How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Saint Lucia: 5-Day Itinerary

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Saint Lucia is a destination where lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, turquoise bays, and vibrant Caribbean culture all compete for your attention. With so many incredible things to do, it can be hard to know where to start or what’s truly worth your precious time. That’s where we come in!

After exploring the island ourselves, we’ve narrowed down the must-do experiences and built a five-day itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and local flavor. Here’s how to make the most of your time in Saint Lucia—day by day, stress-free, and filled with unforgettable highlights.

Itinerary Overview

Saint Lucia is an island of lush rainforest, dramatic volcanic peaks, and some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches—all packed into a destination that feels both adventurous and incredibly relaxing. Most travelers stay around Rodney Bay, about a 1-hour drive from the international airport. 

Just keep in mind that the roads can be winding and a bit rough in places, so while renting a car is an option, it’s best approached with caution. You can also rely on taxis, private drivers, or the local minibus system to get around. With all that in mind, you’ll be perfectly set up to explore the island with ease

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect during your five days in Saint Lucia:

Day 1: Kick off your Saint Lucia adventure with breakfast by the marina, a full morning exploring historic Pigeon Island, and an adrenaline-filled ATV tour through rainforest trails and rural villages. End the day with a romantic waterfront dinner in Rodney Bay.

Day 2: Spend the day discovering Saint Lucia’s southern highlights on a land-and-sea tour, from soaking in the Sulphur Springs mud baths to standing under Toraille Waterfall and relaxing at Sugar Beach. Head back to Rodney Bay for a beautiful sunset and an upscale beachfront dinner.

Day 3: Start your day with a bean-to-bar chocolate experience at Hotel Chocolat, then explore Soufrière’s gardens, town center, and scenic beaches. Afterward, make your way back north for a cozy Japanese dinner in Rodney Bay.

Day 4: Dive deeper into local culture on a private food tour that brings you through villages, viewpoints, and family farms. Spend the afternoon exploring Castries before finishing the night with waterfront dining at The Coal Pot.

Day 5: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before soaring through the rainforest on a thrilling ziplining adventure, then unwind on the beaches of Rodney Bay. Wrap up your trip with dinner at Duke’s Place and the iconic Friday Night Street Party—Saint Lucia’s biggest weekly celebration.

Day 1

Breakfast – The Corner Boutique and Café

If your hotel doesn’t offer breakfast, or if you want to start your day a little early and light, The Corner Boutique and Café is a smart pick. Located in the marina district of Rodney Bay Marina in Gros Islet, it’s less than a 10-minute drive from Pigeon Island National Park and opens at 7:30 or 8 am. 

We love it for a few reasons: the waterfront setting makes for a peaceful morning start, and you’ll find both comforting and creative breakfast options—guests rave about the French toast and full English breakfasts. Plus, the café doubles as a boutique, so you can browse for a souvenir or accessory if you’re in the mood to explore a bit before your day kicks off. 

Morning – Spend some time on Pigeon Island

Pigeon Island is one of the best places to start your five days in Saint Lucia. Sitting on the northwest tip of the island in Gros Islet, it’s not only stunning but also packed with history. This small peninsula played a major role in the battles between the British and the French in the 1700s and 1800s, and today it’s preserved as one of the island’s most important heritage sites. 

You’ll find rugged trails, old military fortifications, quiet beaches, and sweeping coastal views. Because Pigeon Island is a national park, there are a few logistics to note. It opens daily at 9:30 am, and we recommend arriving right around then to beat both the heat and the later crowds. 

Entrance is $10 USD, and you can easily spend the entire morning exploring. The area is big enough to wander for hours yet compact enough to see the main highlights without rushing. We suggest starting with a hike while the day is still cool, exploring the ruins afterward, grabbing lunch, and ending at the beach to rest your legs. 

Here are a few of the best things to do inside Pigeon Island National Park:

• Hike to Fort Rodney and Signal Peak – You can complete both viewpoints in about two hours. The climb to Fort Rodney is the easier option and suitable for most travelers, with rewarding views of Rodney Bay. Signal Peak is steeper and more challenging, but the panoramic lookout at the top is incredible if you’re up for the effort.

