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Best Time of Year to Visit St. Lucia

Explore > Travel Planning Articles > Best Time of Year to Visit St. Lucia

Date published:
2023-05-07


What's the best time of year to St. Lucia?  Pictured: the Pitons.
View of the Pitons, courtesy Nick Fewings on Flickr. See license.


Michael  

About the author, Michael Cottam


Founder of Visual Itineraries, Michael lives in Bend, Oregon. He's an avid traveler, scuba diver, photographer, and a private pilot, and also the founder of Bright Yonder. He's been to Fiji, Thailand, Vietnam, Seychelles, Kenya, France, England, New Zealand, Jamaica, Belize, Costa Rica, Turks & Caicos, British Virgin Islands, Mexico, and the major islands in French Polynesia.

He's been a Rotarian for 22 years, currently on the board of the Greater Bend Rotary Club.

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Planning a Vacation or Honeymoon in St. Lucia?

Whether you're planning your honeymoon, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, St. Lucia offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Top Things to See and Do in St. Lucia

  • Visit the Pitons:, two iconic peaks that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction on the island. You can take a guided tour to the top of one of the peaks or go hiking on the trails that lead up to them.

  • Take a dip in the mineral baths: the island is home to a number of natural mineral baths, including the Diamond Mineral Baths and the Sulphur Springs. These baths are said to have therapeutic properties and are a great way to relax and unwind.

  • Go snorkeling or diving: the waters around St. Lucia are home to a rich array of marine life, making it a great destination for snorkeling and diving. There are a number of guided tours available, or you can rent equipment and explore on your own.

  • Visit a plantation: St. Lucia has a rich history of sugar production, and there are a number of plantation estates on the island that you can visit to learn more about this part of the island's history.

  • Explore the capital city, Castries: Castries is the capital of St. Lucia and a great place to experience the island's culture and history. The city is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and the Derek Walcott Square.

  • Go birdwatching: St. Lucia has a number of rare and endangered bird species, including the St. Lucia parrot and the St. Lucia oriole. The island is a great destination for birdwatchers, with a number of guided tours available to help you spot these and other species.

  • Take a boat tour: St. Lucia is surrounded by beautiful waters, and there are a number of boat tours available that allow you to explore the island's coast and see some of its most stunning natural features.

  • Go on a rainforest hike: The island is home to a number of rainforest reserves, including the Rainforest Aerial Tram, which offers guided tours through the canopy of the rainforest.

  • Visit Marigot Bay: Marigot Bay is a stunning natural harbor on the west coast of the island that is popular with boaters and tourists alike. The bay is home to many restaurants and shops, and it's a great place to relax and enjoy the views.

  • Go ziplining: If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity, consider going ziplining through the rainforest.

If you're trying to decide where to stay, we've got over 600 high-resolution photos, about 50 videos, and even some virtual tours. Or talk to one of our St. Lucia experts, who know the islands and the resorts like the back of their hand :-).

Click here to see all resorts in St. Lucia.

 
TRAVEL SPECIAL: Marigot Bay Resort and Marina


Breakfast Plan with air 3 nights from 1,469 per person
Marigot Bay Resort and MarinaSecluded in tropical splendor and nestled in a bay of deep turquoise lies our luxury resort in Saint Lucia. Marigot Bay Resort, Spa and Marina welcomes you to where getting outdoors to fresh air and sunshine meet unparalleled privacy and luxury. From your own balcony, dedicated pool cabana, private yacht or sailing adventure, or on an exclusive island excursion, you'll enjoy the best that Saint Lucia offers. But of course, we completely understand if you just want to relax in your beautifully appointed residence or penthouse!
Learn more about Marigot Bay Resort and Marina

Transfer Policy - A price may display when children stay free, if your vacation includes transfer to your hotel.
General Information - Room taxes and service fees are included in vacation price. Minimum night stay restrictions may apply. Reservation changes may not be permitted unless authorized by the hotel.





See our complete list of travel specials for St. Lucia.


 

St. Lucia Weather: High Season vs. Low Season

The high season in St. Lucia is typically from mid-December to mid-April, while the low season is from mid-April to mid-December. During the high season, the weather is generally warm and dry, making it a popular time for tourists to visit. The high season is also when many of the island's festivals and events take place, such as the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival and the Saint Lucia Food & Rum Festival.

