While the north of St. Lucia buzzes with vibrant energy, it’s the peaceful south that truly captures the island’s essence. Imagine waking up to the sight of the Pitons right outside your window, or soaking in the natural hot springs at the Sulphur Springs.
You’ll find hidden gems like the colorful town of Soufrière, waterfalls tucked away in the rainforest, and quiet beaches where you can relax without the crowds. Join me as we dive into the slower, more soulful side of St. Lucia—where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand.
Why I Keep Coming Back to St. Lucia’s South
What draws me most to the southern coast of St. Lucia is its raw, untouched beauty. Here, secluded bays and volcanic beaches feel worlds away from the crowds. The lush, mountainous landscapes—anchored by the iconic Pitons—are nothing short of cinematic. And there’s a certain unhurried rhythm to life down here that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly connect with the island. Whether I’m chasing waterfalls, sipping local cocoa, or just watching the sunset from a quiet cove, the south always feels like the soul of Saint Lucia.
Vieux Fort
As most travelers do, I touched down in Vieux Fort, St. Lucia’s second largest city. This town of 20,000 souls is where most travelers first meet the island, but few linger. I decided to stick around and dive into the local scene. Vieux Fort’s no-frills charm grew on me quickly. Its walkable streets led me through a slice of authentic St. Lucian life – from a bustling fish market to laid-back beaches where the Caribbean and Atlantic mingle.
Vieux Fort might not scream “tourist haven,” but that’s exactly why it captured my heart. It’s real, it’s raw, and it’s ready for those willing to look beyond the glossy brochures. To me, Vieux Fort is the perfect launchpad for southern adventures!
How to get to Vieux Fort?
If you're flying in from abroad, you'll most likely land at St. Lucia's UVF Airport, which is conveniently located in Vieux Fort.
From the North: Vieux Fort is about a 1-hour drive from Castries or Rodney Bay. You can get there by taxi, rental car, or local buses, which are the most budget-friendly option.
Where to stay in Vieux Fort?
Villa Caribbean Dream: Villa Caribbean Dream is a cozy, affordable guesthouse with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s perfect for those looking for a peaceful, personal experience away from the busy tourist spots.
Is Vieux Fort safe?
Yes, Vieux Fort is generally safe. Like anywhere, just be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night. The local community is welcoming and friendly.
Things to do in Vieux Fort, St. Lucia
Go Fine Dining in Vieux Fort
St. Lucia’s food scene is incredible, and while I usually stick to street food, I had to check out the fine dining in Vieux Fort. It turns out this town has some fantastic upscale spots with both local and international flavors. I was genuinely impressed by the dishes—beautifully presented and packed with flavor. It was definitely worth switching up my usual routine to try some of Vieux Fort’s more refined options.
Take in the View from Moule a Chique
I decided to drive up to Moule a Chique, but you can easily hike or jog up if you want. Masn St. Lucians use this road to excevise.
The road is paved and the climb is manageable, but the view at the top is what really makes it worth the trip. You get this insane panoramic view of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. I ended up just hanging out there for a while, taking it all in. Definitely one of the best viewpoints on the island.
Go Kitesurfing in Saint Lucia
Vieux Fort is known for kitesurfing, so I figured I’d give it a try. The winds are strong, the beach is wide, and the water’s perfect for it. Even as a beginner, I had an awesome time learning the ropes with an instructor. There’s something seriously cool about catching the wind and gliding over the water. Whether you’re a pro or trying it for the first time, kitesurfing here is definitely worth doing.
Visit Laborie & Choiseul
I took a quick trip to Laborie and Choiseul, just outside of Vieux Fort. Laborie has a super relaxed vibe, with a nice beach where you can just chill. Choiseul, on the other hand, is where you go if you’re into arts and crafts—the local markets are filled with handmade stuff that’s hard to resist. Both villages are a nice change of pace if you want to see a more local side of St. Lucia.
Walk Around Town and Explore the Fish Market
I spent some time just walking through Vieux Fort, and the fish market was one of the highlights. It’s busy with fishermen bringing in their fresh catch, and you can find all kinds of fish and seafood on display. It’s the perfect place to get a feel for the local culture and grab something fresh if you’re in the mood to cook, or just sample a bit of what the island’s waters have to offer.
Soufriere
I came to Soufriere to recover from St. Lucia’s carnival, and I couldn’t have chosen a better spot. This town is one of the island’s most visited places, and it’s easy to see why. With the iconic Pitons towering in the background and a gorgeous beach right at the shoreline, the scenery is unbeatable. The town itself has a lot of charm, with its historic buildings and colorful Caribbean-style houses and shops. There’s a blend of natural beauty and local culture that makes Soufriere feel both relaxing and vibrant at the same time.
How to Get to Soufrière
Soufrière is located on Saint Lucia’s scenic west coast and is easily accessible from both airports:
From Hewanorra International Airport (UVF):
Private taxi: ~45–60 minutes, around $70 USD
Rental car: Great for flexibility, but be prepared for winding roads
Helicopter transfer: Fast and scenic, but expensive (10–15 minutes)
From George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU):
Taxi: Around 1.5 hours, approx. $70 USD
Public Transport:
Minibuses (called maxi-taxis) are the most budget-friendly option, but require transfers and patience. Best for light packers and those on a tight budget.
Tip: During busy seasons, pre-book your transfer or car rental to avoid delays.
Where to stay in Soufiere?
Soufrière is home to some of Saint Lucia’s most stunning and soulful stays. From luxury escapes to eco-friendly hideaways, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Pitons and lush southern coast.