• Relax on the beach – Compared to many of Saint Lucia’s more popular beaches, Pigeon Island Beach feels calmer and more local. You’ll encounter fewer vendors, but you can still rent loungers and umbrellas if you want a comfortable spot. It’s an ideal place to settle into vacation mode after a morning of walking.

• Explore the military ruins – The island once served as a strategic fort during the battles between the British and French, and today the stone structures, canons, and tunnels are open for visitors to roam. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Saint Lucia’s past and adds a layer of meaning to the gorgeous scenery.

Lunch – The Thirsty Parrot

After a morning of hiking and exploring, you won’t have to go far to find a great lunch spot. There are a handful of casual restaurants clustered near the entrance of Pigeon Island National Park and along the beach, so you can simply wander until something catches your eye. Most places offer a mix of seafood, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks—perfect after a warm morning outdoors.

One place we really enjoyed was The Thirsty Parrot, a laid-back beach bar just steps from the sand. It has a super relaxed vibe, cold drinks, and plenty of shaded seating where you can kick back and watch the water. It’s the kind of spot where you can stay longer than planned without even noticing the time drift by. Just keep in mind that The Thirsty Parrot is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

Afternoon – Ride an ATV through the jungle

If you’re looking to add a dose of adrenaline to your Saint Lucia itinerary, this ATV tour is the perfect pick. Book the 3 pm departure so you can enjoy Pigeon Island in the morning, freshen up, and be ready for this exciting afternoon adventure. 

From the moment the engines rev, this tour becomes an unforgettable way to see a different side of Saint Lucia. You’ll need at least two people to book, and you can choose whether to share an ATV or ride solo. We shared one and thought it was the perfect balance of fun and teamwork. Logistics are easy, too—pickup is free if you’re staying in Gros Islet or Castries, and there’s a small additional fee for Marigot Bay.

The route is a refreshing break from the resort areas and winds through rainforest, rural villages, and old plantation land. A highlight is Marquis Estate, a former sugar plantation with remnants of the mill and slave quarters that offer a meaningful glimpse into the island’s past.

From there, you’ll ride out to Grand Anse Beach, a wild and windswept stretch of coast where guides share insight into local turtle conservation. The scenery is unreal and easily one of the most beautiful spots in Saint Lucia.

The tour wraps up around 6 pm, and you’ll be dropped back at your hotel feeling energized, dusty, and completely thrilled. If you still need convincing—check out the five-star reviews here to see why travelers consistently rank this a top-rated tour!

Don’t miss out—book this thrilling Saint Lucia tour here!

Dinner – Jacques Waterfront Dining

After a full day of exploring, hiking, and adventuring, unwind with a well-deserved dinner at Jacques Waterfront Dining. This French-inspired restaurant sits right on the water in Rodney Bay and offers a relaxed, romantic atmosphere that’s perfect for your first night in Saint Lucia. 

The ambiance is warm, the service is attentive, and the food is consistently excellent—making it a great way to ease into vacation mode. Making a reservation here is recommended, especially if you want a waterfront table, and the restaurant is open 6:30 to 9 pm every evening except Sunday.

For the sake of this itinerary, we recommend staying in Rodney Bay, which makes Jacques an easy and convenient choice for dinner. But if you’re staying elsewhere, feel free to choose something closer to your hotel—there are plenty of great dining options across the island. Either way, your first night in Saint Lucia deserves a special meal, and Jacques is a lovely way to close out your day.

Day 2

Full Day – Explore Saint Lucia by land and water

Kick off day two with one of our top-recommended experiences in Saint Lucia—this full-day tour that makes it incredibly easy to see three of the island’s biggest highlights in one relaxing outing. This tour includes hotel pickup (usually around 8:30 am, though cruise ship schedules can shift it slightly), plus lunch, drinks, and all entrance fees, so you won’t have to worry about a thing. 

