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10 Best Things to do in Saint Lucia

10 Best Things to do in Saint Lucia

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Getting ready to visit Saint Lucia? You’ve landed on the right article because we’ve got the ultimate guide to the top 10 things to do on this breathtaking island. 

With beautiful beaches, pristine waters, lush jungle, and the iconic Pitons, there is a TON to see and do in Saint Lucia. The only question is: how to cover it all?

After exploring this Caribbean gem multiple times, we’ve curated a list of activities that capture the island’s essence. From food and rum tastings to snorkeling, horseback riding, and quad biking, this guide has it all. So without further ado, let us help you plan an unforgettable St. Lucian getaway!

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-while-ATVing-in-St. Lucia

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Saint Lucia was this jungle ATV tour. Driving around was so much fun as we saw cool historic landmarks like a sugar plantation and stopped at a beautiful beach.

It’s perfect for beginners or experienced ATV riders!

Check the 900+ reviews and book this tour here!

Things to do in Saint Lucia

1. Full Day Land and Water tour of St Lucia’s Pristine Surroundings

Toraille Waterfall seen on a tour of St Lucia
Toraille Waterfall is one of the most photographed spots in Saint Lucia
The Pitons seen from Jalousie Beach on a tour of St Lucia
We got to snorkel here with the view of The Pitons, how cool is that?
  • Duration: 6.5 hours 
  • Time: 8:30 am 
  • Highlights: Bathing in mud baths and Toraille Waterfall, photo stop at the Pitons, snorkeling at Jalousie Beach, visiting a bat cave, exploring fishing villages, local lunch in Soufriere Bay 
  • Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, local guide, lunch, soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, boat ride, all activities 
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,350+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

If we only had one day to spend in Saint Lucia, this comprehensive land-and-sea-tour is how we would spend it! We love this tour because it does such a great job of showcasing the island’s incredible variety.

The day began with a visit to some charming fishing villages, and then we went on to admire the island’s iconic Pitons. After that, we visited the Sulphur Springs, the world’s only drive-in volcano. We got to smear ourselves in mineral-rich mud and then rinse off in the hot pools. Our skin has never felt softer! 

Next up, we visited Toraille Waterfall, which is both a great place to cool off and one of the island’s top photo spots. What more could you ask for? Then, we had a Saint Lucian feast for lunch, featuring fresh fish, plantains, and tons of perfectly cooked veggies. It was so delicious! 

In the afternoon, we took a boat ride to Jalousie Beach, where we grabbed our snorkeling gear and began exploring the underwater world. We saw tons of coral, tropical fish, and even some sea urchins. Finally, we wrapped up the day with a quick visit to a nearby cave, where we saw lots of sleeping bats. 

This tour is the ultimate blend of nature, culture, and adventure. And we aren’t the only ones who loved it – check out all the raving reviews here! It’s the perfect way to spend your first day in Saint Lucia, as it’s a fun and easy way to get to know the island.

2. Ultimate Jungle ATV Adventure

Daniel-and-Bailey-ride-ATV-through-jungle-in-St. Lucia
ATVs are so much fun!
ATV-on-a-train-in-St Lucia
Going off-road in Cancun is our favorite!
  • Duration: 3 hours 
  • Time: 9 am – 3 pm 
  • Highlights: Exciting ATV ride, exploring Saint Lucia’s tropical forest, riding through farming communities and plantations, seeing historical sites, visiting Grande Anse Beach
  • Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, use of ATV and safety equipment, bottled water or fruit juice, professional instructor and guide 
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check prices here!

This ATV tour is hands down the most fun we’ve ever had here in Saint Lucia! It’s an unforgettable way to take in the island’s lush jungle scenery, and we would do it again in a heartbeat. 

You’ll need at least two people to book this tour, but you can decide whether to share an ATV or have one all to yourself. We shared one ATV and really enjoyed it!

Riding ATVs along Saint Lucia’s breathtaking trails was a true bucket list experience. One thing that really struck us about this tour was the mix of rural charm and vibrant greenery as we drove through the rainforest, plantations, and local villages. It was a great opportunity to see the real Saint Lucia, away from the fancy resorts. 