Jade Mountain
A true bucket-list stay. Jade Mountain offers open-air sanctuaries with private infinity pools and panoramic Piton views. It’s the most incredible place I’ve ever stayed—completely serene, wildly romantic, and worth every splurge.
Is Soufrière, St. Lucia Safe?
Yes, Soufrière is generally safe for travelers—especially those staying in established hotels or guesthouses. Like anywhere, it’s important to use common sense: don’t leave valuables unattended, avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, and always lock your doors.
The town is small, friendly, and welcoming, with many locals working in tourism. Most visitors come for nature, wellness, and peace—so the vibe is relaxed and low-key. If you plan to explore local villages or go hiking, consider hiring a local guide—not just for safety, but to gain cultural insights and hidden gems.
Overall, Soufrière is a safe and rewarding destination, especially for eco-conscious and slow travelers.
Things to do in Soufriere, St. Lucia
Dip in the Sulfur Springs “Drive-In Volcano”
Taking a dip in the sulfur springs at the “drive-in volcano” was a unique experience. The smell takes a minute to get used to, but the warm, mineral-rich water felt amazing. It’s supposed to be great for your skin, and after soaking in it, I did feel super refreshed. Plus, where else can you say you’ve bathed in a volcanic spring? Definitely something to check off the list when you’re in Soufriere.
Go Scuba Diving
I went scuba diving in Soufriere, and it was incredible. The reefs are teeming with life, and the underwater visibility is fantastic. I saw everything from sea turtles to barracuda. The dive sites around Soufriere, like Superman’s Flight, are well-known for their dramatic drop-offs and abundant marine species. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, the diving here is top-notch.
Snorkeling at Anse Chastanet
Snorkeling at Anse Chastanet is like swimming in an aquarium. The water here is so clear, and the reef is full of vibrant marine life—everything from colorful fish to coral gardens. I didn’t even need to go far from the shore to see some amazing underwater sights. It’s definitely one of the best snorkeling spots I’ve been to, and it’s hard to beat the stunning views of the Pitons in the background.
Relax at Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens
After all the adventure, I took some time to unwind at the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens. The gardens are so peaceful, filled with tropical flowers and towering trees. The highlight was definitely the Diamond Waterfall, which is colored by minerals from the nearby volcano. It’s a great spot to just stroll around and take in the natural beauty, especially if you need a break from the sun.
Climb the Pitons
Climbing the Pitons was hands down one of the most challenging but rewarding things I did in St. Lucia. It’s a steep hike, and you’ll need some stamina, but once you reach the top of Gros Piton, the views are absolutely breathtaking. Looking down at the Caribbean and the island below is worth every bit of effort. Just make sure you bring plenty of water and a guide to show you the way!
Learn About Chocolate
One of the coolest things I did was learn about how chocolate is made in St. Lucia. There are local cocoa plantations around Soufriere where you can take a tour and see the whole process, from bean to bar. I even got to make my own chocolate, which was a fun (and delicious) hands-on experience. Plus, St. Lucian chocolate is some of the best I’ve ever tasted.
Go Hiking
There are some amazing hiking trails around Soufriere, and I took on both the Tet Nature Trail and the Edmund Rainforest Trail. The Tet trail was relatively easy, with great views of the Pitons and the surrounding forest. The Edmund Rainforest Trail, on the other hand, took me deep into the heart of the island’s lush rainforest. It was a bit more challenging but totally worth it for the waterfalls and the chance to spot rare birds and other wildlife. Both trails gave me a real sense of the island’s natural beauty.
Travel Tipps for St. Lucia
What language do they speak in St. Lucia?
The official language is English. However, you will also hear Saint Lucian Creole (Kwéyòl) spoken by the locals.
What is the best time to visit St. Lucia?
The best time to visit St. Lucia is from December to April, during the dry season, when the weather is most pleasant. However, traveling during the summer and early fall can also be enjoyable and less crowded, despite being the rainy season. Plus, you get to be part of the cultural events.
Are St. Lucia safe?
St. Lucia is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
What is the currency in St. Lucia?
The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is the official currency. U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but you may receive change in the local currency. Credit cards are also accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Getting around St. Lucia
St. Lucia offers various transportation options, including taxis, rental cars, and buses. For a more adventurous experience, you can also explore the island by bike or on foot for shorter distances.
Internet and Sim Cards in St Lucia
Getting connected in St. Lucia is pretty straightforward! You can easily purchase a SIM card at the airport, local shops, or directly from the two main providers—Digicel and Flow. SIM cards usually cost between $5 to $10 USD, and you can find data plans starting at around $10 USD for 1GB, which is perfect for staying connected during your trip.
All you need is a valid passport and your hotel details to get set up. Topping up is super easy too—just visit a local kiosk, store, or even do it online.
Can I drink tap water in Saint Lucia?
Challenges for the conscious traveler
Trash: Street food almost always comes wrapped in aluminum foil, and many restaurants serve it in to-go boxes. Luckily enough, a foldable food container will go a long way.
Sunscreen: Protect Marine life and wear reef-friendly sunscreen!
Where to stay
Trying to decide where to stay in St. Lucia? Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape by the Pitons, a beachfront villa near the action, or a cozy guesthouse tucked away in the hills, your choice of base can completely shape your island experience. After multiple visits and plenty of trial and error, I’ve pulled together the best places to stay—based on where I’ve actually slept, scouted, or had strong local recommendations. Let’s find your perfect spot in paradise.
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