Ultimate Guide to Having the Best Vacation in St Lucia
- Timeless Travel
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
When my husband and I first set foot on St Lucia, I knew I was in for something special. This island offers more than just a tropical getaway—it’s a playground for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. From lush hiking trails to thrilling boating excursions, every moment here feels like a new discovery. If you want to make the most of your vacation in St. Lucia, let me share the experiences that made my trip unforgettable.
Explore the Volcano and Mud Bath Experience
One of the highlights of St Lucia is the volcano at Sulphur Springs, known as the world’s only drive-in volcano. Driving close to bubbling mud pools and steaming vents feels like stepping into another world. I joined a guided tour that explained the volcanic activity and its impact on the island’s landscape.
After exploring the volcano, I indulged in a natural mud bath. The warm, mineral-rich mud is said to have therapeutic properties, and it felt amazing on my skin. This experience is not only relaxing but also a great way to connect with the island’s unique geology. The guide will jokingly tell you that this mineral-rich mud will make you look 20 years younger! I was willing to give it a whirl.
Hiking Adventures with Stunning Waterfall Views
St Lucia’s hiking trails offer some of the best ways to see the island’s natural beauty up close. I took the trail to the Trafalgar Falls, where two waterfalls cascade side by side through lush greenery. The hike was moderate but rewarding, with plenty of spots to rest and take photos.
For a more challenging trek, climb Gros Piton! The challenging path winds through tropical forest, up steep, rocky terrain and opens up to breathtaking views of the island and ocean. Hiking here is said to give one a sense of accomplishment and a fresh perspective on St Lucia’s diverse terrain. From the stories I gathered, most who attempt Gros Piton are in great physical shape. I am not, so we chose not to attempt this specific hike. However, we were able to view the massive, volcanic peaks from our boat while in Soufriere.
Because we were staying on the north end of the island, my husband and I did take a less challenging hike up a smaller peak on Gros Islet to Fort Rodney, a journey that turned out to be both exhilarating and enriching. The day began with a sense of anticipation as we prepared for our adventure. We packed our backpacks with essentials: water bottles to stay hydrated, snacks for energy, and a camera to capture the breathtaking views we expected to encounter along the way.
Boating and Excursions on the Caribbean Sea
No trip to St Lucia is complete without spending time on the water. I booked a boating excursion through our resort that took us along the coast, stopping at hidden coves and snorkeling spots. The calm, clear turquoise water was perfect for spotting colorful fish and coral reefs.
There are many types of excursions available through Sandals Resort, from sunset cruises, fishing trips and lots of on-land adventures. I recommend choosing one or two that matches your interests and energy levels. For example, a day-long sailing trip lets you relax and enjoy the sea breeze, while shorter boat rides can be combined with beach visits or snorkeling.
Practical Tips for Your St Lucia Vacation
Book excursions in advance: Popular tours like volcano visits and boating trips fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
Pack comfortable hiking shoes: Trails can be slippery and uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Bring swimwear and towels: You’ll want to jump into waterfalls, mud baths, and the sea without hesitation.
Stay hydrated and use sunscreen: The tropical sun is strong, especially during outdoor activities.
Try local cuisine: After a day of adventure, enjoy fresh seafood and Creole dishes at local restaurants.
Where to Stay for Easy Access to Adventures
My husband and I stayed at Sandals Grande St. Lucian. This resort is a stunning, adults only, all-inclusive resort on the north end of the island. We greatly enjoyed our two hour boat ride across the calm Caribbean Sea to Soufrière, a town close to many natural attractions, such as the Pitons, the volcano with mud bath and the waterfalls. Our location was in the most breathtaking area, but required a ride on the Sandal bus to get to most excursion locations. There are many options on St. Lucia ranging from luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses, so you can find something that fits your style and budget.
Final Thoughts on Experiencing St Lucia
St Lucia offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, soaking in a mud bath by a volcano, or enjoying a boating excursion on the Caribbean Sea, the island invites you to explore and unwind. Consider joining in on a couple of the land excursions, such as the Chocolate Making Experience or the Rum Distillery Tour. Plan your trip with these experiences in mind, and you’ll return home with stories of discovery and moments of pure joy.
May your journey be filled with joy and adventure!
Sincerely,
Shannon
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