A highlight of this tour was the Marquis Estate, a former sugar plantation where we saw the remnants of the sugar mill and the slave quarters. It was a dark but interesting insight into the island’s history, and then we went to Grand Anse Beach where we learned a little about turtle conservation. And we’re not kidding when we say that this beach is stunning beyond comparison.  

This tour is suitable for all experience levels. It doesn’t matter whether it’s your first or 50th time riding an ATV – you cannot miss this!

3. Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-a-boat-cruise-in St Lucia
We love the chance to get out on the water!
Bailey-snorkeling-on-a-tour-in-St Lucia
There were colorful fish everywhere
  • Duration: 8 hours 
  • Time: 8:45 am 
  • Highlights: Cruising around the island on a comfy catamaran, sipping rum from the open bar, exploring Morne Coubaril Estate, visiting the Sulphur Springs, swimming in Toraille Waterfall, visiting Soufriere, snorkeling in Anse Cochon and Marigot Bay
  • Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, catamaran ride, unlimited rum and soft drinks, buffet lunch, local guide and crew, live commentary on board, use of snorkeling equipment
  • Rating: 4.5 stars (check 450+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

We won’t lie to you, this catamaran tour of Saint Lucia is one of the most fun days we’ve ever had. And not just in Saint Lucia, either!

We felt like VIPs as we cruised around the island on a comfortable catamaran. We saw some of St. Lucia’s top sights, and the free-flowing rum cocktails didn’t hurt, either.

The crew gave us such a warm welcome as we stepped aboard the Tout Bagay, and before long, we were sailing along the stunning coastline with a glass of punch in our hands.

We took in views of the iconic Pitons in Soufriere Bay, and then we enjoyed our first stop of the day at Toraille Waterfall. We swam and snapped photos, then enjoyed the most delicious Creole lunch at Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park. 

Later on in the day, we relaxed in the mud baths at Sulphur Springs and loved the snorkeling at the postcard-perfect Anse Cochon Beach. The coral reefs here were teeming with marine life, so this was a real highlight for us. 

There are tons of fun activities on the itinerary, but for us, the best part of this tour was that we had so much time to relax on the boat and take in Saint Lucia’s epic scenery. Fair warning, though, this tour books up fast, so we recommend reserving your spot as soon as possible.

4. Diamond Falls Mineral Baths, Mud Baths & Jungle Adventure

Sulpher Springs seen on a tour in St Lucia
The Sulphur Spring mud baths
A plant in a botanical garden in St Lucia
This funny little plant is called “hanging lobster claw”
  • Duration: 7.5 hours 
  • Time: 8 am
  • Highlights: Bathing in sulfuric water and mud pools at Sulphur Springs, visiting the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens and Mineral Baths, swimming at Toraille Waterfall, enjoying views of the Pitons
  • Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, lunch, air-conditioned transport, local guide, admission tickets
  • Rating: 5 stars (check 450+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

If you’re coming to Saint Lucia to relax and unwind, then this mineral and mud baths tour is the perfect way to do just that. We felt utterly rejuvenated after this experience – no wonder it’s so popular! 

The day kicked off with a visit to Sulphur Springs, where we took a mud bath and soaked in the famous black water pools. Not only does it work wonders for the skin, but it’s also just so much fun! Our guides ensured we got the full mud bath experience, and some fun photos.

Next, we visited the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens and Mineral Baths. We had a great time wandering through these picturesque gardens while learning about local plants. Then, we finished up with a soak in the mineral baths, which are said to have healing properties! 

The last stop of the day was Toraille Waterfall, an idyllic spot that’s perfect for a refreshing swim. Oh, and did we mention that it’s one of Saint Lucia’s most famous waterfalls? 

Then, the icing on the cake was a delicious Creole lunch. There was so much yummy food, and it was just what we needed after the day’s adventure.

With its perfectly paced itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and multiple swimming and soaking opportunities, this relaxing tour delivered everything we could have asked for – and more! So if you’re looking to kick back and relax on the island, don’t miss out on this tour.

