredible Caribbean island?  This guide covers all the best modes of transportation for getting around the island and some guidance on choosing which is best for you.  Whether from airport to hotel, Airbnb to restaurants, resort to beaches, there are plenty of suitable options for getting around St. Lucia.

But first, a quick little summary of the island to help familiarize yourself with St. Lucia.

The North – The most touristy and densely populated area in St. Lucia with the capital city of Castries, and nearby Rodney Bay and Gros-Islet. Lots of resorts, hotels, beaches, restuarants, markets, etc.

The South – Vieux-Fort is the biggest southern city, where the major Hewanorra International Airport is located.  Most visitors will begin by flying here.  Still some resorts and touristy things.

The West – The famous twin Piton mountains (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) are located on the west coast near the town of Soufriere.  Home to many fancy and exclusive resorts, and also some more modest accommodations.  Also a  popular touristy hub for the most popular hiking, waterfalls, mudbaths, hot springs, etc. on the island.

The East – Faces the rougher wind and waves from the Atlantic ocean, sparsely populated, less mountainous, less touristy.  Dennery, a fishing village, is the biggest town.

There are two airports in St. Lucia, Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and the much smaller George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU). Most visitors will arrive via airplane to the larger airport, UVF in Vieux-Fort at the southern tip of the island.  So, most vacations to St. Lucia will begin with a shuttle or taxi ride from UVF airport to your destination.  Some hotels and resorts may offer a shuttle from the airport to the hotel, so be sure to check on that.  Otherwise, you are most likely to be picking up a rental car or taxi right from the airport.

The smaller SLU airport in the northern capital city of Castries offers mostly short flights between Caribbean islands.  Or some visitors may come by cruise ship or ferry, docking in Point Seraphine in Castries.

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure policy .

Taxis in St. Lucia

Taxis are a very common form of transportation in St. Lucia.  The benefit of using taxis is that you can rely on the experience of local professional drivers to take you to your destination safely and efficiently.  You can enjoy the sights while someone else drives. All authorized taxis have a light blue license plate with a “TX” prefix.

In our experience, there were so many taxis available, even approaching us constantly to offer a ride.  And if you find a driver you like, be sure to take their number or business card to ride with them again.

Prices are not metered, so drivers typically have set prices for popular routes.  The rates vary based on distance, number of passengers, etc, but you should confirm the price with the driver ahead of time.  It may be possible to haggle on price if the driver isn’t busy.  But we found the rates to be quite reasonable.

To give you an upper benchmark, a 1.5-hour ride from Hewanorra Intl. Airport to Rodney Bay (nearly the entire length of the island) is about US$75 to $100.  Shorter local rides will probably be between $15-$50.  They don’t accept credit or debit cards, so plan to carry cash.  The local currency, ECD (Eastern Caribbean Dollars) is preferred but they often will accept USD as well.

There are always taxis outside the airports and cruise ship port.  If you staying at a hotel or resort, the concierge can certainly help you find a taxi.  But it may require some advanced preparation to make sure you have a ride at the time you desire.

Here are a few taxi companies: Saint Lucia Taxi Service, Saint Lucia Airport Transfers, Saint Lucia Executive, Saint Lucia Airport Shuttle, and Real Saint Lucia Tours.  But you are sure to find many more once you are on the island.

Rental Cars in St. Lucia

Booking a rental car in St Lucia is another popular way to get around the island.  It gives you the most freedom and flexibility out of all the ways to get around St. Lucia.  You can simply hop in your car at any time and go.

But the roads in St. Lucia can be challenging and stressful for non-locals.  The roads are curvy, narrow, and steep, especially along the west coast and inland.  There are also many potholes to avoid, and some destinations require off-road driving.  And lastly, in St Lucia you drive on the left side of the road, which is of course opposite of many countries.  But luckily all the road signs are in English.

You need to obtain a temporary driver’s permit (US$20 or EC$54).  You can get your permit at the airport’s immigration station, a police station, or from your car rental company (probably the easiest method).  Be sure to bring a valid driver’s license from your home country.

We paid about US$66 per day to rent a Suzuki Jimny, a small 4-seat SUV with 4×4 and high clearance.  That price includes the cost of gas and a driving permit.

Buses | Ride On St. Lucia’s Minibus System

Most of the locals get around St. Lucia with the Minibus system.  Thus, it’s the best way to really immerse yourself in the local culture.  And it’s also the most affordable way to get around St. Lucia.  The main routes are: 1A Castries-Gros Islet, 2H Castries-Vieux Fort, 3D Castries-Soufriere, 4F Vieux Fort-Soufrière.  More popular routes have the most frequent service, so it’s quite reliable for getting around the most popular cities, towns, and attractions.

However, it’s not so good for getting to more off-the-beaten-path destinations in St. Lucia.  And you also aren’t allowed to bring lots of luggage on buses.  So they are better for day trips rather than taking you to and from the airport with all your stuff.

All authorized minibuses have a green license plate with an “M” prefix.  The buses are not part of a single state-sponsored enterprise, but rather are owned/operated by individuals or groups who are licensed by the Transportation Ministry.  In cities you can catch a bus only from marked bus stations, but in more rural areas you can even flag one down.

Fares range between EC$1.25 to EC$10 (or about US$0.50 to US$3.7).  So the minibus system is really quite affordable.  But of course, you are beholden to bus schedules for getting around.  And they don’t really operate on a set schedule.  Once a minibus fills up, they leave, which can occasionally lead to long wait times in less populated areas.  The 1A route Castries-Gros Islet offers the longest service, typically from 7am to 10pm.  But routes making longer trips (like 3D Soufriere to Castries) may have their last service around 4-5pm.  So if you are planning a day trip to another part of the island, start early!  And don’t plan to use the buses on Sunday, most are not operating.

I found it really difficult to find precise information about bus “schedules” and routes, which makes it intimidating plan your trip around the buses.  But rest assured, the many locals rely on the minibus system for everyday life.  You can always use the buses as Plan A, and then pivot to a taxi as Plan B if you happen to find yourself stuck without a bus to take you back.

Water Taxis | For Exploring The Coast

Water Taxis are another popular method for getting around St. Lucia.  They probably won’t be anyone’s primary method, but definitely helpful in certain situations.  Since the roads are so mountainous in St. Lucia, often times it may be faster to travel by boat to destinations along the coast .  We found water taxis to be especially helpful for reaching some of the best beaches in St. Lucia, like Sugar Beach or Anse Chastanet.

And one nice bonus of water taxis is you get to see the island from a different perspective. You are sure to find them for hire around most popular ports, docks, and beaches.

Good Ol’ Fashioned Walking

While we are normally huge fans of getting around on foot, we found St. Lucia to be subpar for walking.  There is not very good coverage of sidewalks, and basically non-existent shoulders.  But to be fair, St. Lucia uses that space for drainage channels so their roads don’t get washed out any time it rains.  So we found ourselves often walking on the narrow roads with cars whizzing by.

We did walk a few places, but we resolved that if we were on the roads anyway, we were safer in our rental car than on foot.  So we reserved walking for only very short distances.

And lastly, the hot humid weather is another reason to avoid walking.  We would get extremely hot and sweaty within just a few minutes.  Unless you are headed to the beach for a dip, you will arrive at your destination likely uncomfortable.

Helicopter Transfers/Tours

Helicopters offer a premium way to get around St. Lucia.  Definitely one of the most expensive means of transportation, but way faster than anything else , and also doubles as a unique sightseeing experience.  St. Lucia’s legendary Piton mountains, sapphire blue waters, and mountainous rainforests are incredible scenery to see from the sky.  Helicopters operate mostly as airport transfers between the north and south of the island.  Though some premium resorts like Jade Mountain operate their own private helipad for guests.

St. Lucia Helicopters offers airport transfers as well as scenic tours of the island.  The most popular route is the direct airport transfer between UVF and SLU.  The transfer takes 10-15 minutes and costs $190 for adults, $171 for kids, and free under 2 years old.  This route travels the east side of the island and enjoys “St. Lucias’ lush interior, highest peak (Mt. Gimie), Roseau Dam, the Atlantic Coast, and Marigot Bay.”

Their second most popular route, the West Coast Transfer, takes 5 minutes longer and costs $15 more per person, BUT is designed to showcase the more beautiful west coast of St. Lucia.  You get to see the majestic Pitons for which St. Lucia is famous, as well as views of Marigot Bay, West Coast Shoreline (reefs), the rainforest, and the Soufriere Volcano.

Tours And Excursions

Tourism is huge in St. Lucia, so there are plenty of tour operators on land and sea.  If you are interested in exploring some of St. Lucia’s biggest attractions , you can be sure there is a tour operator ready to take you.  And many tours include a variety of fun activities in one day.  So rather than stressing about arranging separate trips to each destination, tours are a great way to experience many destinations on the island in a single day.

Ferries To Other Islands Near St. Lucia

Ferries are most commonly a form of transportation between islands.  They are a great option if you want to visit St. Lucia’s neighboring islands of Martinique, Dominica (Dominique), and Guadaloupe.  Prices are around US$120 round trip per person.

Visit L’Express Des Iles or Transport Express Caraibes .  These websites are natively in french, so they can be difficult to use unless you use a browser translator like Google Translate on Google Chrome.

What Method Is Best For You To Get Around St. Lucia?

Choosing which method is best for you depends on you what you plan to do in St. Lucia and your budget.

Stationary Resort Type Vacation

I think the most typical vacation to St. Lucia is about a week-long stay at one resort with perhaps a few trips off the resort. Such as a Sandals Resort , who owns 3 different properties in the North.  And especially at all-inclusive resorts, guests tend to seldom leave the property.  In this scenario, just take a taxi from the airport to your resort (or double-check if they offer a shuttle). 

Then, during your stay, use taxis, buses, water taxis, or tours to do your explorations off the resort.  Taxis will probably be the most common method, you’ll pay more for the direct and private ride, but most tourists don’t mind spending up to save time and hassle on their vacation.  Buses will be the most affordable if your resort/accommodation is close to a route.

Exploring/Adventurous Type Vacation

But another type of vacation to St. Lucia might involve a lot more exploration of the island.  For example staying at a hotel or Vacation Home Rental , where visitors often leave their accommodation to visit restaurants, markets, beaches, and other attractions.  Or perhaps you are adventurous like us, and want to go hiking, see waterfalls, hot springs, rainforests, and more.

For this type of trip, I would consider renting a car for your stay.  Especially if you plan to use the car most days.  A rental car gives you the most freedom to just make spontaneous plans.  However, only rent a car if you are comfortable driving on the left, managing the mountainous roads, being your own navigator, and staying sober.

Otherwise, you can still explore St. Lucia just fine with taxis, minibusses, water taxis, and tours.  If you can navigate the bus system, that will be the most affordable option.  Otherwise, the taxis, water taxis, and tours will cost more, but offer a more private, direct, and tourist-oriented service.

Compared to a rental car, these options will require a little more advanced planning to book rides, find drivers, etc.  But this way you can remove the stress of driving yourself, let locals do all the navigating, and even enjoy some alcohol if you like.

When comparing price, it kind of depends on how many different places you visit in a day.  As noted, the minibus system is by far the cheapest.  So the more debatable price comparison is between renting a car or taking taxis everywhere.

We spent US$66 per day on a rental car.  But there were some days the car sat idle because we had booked other tours or watertaxis to get around that day.  Taxi rides are typically anywhere from US$20-80 for an average ride.  If you are taking 2-3 taxi rides per day, it will likely be more expensive than renting a car. But many tours will take you to many popular destinations in a single day which will provide savings versus booking taxi rides to each place individually.

