Saint Lucia

From room rates to flights and unexpected costs, it’s important to plan ahead when budgeting a trip to St. Lucia.  For a mid-range trip to St. Lucia, you can expect to pay around $3,450, or around $5,570 per couple, for a one week vacation (including activities and airfare).  For a more luxurious experience, a one week vacation can cost $7,230 or more per person, and $11,150 or more for a couple.  I’ll break down all the options for different accommodations and airfare below.  

Cost For Accommodations

The cost of accommodations will vary widely in St. Lucia depending on the season, type of lodging, and location. 

• All Inclusive: All-inclusive resorts will typically cost more than a traditional hotel, but it’s important to consider the overall costs after food, activities, and transportation. The cost for an all inclusive resort in St. Lucia averages between $400 – $750 per night for 2 people, not including airfare.  For more luxurious resorts, the average cost can be $900 or more per night. 
• Hotel Stays: If you want a more bespoke vacation, a traditional hotel can offer a lot of flexibility.  During peak season, a private room in a two-star hotel starts at around $170 USD ($460 XCD) per night. Now, you can always go with a four or five-star hotel that will offer several amenities (not quite an all inclusive), and these will cost $450 USD per night or more. 
• Budget Stays:  For those on a tight budget, there are plenty of low-cost hotels to choose from St. Lucia.  You can expect to pay $50 – $150 per night for budget hotel stays or shared rooms in St. Lucia. 

Cost For Airfare

Snagging a great deal on airfare can really move the needle when it comes to saving money. To get the lowest prices, it is best to book flights well in advance and monitor prices regularly. Flight prices will be highest during peak season, especially in December, when they will average between $700 – $800. However, booking a flight for May or June could mean more manageable prices of about $500.  

Miscellaneous Expenses

Finally, take into account miscellaneous expenses such as meals, transportation, and activities. If you get an all-inclusive resort, this will not be as big of a factor, so it’s wise to compare potential miscellaneous costs when assessing lodging options.

The average cost for a meal in St. Lucia is $30 USD per person at a basic restaurant (priced similarly to the United States).  This cost can significantly increase if you are going to a nice restaurant with multiple courses and drinks.  On the flip side, you can get some quick street food at a “shack” or appetizers for less than $20 USD per person. Keep in mind this will generally not include the 10% VAT or tip. 

Taxis and ridesharing like Uber or Allez are available in St. Lucia.  For example, a 20 minute cab ride will cost around $20 USD.  But you can also take public transportation like the St. Lucia Minibus System as a cost-efficient way to get around. A typical fare on the bus will cost around $2.5 EC (or $1 USD). 

Lastly, activities and excursions can range from $100 USD per person for a Piton mountain hike and mud bath, to $140 USD for a full day catamaran cruise.  More on activities later in the guide.

Choosing when to visit St. Lucia largely depends on your preferences, whether you’re looking for the best weather, great deals, or fewer crowds. Here’s my insights into the island’s peak season, shoulder seasons, and hurricane season, so you can decide what’s best for your needs.

Peak Season

December to April is the peak season in St. Lucia. You can expect the best weather during these months with temperature averages of 24°C to 30°C. However, it also means the island is bustling with tourists, and accommodation prices are at their highest.

Shoulder Seasons

The shoulder seasons of May and June offer a sweet spot with comfortable temperatures in the high 70s to 80s°F.  Precipitation during these months is also .87 inches per month so you will not have to contend with much rain.  This period presents an opportunity to enjoy better deals on accommodations and flights, with less crowd than the peak season.

Hurricane Season

August to October marks the hurricane season, and is the least busy and has the best deals. The weather can be unpredictable with a higher chance of rain and storms.  That said, rainfall tends to be in short durations.  So while it is more common, it is very manageable. 

For a budget-conscious traveler like me, the deep discounts on fares and room rates might be tempting. However, constant monitoring of weather forecasts would be essential during this period – it is also advisable to add travel insurance if you book during these months.

St. Lucia has a low crime rate compared to other Caribbean destinations. However, like any place, it’s not immune to crime. Incidents of petty theft are uncommon but can happen.

The US State Department rates St. Lucia a Level 1 Travel Advisory, which is the lowest level and means to exercise normal precautions. 