During the low season, the weather is generally slightly hotter and more humid, and there's a fair bit more rainfall (see the chart below). However, the low season is also a good time to visit St. Lucia if you're looking for a more laid-back vacation and want to avoid the crowds.




St. Lucia Weather: Average temperatures

The average temperatures in St. Lucia vary slightly throughout the year, with the warmest temperatures occurring in the summer months of July and August.

It's worth noting that these are average temperatures, and actual temperatures can vary depending on a number of factors, including elevation and location on the island. The temperatures in the mountains are generally cooler than those in the coastal areas. It's also important to be prepared for the possibility of rain, as St. Lucia experiences a tropical climate with a wet season from June to November.


St. Lucia Weather: Average precipitation




TRAVEL SPECIAL: Sandals Halcyon Beach


Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort & Spa 5 nights with air from 3,844 per person
Sandals Halcyon BeachOf all the Sandals beach resorts, it has been said that perhaps Sandals Halcyon Beach best defines the Caribbean—set on a palette of lush gardens bordering the tranquil Caribbean Sea. By design, this all-inclusive St. Lucia beach resort is built naturally into the environment with no building higher than the highest palm. Classic Caribbean architecture and quaint, charming ginger breaded cottages are creatively designed to meld into the luxuriant surrounding landscape.
Learn more about Sandals Halcyon Beach

Prices include: Items selected, government taxes and fees and Pleasant Holidays' service fees. Unless specified otherwise, rates are quoted in USD.





St. Lucia Weather: Storms and Hurricane Season

The Caribbean Sea in general is a region that is prone to hurricanes. The island of St. Lucia is at some risk of hurricanes from June to November, which is the hurricane season across the Caribbean.

The risk of experiencing a hurricane in St. Lucia is relatively low, as the island is far enough south to avoid the majority of storms that form in the Atlantic Ocean.


 

High and Low Season Prices in St. Lucia

Hotel and airfare prices in St. Lucia can vary depending on the time of year and demand. The high season in St. Lucia is typically from mid-December to mid-April, while the low season is from mid-April to mid-December.

 

Typical airfares from DFW


Airfares vary by season, but also day of week, and are definitely affected by holidays. The chart above shows the typical minimum and maximum fares for a economy class ticket from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) to Hewanorra International (UVF), by month.


Types of Accommodation

St. Lucia is home to a number of luxury resorts that offer high-end amenities and services, such as world-class spas, fine dining, and private beaches.

There's actually very few big brand-name hotels (Zoetry, Royalton, and Sandals is about it). Most resorts on St. Lucia are independent boutique hotels, such as The Hotel Chocolat, Jade Mountain, and Cap Maison. Besides the big brands, there are about a dozen other all-inclusive resorts.

Click here to see all resorts in St. Lucia.

TRAVEL SPECIAL: Calabash Cove


Calabash Cove Resort And Spa 5 nights from 2,140 per person
Calabash CoveBattle the winter blues with a getaway to Calabash Cove Resort & Spa, a serene, sun-kissed beachfront oasis on the idyllic isle of Saint Lucia. At this beachfront boutique luxury resort on the stunning Caribbean island of St. Lucia, where temperatures average a balmy 80 degrees with calming trade breezes and the majestic Pitons provide a stunning backdrop, relaxation and renewal rises to a new level.
Learn more about Calabash Cove

Price includes hotel stay and all taxes and fees.






Cuttlefish, St. Lucia
Cuttlefish in St. Lucia, courtesy Gord Webster on Flickr. See license.

 

Scuba Diving in St. Lucia

Scuba diving in St. Lucia is a popular activity due to the island's clear waters and rich marine life. The island is home to a number of dive sites that are suitable for divers of all levels, from beginner to advanced. St. Lucia has a number of dive centers and operators that offer guided diving tours and rental equipment.