If you are on a really tight budget, utilizing the minibus system is a good way to save a ton of money.  But be prepared to be more flexible with timing.  And also lose some time on your trip waiting for buses, and walking to bus stops.  It is the best way to experience St. Lucia like a local, rather than a tourist.  But in our experience, if you have white skin, nobody is going to confuse you for a local.  Luckily, the St. Lucian people are generally very welcoming and cheerful.

If you have the financial means, a helicopter transfer along the west coast would be a really cool way to start or end your trip.

I hope this guide is helpful for deciding how to get around St. Lucia!

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Let her inspire you, find your inspiration, saint lucia is no ordinary island.

Equal parts beauty and mystique, Saint Lucia captivates anyone who sets foot on her coastline. Always evocative, she welcomes visitors with her soothing waves, warm beaches, and hospitable people. The only sovereign nation to be named for a woman, the island personifies adventure and inspiration. Her visitors invariably find themselves reluctant to leave and eager to return.

Limitless Inspiration

Imagine yourself reclining on the sandy white beaches, soaking in the volcanic mud baths of Soufrière, ziplining through lush rainforests, indulging in authentic island food, club-hopping on the Rodney Bay strip, and riding ATVs through the countryside. Envision exploring abandoned sugar plantations, snorkeling in crystal clear waters, chasing brightly colored fish in the shadow of the Pitons, or experiencing a live sea turtle hatching in the last light of dusk.

Get Social!

Stay in Informed on what’s happening in Saint Lucia and what visitors are saying about our island.

Eat & Drink

Saint Lucia’s foodie experience is truly one-of-a-kind and world-class.

There are plenty of family activities in Saint Lucia both on the land and sea.

Nature & Adventure

Here you have the opportunity to experience the adventure of a lifetime.

Sep 4, 2021 • 8 min read

With its lush tropical landscape, St Lucia is often considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean © Jens Karlsson / Getty Images

The unspoiled, natural beauty of St Lucia offers ample opportunity for hiking excursions. The Helen of the West is a volcanic island, with a mountainous southern region, an abundance of waterfalls and verdant rainforests to traverse.

Here’s a look at some of the best hikes in St Lucia. 

Pigeon Island National Park

Best hike for history lovers, 1.3 miles (2.1km) round trip, 2 hours, moderate.

Pigeon Island , used to be an isolated island off the shores of St Lucia’s mainland until a causeway was constructed to link the two in 1972. A strategic outpost, as the British and French battled for control of the island, this is one of the most important landmarks in St Lucian history.

Between 1779 to 1782, Admiral George Rodney occupied this area to keep his eye trained on the French naval base in nearby French territory Martinique .

The National Park is sprawled across 44 acres of land at the northern tip of the island. It’s easily accessible by bus or taxi and there’s adequate parking outside if traveling by rental car. Once inside, the trail is well marked and it’s an easy walk on a stone path that eventually leads to some steps to the first lookout point. The stairs are flanked by a wooden railing for extra support. 

Keep climbing to reach Fort Rodney (225ft). Besides the breathtaking 360-degree view of the northwest coastline, you will also find the remains of the military fort, a cannon and a powder room. It’s a simple hike that can be managed without a guide but one would be useful to truly dive into the fort’s history. 

Signal Hill (330 ft) is the higher of the two peaks and a more difficult climb meant for the more seasoned hiker. The large rocks and loose gravel littering the trail adds to the challenge but you will be richly rewarded with stunning views. 

You might even see Martinique on a clear day. If you’re not up for the trek, head back down to the park and sprawl out on the well-manicured lawn or cool off at one of two white-sand beaches on the premises. History buffs will want to visit the ruins and other relics from the colonial wars including an officers’ kitchen and soldiers’ barracks. 

Mount Pimard

Best hike for families, 1.7 miles (2.7km) round trip, 2 hours, moderate.

Mount Pimard is nestled in Rodney Bay, the epicenter of nightlife in St Lucia, and just steps from Reduit Beach aka “The Ramp”. 

The Mount Pimard Trail is an out and back trail that starts off with a wide straight path that leads to Pebble Beach, where you’ll meet fishing enthusiasts. It’s an easy 10-minute walk and you might even run into Segway riders touring along the nature trail. Once you get past the beach to the official base, the intensity steadily increases during this 45-minute, nearly one-mile journey uphill that includes a fantastic vantage point for sunsets. 

The final 20 minutes of the gravelly and sometimes muddy terrain are the most strenuous and require the assistance of readily available ropes to make the arduous climb. At the peak are sweeping views of Rodney Bay, Pigeon Island and even the famed Pitons. 

Along the way are bunkers used to store food items and equipment when the American military was stationed on the island during World War II, an abandoned gazebo and the Stone Face Fish Pond where you can feed fresh-water fish. 

On a beautiful day, visitors can also get an unfettered view of Mount Gimie, which at 3117 ft. is the tallest mountain in St Lucia . The close proximity to Rodney Bay means that families can enjoy a meal at one of several nearby establishments or hit the beach post-hike. 

St. Lucia’s best beaches  

Piton Flore Trail

Best hike to see wildlife, 1.8 miles (2.9km) round trip, 2 hours, moderate.

The Piton Flore Trail is a loop that takes you into St Lucia’s rainforest, from the Forestiere community in South-East Castries. The trailhead starts off with approximately 600 man-made steps taking you to the Old French Road before a right turn takes you to the steep slope of Piton Flore.

This can quickly turn into a slippery slog if wet but manageable if dry. The humidity of the rainforest means a naturally soggy underfoot, plastered in leaves. A good pair of hiking boots is essential to finding your footing. 

This hike is a great opportunity to catch a glimpse of the vibrant St Lucia parrot (Amazona Versicolor), which is only found on the island and is an endangered species. 

Be on the lookout also for exotic plants, mongooses and snakes. The boa constrictor is non-poisonous and non-aggressive but avoid the poisonous and aggressive fer-de-lance (Tête Chien). A guide from the Forestry Department is highly recommended both for safety and their vast knowledge of the flora, fauna and wildlife in the area.

Tet Paul Nature Trail

Best easy hike, 0.62 miles (1 km) round trip, 45 mins to 1 hour, easy.

The circular Tet Paul Nature Trail in Soufrière is perfect for all ages and fitness levels. A leisurely walk up a winding staircase provides spectacular views of the Pitons and the wide expanse of the southernmost Vieux-Fort town without a four-hour climb. 

Depending on the time of year, you might be able to sample some of the local fruits in season like guava, avocado and soursop. As you hike through the nature reserve you’ll also encounter traditional medicinal plants. 

Gros Piton Nature Trail

Best hike for the adventurous, 2.9 miles (4.7km) round trip, 4-6 hours, hard.

Measuring 2619 ft-high (786 m), Gros Piton is the taller of the much-lauded twin peaks in St Lucia. The trailhead is accessed through the community of Fond Gens Libre, meaning “valley of the free people.” 

The trail cuts through the heavily shaded rainforest and is dominated by large boulders and steps organically fashioned from tree roots. While the canopy of trees protects you from direct sunlight, it also makes for a humid, muggy trek. Hydration will be key to successfully completing the climb, which is sectioned off into four quarters, each ending with a rest spot and fantastic scenery. 

The first is the least taxing and ends with a snapshot of the Choiseul Village coastline. The level of difficulty increases from the second quarter with a quick rise in elevation but provides glimpses of Petit Piton and a 200-year old mango tree at the 3/4 mark.  

The second half is a grueling scramble as you clutch onto high rocks on the practically vertical path, but there are wooden rails and handholds to cling to. There are technically two peaks. 

The south summit view covers the entire southern landscape and ocean. A further 10-minute walk off to the side takes you to the north summit and a stunning, unobstructed view of Petit Piton. 

As magnificent as the views are, the real highlight of a Gros- Piton hike is the locally made ice cream and ice-lollies at a tiny shop tucked away near the foot of the peak. 

The uneven and slippery terrain makes the descent harder than the ascent and is tough on the joints. A hiking stick is advisable. Hiking Gros Piton without a guide is definitely not recommended and should not be attempted on a rainy day or shortly after rainfall. Start as early as possible to avoid high midday temps. 

Petit Piton Trail

Best hike for the views , 0.99 miles (1.6km) round trip, 3-4 hours, hard.

The shorter of the iconic twin peaks (2,461 ft/ 739 m) is also the more unforgiving. The trail starts out innocently enough with an ascent into the forest over some large rocks. But it goes from zero to 60 quickly as you start clutching at roots and stones to help maneuver the extremely precipitous climb. 

The second half will test your upper body strength as it requires a lot of rope work to hoist yourself to the top. Light rock climbing shoes would be more appropriate here than bulky hiking boots. This is a trail best suited for a seasoned hiker and a journey that should always be made with a highly experienced guide. 

However, the infinitely beautiful view from the small summit is easily the best in St. Lucia and makes it all worth the effort. 

Best hike for a hidden waterfall

2 miles (3.2km) round trip, 2-3 hours, hard.

A quick search for waterfalls in St Lucia will yield the more popular spots like Toraille Waterfall , the Diamond Falls and LaTille Falls . But if you’re looking for an oasis unencumbered by throngs of tourists, head to the southern sanctuary of Belle Vue in Vieux-Fort. 

Getting there will require a guide, patience, endurance and proper footwear, especially after rainfall. At times it may even feel like a parkour course as you navigate the downward slope of the muddy hills with a rope. 

But after making your way through the thick brush the payoff is a cascading waterfall and plunge pool. 

Tips for hiking in St Lucia

• The sun tends to be scorching around midday so it’s best to plan your hikes, particularly long ones, for early in the day. Late afternoon will suffice for shorter treks. 
• Carry water and a light snack, especially if hiking with kids. Don’t forget your hat and sunscreen as well. 
• While some trails are manageable on your own, it is highly recommended to always enlist the services of an experienced guide, especially on more treacherous hikes. Steep, vertical climbs like Petit Piton are not sanctioned by the St. Lucia government and calls for a mandatory guide. 
• Most hiking trails are located in areas that charge a fee for entry. 
• The rainy season runs from June to November, so your best chance for dry weather is in the earlier months. 
• Consider carrying a change of clothes along for long, intense hikes where you may need to use your hands to navigate the terrain. 

You might also like: 

Pitons and beyond: St Luca’s top outdoor adventures How to get off-the-beaten track in St Lucia  Top 10 experiences in St Lucia 

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Caraïbes: à la découverte de l'île de sainte-lucie [voyage aux antilles].

Sainte-Lucie (Saint Lucia) en quelques mots

Situation et géographie, monnaie et langues, comment se rendre à sainte-lucie.

• A moins d'être bien sûr(e) d'avoir le pied marin, il vaut mieux s'installer à l'arrière du bateau, choisir une place dans le sens de la marche et si on veut être près des fenêtres il faut éviter d'être du côté où les vagues frappent la coque (ne pas hésiter à demander au pilote).
• Autre détail, pour avoir les meilleures places, il faut arriver tôt avant le départ!
• Si vous ne supportez pas le bruit, pensez à prendre des boules Qiès, le bruit du moteur peut être assourdissant.
• Les comprimés contre le mal de mer peuvent aussi être une bonne solution.
• Enfin, pensez à la crème solaire (plus chapeau/lunettes de soleil) surtout si vous voyagez près des fenêtres, on attrape plus facilement des coups de soleil (j'ai rarement autant bronzé en si peu de temps malgré ma capeline).

