St Lucia, a country of the West Indies and a gem in the Caribbean, is a paradise that offers more than just sun-kissed beaches and azure waters. One of the key reasons why St Lucia is family-friendly is its wide array of activities that cater to all age groups, old and young. The island offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and educational experiences that keep both children and adults entertained day and night.
THE PITON MOUNTAINS
The Pitons: Gros Piton – 798 meters (2,618 ft) and Petit Piton – 743 meters (2,438 ft)
A must-visit attraction in St Lucia is the Piton mountains. The twin volcanic mountains of the Pitons, rising steeply from the Caribbean Sea, are one of the most recognisable natural wonders of the West Indies. Recognized as a World Heritage Site, these mountains are covered in untouched forests that are home to numerous rare plant species and animals. Gros Piton stands taller at 2,619 feet, and you can hike to its peak with the experienced tour guides; the breathtaking views make the climb worthwhile.
On the other hand, the shorter and steeper Petit Piton, at 2,438 feet, is meant for experienced climbers only. However, you can still take a boat trip on Piton Bay to enjoy stunning views of both peaks. The Gros Piton hike feels like climbing a vertical staircase to reach the mountain's peak and is considered an 8 out of 10 in terms of difficulty and takes about 4 to 6 hours to complete, depending on how fit you are.
The Gros Piton hike feels like climbing a vertical staircase to reach the mountain's peak. It's considered an 8 out of 10 in terms of difficulty and usually takes about 4 to 6 hours to complete, depending on how fit you are.The Gros Piton hike feels like climbing a vertical staircase to reach the mountain's peak. It's considered an 8 out of 10 in terms of difficulty and usually takes about 4 to 6 hours to complete, depending on how fit you are.
PROJECT CHOCOLAT TREE TO BAR TOUR AT HOTEL CHOCOLAT SAINT LUCIA
Project Chocolat Tree to Bar Tour at Hotel Chocolat Saint Lucia
For those with a sweet tooth, Project Chocolat Tree at Hotel Chocolat Saint Lucia is a must an offers an equally thrilling experience. This 3-hour chocolate-making experience includes a guided tour of St Lucia's cacao groves in the rainforest, then join a guided session to create your very own chocolate bar from the ground up.
We booked the tour in advance (which is highly advisable as this is one of the more popular things to do on the island) and I have to say was definitely worth it. Travelling to the rainforest was such an amazing experience as well as learning how chocolate is made and then making our own chocolate bars from scratch. Lunch at the hotel was included which was also very good.
https://saintlucia.hotelchocolat.com/project-chocolat
FOOD N RUM TOUR
Amazing food and rum
You cannot visit St Lucia without tasting its world famous Rum and what better place to visit than the extraordinary 'The Other Tour St.Lucia'. The Other Tour St. Lucia is a locally owned company designed for tourists and locals alike who are looking for a more authentic St. Lucian experience.
Our tour guide Delvin took us to a Rum factory where we got to see how Rum was produced as well as sampling the different types of Rum at the end of the tour. Lunch was also provided which was great. This is a truly wonderful experience as you also get to spend time with the locals and other people on the tour. We met other people on the tour from the US as well as a couple from the UK and had a great day. A complete delight!
https://theothertourstlucia.com/taste-st-lucia-food-and-rum-tour/
RAINFOREST ADVENTURES
Aerial Tram tour. St Lucia package
For the more adventurous, there's the option of a Aerial Tram, nature trails and canopy zip line. At around 2000 feet above sea level the zip line tour creates some of the best memories with the family as you scream and hurl your way around the zip lines enjoying every minute of the scenes from high up in the hill tops.
There are 10 thrilling ziplines to experience followed by a relaxing gondola ride through the canopy, and a beautiful hike in the rainforest (available if you take the 'Three' deal - which we did!) This eco-adventure in St. Lucia guarantees to create ever lasting memories!
https://rainforestadventure.com/st-lucia-travel-tour/
PIGEON ISLAND NATIONAL LANDMARK
Pigeon Island National Landmark
Pigeon Island National Landmark is a major historic site in Saint Lucia, and is typical of the island’s diverse cultural, military, and maritime past. The island has a museum within a very scenic setting and you can hike up to the ruins of the Fort Rodney lookout.