Your first major stop is Sulphur Springs, the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano and one of Saint Lucia’s most iconic attractions. Your admission ticket is included, and you’ll get the chance to walk through the geothermal area, learn about the island’s volcanic origins, and even take a dip in the famous mineral-rich mud baths. 

People come from all over the world for this experience. The warm pools, volcanic mud, and steamy atmosphere are unlike anything else on the island!

Next, you’ll cool off at Toraille Waterfall, a beautiful cascade where you can step right under the rushing water for a refreshing natural shower. After that, the tour takes you to Jalousie Beach, also known as Sugar Beach—one of Saint Lucia’s most famous and photogenic stretches of sand. Nestled right between the Pitons, it’s the perfect spot to swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the unreal scenery.

The tour wraps up around 3 to 4 pm, bringing you back to your hotel after a day packed with nature, culture, and some of the island’s most unforgettable sights!

Read the glowing 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

Evening – Catch the sunset

After a full day exploring Saint Lucia’s southern highlights, head back toward Rodney Bay for a relaxing and well-earned sunset moment. You don’t have to go far to find incredible views—Pigeon Island Beach is one of the best places in the area to watch the sky light up in soft pinks and fiery oranges. The calm water, open horizon, and quiet atmosphere make it a peaceful spot to unwind before dinner.

If you still have a bit of energy left, consider hiking up to Fort Rodney again. You did this yesterday in the morning light, but the viewpoint is completely different at golden hour. The sun sets directly over the water, and the panoramic views from the top make it one of the most magical places in Rodney Bay to end the day.

Dinner – Naked Fisherman Restaurant

Once the sun dips below the horizon, make your way to The Naked Fisherman Restaurant, just a quick 6-minute drive from Pigeon Island Beach. This upscale yet relaxed restaurant sits in a beautiful beachfront cove and offers the perfect atmosphere for a memorable dinner. Reservations are recommended (secure your table here), especially if you’re visiting during the busier months or want a prime beachfront table.

Expect a great menu featuring fresh seafood, creative dishes, and an easygoing but refined vibe that feels exactly right after a big day outdoors. It’s the ideal spot to toast to your second night in Saint Lucia, with good food, great ambiance, and a cozy setting right by the water.

Day 3

Morning – Enjoy a chocolate-making experience

Start today with one of the most unique (and tastiest!) experiences in Saint Lucia—this bean-to-bar chocolate workshop at Hotel Chocolat. The estate sits along the southern coast, about 1.5 hours from Rodney Bay, so booking the 9 am or 10 am tour is ideal. It gets you on the road early and still leaves plenty of time to relax or explore afterward. 

There’s sometimes a 1 pm option, but it’s not always available. Since today is dedicated to enjoying the south, feel free to choose whichever time works for you—we booked the 9 am tour and loved having the rest of the afternoon free. And because the estate is remote, we recommend renting a car or hiring a driver for the day.

This three-hour experience is immersive from start to finish. You’ll begin with a guided walk through the cacao groves, learning how the vibrant cacao pods grow, are harvested, and eventually transformed into the chocolate we all know and love. Plus, tasting raw cacao pulp straight from the pod is a surprising highlight!

Next comes the heart of the experience: the bean-to-bar workshop. Under the guidance of chocolate experts, you’ll grind, mix, and pour your very own chocolate bar from scratch. It’s hands-on, fun, and incredibly delicious. After the workshop, you’ll sit down for a cacao-inspired lunch overlooking the lush estate. 

If you love chocolate even a little, this experience is a must. It’s truly the Caribbean chocolate capital brought to life!

Book this bean-to-bar tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!

Afternoon – Explore Soufrière

Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths

Spend about an hour to an hour and a half exploring the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, one of the most peaceful spots in the Soufrière area. The gardens are lush, tranquil, and full of colorful tropical plants, with easy walking paths leading to the famous Diamond Waterfall. You can’t swim at this waterfall, but it’s absolutely worth seeing—the minerals in the water create beautiful shifting colors along the rock face.