Que faire en 3 Jours à Sainte-Lucie?

Roadtrip vers le Sud de Sainte-Lucie - Soufrière

Friday Nigth à Gros Islet

Les plages et les côtes.

Roadtrip vers le Nord de Sainte-Lucie - Cap Estate et Pigeon Island

One Weekend in Port St. Lucie: The Ultimate 3-Day Port St. Lucie Itinerary

Port St. Lucie, Florida, is a medium-sized city that offers large amounts of fun! Located about two hours south of Orlando along the east coast of Florida, Port St. Lucie is a hidden gem that is fast becoming one of the most sought-after living destinations in the United States. Offering everything from world-class golf courses, nature preserves, and white sandy beaches, Port St. Lucie is the vacationer’s dream. If you are looking for a weekend full of sun, sand, and saltwater, here is the perfect 3-day Port St. Lucie itinerary for you!

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Table of Contents

How Do I Get To Port St. Lucie?

There isn’t a major airport in Port St. Lucie, but many are just a short drive away. Palm Beach International is the closest; however, you aren’t more than a hundred miles away from whichever airport you choose.

• Palm Beach International Airport – 45.1 miles away
• Orlando – Melbourne International Airport – 58.8 miles away
• Ft. Lauderdale – Hollywood International Airport – 85.4 miles away
• Orlando International Airport – 98.0 miles away

Tips! After arriving, head to baggage pick up as quickly as possible. Due to the large size of the airports, getting your luggage can be difficult, and beating the crowds is your best bet to getting out of the airport in a decent amount of time. Also, have your GPS set the moment you enter your vehicle to avoid getting lost in the maze of the airport’s parking lot.

You will need to rent a car since no public transportation is readily available to get to Port St. Lucie. Once there, you can use the trolley system, but it is not the ideal way to get around and may not go to all the destinations you want to visit.

Tip! Use the Discover Cars Search Engine to find the best rental car deal!

What Is The Best Time To Visit Port St. Lucie?

As with most cities in south Florida, Port St. Lucie sees a lot of sunshine. Although beautiful, the sun shining means hot temperatures. Depending on your vacation goals, the best time to visit will vary. If you’re looking to spend the day at the beach, tanning, and swimming, summer is ideal for you. Winter may be your best bet when the temperatures are milder if you want to get in a round of eighteen holes. Here is a list of seasons, with their temperatures and weather patterns, to see which is best for you.

• Summer (June – August) – 75 – 90 degrees. Afternoon thunderstorms are common but typically only last around thirty minutes. The humidity is high, and the sun sets around 9:00 P.M.
• Fall (September – November) – 64 – 89 degrees. Thunderstorms are less common, and the humidity begins to drop. Sunset is around 5:30 P.M.
• Winter (December – February) – 55 – 76 degrees. Limited rainfall and humidity. Sunset is around 6:20 P.M.
• Spring (March – May) – 60 – 85 degrees. Afternoon thunderstorms begin again, with more full rainy days occurring. The humidity begins picking up, and sunset is around 8:11 P.M.

A fantastic aspect of Port St. Lucie is the number of festivals thrown for almost any occasion. The fourth of July is noteworthy, as the fireworks display lasts over thirty minutes and is beautiful. There are festivals for St. Patrick’s day and Oktoberfest, and many celebrate different ethnic foods and traditions.

Where Should I Stay In Port St. Lucie?

There are many choices for lodging in Port St. Lucie, so to find the perfect place for you, you simply have to decide what you enjoy doing the most.

City Center

If you enjoy going to festivals and shopping, staying near the city center is your best bet. The town hub for all activities is the civic center located smack dab in the middle of downtown. All the shopping you could ever want is right there, including the mall, tourist shops, and specialty stores. The only downside to staying near the city center is its distance from the beach and the golf course.

Recommended Lodging in the City Center:

• TownePlace Suites
• Hampton Inn & Suites
• Homewood Suites

Staying along the beach is a beautiful and popular option. Whether you choose to stay in quaint Jensen Beach, historic Ft. Pierce, or high-end Hutchinson Island, you can select many beachfront hotel options. Staying beachside means access to all the fun the water has to offer. Kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, and of course, swimming are all right outside your door. Keep in mind if you choose to stay near the beach, you are farther from the state parks, which offer hiking, bird and gator watching, and cycling. You are also the farthest distance from the golf courses.

Recommended Lodging Beachside:

• Beachfront Inn – South Hutchinson Island
• Old Colorado Inn – Downtown Stuart
• River Palm Waterfront Cottages – Historic Ft. Pierce

Golfcourse Adjacent

Port St. Lucie is home to the fabulous award-winning PGA Village, which offers world-class golfing and amenities. There are hotels located along the course, or you can choose to stay at an Airbnb, which is an excellent option for larger groups. Many restaurants are located nearby in St. Lucie West and the Tradition area, which is also known to hold festivals throughout the year. The only downside to choosing this location is its long distance to the beach.

Recommended Lodging near the PGA Village:

• Sheraton PGA Vacation Resort
• Hilton Garden Inn at PGA Village
• Airbnb PGA Village

Sample 3-Day Port St. Lucie Itinerary

Day 1 in port st. lucie:.

Savannas Preserve State Park ( estimated time 8:00 am – 10:00 am )

Savannas Preserve offers hiking trails, kayaking, and bird-watching. The pier is a beautiful place to sit with your morning coffee and watch the animals waking up along the lakes. It’s not uncommon to spot gators, herons, and otters.

The National Navy SEAL Museum ( estimated time 10:00 am – 12:00 pm)

The National Navy Museum is the only museum dedicated to preserving the United States Navy SEALS history. With indoor and outdoor exhibits, it’s a must-stop location for anyone interested in learning more about the Navy SEALS.

Jensen Beach ( estimated time 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm)

Jensen Beach is the local’s beach of choice. It boasts a quaint restaurant and boardwalk, volleyball courts, pavilions, bbq stations, and miles of white sandy beaches. The ocean here is almost always clear and ideal for swimming.

River Park Marina ( estimated time 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm)

River Park Marina offers boat and kayak rentals as well as fishing and a playground for kids. The boat dock launches along the beautiful tree-lined waterways of the St. Lucie River Estuary. You will enjoy watching the wildlife as you paddle peacefully down the calm watershed.

New England Fish Market ( estimated time 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm)

Another local favorite, the New England Fish Market , offers fresh-caught seafood cooked to perfection. Although slightly on the pricier side, the portions are generous, and the quality is second to none.

Downtown Stuart ( estimated time 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm)

Downtown Stuart offers exciting nightlife with a small-town feel. Listen to free a concert from an amphitheater overlooking the St. Lucie River or peruse the many small shops, restaurants, and bars. Meander your way along streets lined with twinkling lights as you take in the ambiance and excitement.

Day 2 in Port St. Lucie:

PGA Golf Club ( estimated time 8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Spend the morning with 18 rounds on the award-winning PGA golf course. From the impeccably manicured lawn to the beautiful scenery, this will be one of the most memorable rounds of golf you’ve ever played.

Tradition Towne Square ( estimated time 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm )

Tradition offers a small-town environment without sacrificing modern conveniences. Have a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, then get ice cream and walk through the park as you take in the beautiful lake views. There are playgrounds for kids and often fun festivals to visit.

PopStroke ( estimated time 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm )

Continue your golf-themed day with mini golf at PopStroke. With a bar and T.V.-lined eating area, you can relax and unwind while having a blast on the fun-filled course.

Sunrise Theater ( estimated time 5:00 pm – 10:00 )

Take in a show at the historic Sunrise Theater. Step back in time with the velvet-lined seats and gorgeous architecture.

Day 3 in Port St. Lucie:

Scenic drive along A1A ( estimated time 8:00 am -12:00 pm )

Enjoy the views as you drive along this water adjacent road. Stretching for miles, you will feel like you stepped into a movie with stately houses and winding turns.

Elliot Museum ( estimated time 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm )

Classic car lovers will rejoice in this modern set museum. Take in row after row of cars from a bygone era.

Urban Air Adventure Park ( estimated time 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Family-friendly and exciting, release your inner child at this all-inclusive adventure park. Ziplines, trampolines, and bounce houses are only some of the fun awaiting you.

  Historic Downtown Ft. Pierce ( estimated time 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm )

 Walk along the historic downtown Ft. Pierce cityscape and take in the beautiful sights and sounds Ft. Pierce has to offer.

Keep Reading :: The Best Things to do near Orlando BESIDES the Theme Parks!

Other Things To Do In Port St. Lucie:

Honorable mentions for activities in Port St. Lucie include:

• Mulligans Bar and Grill – Another favorite local restaurant. Prices range from $ to $$. Arrive early to guarantee seating.
• Treasure Coast Mall – Enjoy shopping and dining. Prices range from $ to $$
• Horseback Beach Tours – Ride along the beach on horseback. Price $$
• First Data Field – Spring training field for the New York Mets. Price $

Tips To Know Before Visiting Port St. Lucie:

Having a vehicle is essential, as most destinations are too far apart to walk, and public transit does not go to every location. Allow enough time to travel in between destinations when planning your schedule.

Port St. Lucie Packing List:

Below is a list of a few items to bring when vacationing in Port St. Lucie.

• Walking shoes
• Camera (and maybe a gopro for some cool underwater pics)
• Hiking shoes ( Keens are my favorite…waterproof and comfy!)

If you made it this far, I am sure you are completely ready to spend one weekend in Port St. Lucie. With the sparkling beaches, charming boardwalks, and unique restaurants, you may never want to leave!

Come share your Port St Lucie pictures and memories with me on Instagram !

Hey hey! I'm Jordan, a full-time elementary teacher with a side of freelance writing/travel blogging. As much as I LOVE to travel, I also enjoy routine, being home, and sleeping in my own cozy bed. Anyone else?  Enter...weekend getaways! I'm hoping you find this to be your one-stop-shop to plan your next USA weekend trip (with or without your pup).

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St Lucia: How to Spend Your Cruise Day Ashore

St Lucia is a very common stop for many Caribbean cruise liners. It’s volcanic formation has resulted in a very mountainous island with challenging roads that provide stunning views literally around every corner.

And I mean literally. If you blink, you’ll miss one.

We disembarked our ship – the Regal Princess – in Castries, which is on the west coast. The beaches are up north and other activities worth doing are down south.

It’s an island of reasonable size – 617 square kilometres – but driving anywhere takes time because the roads are so slow due to their winding nature up and down mountains. So the first thing to realise is you won’t be able to see everything.

When visiting St Lucia on a cruise, you have a few options: do an official cruise shore excursion, hire a car, or hire a guided taxi ride for the day.

Cruise excursions are always overpriced, and you spend your day on tour in a bus full of other people. Hiring a car is risky because cars on islands sell out quickly, and sometimes they don’t even honour your booking (I saw both of these happen this week). Lastly, as you exit the terminal you will no doubt be bombarded with tour and taxi salespeople, which generally feels like its own red flag.

It can be easy to immediately disregard these hawkers but I encourage you to actually ask around. They have different options and you’ll be able to find something you want to do. The prices vary depending on how many are in your group and you will get your own private taxi driver/tour guide for the day, which will give you as much (or as little) flexibility as  you need.

To give an idea on pricing, we had a group of 5 adults, who paid $45 each, but my parents also did their own (similar) tour and they paid $60 each, so the more you have in your group the  cheaper it will be per person.