5. Taste the Island Chocolate Tour from Bean to Bar

Cacao-sits-on-a-tree-at-a-farm-on-a-tour-in-St Lucia
Cacao pods!
Bailey-grinds-cocao-a-traditional-way-in-St Lucia
Grinding the cacao
  • Duration: 2 – 3 hours 
  • Time: 9 am or 1 pm 
  • Highlights: Touring cacao groves in the rainforest, learning how to make your own chocolate bar from scratch, lunch at Hotel Chocolat 
  • Inclusions: Local guide, cocoa estate admission, estate tour, chocolate-making workshop, lunch
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

I have a huge sweet tooth, so of course I just had to book this chocolate-making tour at none other than Hotel Chocolat itself! Not only was it a delicious experience, but discovering Saint Lucia’s chocolate industry is a fantastic way to connect with the island’s culture and heritage. 

The workshop started with an immersive tour of the cacao groves in the rainforest. Walking among the cacao trees and learning how the pods transform into the chocolate we know and love was truly fascinating. We also tasted raw cacao pulp, fresh from the pod, which was an awesome treat! 

Of course, the best part of the tour was the bean-to-bar workshop. We got to craft our very own chocolate bars from scratch, under the guidance of the estate’s experts. It was very hands-on and tasty!

Then, after all of that chocolatey fun, we enjoyed a market-style lunch of cacao-infused dishes at the estate. I ordered a Cacao Burger and Dan got cacao-battered fish and chips. I can honestly say that it was one of the most unique meals we’ve ever had. The fact that we got to enjoy it with spectacular views of the iconic Hotel Chocolat grounds made it even better! 

If you’re a chocoholic like me, then you absolutely cannot miss this tour while you’re in Saint Lucia. It’s like visiting the Chocolate Mothership! 

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.

6. Scenic Aerial Tram, Ziplining and Hiking Adventure

Bailey-ziplines-in-St Lucia
I love a good zipline!
The rainforest in St Lucia
The rainforests here are so lush
  • Duration: 5 hours 
  • Time: 9 am
  • Highlights: Flying through the forest on an 8-cable zipline course, viewing wildlife up close on an aerial tram, hiking along nature trails, spotting wildlife with the help of a naturalist guide
  • Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, aerial tram ride, trail hike, canopy zipline course, naturalist guide, zipline instructor 
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

We’re adventurous travelers and nature lovers, so of course we had to book this Saint Lucia rainforest tour. It perfectly combines wildlife and thrills so as far as we’re concerned it’s the ideal way to explore.

The adventure began with an aerial tram ride above the rainforest canopy. The views were absolutely incredible – I’m talking lush greenery as far as the eye can see, and sightings of exotic birds. We were accompanied by a naturalist guide who shared lots of insights about the forest’s ecosystem with us, which made the experience even more interesting!

Next came the zipline course, which was 8 cables of pure adrenaline! Soaring through the treetops was exhilarating, and each line offered a different perspective of the jungle. The guides were super professional and friendly, too, so we definitely think this tour is a good choice for first-time zipliners.

The final section of the tour was a guided hike along the rainforest trails. We loved ending the tour this way, because it was an active but peaceful way to take in the beauty of the forest.

This tour is a deep dive into the heart of Saint Lucia’s beauty and biodiversity, and it satisfied both the adrenaline junkie and the nature lover within me! Plus, it’s a half-day experience, so you can enjoy a fun-filled morning and then spend the afternoon lounging on the beach.

7. Private Saint Lucia Island Tour with Expert Local Guide

Marigot Bay seen in the morning in St Lucia
We loved exploring and learning about local gems like Marigot Bay with our guide
View of the Pitons from a balcony in St Lucia
Our view of the Pitons after a short hike
  • Duration: 4 – 6 hours 
  • Time: 8:30 am – 10 am 
  • Highlights: Comprehensive island tour, customizable itinerary, visit places like Marigot Bay, the Governor General Mansion, and Sulphur Springs
  • Inclusions: Hotel or cruise pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned private transport, private guide
  • Rating: 4.6 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check prices here!