Safety Tips:

• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas. 
• Avoid walking alone, mainly at night or in poorly lit locations. 
• Ensure valuable items are not left unattended; use hotel safes when possible.
• Use reputable and licensed taxis and tour operators for all of your excursions.
• t’s recommended to have travel insurance, which can be a lifesaver in case of medical emergencies or theft.

Should you have any emergency situations, you can contact the local emergency phone number.  For medical emergencies, dial 911, and for police assistance, dial 999. Also contact the local U.S. Embassy at (246)-227-4000.

St. Lucia is filled with activities that complement its natural beauty. Here’s my list of the top 10 things that I believe everyone should experience when visiting:

1. Hike the Pitons: The famous Gros Piton and Petit Piton tower over St. Lucia at a height of 3,000 feet. The hike to the top can be strenuous but the panoramic views at the top are priceless. You will also be able to check out Piton Falls and bathe in the sulfur springs.  Expect to spend at least a half a day hiking and exploring.  
2. Visit Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens: Located on a 6 acre private park, the diversity of flora and the stunning Diamond Waterfall make it a picturesque retreat.  You can also take a relaxing dip in the mineral baths. The fee is $7 USD to enter for adults, and they only accept cash at the front gate. 
3. Snorkel at Anse Chastanet: The crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life make snorkeling here unforgettable. It’s a glimpse into an underwater paradise.
4. Relax in Soufrière’s Drive In Volcano: The world’s only drive-in volcano offers rejuvenating sulphur springs where I love to relax in natural spa treatments and soak in the jungle vibes.
5. Explore Pigeon Island: Rich with history and culture, this 44 acre national park blends beautiful beaches with remnants of the past.  It is completely untouched from modern development.
   
6. Sail to Marigot Bay: Often called one of the most beautiful bays, sailing here offers a serene and scenic escape.
   
7. Trek the Tet Paul Nature Trail: For a gentler hike with mesmerizing views, this is my go-to activity. It provides a beautiful vista of the Pitons.
   
8. Experience Dive Sites: St. Lucia is world renowned for their diving with over 22 dive sites. You can choose a dive site for every experience level. My favorite is the Coral Gardens that is filled with tropical fish and coral, and is located at the base of the Piton Mountains
   
9. Enjoy the Beaches: The southwest side of the island offers some of the best white sand beaches with calm Caribbean waters.  From hidden coves to sweeping bays, the beaches here always offer a spot in the sun with a laid-back atmosphere.  My personal favorite is Anse Mamin Beach, which is large enough so you don’t feel too crowded.
10. Take in the Views from Morne Fortune: This historical site gives a stunning overview of Castries, and its past intertwines with the lush scenery.

Gros-Islet: Located on the northern tip of the island, Gros-Islet has become one of the more popular tourist destinations since it is the largest of the 10 districts on the island. It is home to some of the must see beaches, including the famous mile long Dickenson Bay.  You can also go into town and enjoy the street parties that include a mix of local vendors, bars, and dancing!

Soufrière: Nestled on the west coast, Soufrière is famed for the iconic Pitons, a UNESCO World Heritage site. I’m always captivated by the town’s colorful buildings and the enchanting Sulphur Springs, known as the world’s only drive-in volcano. Snorkelers and divers would adore the nearby Anse Chastanet, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.

Marigot Bay: Often referred to as the most beautiful bay in the Caribbean, Marigot Bay is a serene escape. I love the luxe yachts floating on tranquil blue waters and the lush hillsides framing the bay. For a romantic outing, the sunset views here are unrivaled.

Pigeon Island National Park: Technically Pigeon Bay is within Gros-Islet, but it’s worth mentioning on its own. Not only does Pigeon Island boast a rich historical background with its preserved forts, but it also offers stunning landscapes. As an avid hiker, I find the trails and lookout points to be some of the best, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding sea.

Castries: As the vibrant capital, my visits to Castries are always filled with energy. The local markets are filled with unique handmade crafts and spices. For anyone interested in architecture, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception’s murals are a sight to behold.

Before you embark on your St. Lucia adventure, here are the cliff-notes of things to know to make sure your experience is seamless. From understanding the culture to navigating local transportation, I’ll walk you through the essentials.

