Best beaches in Saint Lucia, Caribbean

Best for: low-key atmosphere and charm

Not far from St Lucia’s capital of Castries is Vigie beach. There’s a reason why this beach is as popular with the locals as it is. Largely undeveloped and unspoilt, Vigie Beach has a wilder, unmanaged appearance and is filled with quintessential Caribbean charm.

The little bay is lined with palm trees, which overlook the golden sand and crystal-clear waters.

Best for: snorkelling

Another black volcanic sand beach with tranquil waters, Anse Cochon is situated on the southwestern side of the island. This beach, although generally popular is less crowded than its other St Lucian sisters.

Perhaps because it’s mainly accessible by boat and provides a quiet, secluded atmosphere. Tranquil waters and offshore coral reefs provide ample snorkelling opportunities.

Best for: things to do and nightlife

Once a quiet fishing village, Gros Islet has since become one of the liveliest destinations on the island. This warm and welcoming town is the perfect introduction to bustling Creole culture.

Every Friday night, the Gros Islet locals hold a street party, serving up local dishes like green figs and saltfish, the island’s national dish, lambi (a type of conch shellfish) and thick, red bean meat soup bouyon.

Best for: Instagrammable scenery

On the west coast of the island, just south of Soufriere, you can find Sugar Beach, also know as Jalousie Plantation Beach, framed by the Piton mountains either side. Experience ultimate relaxation in the Valley of the Pitons, with acres of rainforest as your backdrop.

This narrow, sandy stretch of beach is probably not the ideal spot for a day of sun lounging (there are better ones on this list) but to explore, meet the locals and discover more about island life, you can’t beat it.

Note, access to the beach is through the Sugar Beach Viceroy Resort.

Best for: history

Pigeon Island is a place of great historical significance in St Lucia. A site of conflict and battle between the French and British, and desirable for its clear views across the bay towards French island of Martinique. Many forts and military fortresses line the area. Fort Rodney is well worth a visit for any history or naval buffs. But there are plenty of ruins dotted around the island.

Pigeon Point beach itself, while not large, is a brilliant place to spend a day reading a good book or snorkelling in the sea. The surrounding beauty is breathtaking, it’s hard not to be blown away by its dramatic scenery.

Best for: water sports and activity

On the north-west coast of the island Reduit beach on Rodney Bay is a dream for those who like their beaches bustling with activity.

Reduit beach is popular for its lively marina and sweeping views across the bay, overlooking Pigeon Island. There are plenty of water sports and activities, like jet-skiing, flyboarding and banana boat rides, on offer along this very recreational beach. Great for families with young children and teenagers.

Nearby you can find shops, stalls and restaurants.

Best for: Rugged beauty and nature

For untouched, unspoilt natural beauty, Grande Anse is the beach for you. Leatherback turtles lay their eggs along this stretch of the island, which is soon to become a national park. One of the only Atlantic-facing beaches on this list, the sea is more turbulent and than on the western, Caribbean side.

Because of its wild, off-the-beaten-track credentials, Grande Anse is a little harder to reach than the more tourist-heavy beaches on the island. Get a bus from Castries to Chassin and walk the rest of the way.