If you want to take your visit up a notch, you can enjoy a soak in the mineral baths, which are fed by the same volcanic system that supplies Sulphur Springs. They’re wonderfully warm and relaxing, and adding them to your visit takes about 30 extra minutes. Entrance to the gardens is $7 USD, and the baths are an additional $6 USD. The site is open until 4 pm (3 pm on Sundays), so you’ll have plenty of time to wander.

Wander through Soufrière

After the gardens, take a little time to wander around Soufrière, a colorful seaside town that’s full of charm. The streets are lined with local shops, small cafés, and pops of bright Caribbean architecture. It’s a great place to soak up some local atmosphere, snap a few photos, and enjoy a slower pace before heading to the beach.

Hit the beach

The Soufrière area is home to some of the best beaches in Saint Lucia, so it’s the perfect place to unwind for the rest of the afternoon. You visited Sugar Beach yesterday for snorkeling, but returning for a more laid-back visit is always a good idea. Its white sand and Piton backdrop make it one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean.

If you’re craving something different, head to Anse Chastanet Beach, a black sand beach with a relaxed, secluded feel. Or check out Malgrétoute Beach, just 10 minutes from Soufrière, where calm water and up-close views of Petit Piton create an unforgettable setting.

Dinner – Sakuragi

After a full afternoon in Soufrière, you’ll have about a 1.5-hour drive (or taxi ride) back to Rodney Bay, so it’s best to head out before it gets too dark. Once you’re back in town, treat yourself to dinner at Sakuragi, a cozy Japanese restaurant that’s perfect for winding down after a big day on the southern coast. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak evenings, so be sure to book ahead here if you have your heart set on dining here.

Sakuragi has a warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu that blends fresh sushi, flavorful small plates, and comforting Japanese dishes. It’s a great change of pace from the island’s usual seafood-heavy restaurants, and the relaxed vibe makes it easy to sit back, enjoy a good meal, and reflect on the day’s adventures. Whether you’re craving sushi rolls or something hot and hearty, this is a lovely spot to wrap up day three in Saint Lucia.

Day 4

Mid-day – Taste your way around the island

For a change of pace, start your morning with this private food and rum tour—one of the most authentic and culture-rich experiences you can have in Saint Lucia. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel at 8 am, and the tour runs for 4 to 6 hours, so you can expect to wrap up by 2 pm. It’s the perfect way to dive deeper into local life before an open, relaxing afternoon.

This experience goes far beyond simply tasting dishes. It’s a chance to explore the island through its flavors, stories, and people. The day begins with a light local breakfast—think warm bakes and traditional cocoa tea—before your guide leads you to villages and viewpoints such as Anse La Raye and Morne Fortune. 

Along the way, you’ll hear stories about the island’s history and daily life while sampling a variety of Saint Lucian specialties. Expect everything from savory grilled pork and blood pudding to freshly pickled bananas and just-cut coconuts.

A rum tasting at a local distillery adds a fun, spirited twist to the day, but one of the most memorable stops is the visit to a local farm. The owner welcomes you like an old friend, offering fresh coconuts, guiding you through his garden, and letting you pick and taste tropical fruits straight from the tree. You’ll even help roast cashews over a wood fire, a simple but incredibly cool experience.

More than just a food tour, this is a heartfelt look at the real Saint Lucia, far from the resorts and crowds.

Check availability and secure this private tour here!

Afternoon – Explore Castries

After your food and rum tour wraps up, head back toward the north and spend the rest of your day exploring Castries, the vibrant capital of Saint Lucia. It’s only about 20 minutes from Rodney Bay, making it an easy and fun place to wander for a few hours. Castries has a lively mix of culture, history, and local life, and it’s a great contrast to the quieter beach towns you’ve seen so far.

Start by visiting the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, one of the largest churches in the Caribbean and a beautiful example of island Catholic architecture. From there, stroll over to the Castries Market, where local vendors sell spices, handcrafted souvenirs, fresh produce, and plenty of snacks if you’re feeling peckish after your tour. As you move through town, keep an eye out for the colorful street art—you’ll find murals tucked between shops and bright designs painted across walls and storefronts.

