While St. Lucia's popular beaches like Reduit Bay and Marigot Bay attract crowds of visitors, the southern part of the island harbors some of the Caribbean's most pristine and secluded coastal gems. As locals in Palmiste, we're fortunate to have easy access to these hidden treasures where you can enjoy the island's natural beauty in peaceful solitude.
This guide reveals our favorite secret beaches in southern St. Lucia - from dramatic black sand coves to pristine white sand crescents, each offering a unique slice of paradise. Whether you're seeking excellent snorkeling, romantic sunsets, or simply a quiet spot to read a book, these hidden beaches deliver unforgettable experiences away from the tourist crowds.
1. Anse Cochon
Anse Cochon is one of St. Lucia's best-kept secrets - a stunning crescent of golden sand accessible only by boat or a challenging hike through the rainforest. This isolation has preserved its pristine beauty and created one of the island's premier snorkeling destinations.
The beach is framed by lush green hills that plunge into crystal-clear turquoise waters. The coral reef just offshore teems with tropical fish, making it a snorkeler's paradise. You'll spot parrotfish, angelfish, sergeant majors, and if you're lucky, sea turtles gliding through the water.
How to Get There: Most visitors arrive by boat - water taxis from Soufrière or Marigot Bay offer trips to Anse Cochon. Ti Kaye Resort & Spa overlooks the beach and allows day visitors who book lunch at their restaurant. The hike from the main road takes about 45 minutes and requires good fitness.
Best For: Snorkeling, swimming, romantic getaways
Facilities: Limited - Ti Kaye Resort has a restaurant and bar, but bring your own snorkel gear and supplies if arriving by boat.
Boat Access Tips
Water taxis from Soufrière cost around $40-60 USD round trip per person. Negotiate the price and return time before departing. Many catamaran tours include Anse Cochon as a snorkeling stop.
2. Anse des Pitons
Nestled between the iconic Pitons, this small beach offers one of the most spectacular settings in the Caribbean. While not entirely unknown (it's part of the Sugar Beach Resort), it remains relatively uncrowded compared to other famous beaches.
The white sand contrasts beautifully with the towering volcanic peaks on either side. The calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The underwater landscape mirrors the dramatic scenery above, with volcanic rock formations creating interesting snorkeling routes.
How to Get There: Located at Sugar Beach Resort in Soufrière. Non-guests can access the beach by boat or by paying a day pass fee at the resort (around $50-75 USD, often including beach amenities and lunch credit).
Best For: Photography, swimming, romantic moments, Instagram-worthy shots
Facilities: Full resort facilities available including beach chairs, umbrellas, restaurant, and bar.
3. Anse Mamin
Just north of Anse Chastanet, Anse Mamin is a quieter alternative with equally impressive snorkeling. This black sand beach is part of the Anse Chastanet Resort property but feels more secluded and natural.
The beach is backed by lush tropical vegetation and offers excellent reef snorkeling right from shore. The black volcanic sand creates a dramatic contrast with the turquoise water. It's also a historic site - you can explore the ruins of an 18th-century sugar plantation nearby.
How to Get There: Access through Anse Chastanet Resort. Non-guests can usually access the beach, especially if dining at the resort's restaurants. It's about a 10-minute walk from the main Anse Chastanet beach.
Best For: Snorkeling, history buffs, peaceful relaxation
Facilities: Basic facilities available through Anse Chastanet Resort.
4. Anse Louvet
This hidden gem on the southeastern coast near Vieux Fort is one of the most pristine beaches in St. Lucia. The long stretch of golden sand is often completely deserted, offering a true castaway experience.
The beach faces the Atlantic side, so waves can be stronger than on the Caribbean coast - great for body surfing but less ideal for young children. The dramatic coastline and powerful surf create a wild, untamed beauty that's refreshingly different from the calm Caribbean beaches.
How to Get There: Located near Vieux Fort, about 15-20 minutes from Palmiste. Take the road toward Savannes Bay and follow signs. A short walk from the parking area leads to the beach.
Best For: Solitude, beachcombing, body surfing, photography
Facilities: None - bring everything you need including water, snacks, and sun protection.
Safety Note
Atlantic-facing beaches can have strong currents and undertows. Always assess conditions before swimming and never swim alone. These beaches are best for experienced swimmers.
5. Anse de Sables
While not exactly hidden, Anse de Sables near Vieux Fort is often overlooked by tourists who stick to the western coast. This long, beautiful beach offers a more local experience with fewer crowds than northern beaches.
The beach is popular with kitesurfers due to consistent trade winds, creating a lively atmosphere. The golden sand stretches for over a mile, giving you plenty of space to find your own spot. Several local restaurants and bars line the beach, offering authentic St. Lucian food and cold drinks.
How to Get There: Just south of Vieux Fort, easily accessible by car. About 20 minutes from Palmiste.
Best For: Kitesurfing, windsurfing, local food, long beach walks
Facilities: Good - several beach bars, restaurants, and water sports operators.
6. Malgretoute Beach
This small, secluded beach near Soufrière offers a perfect blend of accessibility and tranquility. The dark sand beach is sheltered by hills, creating calm waters ideal for swimming.
The beach has a local, authentic feel with a few small guesthouses and local restaurants nearby. It's a favorite spot for St. Lucians on weekends but remains quiet during weekdays. The snorkeling is decent, though not as spectacular as Anse Chastanet or Anse Cochon.