There’s a ton to see and do in St. Lucia, so if you’re a cruise passenger or simply short on time on the island then we highly recommend this private sightseeing tour. We had such a blast with this fully customizable experience, and we got to see all of the highlights without feeling rushed. 

What’s great about this tour is that the itinerary can be tailored to your interests. We decided to visit Marigot Bay, the historic Government House, and enjoy a quick hike that offered fantastic views of the Pitons. But you could build a totally different day and visit Sulphur Springs or the charming Castries Market. The choice is well and truly yours! 

We loved not having to follow a rigid schedule. Our guide, Adrian, tailored the tour to our preferences and we were able to linger as long as we liked at our favorite scenic points and attractions. The private transportation was a huge bonus as well since we were able to travel all over the island in comfort. 

Honestly, if you’re short on time in Saint Lucia, we can’t think of a better way to do some sightseeing! We had a blast on this tour and since it’s only 4 – 6 hours long, it’s not too tiring, either. 

8. Majestic Horseback Riding Tour on the Beach

People-ride-horseback-on-a-beach-in-St Lucia
Horseback riding on the beach? Yes, please!
Looking-at-people-riding-horses-on-the-beach-in-St Lucia
Such an amazing experience!
  • Duration: 2 hours 
  • Time: 9 am or 2 pm 
  • Highlights: Riding a well-trained horse along beaches and in the water, chance to canter on the sand, exploring Saint Lucia’s stunning beaches 
  • Inclusions: Local guide, horse ride and helmet, bottled water 
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

This horseback riding tour is such a unique way to explore the beaches of Saint Lucia, and it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. We were each matched to a horse that suited our respective ability levels, and our guides ensured we felt comfortable throughout the adventure. 

One thing that really stood out to us about this tour was that we had a chance to canter along the beach. This is often not permitted on horseback tours, so experienced riders should take advantage of this one! 

We both felt totally at ease as we trotted along the beaches and past some stunning natural landscapes. We walked along open trails with breathtaking views of Anse La Voute, and it felt as though we were the only ones there, which was pretty magical. Later on, we also had a chance to take our horses into the water, since the waves were nice and calm that day. 

This tour was a unique way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Saint Lucia, and we would definitely do it again. The horses were so well cared for, and our guides truly couldn’t have been nicer, so this was one of those experiences that left us with warm, fuzzy feelings afterward. 

9. Saint Lucia’s Ultimate Food and Rum Tour

Bailey holds a coconut in St Lucia on a tour
I love fresh coconut!
Food eaten on a tour in St Lucia
Yes, this was as delicious as it looks
  • Duration: 4 – 6 hours 
  • Time: 8 am 
  • Highlights: Visiting local villages, seeing historic and cultural sites, sampling lots of island cuisine, tasting homemade spiced rum, Anse La Raye, Morne Fortune
  • Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, local guide, all food tastings, alcoholic drinks
  • Rating: 5 stars (check 165+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check prices here!

If you want to experience Saint Lucia’s authentic flavors and culture, then this food and rum tour is a must! We loved this tour because it allowed us to get off the beaten tourist path and eat like locals. 

Our guide, Richard, was so warm and welcoming, and he taught us the meaning of Caribbean hospitality. We kicked off the day with a light breakfast of warm bakes and coco tea, and things only got better from there! 

Throughout the tour, Richard shared lots of stories about the island’s history and took us to see villages and landmarks like Anse La Raye and Morne Fortune. Along the way, we sampled everything from savory grilled pork and blood pudding to freshly pickled bananas – we even had fresh coconut! 

We also got to visit a local distillery for a rum tasting, which was so much fun. My favorite stop of the day, though, was at a local farm, where we got to hang out with the owner, Tony. He welcomed us with fresh coconuts and gave us a tour of his lush garden. We also got to pick and eat tropical fruits along the way, and then we roasted cashews together over a wood fire. How cool is that?

We loved all of the food and rum on this tour, but the best part about it was the chance to connect with the heart of the island. It’s the perfect way to break away from the tourist hotspots and experience the real Saint Lucia.