Driving to Soufriere

We headed south from Castries towards Soufriere, which is a hub of a number of a number of attractions. To get to Soufriere you must drive about 90 minutes up and down at least 10 mountains (I genuinely lost count and the driver had no idea). This is easier said than done, as the road is windy, bumpy, thin, and riddled with potholes.

I was very glad to have taken a private tour at the cruise terminal rather than hiring a car for this reason alone. Although the extra flexibility would have been nice, the drive would have been long and stressful.

That said if you think you can handle yourself on the roads – like if you are from New Zealand which has similar roads – then go right ahead because it would have been cool to stop at one or some of the many local restaurants and bars with what I imagine are magnificent oceanic views.

Despite being so steep and windy – or in more likelihood because of it – it is a spectacular drive. Every gap in the trees is another opportunity to glimpse the stunning mountainous coastline. In typical Caribbean style, many of the houses in the villages are painted in differing pastel colours and looked really pretty from above. One village actually reminded me of Cinque Terre, Italy, being on the coast with coloured houses built closely up he side of a mountain.

Sulphur Springs Volcano

The first stop on the tour was Sulphur Springs Volcano, famed as the Caribbean’s only drive in Volcano. You pay US$12 for your entry which includes a very brief “tour” (or a walk up some steps with a guide), and entry into the mud baths.

It has an elevation of around 300 metres, it last erupted in 1769 and at its hottest point the water and mud is around 100 degrees Celcius.

It was really more of a rock formation with mud than an actual volcano so don’t expect to be seeing too much lava bubbling away. But the steam is obvious and it is a very dramatic location.

The mud bath was a bit fun. The water flows through the springs and at the baths I estimate that it had to have been over 40 degrees celcius. The heat was immediate and made me recoil at first. After you were feeling suitably relaxed they have buckets of the sulphur mud for you to lather up with, wait for it to dry, then wash off in the steaming muddy water.

I’m not much of an exfoliator, but I do think that my skin was noticeably smoother after the mud bath, so it’s not just a gimmick.

It can get really crowded on cruise days as it is a very popular activity, so just be prepared for lots of people – the baths are not very big.

Toraille Waterfall

Our taxi driver took us to Toraille Waterfall, which was a nice waterfall, not to far from the Botanical Gardens. It is a refreshing place for a dip after the mud spa. In fact, many people left the mud on their face to wash off in waterfall as the distance between the two is not far.

We didn’t spend a lot of time in Soufriere unfortunately. We could have, but the day we went was January 2nd, which in St Lucia is still a public holiday for New Years. It was a lovely little seaside town, not much beach, but plenty of local places to eat and drink in well maintained, colourful colonial timber buildings.

There is also an ATM inside the Bank of St Lucia, housed in a beautifully well-preserved colonial building along the main street.

The Pitons are two steep mountains located right on the coast, dominating the landscape of Soufriere and surrounds, reaching a height of around 800 metres. Gros Piton, the larger of the two can be hiked, but it is a very strenuous and steep 2-3 hour hike – and that’s just to reach the summit. Your driver will likely stop at an excellent viewing point on the way into Soufriere.

Due to the length of time it would take to hike, I probably wouldn’t advise doing it as a cruise excursion, because it would be the only activity you’ll have time for. Plus you’ll need to organise a guide and transport there.

Not impossible, but it would be tight.

Marigot Bay

We didn’t go down to the bay itself, and I doubt you would have time on a regular day trip, but our driver did stop at a place with a pretty special view of the bay. The only catch was you had to buy a drink at the place he stopped as it wasn’t just a lookout. Given that beers were only $3, and I was pretty thirsty this was an easy decision to make.

As an added bonus we were treated to a bit of a show as well. As I mentioned, you had buy a drink or at least pay $2 to take some photos and enjoy the view. Some large German guy thought he would try and take advantage of these people by taking his photos and just leaving. The owner lady, who was fairly hefty herself closed the gate and said he couldn’t leave until he paid, which he refused to do.

He pushed her, she pushed back, arms were thrown, the fence was bent, shirts were ripped and police were called. B.man couldn’t handle the excitement and broke into tears, I felt bad for the owner who is just trying to make an honest living and this man on vacation is just trying to take advantage of her for the sake of a couple of bucks.

Discover Castries

When we got back to the terminal, our tour had ended but we still had a couple of hours until “all aboard” so we took a short “taxi” into town to have a poke around. I use the word taxi loosely because it was clearly just some dudes car.

He dropped us near the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and since it was still the New Year’s holiday the whole town happened to be out in droves at a street market nearby.

There was a DJ playing music, stalls with drinks, food, toys, other random wares. Best of all, I didn’t see a single white person apart from our little group.

We missed lunch so we found a lady cooking chicken on a BBQ by the side of the road who sold us a leg and thigh for $2 each. I don’t know how this magical lady did it but the meat was perfectly moist with the skin ever so crispy, all in some delicious home made tomato sauce. It will go down as one of my favourite meals of the trip because of the experience and lack of food poisoning.

We kept walking and since we had a few more dollars to spend we sat down at an outdoor bar and ordered a few beers: Piton, named for the towering mountains “Gros and Perit Piton” near Soufriere. It was another local joint and it was great to be able to sit down and watch the locals go by.

There were so many little bars along this road, many only just larger than a hole in the wall operation. We selected one where we were most sure we wouldn’t get murdered called Triple D’s and had a round of Pitons.

Beaches of St Lucia

Unlike other Caribbean islands, St Lucia is not known for its beaches. In fact many beaches have black sand due to the volcanic nature of the island. While I didn’t visit a single beach on St Lucia, here are a few that had been recommended to me in one form or another.

• Anse Chastanet, near Soufriere
• Anse Mamin, near Soufriere
• Smuggler’s Cove, northern St Lucia
• LaBas Beach, Marigot Bay

Things to Note for visiting St Lucia

Getting a tour the day of at the cruise terminal seems counter-intutive as it feels like you’re just begging to be ripped off. But all things considered I actually think it is the best and most efficient way of seeing a lot of the attractions for a reasonable price with a fair bit flexibility built in. You’ll get a private tour and will pay less than half what you might pay with a cruise line excursion.

The cost of a taxi ride is also mandated by the government and is $20 each way to and from Soufriere, so we figured we might as well get a tour for a similar price.

Our tour cost $45 each with a group of 5. The van seated 14-15 but i think it would be rare that they fill it all the way up. The price would be more per person with a smaller group, I imagine, as they asked me how many people were in our group before giving a price.

St Lucia operates equally in USD (for the benefit of tourists) and the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) at an exchange of around 2.7. Tourist attractions are priced in both and most places will accept either. But know that almost no one accepts credit card so ensure you have enough cash with you to get by. This caught us out and actually had to borrow money from our tour guide.

Take snacks with you because our driver didn’t take us to any lunch spots, yours might not either.

Price of a beer: USD$2.50-$3.00

Currency: USD and Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD).

Local beer: Piton Lager

Local distillery: St Lucia Rum Distillery and Marigot Bay Distillery. Keep an eye out for delicious banana and coconut creme liqueurs.

Make sure to bring: old swimmers (I had some disclolouration on mine from the sulphur springs mud bath)

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Nice article. A bit of a sad situation with the tourist and the owner, but at least the rest of the tour went excellently. You mentioned a village that reminded you of Cinque Terre~ Was it Canaries or another?

It was another, probably half an hour south of canaries. Not sure what it was called. Thanks and glad you liked it :)

Thanks for answering & you’re welcome.

I hope to see some mentions of the USVI’s appeal for the history and nature buffs.

Thanks Angela. Keep an eye out on future posts because I did visit St Thomas (sadly only St. Thomas), and it was beautiful!

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Le road trip ultime à Sainte-Lucie : venez avec nous autour de l’île

Un road trip d’une journée autour de la magnifique île de Sainte-Lucie vous donne un aperçu incroyable de sa beauté naturelle, de nombreuses occasions de vous arrêter pour déguster de délicieux plats et la chance de découvrir l’île comme le font les locaux.

Dans le langage antillais, un « citron vert » n’est pas qu’un agrume. Dans le jargon local, cela signifie sortir, rechercher cette ambiance sociale si décontractée qui fait inextricablement partie de la culture caribéenne. À Sainte-Lucie, il n’y a rien de mieux qu’un tour de l’île : une odyssée d’une journée au cours de laquelle vous suivez le littoral, en faisant plusieurs arrêts en cours de route pour manger, boire et vous baigner dans la rivière.

Les routes de Sainte-Lucie sont un labyrinthe de virages serrés entrecoupés de vues à couper le souffle. Pourtant, la vraie beauté de cette excursion d’une journée complète réside dans l’opportunité de visiter des sites touristiques populaires tels que les Pitons et Sulphur Springs, tout en découvrant le pays comme le ferait un local.

Alors prenez votre crème solaire, un maillot de bain et des chaussures confortables pour découvrir des endroits sous-estimés lors de ce fabuleux road trip d’une journée à travers Sainte-Lucie.

Un tour de l’île de Sainte-Lucie

Début et fin à Castries Environ 70 milles ; 6 à 8 heures

Cette aventure « tour d’île » part de la ville de Castries, en direction de l’ouest via la Millennium Highway. Attendez-vous à un tronçon de route sans cesse sinueux qui ressemble parfois à des montagnes russes au ralenti.

Pour la plupart, le terrain est lisse (à l’exception des nids-de-poule errants). Les tempêtes tropicales ont provoqué des glissements de terrain et de l’érosion au fil des ans. Des travaux routiers sont donc généralement en cours dans le but de réhabiliter la zone et d’améliorer la sécurité routière.

Même si les conducteurs doivent toujours procéder avec prudence, tout inconfort de conduite est compensé par le paysage toujours magnifique. Gardez un œil ouvert sur Marigot Bay, la magnifique crique azur présentée dans le film original. Dr Doolittle film de 1967. Sur la route se trouvent également les Canaries, un charmant village de pêcheurs côtier coloré et photogénique.

Des supermarchés, des épiceries et des stations-service sont disponibles dans presque tous les villages et villes du chemin au cas où vous auriez besoin de faire un arrêt au stand. Les vendeurs perchés de manière précaire au bord de la route sont également une option fiable si vous souhaitez une collation rapide. Attendez-vous à un trajet beaucoup plus fluide – mais non moins pittoresque – sur la boucle de retour vers Castries via la côte est.

Premier arrêt : Plas Kassav

Coincé entre les villages de pêcheurs pittoresques d’Anse-La-Raye et des Canaries dans la communauté d’Anse La Verdure, Plas Kassa est une petite boulangerie familiale en bord de route et incarne la définition d’un endroit troué dans le mur. C’est une étape bienvenue le long de la très longue et sinueuse route de la côte ouest.

La boulangerie est spécialisée dans les gâteaux à la farine de manioc denses et moelleux qui peuvent être sucrés ou salés et qui se déclinent en plus d’une douzaine de saveurs, dont le chocolat, la cerise, la banane, la cannelle, la noix de coco et le poisson salé. Selon l’heure de la journée, vous pouvez assister à l’ensemble du processus de fabrication des gâteaux, depuis l’épluchage et le râpage des tubercules de manioc jusqu’à la cuisson des gâteaux sur des feuilles de bananier sur des charbons ardents. Vous aurez également un aperçu de la forêt tropicale juste en dessous.