The view from the look out points was very beautiful and the ruins of the officers mess was fascinating. I would not recommend the hike to the top with very small kids as on hot days it can be quite challenging. Rodney Bay in this relatively quiet and undisturbed beauty spot and provides several spots for a well earned lunch.
https://saintlucianationaltrust.com/slnt-sites/protected-areas/pigeon-island-national-landmark/
SULPHUR SPRINGS ST LUCIA
The Sulphur Springs in St Lucia
The sulphur springs which formed from the 'Soufrier Volcano', last erupted in the 1700's. It formed from a weak area in the crust of a collapsed volcanic crater and is classified as a dormant volcano, unlike the neighbouring active Soufrier Hills Volcano on the island of Montserrat.
A highlight of this volcano is the chance to enjoy the relaxing mud baths. If you are looking to detox your skin or simply heal your sunburnt body, the sulphur springs is the place to go. For me the highlight has to be the 15 metre waterfall. After the mud baths and sulphur springs, the cool water of the waterfall provides the body with an invigorating tune up.
The springs provides a relaxing atmosphere which allows time to detox and reflect on this wonderful natural wonder. We stayed at the sulphur springs for about 3 hours which is probably just enough time to enjoy its pleasures.
https://www.sulphurspringstlucia.com/
TREETOP RESTAURANT
Treetop Restaurant and Bar – TortoisePath | St. Lucia
After a day of adventure, unwind at the Treetop restaurant. Located in Soufrière, Saint Lucia, set amidst the beautiful greenery of Crystals Villa Hotel, this one-of-a-kind dining spot serves a blend of Indian and Euro-Caribbean dishes, all prepared by one of the island's top chefs.
The menu features a variety of local dishes and the best of Caribbean flavors with a modern twist. The relaxed ambience and delicious food make it a perfect place for a family dinner. Dishes include Lamb Rogan Josh, Butter Chicken, Coconut Shrimp Curry, Fish Masala and Indian Street Corn alongside an impressive rum and cocktail list. https://www.stluciacrystals.com/treetop-restaurant
DEREK WALCOTT SQUARE
For literature fans, you can visit Derek Walcott Square (Castries) – a historic park in the city center. Derek Walcott was the Nobel Laureate in Literature in 1992 and poet and playwright influenced by Caribbean culture. https://www.stlucia.org/en/
Derek Walcott Square in central Castries, Saint Lucia
HISTORY AND HERITAGE
The history and culture of St Lucia is unique. Originally inhabited by the Arawaks, and later the Caribs—indigenous people who called the island 'Iouanalao', meaning "Land of the Iguanas. From the 1600s to 1800s, Saint Lucia was fiercely contested by the French and British, changing hands no fewer than 14 times, earning it the nickname "The Helen of the West Indies."
However, Britain eventually took control in 1814, establishing it as a Crown Colony. African slaves were brought to work on the islands sugar plantations during the colonial period until slavery was eventually abolished in 1834. https://www.stlucia.org/en/
Pigeon Island St Lucia
Today Saint Lucia is a parliamentary democracy and part of the Commonwealth, with a thriving tourism economy, and a rich Creole culture. Other notable places to visit or activities to try include; the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths six-acre tropical park with a diverse range of tropical plant, flowers, birds and insects as well as a spectacular waterfall. Or why not try Horseback Riding on the Beach (Vieux Fort Area).
Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths
The Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths is located in historic Soufrière, Saint Lucia and is is a historic property in Saint Lucia granted to three brothers by King Louis XIV of France in 1713.
Horseback Riding on the Beach (Vieux Fort Area)
SUGAR BEACH
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort
We stayed at the marvellous Sugar Beach resort which is part of the Viceroy Resort group. Sugar Beach is a luxury private resort situated on the western side of Saint Lucia, close to the lovely fishing village of Soufrière. Nestled between the iconic Pitons, this resort boasts breathtaking views, service and tranquillity. If you want a place that’s perfectly positioned for activities in the South of the island that features diverse dining choices, beautiful beaches, and lovely accommodations, this is the spot for you.
https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/sugar-beach
In conclusion, St Lucia is a family-friendly destination that offers a diverse range of activities and experiences. Whether it's exploring the rum plantations, going on a zip line through the rain forests, relaxing in the sulphur springs, dining at the Treetop restaurant, or experiencing the history and heritage of the island- there's something for everyone in the family. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in St Lucia
To plan a visit to St Lucia check out https://www.stlucia.org/en/ for more information.
