St Lucia has some of the Caribbean’s loveliest scenery. The island’s famous Pitons - two dramatic volcanic peaks that rise gloriously from the sea - have rightly been designated a UNESCO World Heritage. Holidays in St Lucia are understandably popular but this lovely lush island is a long way from being overdeveloped. Even busy Rodney Bay in the northwest is pretty laid-back. There are sleepy fishing villages to explore although Gros Islet in the North transforms itself every Friday night with a ‘jump-up’ party that is not for the faint-hearted. Accommodation in St Lucia includes some well-run hotels that are great for families, sophisticated all-inclusives and some beautiful hideaways. No wonder this Windward island in the eastern Caribbean is popular with honeymooners. It is all very relaxed and friendly. About a tenth of the island is covered in rainforest and there are some atmospheric mangrove swamps as well as distinctive, bubbling sulphur springs and lovely botanical gardens. St Lucia’s jazz festival is held every May and attracts some world-class acts.
Great coastline with secluded beaches
Dense rainforest
A friendly welcome
Honeymoons
Dressing in camouflage clothing – it is an offence under St Lucian law, even for children.
St Lucia is part of the Commonwealth. British passport holders do not need a visa to enter St Lucia for holidays less than 42 days. (Entry requirements can change without notice so check before travelling.) Any drug offences incur severe penalties. A departure tax is payable when you leave the island.
Daytime temperatures are pretty constant throughout the year. Expect average temperatures of between 26°C/79°F – 29°C/84°F. Temperatures are tempered by the trade winds but July and August can be very hot. The hurricane season runs from June to November.
Flights to St Lucia from the UK take around 9 hours.
Motorists drive on the left hand side of the road in St Lucia. The mountain roads can be steep and narrow with hairpin bends.