Deuxième arrêt : Tet Paul Nature Trail

Vous n’avez pas besoin de réserver des heures pour profiter du sentier naturel Tet Paul, qui s’intègre parfaitement dans cette excursion routière d’une journée. Attendez-vous à une randonnée facile à modérée qui peut être complétée en 45 minutes – c’est aussi une sortie de groupe parfaite.

Tout au long du sentier, vous découvrirez le patrimoine agricole de Sainte-Lucie, la production de manioc, l’horticulture et l’agriculture biologique. Et les vues depuis Tet Paul sont tout simplement phénoménales : d’un seul coup, vous pouvez voir les imposants Pitons, la baie de Jalousie, le Fond Gens Libre, Choiseul, l’île Maria et le Vieux Fort. Les îles voisines St Vincent et la Martinique sont également visibles. Il y a même une petite aire de pique-nique pour prendre un repas et décompresser tout en admirant le paysage.

Les meilleurs parcs et jardins de Sainte-Lucie à explorer

Troisième arrêt : Piton Falls

Les cascades Diamond et Latille sont très populaires auprès des visiteurs de Sainte-Lucie, mais les chutes Piton sont une oasis isolée qui est moins susceptible d’être bondée. Juste à côté de la route menant au Jalousie Resort, la route raide et parfois sinueuse se termine par une courte promenade sur un chemin pavé en direction des chutes.

Au pied d’une série de marches, vous trouverez trois petites piscines d’eau chaude alimentées par de l’eau thermale tombant en cascade sur des rochers glissants. La zone est camouflée par un bosquet dense de forêt tropicale, permettant une retraite tranquille. Le cadre intime, semblable à une grotte, constitue également une fantastique séance de photos – qui vaut bien le petit prix d’entrée.

Quatrième arrêt : Coastline Beach Bar

Juste à côté de l’autoroute Micoud, la plage de sable de Vieux-Fort vous offre à la fois la chance de vous détendre tranquillement et de socialiser avec les locaux. Il y a la bande de sable blanc qui rencontre les eaux turquoise, avec une vue imprenable sur l’île Maria, et il y a aussi une terrasse en bois de marque Heineken avec un auvent en paille qui abrite le Coastline Beach Bar, un repaire local servant des plats fraîchement cuisinés et des plats glacés. bières locales à des prix raisonnables.

Le bar a le genre de bonne ambiance qui pourrait facilement vous convaincre de sauter le reste du voyage et de discuter avec les locaux jusqu’au coucher du soleil. Il se trouve à seulement quelques minutes de l’aéroport international d’Hewanorra, alors pourquoi ne pas y faire une autre visite avant de rentrer chez vous ?

Des forêts tropicales verdoyantes aux villes balnéaires : les 7 meilleures randonnées de Sainte-Lucie

Cinquième arrêt : Tomazo Bread

Puisqu’il est impossible de quitter Sainte-Lucie sans goûter du pain créole, la boulangerie Tomazo devrait figurer en tête de votre liste de visites incontournables. La boulangerie en bord de route est une extension d’une maison familiale et attire toujours une foule d’habitants et de touristes. Rassurez-vous, les marchandises valent largement la peine d’attendre.

Le four extérieur au feu de bois produit de gros pains chauds et croustillants qui se dégustent mieux avec d’épaisses tranches de fromage local ou de beurre. Prenez des chaussons faits maison à la noix de coco et de la courge Lucian au citron vert pour plus tard.

La boulangerie Tomazo apparaîtra sur l’accotement de la route à l’approche du village de Dennery. En cas de doute, faites confiance à votre nez et laissez-vous guider par l’odeur du pain frais.

Dernier arrêt : Mandele Lookout Point

Mandele Lookout Point est un incontournable sur tout itinéraire autour de l’île. Ce point de vue se trouve sur une falaise dominant le village de Dennery, sur la côte est de l’île, et offre une vue imprenable et dégagée sur la ville en contrebas. Prenez un dernier verre pour la route dans l’un des trois bars à proximité. C’est le moyen idéal de terminer une longue journée et de porter un toast à un road trip réussi.

The 10 Best St. Lucia Piton Tours In 2024

Have you heard how amazing St. Lucia Piton tours are? There are a ton of incredible options for tours out there, so how do you choose? I’ve done all the work for you to find out which St. Lucia Piton tours are the actual best ones to take.

LOOKING FOR THE BEST PITON TOURS IN ST. LUCIA?

You’ve come to the right place! All the best St. Lucia Piton tours are featured right here, so you are sure to find the one that fits your particular needs. Every single one of these tours comes very highly rated, and I’ve even highlighted user reviews to help guide you in making your choice.

My husband and I have been to St. Lucia many times over the years, both as a couple and with our kids, so we know the breathtaking beauty of the Pitons firsthand. We’ve seen them when we’ve stayed at all-inclusive resorts , and when we’ve taken Caribbean cruise excursions in St. Lucia .

To experience it yourself, all you have to do is book a tour , and enjoy seeing the amazing St. Lucia Pitons!

Don’t have time to read this whole article?

Book this Land & Sea tour now. It has a perfect ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating!

St. Lucia has something for everyone – pristine beaches, crystal clear water that’s perfect for snorkeling, adventurous zip-lining, – you name it, it’s here. It even boasts the world’s only drive-in volcano and some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Caribbean .

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences or a leisurely exploration, my handpicked selection ensures an incredible encounter with St. Lucia’s natural wonders. Choose from a variety of tours to the Pitons that cater to different preferences and have an unforgettable adventure in this Caribbean paradise.

Book one of these tours as a present for the special Dad in your life , or give Mom a gift she’ll cherish forever : an unforgettable tropical experience. Regardless which of these St. Lucia Piton tours you choose, you know you’re in for a treat!

My Top 3 Picks For Best St. Lucia Piton Tours

Land & sea tour.

Full-Day Catamaran Sightseeing Cruise

St Lucia Private Island Tour

Top 10 st. lucia piton tours, #1. land and sea tour.

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 7 hours | Check Rates And Availability

First and foremost on my list is this full-day combination land and sea tour . From the majestic Pitons to the unique ‘Drive-In Volcano’ and rejuvenating mud baths, this tour takes you on a journey to the island’s top highlights.

You get to bathe in the refreshing waters of Toraille Waterfall, capture stunning photos of the Pitons, and have an epic snorkeling adventure. You also get a delicious lunch featuring authentic St. Lucian cuisine, one of my favorite parts!

If you are looking for a one day trip to see some of St Lucia, this one is a must and worth every penny. Thank you again for making our day a great one to remember! Robert and Carmen ( See more reviews )

Tthis boat and vehicle St. Lucia tour has round trip transport to make everything even easier for you. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden treasures of St. Lucia while enjoying the convenience of provided snorkeling gear and an included local lunch, making it an adventure that easily takes the number 1 spot on my list.

#2. St Lucia Full-Day Catamaran Sightseeing Cruise

Rating: 4 and 1/2 Stars | Tour Length: 8 hours | Check Rates And Availability

Next up is this incredible 8-hour catamaran tour of St. Lucia aboard the ‘Tout Bagay’. You can bask in the sun and sip on refreshing rum drinks from the open bar, while the expert captain and crew take care of everything.

On this St. Lucia tour you get to discover must-see attractions like the sulphur springs, Toraille Waterfall, and the charming town of Soufriere. You can dive into the Caribbean with provided snorkel equipment in Anse Cochon and Marigot Bay. You also get to indulge in a delectable Creole-style buffet lunch and enjoy delicious rum punch on the boat.

This tour was fantastic from beginning to end . To see St. Lucia by sea is simply beautiful. It rivals the best in the world. Kim ( see more reviews )

This full day catamaran sightseeing tour even provides convenient round-trip transportation from your hotel. Join this unforgettable catamaran sightseeing cruise, enjoy the beauty of St. Lucia’s coastline, and create lifelong memories.

#3. St Lucia Private Island Tour

Rating: 4 and 1/2 Stars | Tour Length: 4-6 hours | Check Rates And Availability

Imagine being whisked away through paradise in a fully customized private tour of St. Lucia , tailored to your preferences and interests. You get to explore captivating destinations like Marigot Bay, the Sulphur Springs, the Governor General Mansion, and even the island’s largest banana plantation all at your whim.

This tour also takes you to Castries market, where you can shop and learn about its rich history from your knowledgeable guide. You also get to discover historical sites like Derek Walcott Square and the Cathedral.

During our tour we drove through beautiful villages before making our way to Pitons then the sulphur springs drive-through volcano and mud baths. Ended with a delicious lunch of local cuisine with a spectacular view. We learned a lot about St Lucia during our tour and fell in love with this beautiful island. Highly recommend this tour service !!! Lynnette ( see more reviews )

Complete your private St. Lucia island tour with a visit to the enchanting Soufriere Bay. Here, indulge in a delectable buffet-style local lunch at the Still Beach restaurant, with stunning views of the beach and the majestic Pitons right in front of you.

#4. Private Half Day Charter: St Lucia Boat Tour to Soufriere

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 1-4 hours | Check Rates And Availability

I’ve always been a huge fan of private tours like this one that lets you discover the beauty of St. Lucia on a private boat charter . It’s really the ultimate way to explore the island. Cruise along the stunning west coast, with picturesque views of fishing villages, the iconic Pitons, pristine beaches, and charming bays.

You can choose to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, marvel at the local wildlife with provided snorkel gear, or simply bask in the sun on deck. They even have an open bar serving beer, rum punch, and soft drinks, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

We had the most AMAZING time on this tour! Our two tour guides were amazing, knowledgeable, and took us to the absolute BEST snorkeling spots – and the best part is we were not rushed anywhere, we could take our time exploring and when we were done they’d come get us. MUST DO! Luciana ( see more reviews )

Choose between a morning or afternoon cruise and select the boat size that suits your group. With a private boat, you’ll receive personalized attention and a tailor-made experience. Whether you’re staying on the island or arriving on a cruise ship, this private half day St. Lucia tour is perfect for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure in St. Lucia.

#5. Castries To Pitons Tour In St. Lucia

Rating: 4 and 1/2 Stars | Tour Length: 5 hours | Check Rates And Availability

Experience the best of St. Lucia’s west coast on a small-group minibus tour from Castries to Soufriere . Sit back, relax, and let a professional driver navigate the winding island roads as you enjoy beautiful St. Lucia scenery all around you.

You can be picked up from your hotel or the cruise port, making this an ideal tour whether you’re in St. Lucia for your entire trip or just stopping here on a Caribbean cruise .

This was a great excursion! Our driver, Richard was super! Very engaging and knowledgeable. Had a great time even though the weather was raining. The pitons were beautiful. Would definitely recommend this trip! Jim ( see more reviews )

Explore the lush Botanical Gardens, home to exotic flora and fauna, and see the colorful Diamond Falls. Continue to the famous Sulphur Springs and capture unforgettable photos of the iconic Pitons from a viewpoint above Soufriere.

With round-trip transport included, this small-group St. Lucia tour ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

#6. St. Lucia Catamaran Day Sailing and Sightseeing Tour

This unforgettable full-day catamaran excursion takes you along St. Lucia’s picturesque west coast. You can be picked up from most North island hotels and stop at St. Lucia’s top attractions.

Marvel at the magnificent Pitons, and explore Sulphur Springs, the world’s only drive-in volcano. Take a leisurely stroll through the captivating Diamond Botanical Gardens, where you can witness the breathtaking Diamond Falls amidst tropical flora.

A delicious buffet lunch is also included in your tour. You can even dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean at Anse Cochon Beach for a refreshing swim, and bask in the tropical ambiance.

