Let’s discover together one of the most incredible destinations in the Caribbean Sea. In this article, we’re talking all about the best time to visit St. Lucia.
Picture by Faith Panciello on Unsplash
Are you dreaming of St. Lucia’s golden beaches and luxury resorts, but not sure when to go? Whether you’re looking for the best time to enjoy the beaches or the best season for the cultural experiences, we have you covered in this article. This guide gives you a breakdown of St. Lucia’s seasons, complete with the best activities for each, and events that you can’t miss.
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The best time to visit St. Lucia
Nestled in the Caribbean Sea, St. Lucia gets the best of the Tropical weather, with warm temperatures year-round. But this doesn’t mean that St. Lucia doesn’t have seasons, just not the four that we’re most used to.
The dry season, from mid-December to May, coincides with the high season, since it’s the most popular time to visit St. Lucia. In general, it’s the best season if you’re looking for sunny skies, mild temperatures, and lower humidity, so you can spend all day enjoying the beaches.
- Best for: Honeymooners, luxury travelers, beach lovers, and first-time visitors.
Best Activities for the Dry Season
- Hike the Gros Piton: One of the most popular activities during the dry season, as the weather is perfect, with milder temperatures and a very low probability of rain. It’s not exactly an easy hike, but the views from the top are really worth it, and a great way to connect with the island’s volcanic heritage and natural beauty.
Photo by Faith Panciello on Unsplash
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Sail along the west coast: Another great way to see a big part of the island is to take a catamaran cruise from Rodney Bay or Soufriere. The most popular times are early in the morning or during sunset for spectacular views of the Pitons and bays. It’s also a nice way to experience St Lucia’s natural life, as the tours include snorkeling stops and opportunities to see dolphins.
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Enjoy a beach day: It might seem like a very simple option, but don’t underestimate how incredible a beach day can be in St Lucia. You can lounge around, read a book, do water sports, or simply enjoy the beach bars. Perfect for a quiet day after long months at work.
Photo by Sara Nichols on Unsplash
Travel tips for the dry season
As we mentioned earlier, St. Lucia’s dry season is the most popular time for travelers, so if you want to take a trip during this period, it’s best to book early. And we’re not talking about one month early, but 3 to 6 months in advance, so that you can have the best options and even some discounts.
Include the cruise ship days in your booking, as it’s one of the most requested activities. You can also ask at your hotel for a local guide who can help you plan an itinerary to avoid the crowds.
Wet Season: July to October
During this season, the rainfall is more frequent, and the humidity is higher. This makes the temperature feel a bit higher, since the moisture in the air sticks to your skin. It’s also hurricane season in St. Lucia, so many travelers ignore it, which might be a mistake, since there’s a lot of cultural value.
- Best for: Budget travelers, offbeat explorers, and cultural travelers.
Best Activities for the Wet Season
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Explore the rainforest: Since fewer travelers brave Saint Lucia during the wet season, this makes it the best time to explore it. And the most spectacular place to explore is the island’s Lush interior, like the Edmund Forest Reserve or the Babonneau Rainforest. Enjoy the quieter trails, the fuller waterfalls, and the lively atmosphere, complete with birds, butterflies, and thousands of flowers.
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Attend St. Lucia’s Carnival: Of course, no Caribbean country can be complete without energetic and colorful celebrations, like the carnival. This is an excellent opportunity to experience St. Lucia’s music, dance, fashion, and culture firsthand in the streets.
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Take a wellness retreat: Maybe you’re not in St. Lucia looking for crazy Adventures and never-ending activities. Taking one or two days to slow down, practicing yoga, getting a massage, and truly unwinding with the soothing sound of the waves is an excellent option for you. You can try them at resorts like Sugar Beach or Jade Mountain, which are more accessible since it’s the off-season.
Photo by Alexandra Smielova on Unsplash
Travel tips for the wet season
First of all, you have to pack with the rain in mind, since you’ll be dealing with it. For example, consider bringing quick-drying clothing, a rain jacket, and waterproof shoes or sandals suitable for hiking.
When planning your outdoor adventures and excursions, try to prioritize the mornings, as rain is less common at that time of day. For the afternoon, you can make plans, but it’s advisable to be flexible and always have a plan B, preferably one that’s indoors.
Shoulder Season: May-June, and November
During these transitional months, the rain is more frequent, but the showers are usually short and followed by lots of sunshine. If you’re a frequent traveler, this may be the perfect time for you, as the island is lush and blooming, and with fewer visitors, you’ll have more space and better prices.
- Best for: Cultural travelers, value seekers, and outdoorsy types.
Best Activities for the Shoulder Season
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Soak in the sulphur springs: Picture this, you wake up early, ready for a day full of activities, but it’s a good morning and you’re not sure how to start your day. Take this opportunity to go to the world’s only drive-in volcano and soak in the warm mineral-rich mud. Cloudy days are perfect for this, as there’s less risk of sunburning and the pools are even more soothing.
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Dine like a local: The shoulder season is the best time to truly integrate with the locals, and a great way to do this is by trying St Lucian culinary culture. This experience goes from Beachside fish fries to upscale Creole dishes, and you can try seasonal menus that are not available during peak season.
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Go waterfall chasing: During the shoulder months, rainfall is still pretty common, and this means that the waterfalls are at their fullest. If you’re looking for a great scenic view, consider traveling the country to visit Toraiile, Errard, and Enbas Saut falls. Don’t forget your camera and your bathing suit!
Photo by Corinne Kutz on Unsplash
Travel tips for the shoulder season
If you’ve decided that the shoulder season is the best time for you to travel to St. Lucia, keep an eye out for flash sales and last-minute upgrades. Since it’s slower, many hotels and tour operators offer plenty of discounts.
During the shoulder season, the weather is generally pleasant, and both expect quick changes. To stay prepared, bring a mix of comfortable clothes, light rain gear, and versatile footwear. Don’t forget to add something nice for dinner in town, but avoid dressing too formally.
Overlooked FAQs for a trip to St. Lucia
What is the worst month to visit St. Lucia?
For many people, the worst months to travel to St Lucia are from August to October because these month falls in the heart of the Atlantic hurricane season, and coincide with the island’s wettest period. You can expect frequent and heavy rainfall, high humidity and heat, and limited visibility for diving or snorkeling. Really not ideal.
Can I still enjoy the worst months in St. Lucia?
It depends on the kind of traveler that you are, but yes. You can turn the trip into a wellness or a retreat vacation, for example, and spend days reading, coming home, attending possessions, journaling, or taking yoga classes. Other people embrace the rain mode and use this time to explore the forest when the flowers are blooming and the whole island is stunningly green.
Where to Stay in St. Lucia
Choose the West Coast if you’re looking for calmer waters, iconic views of the Pitons, and more upscale resorts. However, if you prefer a more rustic stay and a natural experience, the East Coast is less developed and offers fewer tourist amenities.
Should I rent a car in St. Lucia?
Rent a car only if you’re comfortable driving on the left side, and around mountain roads with sharp turns. If you want to explore the whole island, you can take a taxi, a shuttle, or just hire a driver for a day or two.
Are there bugs in St. Lucia?
Yes, plenty of mosquitoes, especially during the wet season and in forested areas. Do not travel to St. Lucia without a mosquito repellent, and always wear long sleeves when exploring the forest.