If you’re in the mood for some beach time, make your way to Vigie Beach, a long, golden stretch of sand lined with palm trees and a relaxed local vibe. It’s a peaceful place to unwind before getting ready for dinner.

Before you head off to your evening meal, stop for a pre-dinner drink at Rum Therapy Bar & Treatment Center, a quirky, laid-back spot just 5 minutes from your dinner reservation. It’s a fun way to cap off your afternoon in Castries and ease into the evening.

Dinner – The Coal Pot Restaurant

Wrap up your day in Castries with dinner at The Coal Pot Restaurant, a long-loved spot known for its warm ambiance, waterfront setting, and elevated Caribbean cuisine. Located right on the edge of Vigie Marina, it’s just a short drive from Rum Therapy Bar & Treatment Center, making it an easy transition into a relaxed and memorable evening.

The Coal Pot opens for dinner at 6:30 pm, and reservations are recommended, especially if you’re visiting during peak season or want a waterfront table. Expect fresh seafood, flavorful local dishes, and a romantic open-air atmosphere with views over the quiet marina. Whether you’re in the mood for grilled fish, creole-style entrées, or something a bit more refined, this restaurant delivers a delicious taste of Saint Lucia in a setting that feels both intimate and special.

Day 5

Breakfast – It’s Alive Bakery & Fermentory

Since this morning’s tour doesn’t start until 10 am, you’ll have plenty of time to ease into the day with a relaxed breakfast—and It’s Alive Bakery & Fermentory (closed Sundays) is the perfect spot. This cozy vegan café is highly rated, even among non-vegans, thanks to its creative baked goods, fresh flavors, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

You’ll find everything from sourdough pastries and hearty breakfast bowls to kombucha, fresh juices, and inventive plant-based treats. It’s the kind of place where you can linger a little longer than planned, sipping something refreshing while enjoying a slower start to your final day in Saint Lucia.

Morning – Go ziplining

For your final day in Saint Lucia, kick things off with this unforgettable ziplining adventure deep in the rainforest. We recommend booking the 10 am option, which includes hotel pickup, making your morning easy and stress-free. The full experience wraps up around 2 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a relaxed last afternoon on the island.

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive along the island’s east coast, where your guide shares stories and local insights along the way. Once you arrive, you’ll check in and get outfitted with your harness, helmet, and gloves. After a quick but thorough safety briefing, it’s time to head into the rainforest canopy.

The course features 12 ziplines, 20 platforms, a net bridge, and a few short forest trails, giving you a complete mix of thrills and scenery. Each platform has trained staff ready to help, so even beginners feel confident soaring through the trees. The full experience takes about an hour, and with the speed, the views, and the jungle sounds around you, it’s an unforgettable way to see Saint Lucia from above.

After returning your gear, enjoy a short break to relax before hopping back on the bus. There’s even a quick photo stop on the way home—a perfect moment to capture your last adventure. And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth it, just read the HUNDREDS of glowing reviews here that say it all!

This tour books up fast—reserve it here so you don’t miss out!

Afternoon –  Have some beach time

After your ziplining adventure wraps up, ease into the afternoon with some well-deserved beach time in Rodney Bay. Two of the area’s best beaches—Reduit Beach and Gros Islet Beach—are just minutes apart, making them convenient and perfect for a laid-back final afternoon on the island. Soft sand, calm water, and plenty of space to stretch out make both spots ideal, whether you want to swim, read, sip something cold, or simply soak up the sunshine.

And since it’s not a true Caribbean vacation without a few unhurried hours by the sea, this is the time to kick back and enjoy the moment. Both beaches are also fantastic for sunset, with wide-open views and glowing skies that paint the water in golden tones. Hang out through golden hour, watch the colors shift over the bay, and then head back to your hotel to freshen up before your final dinner in Saint Lucia.