Culture

• St. Lucia is rich in cultural heritage, blending the influences of African, French, and English colonial history. 
• While the official language is English, nearly all locals will speak a French Creole language known as Patois. When interacting, be sure to extend a courteous greeting—it’s a core part of social etiquette here!
• The friendly locals hold the folk traditions dear, especially the lively steel pan music. 

Currency

• The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). The current exchange rate is $2.7 EC to $1.0 USD.  
• While most places accept US dollars, I find it best to have a little local currency on hand for smaller purchases.  Keep in mind that most merchants will also accept credit cards. 
• You can easily exchange money at local banks, money exchange outlets, or your hotel in some cases.  For the lowest fees, try to use reputable banks and ATMs, or your hotel. 

Food

• St. Lucian cuisine is a delicious mix of West African, French, and East Indian flavors, resulting in mouthwatering dishes like green figs and saltfish (the national dish). 
• Don’t miss out on trying local delicacies like lambi (conche stew), bouillon (a soup with meat and vegetable), creole barbeques, or fried plantains.  Each one is a reflection of the island’s culinary influences.
• The local seafood is fresh caught and amazing because fishing hasn’t developed into a commercial industry yet. 
• My favorite splurge restaurant is the Treetop Restaurant which overlooks the Pitons.  It has amazing curry foods with a fixed course menu, but the view at sunset is one of the best on the island. 

Weather

• St. Lucia enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round. Temperature averages range between 72-95°F, with June being the hottest.
• The wet season is from June to November, with September having the most precipitation at 1.02 Inches.  Although the rainy season can bring spurts of rain, they are generally short lived. I didn’t find the rain to be an issue and it is nice to not deal with the big crowds.
• The best time to visit St. Lucia is during the high season between December and April. This is the time of year with the most consistently sunny weather.

Transportation

• Taxis are easily accessible around the island.  Note that official cabs will have a light blue license plate with the prefix TX.  Make sure to understand the fare and agree upon it before leaving to avoid any potential scams.  You can also have your hotel schedule a tax transfer for you at the front desk.
• Ride sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also available from the airport and around the cities. 
• Renting a car will offer you the most flexibility, but it will require an international drivers permit which you can get at the car rental place for $20 USD.  If you plan to do any off-road driving, keep that in mind for the type of vehicle you rent.  Remember that you will need to drive on the left side of the road!
• Lastly, the public bus system is a great way to save on transportation costs.  The official buses will have a green license plate with the prefix M. It is best to have some local currency for these, but the fares are generally under $3 EC for transfers around the island.  

Airports

• There are several direct flights to St. Lucia from major cities in the United States and Canada.
• The primary airport is Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) airport on the southern end of the island, although George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) is located on the north side with more limited flights.
• If you want to go all out, St. Lucia is one of the few Caribbean Islands that offers helicopter transfers.  You can reserve a helicopter transfer from the Airport that is $190 per person.  It is a little pricey, but you save on time, and it offers amazing views of the island as you fly overhead.

Passport And Visas

• United States and Canadian visitors to St. Lucia doesn’t require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.  Make sure you have an onward or departure ticket to show customs. 
• A valid passport is required for United States citizens. Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.

What is the best place to vacation in Saint Lucia?​

My favorite place to vacation in St. Lucia is Gros-Islet on the north of the island because it has some of the best beaches like Rodney Bay, while still being only about 25 minutes from the George F. L. Charles Airport.   It’s also a short distance to Soufriere where you can find the volcanic Piton mountains and natural springs.

How much does a St. Lucia vacation cost?​

A mid-level trip to St. Lucia will cost around $3,450, or about $5,570 per couple, for a one week vacation including activities and airfare.  This can vary depending on the time of year and the type of accommodations you want.   

Is St. Lucia very expensive?

St. Lucia is relatively more expensive than some Caribbean islands like Jamaica or the Dominican Republic.  Lodging accommodations and food are about on par with prices in the United States.   That said, there are ways to reduce the price tag, like traveling outside of the high season (which is December to April) or choosing budget hotels and restaurants.  Overall, St. Lucia is not “cheap”, but it can certainly be done on a budget.