St. Lucia is a Caribbean gem that offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, adventure, culture, and relaxation. From the iconic twin peaks of the Pitons to pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant local culture, this island paradise has something for every traveler. Whether you're seeking adventure, romance, or simply a place to unwind, St. Lucia delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
As your hosts at La Haut Resort in Palmiste, we've compiled this comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your St. Lucia adventure. We're perfectly positioned in the southern part of the island, giving you easy access to many of these incredible attractions. Let's dive into the top 15 things you absolutely must do during your visit!
1. Marvel at the Majestic Pitons
No visit to St. Lucia is complete without experiencing the Pitons - the island's most iconic landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These twin volcanic peaks, Gros Piton (2,619 feet) and Petit Piton (2,461 feet), rise dramatically from the sea near the town of Soufrière, creating one of the most photographed landscapes in the Caribbean.
You have several ways to experience the Pitons. For the adventurous, hiking Gros Piton is an unforgettable challenge that takes about 4-5 hours round trip. The trail is steep and requires a moderate to high fitness level, but the panoramic views from the summit are absolutely worth the effort. You'll need to hire a local guide (mandatory for safety), which costs around $50 USD per person.
If hiking isn't your thing, take a boat tour to view the Pitons from the water, or simply enjoy them from one of the many viewpoints around Soufrière. The Tet Paul Nature Trail offers spectacular Pitons views with a much easier 45-minute walk.
Getting There from La Haut Resort
The Pitons are approximately 30-40 minutes drive from Palmiste. We can arrange transportation and guided tours for our guests.
2. Soak in the Sulphur Springs
Located in Soufrière, the Sulphur Springs is the world's only drive-in volcano! This geothermal wonder features bubbling mud pools and steaming vents that reach temperatures of up to 340°F (170°C). While you can't get too close to the main crater for safety reasons, the experience is fascinating and educational.
The real treat comes after touring the volcanic area - you can bathe in the therapeutic mud baths and mineral-rich hot springs. The volcanic mud is believed to have healing properties and is excellent for your skin. Cover yourself in the warm mud, let it dry in the sun, then rinse off in the natural hot springs. It's a unique spa experience you won't find anywhere else!
Tip: Wear old swimwear as the sulphur can stain clothing. Bring a towel and waterproof bag for your belongings.
3. Explore Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens
Just a short distance from the Sulphur Springs, the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens is a tropical paradise featuring exotic plants, colorful flowers, and the stunning Diamond Waterfall. The waterfall gets its name from the diamond-like sparkle created by sunlight reflecting off the mineral-rich water, which contains sulphur and other minerals from the nearby volcano.
The gardens span six acres and showcase a diverse collection of tropical plants, including hibiscus, heliconias, and giant ferns. You can also bathe in the mineral baths here, which were originally built in 1784 for the troops of King Louis XVI of France. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes this a must-visit attraction.
Entry Fee: Approximately $5-7 USD per person. Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.
4. Relax on Pristine Beaches
St. Lucia boasts some of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches, each with its own unique character. Here are our top picks:
- Anse Chastanet: A stunning black sand beach near Soufrière, perfect for snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs just offshore.
- Sugar Beach (Jalousie Beach): Nestled between the Pitons, this white sand beach offers postcard-perfect views and crystal-clear waters.
- Reduit Beach: Located in Rodney Bay in the north, this is one of the island's most popular beaches with calm waters ideal for swimming.
- Anse Cochon: A secluded beach accessible by boat, offering excellent snorkeling and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Anse des Pitons: Another gem near the Pitons with calm waters and spectacular mountain views.
Many of these beaches are within 20-45 minutes from La Haut Resort, making day trips easy and convenient.
5. Snorkel or Dive in Crystal Clear Waters
St. Lucia's underwater world is just as impressive as its landscapes above sea level. The island offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities with healthy coral reefs, diverse marine life, and even some interesting wreck dives.
Popular dive sites include Anse Chastanet's reef, which is accessible right from the beach, and the Lesleen M wreck near Anse Cochon. For certified divers, the Superman's Flight dive site near Soufrière offers dramatic underwater pinnacles and walls teeming with tropical fish, rays, and occasionally sea turtles.
