Author: Annick
Site: https://www.thecommontraveler.net
The Ultimate Guide for a Perfect Holiday
St Lucia is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. This small Caribbean island has everything a traveler could ever want from stunning beaches to lush rainforests and incredible local cuisine. Our St. Lucia 1 Week Itinerary covers it all!
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, St Lucia has something for everyone and with a well-planned itinerary, you can easily make the most out of your time on the island.
In this article, I’ll be sharing the ultimate 1 week itinerary for St Lucia complete with recommendations on what to do, where to go and where to eat.
Best Time to Visit St Lucia
The best time to visit St Lucia is between December and March. This is the coolest time of year with temperatures reaching the high 70s/low 80s most days.
To save a bit of money, you could also consider visiting St Lucia between May and June which is the shoulder season.
During the shoulder season, the weather is still great but as it’s not the peak season, you’ll get better rates on hotels. The island is also way less crowded during this time.
St Lucia’s rainy season runs from June to November but it doesn’t rain every single day and many people still choose to visit to get really cheap rates.
Getting to St Lucia
St Lucia has two airports but the main international airport is Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) which sits on the southern tip of the island.
There are several airlines that offer direct flights to St Lucia from major cities in the United States, Canada and Europe including American Airlines, Delta, United, Air Canada, JetBlue and British Airways.
You can rent a car to explore the island on your own but there are also many taxis and shuttle buses available at the airport.
Be aware that the roads can be unpaved & rocky in certain parts of the island so I’d avoid renting a car unless you’re super experienced.
St Lucia 1 Week Itinerary
Planning a 1 week itinerary for St Lucia can be a daunting task but with a little bit of research and preparation, you can make the most of your time on this beautiful Caribbean island.
Here is my suggested itinerary that covers all of the best activities and attractions that St Lucia has to offer:
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
After arriving at Hewanorra International Airport, take a taxi to your hotel. Most hotels are between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours from the airport.
Spend the rest of the day relaxing and unwinding after your flight. You deserve it!
St Lucia is famous for its luxurious spas which are perfect for after a long flight. Why not indulge in a relaxing massage, a pampering facial or any other spa treatment that you like.
Let the skilled therapists work their magic, leaving you feeling like a brand-new person.
If spas aren’t your thing, don’t worry! Your hotel probably has other fantastic amenities to help you unwind. Take a dip in the pool, sip on a tropical drink or simply soak up the sun.
You could head down to the beach, let the sand tickle your toes and listen to the soothing sound of the waves crashing against the shore.
Day 2: Piton Mountains
No trip to St Lucia would be complete without a visit to the iconic Piton Mountains which are the symbol of the island.
Gros Piton is the larger of the two, standing at an impressive height of 2,530 feet (771 meters).
Petit Piton, as its name suggests, is smaller but equally captivating, reaching a height of around 2,438 feet (743 meters). Together they form the striking backdrop that is often featured in photos of St Lucia.
Hiking to the summits of Gros Piton and Petit Piton is a popular activity on the island. Whilst the trails can be challenging, the reward is well worth it.
As you get higher, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, lush rainforests and the vibrant blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Surprisingly, the Gros Piton hike is the easier of the two but you do need to go with a guide.
If hiking isn’t your thing then there are alternative ways to experience the beauty of Gros Piton and Petit Piton.
You could take a boat tour along the coast and admire the stunning peaks from the water or relax on a nearby beach like Sugar Beach and appreciate their beauty from the sand.
Afterwards you can dine at the stunning Rabot Restaurant which sits on Hotel Chocolat’s cocoa bean estate.
Situated in Soufriere which is just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Pitons, Rabot Restaurant offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Their food aims to incorporate the flavors of cocoa in both savory and sweet dishes – it’s really quite something!
As you dine, you’ll also be treated to breathtaking views of the Pitons and the surrounding lush tropical landscape in an open-air setting.
Day 3: Soufriere & Sulphur Springs
Start your third day in St Lucia by heading into Soufriere which is a laid back town, nestled between the Piton Mountains, known for its natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture.
Soufriere is steeped in history so taking a walking tour of the city is the best way to explore it.
The town was actually the original French capital of St Lucia and today is still home to several colonial-era buildings including the iconic Soufriere Church. The town’s architecture reflects its colonial past with charming colorful buildings lining its streets.
You can also visit the bustling markets where you can try local fruits, buy some handmade crafts or even just chat with the locals (they’re super friendly).
In the afternoon you should head over to the nearby Sulphur Springs also commonly referred to as the world’s only ‘drive-in volcano’.
The springs are situated on a dormant volcano that has created a unique landscape of hot springs and mud pools. You’ll be able to see bubbling mud pools, steamy vents and the famous sulfur springs which are believed to have therapeutic properties. You can even take a dip in the hot mud baths for a super unique experience. Be warned the mud is really hot!