Some of the most popular dive sites in St. Lucia include:

  • Anse Chastanet Reef: Located near the Anse Chastanet resort, this reef is home to a variety of marine life, including coral, sponges, and a wide range of fish species.
  • The Pitons: The iconic peaks of the Pitons are a popular dive site, with a number of sunken shipwrecks and colorful reefs to explore.
  • The Wall: The Wall is a dramatic drop-off that is home to a variety of marine life, including eels, barracudas, and schools of colorful fish.
  • The Wreck of the Lesleen M: The Lesleen M is a sunken freighter that was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef. It's a popular dive site for experienced divers, with a variety of marine life living among the wreckage.
See PADI's article on the top dive sites in St. Lucia.

Soufriere and the Pitons, St. Lucia
Soufriere and the Pitons, St. Lucia, courtesy Jason Boldero on Flickr. See license.

The Pitons: Gros Piton & Petit Piton

The Pitons are two iconic peaks that are located on the island of St. Lucia in the Caribbean. The larger of the two peaks is called Gros Piton, and the smaller peak is called Petit Piton. The Pitons are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are one of the most famous landmarks on the island.

The Pitons are located on the southwest coast of St. Lucia and rise to a height of approximately 2,619 feet for Gros Piton and 2,461 feet for Petit Piton. They are made up of volcanic rock and are surrounded by rainforest, which is home to a variety of plant and animal species.

The Pitons are a popular attraction on the island and can be visited on a guided tour or by hiking the trails that lead up to the peaks. The view from the top of the Pitons is breathtaking, with panoramic views of the island and the Caribbean Sea. The Pitons are also a popular spot for rock climbing and are considered a challenging climb for experienced climbers.

TRAVEL SPECIAL: St. James's Club Morgan Bay


All Inclusive 3 nights with air from 1,273 per person
St. JamesFrom golden sunsets and the blue Caribbean Sea, to the warmth of our hearts and smiles, St. Lucia is Simply Beautiful. Nestled beachfront, St. James's Club Morgan Bay, Saint Lucia beach resort is a vibrant, colorful, and refreshingly casual All-Inclusive resort, distinguished by its romantic waterfront setting, just minutes from the world-class Rodney Bay Marina, Cap Estate Golf Course, and capital city of Castries.






Castries, the capital of St. Lucia
Castries, the capital of St. Lucia, courtesy Shawn on Flickr. See license.

Things to See and Do in Castries

Castries is the capital of St. Lucia and a great place to experience the island's culture and history. Here are some suggestions for things to see and do in Castries:

  • Derek Walcott Square is a central square in Castries that is named after the Nobel laureate and St. Lucian poet. The square is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and the Government House.
  • The Castries Market is a bustling market located in the center of the city that sells a variety of local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. It's a great place to experience the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs.
  • Vigie Beach is a popular beach located near the airport that offers beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. The beach is a great place to relax, swim, or enjoy a picnic.
  • The St. Lucia Folk Research Centre is a cultural center that offers a variety of exhibits and educational programs on the island's history and culture.
  • Morne Fortune is a hill located near Castries that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area. The hill is home to a number of hiking trails that are suitable for hikers of all levels.
  • Take a boat tour: Castries is located on the coast, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding waters. There are a number of boat tours available that depart from the city and allow you to explore the coast and see some of the island's most stunning natural features.


Marigot Bay, St. Lucia
Marigot Bay, St. Lucia, courtesy Anne and David on Flickr. See license.

Marigot Bay

Marigot Bay is a picturesque bay located on the west coast of St. Lucia that is known for its natural beauty and abundance of activities, including:

  • Boat tours: Marigot Bay is a great base for exploring the surrounding waters and there are a number of boat tours available that depart from the bay. Options include snorkeling tours, fishing trips, and sunset cruises.
  • The Marigot Bay Marina: The Marigot Bay Marina is a popular spot for visitors to the bay and offers a variety of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and a swimming pool. The marina also offers water sports rentals and boat charters.
  • Hiking in the Marigot Bay Nature Reserve, a protected area that is home to a variety of plant and animal species. The reserve offers a number of hiking trails that are suitable for hikers of all levels.
  • Relaxing on the beach: Marigot Bay is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including Marigot Beach and Anse Cochon Beach. These beaches are a great spot to relax, swim, or enjoy a picnic.
  • The St. Lucia Rainforest and Adventure Park: Located near Marigot Bay, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including zip lining, rock climbing, and a ropes course.
TRAVEL SPECIAL: Sandals Halcyon Beach


Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort & Spa 5 nights with air from 3,844 per person
Sandals Halcyon BeachOf all the Sandals beach resorts, it has been said that perhaps Sandals Halcyon Beach best defines the Caribbean—set on a palette of lush gardens bordering the tranquil Caribbean Sea. By design, this all-inclusive St. Lucia beach resort is built naturally into the environment with no building higher than the highest palm. Classic Caribbean architecture and quaint, charming ginger breaded cottages are creatively designed to meld into the luxuriant surrounding landscape.
Learn more about Sandals Halcyon Beach

Prices include: Items selected, government taxes and fees and Pleasant Holidays' service fees. Unless specified otherwise, rates are quoted in USD.







