St. Lucia

St. Lucia is an island in the Eastern Caribbean, located between Martinique to its north and St. Vincent to its south. It is a fairly small island spanning 27 miles long and 14 miles wide. The island is situated between two main bodies of water with the calm Caribbean Sea at its west side, and the choppier North Atlantic Ocean at its east side. St. Lucia is 1626 miles from Florida, USA, with a flight time of approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes from Miami to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) which is located in Vieux Fort.

Landscape

Often referred to as “the Hawaii of the Caribbean,” St. Lucia is part of a chain of volcanic islands, and well-known for its breathtaking Pitons—a pair of dramatically pointed volcanic mountains that rise high above the island’s southwestern coast. The landscape on the island varies from the majestic mountains to miles of lush rainforest to colorful botanical gardens to beautiful waterfalls to soft golden-sand beaches. St Lucia’s volcano, La Soufriere, last erupted in 1766 and is now considered dormant. However, St. Lucia is known for its geothermal activity! The earth’s core produces heat that creates naturally hot pools and mud springs that attract people looking to relax and rejuvenate in the island’s natural wonders.

Culture

St. Lucia’s people are proud of their island and very welcoming to its visitors. St. Lucia is a multicultural society influenced by its long history which is reflected in the island’s cuisine, language, traditions, and art. The island was first inhabited by the Arawaks and the Caribs. By Mid-century, the French purchased the island from the Caribs and established the island’s first settlements and towns. However, after many battles with the French, the English took control of the island in 1814, and St. Lucia remained under British rule until it became independent within the British Commonwealth in 1979. The official language of the island is English, but, Creole, a form of French patois, remains its secondary language. Located on the northwest side of the island is the capital city of Castries which is home to a large population of the island’s locals.

Recreation

Aquatic activities are extremely popular in St. Lucia. The west coast of the island boasts calm clear waters and is home to scenic beaches, reef-diving sites, and fishing villages. St. Lucia is famous for its epic scuba diving and snorkeling locations. Sailing, boating, and fishing are also popular water sports enjoyed here. Marigot Bay is a picturesque natural harbor that attracts many upscale yachts throughout the year. Gorgeous beaches abound such as Anse Chastanet (on the southwest) which has crystal clear water and a reef perfect for snorkeling. And Reduit Beach, near Rodney Bay in the northwest, is the biggest and most popular beach on the island.

For the land-lubbers, adventure abounds as well! About 77% of the island is covered in lush forest to be explored. Rainforest trails lead to waterfalls such as Toraille which cascades 50 feet down over a cliff and into tropical gardens. Abundant land activities include zip lining, hiking, biking, and golfing. Soufriere in the southwest is where you’ll find many popular attractions such as the famous twin peaks (Petit Piton and Gros Piton). Here you can “drive-through” a volcano, bathe in hot mineral mud pools, hike a bird sanctuary, swim under a waterfall, or take a helicopter tour of the dramatic island coastline. For shopping, Castries is a popular cruise port with markets and shops that offer a mix of island produce and locally made crafts such as wood carvings and baskets. And history buffs will enjoy Pigeon Island National Landmark, in the northwest near Gros Islet and Rodney Bay, where you can trek the hill to the ruins of Fort Rodney and take in the scenic views.

For nature lovers, beach goers, adventure seekers, history buffs, luxury enthusiasts, romance aficionados, and seasoned travelers…St. Lucia offers a little of everything, making it the perfect Caribbean island getaway.

explore the resorts

Sandals Grande St. Lucian

Sandals Halcyon Beach

Sandals Regency La Toc

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