Afterwards you should head over to Orlando’s Restaurant and Bar in Soufriere which is a local restaurant where you can try some traditional St Lucian cuisine.
Day 4: Beach Day & Snorkeling
St Lucia is known for its beautiful beaches so you should spend your fourth day exploring a few of them.
Anse Chastanet and Sugar Beach are two of the most popular beaches on the island.
Anse Chastanet Beach is nestled between the famous Piton Mountains and is famous for its natural beauty, vibrant marine life and fantastic snorkeling opportunities.
It boasts soft golden sand and crystal clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Anse Chastanet Beach is one of the best places to see turtles in St Lucia as it features pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life. You’ll have the opportunity to come face to face with colorful coral formations, tropical fish, sea turtles and even the occasional octopus.
For something a little quieter and more unknown try Anse Mamin Beach which is a secluded beach that offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Anse Mamin Beach is located just a short distance away from the popular Anse Chastanet Beach. Despite their proximity, Anse Mamin has a much more secluded atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.
The beach features soft golden sand and clear turquoise waters, framed by lush green hills and tropical vegetation.
After a long day of swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing on St Lucia’s beaches, head over to the Jade Mountain Club for dinner.
Jade Mountain Club is known for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the iconic Piton Mountains. The restaurant is perched high above the beach, providing a truly mesmerizing backdrop as you dine.
The restaurant also aims to showcase the flavors of both St Lucia and the Caribbean.
Day 5: Tet Paul Nature Trail & Catamaran Cruise
Start off your fifth day in St Lucia by hiking the Tet Paul Nature Trail which is located near the town of Soufriere. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the island’s lush greenery and soak in some incredible vistas.
It’s a fairly easy and accessible trail, suitable for all fitness levels.
As you make your way along the trail, you’ll be treated to a variety of natural wonders. The landscape is just stunning with vibrant flowers, tropical plants and towering trees surrounding you.
One of the highlights of the Tet Paul Nature Trail is the panoramic view that it offers. As you climb higher, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping vistas of the sparkling Caribbean Sea and the lush valleys below. It also offers one of the best views of the Pitons in St Lucia.
The best part about the Tet Paul Nature Trail is that it’s not just about the scenery. It’s also an opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditions from the friendly guides who are more than happy to share their knowledge of the island’s history, flora and fauna.
They’ll tell you many fascinating stories and legends that will deepen your appreciation for St Lucia.
In the afternoon, head out on a catamaran cruise to see the island from a different perspective.
As the catamaran sets sail, get ready for a picturesque adventure as you cruise up and down St Lucia’s stunning coastline. Get ready to see turquoise waters, lush green hills and a glimpse of the iconic Pitons.
Most catamaran cruises in St Lucia also include stops at some of the island’s hidden gems.
You’ll anchor down at secluded bays and coves where you have the opportunity to dive into the crystal clear waters for a swim. You’ll stop by vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and marine life.
In the evening head over to Martha’s Tables for some delicious Caribbean food.
Day 6: Pigeon Island National Park & Rodney Bay
It’s time to explore the north of the island!
Start your day by heading over to the Pigeon Island National Park which is home to a historic fort, beautiful beaches and scenic hiking trails.
This unique park is situated on a small island that was once separated from the mainland but is now connected by a causeway, making it easily accessible to visitors.
The park is rich in history, dating back to the 18th century when it served as a strategic military outpost. Today it offers a glimpse into St Lucia’s colonial history with well-preserved ruins and structures that tell stories of battles fought centuries ago.
Pigeon Island National Park is also blessed with breathtaking natural beauty. As you wander through the park, you’ll be greeted by scenic trails that wind through forests, past secluded beaches and up to lookout points where you can admire the views of the Caribbean Sea and neighboring islands. Signal Hill is one of the best lookout points on the island.
Pigeon Island National Park is also home to two beautiful beaches – Pigeon Island Beach and the smaller, more secluded Smugglers Cove. These pristine beaches are the perfect place to relax, swim or snorkel.
In the afternoon, you can head over to Rodney Bay which is a popular tourist destination known for its lively atmosphere.
The area is filled with restaurants, bars and cafes that offer a diverse range of options from local Caribbean cuisine to international favorites.
Rodney Bay is also a hub for shopping and entertainment. The Rodney Bay Marina is a hotspot for yacht enthusiasts, with hundreds of luxury yachts and boats docked in the harbor.
Nearby you’ll also find the Rodney Bay Mall and various boutiques where you can grab yourself a unique souvenir to take home with you.
Stick around in Rodney Bay for dinner and, if you’re up for it, stay to witness its exciting nightlife scene. The area is renowned for its vibrant bars, nightclubs and entertainment hotspots.
You can dance the night away to Caribbean beats, enjoy live music performances or simply relax with a cocktail and soak up the lively ambiance.
Day 7: Rum Distillery and Departure
On your final day in St Lucia, it’s time to pack up your bags and get ready for the journey home…
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