Dinner – Duke’s Place

Before we dive in, your last day really needs to fall on a Friday to make this evening work. If it doesn’t, simply swap this day with another earlier in the itinerary—you won’t want to miss the Friday Night Street Party. It’s one of the most iconic experiences in Saint Lucia!

For dinner, head to Duke’s Place. This beloved beachfront restaurant delivers casual island comfort food with unbeatable views. Set right along the sand, it’s the kind of spot where you can dig into grilled fish or creole-style dishes with your toes nearly touching the water. After a long, relaxed afternoon on the beach, it’s exactly the kind of low-key, delicious meal that feels right.

Duke’s Place keeps things simple in the best possible way with fresh seafood, flavorful plates, cold drinks, and a breezy, welcoming atmosphere. And the best part? It’s located right next to the Friday Night Street Party, making it incredibly convenient to join the festivities afterward. Enjoy a laid-back waterfront dinner, savor your final island flavors, and ease right into one of the liveliest nights on the island.

Evening – Friday Night Street Party

If there’s one nightlife experience you shouldn’t miss on Saint Lucia, it’s the Friday Night Street Party, also known as the Gros Islet Jump Up. This legendary weekly celebration takes over the main street of Gros Islet with DJs, dancing, street food vendors, rum punches, grills smoking in every direction, and a fun, buzzing vibe that’s welcoming to everyone, even if you’re not a big partier.

The festivities start casually around 6 pm, once locals finish work, but things really pick up around 8–9 pm and often keep going until 2–3 am. There’s music everywhere, people drifting between bars and food stalls, and an infectious energy that feels like a true slice of Saint Lucian culture.

Whether you stay for an hour or all night, it’s the perfect way to end your five days on the island—and a memory you’ll be talking about long after your trip ends.

Related Read: Need a few more activities? See our list of the best things to do in Saint Lucia here and add your favorite ones to this itinerary.

Where to Stay in Saint Lucia

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.

Renting a Car in the Caribbean

Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!

We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean

• Know the driving side: Some Caribbean islands drive on the left, while others stick to the right. It really varies island to island, so double-check before you go—and make sure you’re comfortable driving on that side of the road, especially if it’s different from home.
• Know the local driving rules: Road laws and signage can differ between islands, so it’s worth doing a quick check before pickup. Seatbelts are usually mandatory, texting and driving is typically illegal, and honking is often just a friendly heads-up. Expect low speed limits and shared roads—think scooters, pedestrians, and even the occasional animal—so stay alert and take your time!
• Add full insurance: Roads can be unpredictable, with potholes, hills, and narrow lanes—especially outside resort areas. For that reason, we always recommend adding on full coverage insurance to your rental. Discover Cars makes this super easy (and affordable!) to add on, so you can drive with peace of mind.
• Choose the right car: For beach tracks or hilly inland roads, a compact SUV or 4×4 might be your best bet. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, or even luggage space to suit your needs.
• Watch for extra fees: Some rental companies charge sand cleaning fees, airport pickup surcharges, or require you to return the car spotless. It’s nothing to stress over—just check the fine print so you’re not caught off guard.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• On some islands, a temporary/visitor’s driving permit may be required. These are normally issued by the rental agency for a fee. Check with your company in advance, so you’re not surprised by extra costs at pickup!
• An IDP (International Driving Permit) may be required depending on your destination and the language of your license. Always check the country’s requirements beforehand so you’re prepared.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Saint Lucia is one of the most stunning Caribbean islands, and we think five days is the ideal amount of time to explore! From relaxing beaches to stunning waterfalls, chocolate tastings, rum tastings, and amazing food – this itinerary has it all. Whether you follow it exactly or pick out your favorite activities, it will show you Saint Lucia’s highlights in a streamlined manner.

Still planning your trip? Check out all of our Caribbean blogs! As long-time travelers, we know the essential information needed to plan the perfect vacation. I’ll leave a few related blogs below to help you plan your itinerary, find a great place to stay, and list unforgettable activities across the Caribbean.

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