Sulphur Springs mud bath, St. Lucia
Sulphur Springs mud bath, St. Lucia, courtesy Anne and David on Flickr. See license.

Diamond Mineral Baths & Sulphur Springs

The Diamond Mineral Baths are a natural hot spring located in the town of Soufrière on the island of St. Lucia. The baths are known for their therapeutic properties and are a popular attraction for visitors to the island.

The Diamond Mineral Baths are located in a lush, tropical setting, with a number of pools filled with natural, mineral-rich water. The baths are open to the public and offer a variety of facilities, including changing rooms, showers, and a snack bar.

Sulphur Springs are located in the crust of a dormant volcano, and features natural mud baths. After your mud bath, you can rinse off in a natural rainforest waterfall that plummets 50 feet over a cliff into a pool in the middle of landscaped gardens.

Visiting a Plantation

Here are some options for visiting a plantation in St. Lucia:

  • Fond Doux Plantation: located in Soufrière, the Fond Doux Plantation is a working plantation that offers guided tours of the property, including the plantation house, the cocoa and coconut plantations, and the herb and spice gardens.
  • Rabot Estate: the Rabot Estate is located in the town of Soufrière and is a working cocoa plantation that offers guided tours of the property. The tour includes a visit to the cocoa fermentation shed and the opportunity to taste a variety of cocoa-based products.
  • Diamond Estate: the Diamond Estate is located in the town of Soufrière and is a working plantation that offers guided tours of the property, including the plantation house, the cocoa and coconut plantations, and the gardens.
  • Dennery Estate: the Dennery Estate is a working plantation that offers guided tours of the property, including the plantation house, the cocoa and coconut plantations, and the gardens.


Purple-throated Carib hummingbird
Purple-throated Carib, courtesy Don Faulkner on Flickr. See license.

Birdwatching in St. Lucia

Some of the species you might see while birdwatching in St. Lucia include:

  • St. Lucia Parrot: Also known as the Amazona versicolor, the St. Lucia parrot is an endangered species that is native to the island. The parrot is a brightly colored bird with a green body, red underwings, and a blue head.
  • The St. Lucia Oriole: is a rare and endangered species of bird that is native to the island. The oriole is a brightly colored bird with a black body, orange head, and yellow wings.
  • The Purple-throated Carib is a species of hummingbird that is native to the Caribbean. The bird is a bright green color with a purple throat and is a common sight on the island.
  • The Scaly-breasted Thrasher is a species of bird that is native to the Caribbean. The thrasher is a brown and orange color with a distinctive scaly pattern on its breast.

There are a number of guided birdwatching tours available on the island that can help you spot these and other species.


Rainforest Aerial Tram

The Rainforest Aerial Tram is a popular attraction in St. Lucia that offers a unique way to explore the island's rainforest. The tram is a gondola-style cable car that travels through the canopy of the rainforest, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The Rainforest Aerial Tram is located in the town of Soufrière and operates daily tours. The tours last around 2 hours and include a guided tour of the rainforest, as well as a visit to the Diamond Falls and Mineral Baths.



St. Lucia Video Overview



Courtesy the St. Lucia Tourism Authority.


How we work with you to plan the perfect trip:

  • We'll talk with you to find out what you're looking for, what you like/don't like, etc.
  • We'll use our first-hand knowledge of the destination to pick out a handful of resorts we think you'd like
  • We'll create a custom mini website for you, with photos, videos, maps, etc. of the resorts we are recommending
  • We'll follow up with you to help you make your decision
  • We'll go to work with our suppliers to get you the best deal available on what you've decided on.


 

Map of all Resorts in St. Lucia


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