How to Get There: Located between Soufrière and Choiseul, accessible by car. Look for signs to Hummingbird Beach Resort.
Best For: Calm swimming, local atmosphere, families
Facilities: Basic - small beach bar and restaurant available.
7. Anse Chastanet
While Anse Chastanet is well-known among divers and snorkelers, it remains relatively uncrowded compared to northern beaches. The black volcanic sand and excellent reef snorkeling make it a must-visit.
The reef starts just a few feet from shore and extends along the entire beach. You'll see an incredible variety of tropical fish, coral formations, and often sea turtles. The beach also offers stunning views of the Pitons rising in the distance.
How to Get There: Located just north of Soufrière, accessible by car via a steep, winding road. The beach is part of Anse Chastanet Resort but open to the public.
Best For: Snorkeling, diving, underwater photography
Facilities: Resort facilities available including restaurant, bar, and dive shop.
8. Laborie Beach
The fishing village of Laborie offers an authentic St. Lucian beach experience. The small beach is where local fishermen bring in their daily catch, and you can often buy fresh fish directly from the boats.
The beach itself is modest, but the village atmosphere is charming and welcoming. It's a great place to experience local life and enjoy fresh seafood at small, family-run restaurants. The nearby Balenbouche Estate offers historical tours and a more secluded beach area.
How to Get There: Laborie village is about 15 minutes south of Palmiste on the main coastal road.
Best For: Cultural experience, fresh seafood, authentic local atmosphere
Facilities: Basic - small shops and local restaurants in the village.
9. Grande Anse
On the northeastern coast, Grande Anse is a long, wild beach that sees few visitors. The powerful Atlantic waves and strong currents make swimming dangerous, but the beach is spectacular for walks and turtle watching.
This is one of St. Lucia's most important turtle nesting sites. Leatherback turtles come ashore here from March to August to lay their eggs. If you visit during nesting season, you might witness this incredible natural phenomenon (always observe from a respectful distance).
How to Get There: Located on the east coast near Dennery, about 45 minutes from Palmiste. The road can be rough in places.
Best For: Turtle watching, nature photography, solitude, beachcombing
Facilities: None - completely undeveloped.
10. Pigeon Point Beach
Part of Pigeon Island National Park, this beach combines natural beauty with historical significance. Two beaches within the park offer calm swimming and snorkeling, with the added bonus of exploring 18th-century military ruins.
The beaches are well-maintained and offer beautiful views of Rodney Bay and Martinique on clear days. After swimming, hike up to Fort Rodney for panoramic island views.
How to Get There: Northern tip of St. Lucia in Rodney Bay. About 1 hour from Palmiste. Entry fee required for the national park.
Best For: Combining beach time with history and hiking
Facilities: Good - bathrooms, picnic areas, and snack bar available.
Beach Safety Tips
- Know the conditions: Caribbean (west) coast beaches typically have calmer waters than Atlantic (east) coast beaches
- Never swim alone: Especially at secluded beaches without lifeguards
- Watch for currents: If you feel pulled by a current, swim parallel to shore rather than fighting against it
- Protect valuables: Don't leave belongings unattended on deserted beaches
- Sun protection: Use reef-safe sunscreen and reapply frequently
- Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially to beaches without facilities
- Respect private property: Some beaches are accessed through resort properties - be courteous
What to Bring
For hidden beaches with limited or no facilities, pack these essentials:
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Beach towels
- Snorkel gear (if you have your own)
- Waterproof bag for phone and valuables
- Cash for water taxis or beach bars
- First aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Trash bags (leave no trace!)
Best Times to Visit
For the most peaceful experience at these beaches:
Weekdays: Generally quieter than weekends when locals visit
Early Morning: 7-10 AM offers the best light for photography and fewer people
Late Afternoon: 4-6 PM provides beautiful golden hour light and cooler temperatures
Dry Season: December to May offers the most reliable weather and calmest seas
Environmental Responsibility
Help preserve these beautiful beaches for future generations. Use reef-safe sunscreen, take all trash with you, don't touch or stand on coral, and respect wildlife. These pristine beaches remain beautiful because visitors treat them with care.
Planning Your Beach-Hopping Adventure
From La Haut Resort in Palmiste, you're perfectly positioned to explore southern St. Lucia's hidden beaches. Most are within 20-45 minutes drive, making day trips easy and convenient.
We recommend dedicating at least one full day to beach exploration. Start early, visit 2-3 beaches, and take time to truly relax and soak in each location. Our team can provide directions, arrange transportation, and share current conditions and local tips.
Consider renting a car for flexibility in exploring multiple beaches at your own pace. Alternatively, we can arrange private drivers or recommend reliable tour operators who know these hidden gems.
Final Thoughts
Southern St. Lucia's hidden beaches offer something increasingly rare in the Caribbean - the chance to experience pristine natural beauty in relative solitude. Whether you're snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, walking along deserted sands, or simply relaxing under a palm tree with a good book, these beaches provide the perfect escape.
Each beach has its own character and charm. Some require effort to reach, but that effort is rewarded with unforgettable experiences and the satisfaction of discovering places that few tourists ever see. These are the beaches you'll remember long after your tan fades.
Ready to discover St. Lucia's hidden coastal treasures? Book your stay at La Haut Resort and let us guide you to the island's most beautiful secret beaches.