Even if you're not a certified diver, snorkeling at Anse Chastanet or taking a catamaran tour with snorkeling stops is an excellent way to experience St. Lucia's marine biodiversity. You might spot parrotfish, angelfish, sergeant majors, and if you're lucky, sea turtles!
6. Hike Through the Rainforest
St. Lucia's interior is covered with lush tropical rainforest, home to exotic birds, rare plants, and stunning waterfalls. Several trails offer different levels of difficulty and unique experiences.
The Tet Paul Nature Trail near Soufrière is perfect for beginners - it's a gentle 45-minute loop with breathtaking views of the Pitons, surrounding valleys, and even neighboring islands on clear days. Your guide will point out local plants used in traditional medicine and cooking.
For more adventurous hikers, the Edmund Forest Reserve offers challenging trails through pristine rainforest. The Barre de l'Isle Trail crosses the island's central ridge, providing panoramic views of both the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean.
Hiking Tips
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, bring plenty of water, use insect repellent, and always hire a local guide for safety and to learn about the flora and fauna.
7. Visit a Working Cocoa Plantation
St. Lucia has a rich agricultural heritage, and visiting a working plantation offers insight into the island's history and culture. The Fond Doux Plantation & Resort near Soufrière is a beautifully preserved 19th-century cocoa estate where you can learn about cocoa cultivation and chocolate production.
Take a guided tour through the plantation to see cocoa trees, learn about the harvesting process, and discover how cocoa beans are transformed into chocolate. You'll also see other tropical crops like bananas, coconuts, and various spices. The tour typically includes chocolate tasting - a delicious bonus!
Another excellent option is the Morne Coubaril Estate, which offers tours showcasing traditional cocoa, coconut, and cassava processing methods. You can even try your hand at making cocoa sticks the old-fashioned way.
8. Experience the Friday Night Street Party in Gros Islet
For a taste of authentic St. Lucian culture and nightlife, don't miss the Friday Night Street Party (also called "Jump Up") in Gros Islet village. Every Friday evening, the main street transforms into a vibrant celebration with live music, dancing, local food vendors, and craft stalls.
This is where locals and tourists come together to enjoy reggae, soca, and calypso music while sampling delicious St. Lucian street food like grilled fish, chicken, barbecued ribs, and local specialties. The atmosphere is electric, friendly, and gives you a genuine taste of Caribbean culture.
When: Every Friday from around 8 PM until late. Arrive early (around 8-9 PM) to explore before it gets too crowded.
9. Sail Along the Coast
Seeing St. Lucia from the water offers a completely different perspective on the island's beauty. Numerous catamaran tours depart daily, offering full-day or sunset cruises along the west coast.
Most tours include stops for snorkeling, swimming, and beach time, plus lunch and drinks (often with an open bar). Sailing past the Pitons from the water is an unforgettable experience, and you might spot dolphins or flying fish along the way.
Sunset cruises are particularly romantic, offering stunning views as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks. Many couples choose this as a special activity during their honeymoon or anniversary trip.
10. Zip Line Through the Rainforest Canopy
For an adrenaline rush with spectacular views, try zip-lining through St. Lucia's rainforest canopy. Several companies offer zip line tours, with Rainforest Adventures and Treetop Adventure Park being the most popular.
Soar above the treetops on a series of zip lines, some stretching over 800 feet long, while taking in panoramic views of the rainforest, mountains, and coastline. It's an exhilarating way to experience the island's natural beauty from a unique vantage point.
Most tours include multiple zip lines, aerial tram rides, and nature walks with knowledgeable guides who share information about the ecosystem. It's suitable for most fitness levels and ages (usually 6+), making it a great family activity.
11. Discover Pigeon Island National Park
Located on the northern tip of St. Lucia, Pigeon Island National Park is a 44-acre historical site with beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and ruins of military buildings dating back to the 18th century when the island was contested between the French and British.