This was an unforgettable experience! Everyone who comes to visit St. Lucia should do this. The staff was friendly, with a great sense of humor, courteous and kept everyone aboard engaged. The music, dancing, food and drinks definitely enhanced the experience. Ricardo ( see more reviews )

If you’re arriving on a cruise ship, this excursion is the perfect shore activity to make the most of your time in St. Lucia. It’s also the perfect full day St. Lucia tour for anyone staying in the North side of the island.

#7. Private Full Day Charter: St Lucia Boat Tour to Soufriere

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 4-7 hours | Check Rates And Availability

This private speedboat charter from Gros Islet, St. Lucia gives you a unique perspective of this gorgeous Caribbean island. Choose between a 10 or 12 person boat and enjoy the freedom to customize your itinerary according to your preferences.

This tour lets you discover hidden gems of the St. Lucia coastline that are inaccessible by land, and create a schedule that suits your interests. Have epic snorkeling adventures, a rejuvenating mud bath, or visit a captivating volcano. Unlimited refreshing drinks and round-trip hotel transfers are included.

It was a perfect day with lots of customized activities – snorkeling, mud baths and off the beaten path waterfalls! We experienced so much of the island during our private charter. They really made the day memorable. Sarah ( See more reviews )

The beauty of St. Lucia’s coastal wonders truly is evident on this private Soufriere speedboat tour , and you will create memories that will last a lifetime. Book now and embark on a personalized adventure along the stunning shores of St. Lucia.

#8. St Lucia Diamond Mineral Baths, Mud Baths & Waterfall Adventure

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 7 and 1/2 hours | Check Rates And Availability

Next up on my list of best St. Lucia Piton tours is this unique journey through St. Lucia. You’ll be in a small group of only 5 people maximum on this St. Lucia Zen Experience Tour , so every moment is personal and intimate. You can be picked up from any hotel on the island, so you don’t even have to worry about transportation to a pickup point.

You get to stop at the famous Sulphur Springs for a restorative mud bath, and experience the peaceful tropical oasis of the Botanical Gardens.You see the vibrant colors of the Diamond Falls, and even get to swim under the Toraille Waterfall as well.

Do not hesitate to book this trip. Right at the top with one of the best trips ever. This tour is operated by the nicest husband and wife. Bonus that you will be supporting a local, family business… The lunch was delicious at a quaint water mill. We loved the botanical gardens; being beginner gardeners ourselves we were only in awe with some of the familiar and unfamiliar plants. The trip was planned so well and executed perfectly; we cannot thank Nellie enough for looking after us so well. Victor ( see more reviews )

You’ll stop at the Mt. Fortune and Gros Pitons areas for stunning views and photo opportunities of a lifetime and then enjoy a delicious Creole lunch at a local restaurant for a truly authentic St. Lucia experience. This tour to the Diamond Falls, Botanical Gardens, and Sulphur Springs is perfect for your stay in St. Lucia.

#9. Majestic Gros Piton Hike

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 5 hours | Check Rates And Availability

If you’re interested in getting your cardio in while on vacation, this Majestic Gros Piton Hike Tour is for you. They provide convenient hotel or port pickup and drop off, eliminating the stress of figuring out your own transportation.

Learn about and support the conservation efforts of the Piton Hike Reserve, an initiative dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of this remarkable landmark. A knowledgeable guide leads the way as you ascend the easily accessible trail, providing insights about this iconic peak and its twin, Petit Piton.

What a wonderful experience from start to finish!! Dannyboy picked us up and gave us a tour of the island on the way to the Gros Piton and arranged for a private tour guide who was nothing but respectful and knowledgeable…This group made my 40th birthday a day to remember!!! Dannyboy and his crew are top notch. Tiffany ( see more reviews )

Climbing Gros Piton gives you the most incredible panoramic views of the Caribbean, and it’s an experience you don’t want to miss. Best of all, it’s a half-day Gros Piton hike , which allows you to fill the rest of your day with any of the other amazing activities available in St. Lucia.

#10. St. Lucia Highlights Tour

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 6 hours | Check Rates And Availability

You can experience the best of St. Lucia at your own pace with this customizable 6-hour private tour . Accompanied by a friendly and knowledgeable local guide, tailor your itinerary to include the St. Lucia landmarks and attractions that capture your own particular interests, be it cultural, architectural, natural, or historical.

Some popular stops can include Morne Fortune, Fort Charlotte, Sulphur Springs Volcano, Diamond Botanical Gardens, and of course, numerous stunning views of the famous Pitons.

We had a wonderful day trip around beautiful Saint Lucia ! Andre was a great tour guide who told us all about the history of the island and made sure to stop for the many photo opportunities… I would highly recommend Andre and would use his services again ! Hamed ( see more reviews )

Round trip transportation to and from your hotel or the cruise port is provided. This customizable tour of St. Lucia is perfect whether you’re here for a day or here for the entirety of your vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got some questions? Don’t worry, we’ve got the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the famous St. Lucia Pitons.

Where is the best view of the St. Lucia Pitons?

The Pitons can be viewed from many, many places around the island but there are a few spots that boast the most incredible views. Our favorites are as follows:

• Sugar Beach
• The Tet Paul Trail
• Hummingbird Beach
• From the water itself in front of the Pitons
• Paradise Beach

How tall are the Pitons in St. Lucia?

There are two Pitons, or volcanic spires, in St. Lucia.The larger of the two, Gros Piton is approximately 2,619 ft (798 m) tall. Petit Piton is approximately 2,438 ft (743 m) tall.

What should I wear for a Piton tour in St. Lucia?

This entirely depends on which kind of tour you are taking. No matter what you need comfortable clothes and non-slip shoes. You also absolutely need a good sunscreen. This is the sunscreen I recommend , as it doesn’t contain harmful chemicals that damage the delicate tropical ocean life.

If you are taking a boat tour, or are planning on snorkeling, you should wear a swimsuit and bring a towel. If you are hiking the Pitons, you should be sure to have sturdy hiking shoes.

Can you hike the Pitons in St. Lucia without a guide?

Technically the answer to this is yes but it is never recommended to do so . It may not be a legal requirement, but it is strongly advised that you only hike the Pitons accompanied by an experienced guide.

Gros Piton is an easier hike than Petit Piton. It takes anywhere between 2-5 hours to hike Gros Piton. Petit Piton is much more challenging, with no marked trailheads, and primitive ropes that you use to ascend the steeper parts.

Why are the Pitons in St. Lucia famous?

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the St. Lucia Pitons captivate visitors with their grandeur and natural beauty. They are among the world’s largest volcanic plugs, formed by cooled lava within dormant volcanoes. The surrounding marine area boasts vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of aquatic species. The lush tropical forests that blanket the Pitons are home to unique flora and fauna.

With their cultural significance and awe-inspiring presence, the Pitons have become an enduring symbol of Saint Lucia’s natural wonders. Additionally, the renowned Piton beer, crafted by the Windward and Leeward Brewery, further adds to their fame, offering a taste of the island’s rich heritage. You can try this beer on any number of St. Lucia tours. I only wish it was available for purchase in the US!

Final Thoughts On A St. Lucia Piton Tour

The Pitons in St. Lucia are absolutely stunning and I truly believe everyone should be able to experience their beauty in person, at least once in their lifetime. It could be the highlight of your entire trip to St. Lucia!

We featured the best 10 St. Lucia Piton Tours in this article, but if you still can’t decide, let me help you make that choice!

Still unsure about the best St. Lucia Piton tour? I suggest this Land & Sea tour. It has a perfect ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating!

There’s a plethora of ways to catch a glimpse of these awe-inspiring peaks, and it depends on your own preferences. You can choose to see them by land, by sea, or even get up close and personal on a Piton hike.

The tours range in length from just a couple hours to full-day itineraries, ensuring you can see exactly what you want while you’re in St. Lucia. No matter which tour you pick, you get to see incredible natural wonders, gorgeous views, and the peaceful Caribbean Sea!!

Other Helpful Caribbean Information and Resources

My husband and I absolutely LOVE the Caribbean. It’s our go-to vacation location, whether with or without the kids. We visit via cruise ship, we stay in all-inclusive resorts, and go back time and time again. Here are some of our other articles about various Caribbean locations that you may find helpful and informative.

• The Complete Review of Coconut Bay Resort In St. Lucia
• Why You Need To Visit Diamond Falls St. Lucia
• The Best St. Lucia Cruise Excursions
• Sulphur Springs St. Lucia – How To Visit The World’s Only Drive In Volcano
• Dunn’s River Falls Jamaica – What You Need To Know
• The Ultimate All Inclusive Packing List + FREE Printable Checklist
• The Best Stingray City Grand Cayman Tours
• 10 Best Cruise Excursions In Grand Cayman
• 37 Cruise Travel Essentials To Make Your Next Vacation Perfect
• The Ultimate Caribbean Cruise Packing List
• What NOT To Pack For A Caribbean Cruise
• Expert Advice and Tips For First Time Cruisers
• How To Pick A Cruise – Everything You Need To Know
• The Complete Review of Finest Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort
• The Best 10 Costa Maya Cruise Excursions

Hi there! My name is Rachel, and I'm a travel enthusiast, writer, and lifelong learner. With over 16 years of marriage and two amazing kids, I've learned that traveling is one of the best ways to bond and create lasting memories with loved ones. I'll share everything I learn, from tips and tricks to specific product and business reviews, so you can make memories around the world too!

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Marco Island to Port St. Lucie drive

Marco island to port st. lucie road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Marco Island to Port St. Lucie. If you're planning a road trip to Port St. Lucie, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start at Marco Island drive for about 57 minutes

10:57 am   Alligator Alley stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:57 am drive for about 43 minutes

12:40 pm   Everglades National Park stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:40 pm drive for about 36 minutes

2:16 pm  eat at Zinburger Wine & Burger Bar stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:16 pm drive for about 41 minutes

3:57 pm   Delray Beach stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:57 pm drive for about 37 minutes

5:34 pm   Jupiter stay for about 1 hour and leave at 6:34 pm drive for about 40 minutes

7:14 pm  arrive in Port St. Lucie

driving ≈ 4 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Alligator Alley Everglades National Park   (2 mentions) Zinburger Wine & Burger Bar   (4 mentions) Delray Beach   (16 answers)     questions about Delray Beach:         Inexpensive things to do in Delray Beach?         What's the best neighborhood in Delray Beach for a first time visitor?         Hotel recommendation Jupiter   (6 answers)

What are some things to do in Port St. Lucie?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Port St. Lucie.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Port St. Lucie to Marco Island drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

Looking for ideas for more destinations within driving distance of Marco Island? Try searching for places within 3 hours of Marco Island .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Marco Island to Port St. Lucie . Or get a full Marco Island to Port St. Lucie flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Marco Island well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Marco Island!

More info on this route:

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Jacksonville To Miami: 10 Scenic Towns & Cities To Visit During A 10-Day Road Trip

• Road trips offer freedom, adventure, and flexibility, with opportunities to explore charming towns and cities along the way.
• The recommended itinerary along I-95 S from Saint Augustine to Fort Lauderdale includes historic attractions, outdoor activities, and delicious dining options.
• Fort Lauderdale, known as the "Venice of America," offers scenic canals, a vibrant shopping and dining district, and the historic Stranahan House.

Freedom. Adventure. Flexibility. Delicious snacks. Instagrammable photo stops. Local tourism. These are the words that come to mind when considering a road trip, be it a one-day getaway or a journey that spans several days. The world is full of enjoyable excursions: Great Ocean Road in Australia and Trollstigen in Norway are some of the world’s best routes , but the USA also offers numerous beautiful coastal highways and scenic mountain roads .