10. Epic Adventure Rainforest Hike and Waterfall Safari 

Island Adventures- St. Lucia people at a waterfall after a hike in St Lucia
We love a good jungle trek to a waterfall! Photo credit: Island Adventures- St. Lucia
Marigot Bay in St Lucia
Our guide stopped to let us get photos of the picturesque Marigot Bay!
  • Duration: 4.5 hours 
  • Time: 7:20 am 
  • Highlights: 4×4 adventure, driving through fruit plantations and lush forests, visiting Anse La Raye, swimming in the Venus Estate Waterfall, tasting fruit at a local plantation
  • Inclusions: Hotel or port pickup and drop-off, local guide, alcoholic drinks, bottled water, admission fees, all activities
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 450+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

Last but not least, this rainforest safari along the west coast of Saint Lucia was an unforgettable adventure. We spent a half day touring through the lush forest and local fruit plantations, and it was a blast from start to finish. 

We were picked up promptly in a 4×4 and before we knew it, we were zooming through the forest. As nature lovers, we appreciated the fact that our guide, Kelvin, was so knowledgeable and helped us to identify a ton of local flora and fauna. Meanwhile, riding in the open-air vehicle allowed us to fully appreciate the stunning views and feel immersed in the natural beauty of the island.

One of the best parts of this tour was visiting the Venus Estate Waterfall. We had time to enjoy its beauty, take photos, and, best of all, enjoy a dip in the cool, clear pools. Exploring Anse La Raye was also a lot of fun, and we loved hearing Kelvin’s stories about the village’s traditions.

After the Venus Estate Waterfall, we stopped at a local plantation to sample some fresh fruit – talk about a delicious bonus! Then, we went for a guided hike through the rainforest, and we didn’t see another soul, so it was the perfect way to get away from the tourist scene. 

This tour is an absolute must-do for nature lovers. It was the perfect mix of exploration and relaxation, and it really allowed us to appreciate the wild charm of Saint Lucia. 

Where to Stay in Saint Lucia

The Harbor Club in Saint Lucia
Photo credit: The Harbor Club

Choosing where to stay in St. Lucia is an important part of planning your trip. While there are plenty of accommodation options across the island, we think the Rodney Bay area is the best choice for most travelers. Staying here puts you close to beaches, restaurants, and shops, and it’s a convenient base for tours, as many operators offer pick-up from this area.

To help you find the perfect spot, I’ve rounded up the best places to stay in St. Lucia for every budget and travel style below!

Luxury – $$$

The Harbor Club by Hilton is a luxurious retreat in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia. This 4-star hotel features elegant, modern rooms with private balconies and marina views. It also boasts four swimming pools (including an infinity pool), a spa, and multiple on-site dining options and bars. With its prime location, world-class service, and stunning amenities, the Harbor Club is our top choice for a luxury stay in St. Lucia!

Prices vary depending on the room category you select but usually range from $350 – $450 USD per night. Check all the options and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

The Bay Gardens Hotel is a fantastic mid-range option in Rodney Bay, offering a comfortable and convenient stay. This charming hotel features bright, spacious rooms with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and private balconies overlooking the garden or pool. Guests can relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy delicious Caribbean cuisine at the on-site restaurant, or take advantage of the complimentary shuttle to the nearby beach.

Prices start at around $190 USD per night and you can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.

Budget – $

The Tropical Breeze Guest House is a great budget-friendly option in St. Lucia, offering simple, clean accommodations for travelers looking to save. Guests can choose between private rooms with en-suite bathrooms or fully furnished apartments with kitchen facilities, making it perfect for short or longer stays. With friendly service and affordable rates, Tropical Breeze is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a relaxed and cost-effective stay in St. Lucia!

Private rooms start at around $80 USD per night. Visit Booking.com to make your reservation.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.

SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.

SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.

Book your travel insurance with SafetyWing here!

Thanks for reading!

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-in-St Lucia
Thanks for reading!

We loved exploring the island paradise that is Saint Lucia and hope you will too after checking out our guide! There’s the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure here, so you can create the exact vacation experience you want.

If you’re looking to visit other nearby destinations, check out all our blogs on the Caribbean. There are so many incredible spots to visit and we spill the beans on all the best things to do in many of them!

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