Hike up to Fort Rodney at the top of the island for spectacular 360-degree views of the coastline, Rodney Bay, and on clear days, you can see the neighboring island of Martinique. The park also has two lovely beaches perfect for swimming and picnicking.
History buffs will enjoy exploring the restored military buildings, barracks, and the interpretation center that tells the story of the island's strategic importance during colonial times.
Entry Fee: Approximately $8 USD for adults. The park is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
12. Sample St. Lucian Cuisine
No visit to St. Lucia is complete without indulging in the local cuisine, which blends African, French, British, and Caribbean influences into delicious and unique flavors.
Must-try dishes include:
- Green Fig and Saltfish: The national dish made with green bananas and salted cod
- Callaloo Soup: A hearty soup made from dasheen leaves (similar to spinach)
- Accra: Fried cod fritters, perfect as a snack or appetizer
- Bouyon: A thick, flavorful soup with meat, vegetables, and dumplings
- Fresh Seafood: Grilled fish, lobster, and conch prepared with local spices
Visit local restaurants and roadside stands to experience authentic flavors. Don't forget to try local drinks like coconut water straight from the nut, passion fruit juice, and the famous St. Lucian rum!
13. Visit Marigot Bay
Often described as one of the most beautiful bays in the Caribbean, Marigot Bay is a stunning natural harbor surrounded by lush green hills. This picturesque bay has been featured in several Hollywood films, including the original "Doctor Dolittle."
Take a water taxi across the bay to explore the marina, enjoy lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, or simply relax and soak in the scenery. The bay is also a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.
For the best views, hike up to the Marigot Bay Overlook on the main road - the panoramic vista of the bay, yachts, and surrounding hills is absolutely breathtaking, especially during sunset.
14. Shop at Local Markets
Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting St. Lucia's vibrant markets. The Castries Central Market is the largest and most famous, operating since 1894. Here you'll find fresh tropical fruits, vegetables, spices, handmade crafts, and local artwork.
Saturday morning is the busiest and most colorful time to visit when vendors from across the island bring their goods. It's a feast for the senses with the aroma of fresh spices, the vibrant colors of tropical produce, and the friendly banter of vendors.
The Soufrière Market is smaller but equally charming, offering a more intimate market experience. It's a great place to buy fresh fruit, local spices, and handmade souvenirs while chatting with friendly locals.
15. Relax with a Spa Treatment
After all your adventures, treat yourself to some relaxation with a spa treatment. St. Lucia offers numerous spa experiences, from luxury resort spas to beachside massage huts.
Many spas incorporate local ingredients like coconut, cocoa, and tropical fruits into their treatments. Consider a volcanic mud wrap, hot stone massage, or a traditional Caribbean massage to soothe tired muscles after hiking and exploring.
At La Haut Resort, we can arrange spa services for our guests, or recommend excellent local spas in the area. There's nothing quite like a relaxing massage while listening to the sounds of the Caribbean Sea.
Planning Your St. Lucia Adventure
With so many incredible things to see and do, we recommend spending at least 5-7 days in St. Lucia to experience the highlights without feeling rushed. La Haut Resort in Palmiste offers the perfect base for your explorations, with comfortable accommodations, friendly service, and easy access to attractions in both the southern and central parts of the island.
Our team is always happy to help you plan your itinerary, arrange tours and transportation, and share insider tips to make your St. Lucia vacation truly unforgettable. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, romance, or cultural immersion, this beautiful island has it all.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
- Rent a car for flexibility in exploring, but be prepared to drive on the left side of the road
- Book popular tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season (December-April)
- Bring cash for small vendors, markets, and some attractions that don't accept cards
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment
- Don't over-schedule - leave time to relax and enjoy the laid-back Caribbean pace
St. Lucia is truly a paradise that offers something for everyone. From the dramatic landscapes of the Pitons to the warm hospitality of the locals, every moment on this island is special. We can't wait to welcome you to La Haut Resort and help you create memories that will last a lifetime!
Ready to start planning your St. Lucia adventure? Book your stay at La Haut Resort and let us help you experience the best of this Caribbean gem.