A continuous drive from Jacksonville to Miami, for instance, via Florida’s Tpke and I-95 S, would span 345.6 miles and take from 5 hours and 29 minutes to 6 hours to complete. Why not make it a pleasant 10-day road trip, with daily halts in charming towns and cities? Here are 10 recommended stops for an unforgettable itinerary along I-95 S, from Saint Augustine to Port Saint Lucie to Fort Lauderdale.

Related: 10 Coastal Towns To See On A California Highway 1 Road Trip

Saint Augustine, St. Johns County

Spanish colonial architecture, america's oldest platted street, and fun for all ages.

Saint Augustine is the U.S.’ oldest continuously occupied European settlement , boasting the nation’s first platted street, gorgeous colonial buildings, and fun for the entire family. It was Florida’s first governor, the Spanish admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, who named the settlement after his troops set foot there on August 28, 1565, on the feast of San Agustín. Today, the city is a major touristic destination, with old town trolley tours, maritime and pirate-related attractions and eateries, wine bars, distilleries, and the nation’s oldest masonry fort.

• Miles From Jacksonville: 40.6
• Best Attractions: Shipwreck Museum (10 am to 5 pm daily; $15/adult); Colonial Quarter; Lighthouse and Maritime Museum (9 am to 6 pm daily; $14.95/adult); Castillo de San Marcos (9 am to 5 pm daily; $15/adult)
• Good Bites: Rockin’ 50’s Eatery ($3 - $13); Old City House Inn and Restaurant ($20 - $45)

Palm Coast, Flagler County

Relaxing resorts and outdoor family-friendly activities.

The Sunshine State offers numerous cities with lively downtown areas , and Palm Coast , although fairly new, makes a worthwhile stop on a long road trip with its dozen parks, scenic beaches, golf courses, fishing and cycling spots, and dolphin and manatee sightings. St. Joe Walkway and Linear Park, in particular, are popular among trekkers and bird watchers.

• Miles From Saint Augustine: 27.9
• Best Attractions: Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa (open 24 hours); Florida Agricultural Museum (Friday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm; Historic Buildings Tour: $12/adult; Animal Tour: $8/person)
• Good Bites: JT’s Seafood Shack ($8 - $50); Captain’s BBQ ($8 - $25)

The popular Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa offers special rates and packages (romance, winter escape, tennis player, military appreciation); advanced booking is recommended.

Daytona Beach, Volusia County

America’s ultimate spring break destination and florida’s tallest lighthouse.

Following Hurricanes Ian and Nicole in 2022, a shipwreck from the 1800s washed up near Daytona Beach ’s Frank Rendon Park. Its remains certainly warrant a stop in the area, but the city itself also has a lot to offer, from top-rated waterparks to flea and farmers' markets to shopping outlets. Not to mention the world-famous Daytona International Speedway, which hosts the annual Daytona 500 race in February .

• Miles From Palm Coast: 30.6
• Best Attractions: Daytona Lagoon (12 to 10 pm, Sunday to 8 pm; general admission from $42.99/adult); Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum (10 am to 6 pm; $ $6.95/adult); The Pier for fishing and dining; Beach Street for cafés and quaint stores

Related: 10-Day New England Road Trip Itinerary

Melbourne, Brevard County

Unspoiled beaches, various festivals, tiki bars, and upscale dining.

Known as The Harbor City, Melbourne was once home to the Ais people and was settled circa 1867. Formerly Crane Creek, it was renamed to honor its first postmaster, Cornthwaite John Hector, who came from Melbourne, Australia. There are countless snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing opportunities, but visitors short on time can simply head to Historic Downtown Melbourne, the main hub for shopping and dining. Annual festivals include the Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival , Melbourne Art Festival, and Oktoberfest .

• Miles From Daytona Beach: 92.2
• Best Activities: Brevard Zoo (9:30 am to 5 pm; $33.95/adult); Melbourne Dolphin Sightseeing Tour (from $34)
• Good Bites : Grills Riverside Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar ($10 - $20); Chart House ($40 - $60)

Brevard Zoo houses 900 animals and also offers kayak tours, train rides, and aerial adventures.

Vero Beach, Indian River County

A hidden gem with beach volleyball, surfing, and trekking opportunities.

Dubbed The Gateway to the Tropics, Vero Beach was voted the 7th Best Small Beach Town in Florida by Southern Living Magazine in 2023, making it an ideal, relaxing, and relatively uncrowded road trip stop. It not only offers scenic trails and fun beach activities but also opera and ballet performances and quaint art galleries.

• Miles From Melbourne: 41.4
• Best Attractions And Activities : McKee Botanical Garden (Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm; $15/adult); Guided Boat Tour (from $189/group); Museum of Art (Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 4:30 pm; Sunday, 1:00 to 4 pm; $12/adult)
• Good Bites: American Icon Brewery ($9 - $16); Citrus Grillhouse ($10 - $40)
• Easy Trail: Lagoon Greenway (2.8 miles, 48 minutes)

Port Saint Lucie, St. Lucie County

Pristine beaches, heritage trails, and the mets.

Named after a small settlement near Jupiter Inlet, which was established on Saint Lucia’s Day in 1566, Port Saint Lucie is famous for being the spring training home to the New York Mets. This scenic area is packed with outdoor fun, natural wonders, and fun things to do with the family , from kayaking in North Fork to spotting wildlife at Savannas Preserve State Park to shopping at Tradition Square.

• Miles From Vero Beach: 33.8
• Best Attractions: Savannas Preserve State Park (8 am to sundown; $3/vehicle); St. Lucie County Aquarium in Fort Pierce (10 am to 4 pm; from noon on Sunday; $4.25/adult)
• Good Bites: Nic Marc Family Diner ($2 - $35); Ristorante Corleone ($70 - $200)
• Easy Trail: Oxbow Perimeter Loop (3.2 miles, 55 minutes)

The James Bond film Moonraker was partially shot in Port St. Lucie.

Related: Travel The US By Car: Here's How Much A Coast-To-Coast Road Trip Will Cost

West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County

A cultural hub with both historic and tech districts.

Not to be confused with neighboring Palm Beach, which lies on the other side of Lake Worth Lagoon, West Palm Beach was home to three Native peoples, the Mayaimi, Jaega, and Ais, before being settled by the Spanish in the 1500s, then the English in the 18th century. Formerly the site of pineapple plantations, it is now a bustling hub with annual outdoor events, palm-studded streets, scenic waterfront views, antique boutiques, and historic neighborhoods. Lovers of Mediterranean revival and mission-style houses would do well to take a stroll along the El Cid district, while those who’d prefer to check out President Kennedy’s Cold War bunker should visit Peanut Island, where they can also kayak and snorkel.

The city’s many electronic vehicle charging stations can be found here .

• Miles From Port Saint Lucie: 47.9
• Best Attractions: Bel Air Historic District; Mango Promenade; Flamingo Park Historic Residential District; Norton Museum of Art (10 am to 5 pm; from 11 am on Sunday; $18/adult); Centennial Square Fountain
• Good Bites: Proper Grit ($8 - $55); Mama Bella Gourmet Market ($2 - $50)
• Getting to Peanut Island: Shuttle boat from Riviera Beach Marina Village (10 am to 3 pm; $25/person)

There are free croquet lessons on Saturdays at the National Croquet Center .

Boca Raton, Palm Beach County

High-end relaxation destination.

Occupied by the Glades people, then the Spanish, then the British, Boca Raton is known for its Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival buildings, most of which were erected in the 1920s. It is one of the best places to retire in the U.S. , thanks to its high-end beachfront condos, exclusive gated communities, year-long warm temperatures, and top-notch golfing facilities.

• Miles From West Palm Beach: 27.4 miles
• Best Attractions: Mizner Park Amphitheater ; The Boca Raton resort; Sugar Sand Park (8 am to 11 pm; 8 am to sunset on Sunday; free; fees apply for carousel, open play, and special events)
• Good Bites: Drift Kitchen & Bar ($15 - $55); Boca Landing ($5 - $20)
• Easy Trail: Pondhawk Natural Area and Blue Lake Loop (2.7 miles, 48 minutes)

Pompano Beach, Broward County

Yearlong cultural events and the nation’s first fire fountain.

Just north of Fort Lauderdale lies another interesting stop: Pompano Beach , named after a fish found off the Atlantic coast and settled by railroad employees in 1896. Its exciting annual cultural events include the Seafood Festival, St. Patrick’s Irish Festival, St. Coleman’s Italian Festival, the Holiday Boat Parade, the Holiday Yuletide Parade, and the Annual Nautical Flea Market.

• Miles From Boca Raton: 11.3
• Best Attractions: Festival Flee Market Mall (10 am to 5 pm; 6 pm on weekends); Fisher Family Pier (7 am to 10 pm; daily fishing: $6; rod rental: $27); North Ocean Park (sunrise to sunset)
• Good Bites: La Vie Lebanese Restaurant ($12 - $38); Calypso Restaurant ($10 - $30)

Related: 10 Scenic Stops On A Road Trip From Los Angeles To Seattle

Fort Lauderdale, Broward County

The venice of america.

The last major stop before reaching Miami is Fort Lauderdale , named after Major William Lauderdale, who led a detachment along the east coast of Florida to seize Seminole agricultural land. Today, the city is known for its scenic canals, bustling Las Olas Boulevard shopping and dining district, relaxing landscaped beachfront promenade, and impressive Millionaires Row. Historic Stranahan House is its oldest surviving home, dating back to 1901. Here is how to spend 48 hours hitting the best highlights of Fort Lauderdale .

• Miles From Pompano Beach: 11.3
• Miles to Miami: 28.9
• Best Attractions and Activities: Stranahan House (guided tours at 1, 2, and 3 pm, from $12); Exclusive Riverfront Gondola Tour ($239/boat); Sailboat Bend Historic District; Segway Fort Lauderdale (from $39/person)
• Good Bites: Pizzaiolo Italian Café ($7 - $15); Mancora Ceviche Bar ($10 - $40); Ichimora ($5 - $20)

Circuit is a phone app for free private rides in electric vehicles.

Rickwood Field road trip -- Part III

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Birmingham’s Rickwood Field – the oldest professional baseball stadium in America, standing since 1910, and the former home of the Negro American League’s Birmingham Black Barons – hosted Minor League Baseball and Major League Baseball games this week, and on the way to the hallowed ground, MLB Pipeline took a

Birmingham’s Rickwood Field – the oldest professional baseball stadium in America, standing since 1910, and the former home of the Negro American League’s Birmingham Black Barons – hosted Minor League Baseball and Major League Baseball games this week, and on the way to the hallowed ground, MLB Pipeline took a road trip through Florida and Alabama in search of more stories that tell the history of Black baseball in the South. Part I of that trip, covering stops in Daytona Beach and Jacksonville, is available to read here . Part II, covering Mobile and Montgomery, is here .

BIRMINGHAM, NEGRO SOUTHERN LEAGUE MUSEUM

Opened in August 2015, the Negro Southern League Museum sits one block north of Double-A Birmingham’s home ballpark Regions Field, making baseball squarely a focus of the city’s Southside neighborhood.

The museum works as a joint effort by the Center for Negro League Baseball Research (headed by Dr. Layton Revel), which provides most of the artifacts on display, and the City of Birmingham. While the city isn’t in the official name itself, it might as well be with the way the entire experience tells the story of Birmingham baseball from the Industrial League of the 19th century through the Negro Southern League’s Birmingham Black Barons to modern times with local Black athletes like Bo Jackson and Ron “Papa Jack” Jackson.

“If I had to choose one location in the United States, it would be Birmingham, Alabama for the following reasons,” Revel said. “Number one, the Birmingham Black Barons played more Negro League baseball games than any other team that played in the Negro Leagues. Secondly, we have Rickwood Field here, of course. From 1910 to 1963, it was the home field to the Birmingham Black Barons, and it's still here. Third reason is we had the Birmingham Industrial League here. The Birmingham Industrial League was started in the early 1890s, and it sent more players to the Negro Leagues than any other organizations in the country.”

Visitors can stand inches away from the signatures of legends like Hank Aaron, Buck O’Neil and Jackie Robinson. They can gawk at a game-used uniform from Satchel Paige, and feet away from that, they can use a light-based pitching simulator that shows just how fast the right-hander threw his hurry-up ball, hesitation pitch, wobbly ball and midnight rider. An exhibit on women in the Negro Leagues houses a game-used hat, game-used glove and Indianapolis Clowns jersey from Toni Stone. Another highlights the 1948 Birmingham Black Barons – arguably the best in team history that made that year’s Negro League World Series.

There is one corner that will catch a lot of attention this week – the one devoted to Rickwood Field itself. There’s even a broadside advertising the stadium’s first matchup from Aug. 18, 1910 between the Birmingham Barons and Montgomery Climbers.

“It's just a great time to start looking back and try to reclaim some of this history and forge a new path,” said director Anthony C. Williams. “Because we can't really explain why there was a Negro League and a regular league. How do we tell that story to our kids? But it's the truth. So I think now is the time to look back and try to make sense of and to recognize these players who may have gotten left out and to really tell their stories.”

In truth, interest in the Negro Leagues is hitting a 21st-century high.

The “MLB: The Show” video game series has brought new, interactive attention to that period in the game’s history, allowing fans young and old to play as the legends they may have read about or seen in old pictures. Stone, for instance, took on a new level of fame when she was included alongside Josh Gibson, Buck Leonard and Aaron (whom she replaced on the Indianapolis Clowns in 1953) in “Storylines 2.” Kansas City’s Negro Leagues Baseball Museum has expanded to have a national presence, and its president Bob Kendrick served as players’ guide through history in this year’s edition of the game.

Between the Rickwood games and the growing popularity elsewhere, the National Southern League Museum is ready to take its place in the conversation at every level.

“As long as I’m here, my pursuit will be to get this information to as many as possible,” Williams said. “To invite youth organizations, schools, tours, whatever it may be – youth baseball organizations especially – to be able to know these stories. I think once people learn just how important baseball was to this region and how rich the history is, I think the youth will have a different idea of their area. … I think they’ll walk with their heads a little bit higher.”

Those raised heads might pick up one more detail, a quote from Ted Williams about one other local legend and former Black Baron.

“They invented the All-Star Game for Willie Mays."

BIRMINGHAM, RICKWOOD FIELD

Rickwood Field is a cathedral, a museum and a big, beautiful baseball diamond rolled into one.

Tuesday’s MiLB at Rickwood game between Birmingham and Montgomery – the first Minor League contest held at the historic park since 2019 – served as a table-setter for the big week to come. But make no bones about it, it was not simply a dress rehearsal for the MLB game between the Cardinals and Giants two days later.

Rather, it was Rickwood’s first opportunity to show off the improvements that made this whole week possible. A new playing surface that brought it up to MLB standards. A shorter backstop. Improved dugouts over the previous editions that, as Friends of Rickwood chairman and executive director Gerald Watkins, could “fit 12 people on a good day.” New outfield dimensions, most notably bringing in center field from 478 feet to 400. New foul poles. Different lighting.

For this week’s events alone, Major League Baseball installed a Fan Plaza, adorned with signs and graphics celebrating Negro League stars like Cool Papa Bell and Rube Foster.

But one thing that never needed replacing was the aura.

A popular picture spot for fans was in front of the green facade at the original main entrance into the park, throngs wanting to prove they stood on the same grounds as so many of the game’s greats. By one count, 181 Hall of Famers have appeared in games at Rickwood Field, whether it be as Minor Leaguers, Negro Leaguers, barnstormers, Major Leaguers making their way north from Spring Training, etc.

This was where, legend has it, Babe Ruth homered onto a train headed for Atlanta. It’s where Reggie Jackson may have gone even deeper (if we don’t account for locomotive travel). It’s where Fairfield, Alabama’s own Willie Mays suited up for the Birmingham Black Barons. In a statement earlier this week, the 24-time All-Star said, “The first big thing I ever put my mind to was to play at Rickwood Field.”

On Thursday – just before the MLB game – Jackson, speaking on FOX’s pregame show , reminded the audience that baseball in Birmingham doesn’t have as rosy a history as its Rickwood all-time roster would indicate. The first integrated team in Alabama history didn’t play in Rickwood until 1964. Three years later while playing for Birmingham A’s, Jackson was still being told he couldn’t eat in certain restaurants or stay at certain hotels because of the color of his skin.

By 1988, the Southern League club moved to the suburb in Hoover, and while Rickwood was falling into disrepair, production on the 1994 movie “Cobb”, which wanted to use the site for filming, injected new life into the ballpark. High-school and college games became regular affairs, and Minor League Baseball returned for one-off contests called the Rickwood Classic from 1996-2019.

But with the latest effort, locals have been hopeful that Rickwood’s latest revitalization can uplift the entire region.

“For the city of Birmingham, this is like a TV commercial or documentary about the city,” Watkins said. “Citizens past and present, we couldn’t afford to by the attention we’re getting. Not only are people going to be coming to Birmingham, they’re going to coming to grips with Rickwood Field and other sites as well. It’s going to say a lot and do a lot to show how this city changed from the image it had in the ‘60s.”

As for the game itself, it served as the opener in MLB’s Tribute to the Negro Leagues with Montgomery and Birmingham wearing Gray Sox and Black Barons uniforms, respectively. Birmingham natives and Negro League alumni Clinton Forge, Alphonse Holt, Joseph Marbury and Ferdinand Rutledge met with players from both sides and threw out ceremonial first pitches.

The Rays and White Sox prospects weren’t just reading about the history of the game’s oldest professional ballpark; they were direct participants.

“I had to take a couple laps around the field just to see the atmosphere,” said Montgomery center fielder Chandler Simpson, “feel the energy, just to be in the presence of all those greats that came before me.”

The moment was especially not lost on Tampa Bay’s No. 10 prospect, the son of two Atlanta-area educators who had told him about the Negro Leagues beginning when he was around eight years old. His father, Dr. Ralph Simpson, traveled the two hours from Atlanta to Birmingham to witness his son leading off for Montgomery, thus becoming the first official batter in Rickwood’s new-look state.

“We’re all just here to support it,” said the elder Simpson. “He’s embracing what all of this means but knows and understands that he has to go out and produce. A lot of kids, not just African-Americans, are going to follow him because some of those same kids have aspirations and may have a similar-type game. They want to look at him and know that their game will translate.”

Simpson’s game, referenced by his father, is one of a slap-and-dash -- get on base with dinks and dunks into the outfield and keep the pressure on the defense with blazing speed. True to form, the outfielder, who spent two years in Birmingham at UAB before transferring to Georgia Tech, singled to right on the game’s second pitch and stole second and third within the next at-bat. He’d finish the night 3-for-4 with three stolen bases before being lifted for a minor calf injury, pushing his average to .375 and his SB total to 51 – both tops in the full-season Minors.

With Mays being talked about all week as the game’s quintessential five-tool player, Simpson showing off his elite hitting and running skills was no mistake.

“I was sleeping on that last night, and I was dreaming about that and visualizing that today,” he said. “When I got that first hit, I knew I was going to take off no matter what, and I was going to take third.”

Many remained locked into the old-school feel of the Rickwood opener for much of the evening, but murmurs began to spread around the later innings. Mays – the all-time great who roamed this very outfield as a teenager nearly seven decades earlier – had died at 93. An announcement on the newly built electronic scoreboard in right-center confirmed it to those who hadn’t heard.

But instead of giving a Giant of the pastime a moment of silence, the crowd organically turned to what he had more typically heard during his Rickwood days instead – back when folks arrived at the ballpark straight from church in their Sunday best to catch an afternoon game, when Mays and his fellow ’48 Black Barons earned bigger crowds than their white counterparts. They clapped. They cheered. They tipped their hats toward the field.

Willie’s field.

“He was definitely here in spirit throughout the whole game,” Simpson said.

“It definitely hits you a little bit,” Birmingham manager Sergio Santos said. “I think it gives you feedback on what an honor it is not only to wear the jersey but to participate in a game like today. Obviously, baseball is big, but life and death is something bigger. Willie Mays, what a legacy we’re all trying to fulfill and play the game the way he played.”

And so the teams played on, Montgomery holding off a late Birmingham charge to win 6-5. A “Barnstorm Birmingham” celebrity softball game on Wednesday and the Cardinals’ own 6-5 victory over the Giants on Thursday kept the Rickwood festivities going, but our trip ended with the Tuesday opener.

A three-day journey through Florida and Alabama – with stops relating to Jackie Robinson, Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, the Major Leagues, the Minor Leagues, the Negro Leagues, the history of the game, the present of the game, the future of the game – came to an end. It was always culminating in the longtime home of baseball in Birmingham, but Magic City made sure that diamond sparkled for all to see.

“This whole week,” Watkins said, “has made Rickwood Field the center of the baseball universe.”

Sam Dykstra is a reporter for MiLB.com. Follow and interact with him on Twitter, @SamDykstraMiLB .

• Birmingham Barons
• Rickwood Field
• Black History

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Bella Hadid Wears the Naked Dress to End All Naked Dresses

By Hannah Jackson

Anthony Vaccarello finally figured out how to reproduce his collection of ultra-sheer pantyhose dresses. Bella Hadid hit Cannes in look seven from the Saint Laurent fall 2024 show: a halter dress featuring 10 denier hosiery cups, a knotted pantyhose bodice, and a below-the-knee skirt with a control top hemline.

Hadid, styled by Molly Dickson, leaned into the Old Hollywood glamour that has become synonymous with the Cannes Film Festival, adding a pair of mahogany peep-toe ankle strap heels and an enormous pair of drop earrings from Chopard.

This look fits into Hadid’s latest sartorial M.O. of sheer earthy tones that can only be described as “sexy nymph.” While promoting her fragrance, Orebella, in New York, the model wore a diaphanous nude Dior slip dress by John Galliano, as well as a cream-colored Rokh dress with a lace bodice. And yesterday in Cannes, she further explored brown tones in a simple tank dress . But this look—with only some extremely well-placed seams preserving her modesty—is by far her boldest to date.

When asked about how he would manufacture these ephemeral pieces from the collection, Vaccarello told Vogue, “Don’t even ask me about production—I can’t tell you.” This being the first instance the delicate outfits have been spotted on the red carpet speaks to Hadid’s risk-taking style. Even if she is the only person who ever wears one of these sheer Saint Laurent looks out in the world (let’s see if she can make it to the end of the night without any snags) the fact that Vaccarello was readily willing to make one for her speaks to Hadid’s immense power in the fashion industry.

And if this is Hadid’s wardrobe for her first official day of events in Cannes? We can only imagine what’s to come.

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