Are you trying to decide on the best beaches in St. Lucia for your next vacation? With beaches all around the island offering different activities, views, and experiences, it can be difficult to decide what to choose. We are here to help you discover the best Saint Lucia beaches for couples, families, and even surfing.
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Top Beaches in Saint Lucia
Close your eyes and picture yourself on one of the best beaches in St. Lucia surrounded by white sand and a canopy of green palm fronds and lush rainforest covering the earth. If you would like this image to be more than a daydream, you should start planning a trip to Saint Lucia right now.
The Caribbean island offers great weather, beautiful natural landmarks, and dozens of world-famous beaches. The only problem? With so many gorgeous beaches in St. Lucia to choose from, how can you decide where to go? Read on to learn more about where you can enjoy Saint Lucia coastline and where you should stay to enjoy the most of each of the St. Lucia beaches.
1. Sugar Beach St. Lucia – Best for Snorkeling
Also known as Jalousie Beach, Sugar Beach, is famous for its aqua blue waters and soft sand beach located between the two Pitons of St. Lucia. The waters of Sugar Beach bring that image of crystal clear turquoise waters to the next level. The reason for this is that the waters near Jalousie Beach are protected.
Sugar Beach is located directly at Sugar Beach Resort, but the beach is open to the public as well. The beach itself offers stunning views that are excellent for relaxing under its swaying palm trees. White sands stretch between two gorgeous mountain tops, Gros Piton and Petit Piton.
Located just a bit south of Soufrière, Sugar Beach is part of a Marine Reserve and one of the most popular beaches on St. Lucia. Because of the protected status of this area, fishermen do not have the right to fish at Jalousie Beach. Boaters and sailors are also prohibited from mooring nearby.
Diving in Soufriere
The result of these protections is a flourishing underwater world of crystal clear waters, where fish feel free to zoom around in droves. The area is so spectacular that snorkelers and SCUBA divers come to Sugar Beach from all around the world to experience its 1,800-foot drop known as the Soufriere Wall.
The wall is covered in colorful coral formations and is home to a wide variety of marine life, including schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even sharks. The waters around St. Lucia are warm and clear, with excellent visibility, making it an ideal destination for diving and snorkeling. Simply grab your goggles and throw on your mask. Then, dive deep into the underwater universe at Sugar Beach.
Thus, visitors can sit on the beach and soak in the stunning contrast between the peaks and the coast. Arriving at Jalousie Beach is an experience in and of itself. Board a water taxi in Soufrière and let it carry you to the shore. There may be nothing as romantic as a boat trip to the beach.
You can book scuba diving off the beach at Sugar Beach is good for beginners and newly certified divers.
Where to Stay at Sugar Beach
- Stonefield Villas – While not located on the beach, this beautiful all villas resort is spectacular plus, Stonefield Villa Resort offers free shuttles to Sugar Beach for guests. Check availability and room rates on TripAdvisor / Stonefield Villa Website
- Sugar Beach Resort – Voted one of the best hotels in the Caribbean, it is located directly on Jalousie Beach. However, beaches in St. Lucia are all open to the public so locals and visitors can enjoy the beach even if not staying at the resort See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
2. Reduit Beach – Families, Watersports and Nightlife
Reduit Beach is the place to be for watersports. Considered St. Lucia’s best beach, Reduit Beach is a long sandy beach that stretches along Rodney Bay. Most of the all-inclusive hotels and beach bars are located along Rodney Bay. With five miles of golden sand, the beach is one of the best beaches in St. Lucia for fun in the sun. It is good for both families, couples and young adults as there is a resort to choose from for everyone.
Reduit Beach is nestled on the coast of Castries, the island’s capital and is one of the most popular beaches in St. Lucia to stay at. Because of this, the beach is extremely accessible. It is also super close to a number of grocery stores, restaurants, and tourist shops. This means that it’s okay if one of the kids gets hungry or leaves their prized bucket back at the hotel. Amenities are close-by and easy to obtain.
Another major benefit of Reduit Beach is the variety of local activities. Adults can curl up on lounge chair with a good book while kids can hop in the water to enjoy an array of watersports. As a result, it’s great that Reduit offers a ton of cool things to do, like snorkeling and jet skiing.
The best part, however, is the beach’s enormous waterpark. Known as Splash Island, the outdoor facility is an award-winning fun zone. It was designed by a mother for other mothers to enjoy the beach with their kids. Splash Island offers a number of impressive amenities, including volleyball, a floating rock climbing wall, and even some over-water monkey bars. The beachside offering is a great way for people of all ages to enjoy the ocean’s natural beauty.
Where to Stay at Rodney Bay
- Calabash Cove – Couples and adults will love this resort that is close to Reduit Beach and Splash Island with the luxury and seclusion of an adults only Resort located just south of Reduit Beach. (It has its own private beach with watersports. See more on the Calabash Cove Website & TripAdvisor / Booking
- Bay Gardens Beach Resort and Spa – Located on the beach with lagoon-style swimming pool, plenty of shopping and close to water park.
- Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort – families, honeymooners and couples. TripAdvisor
3. Pigeon Island National Landmark – Best for History
A former pirate hideout and military Fort, Pigeon Island was turned into a National Landmark in 1972. There are old ruins, beautiful white sand beaches, snorkeling, and restaurants. There are shops just outside the entrance of Pigeon Island National Landmark to grab a bite to eat before or after your tour of the island.
Pigeon Island National Park used to be an island, but today is connected to the island by a manmade causeway making it very easy to visit.
Formerly a fort, a trip to Pigeon Island is an amazing half-day trip in St. Lucia that has some amazing hikes to the top of the island and the historic fort for incredible views of Rodney Bay. Fort Rodney, itself is open to the public and you can book private tours at the visitor center.
There are several beaches on Pigeon Island as well. The island is surrounded by sandy beaches, and beautiful crashing waves on the Atlantic Ocean side, and there is snorkeling on the Caribbean Sea side. There are small restaurants and shops just outside its entrance. From the top of Pigeon Island at Signal Point you can see all the way to Martinique.
Book this tour that includes a hike in Pigeon Island National Park, a climb up the “Hill of Good Luck”, plus a stop in Castries, and visit a banana plantation and the Eudovic Art Studio. From the top of the hike, you’ll be able to see the neighboring island of Martinique.
Where to Stay Near Pigeon Island
- The Landings Resort & Spa – is a premiere St Lucia beach resort featuring luxury one, two and three-bedroom spacious all suite villas with personal plunge pools on Pigeon Island Causeway and Rodney Bay. Booking.com / TripAdvisor
- Sandals Grande St. Lucian – If you are looking for that signature over the water bungalow experience of pure luxury, this adults only resort has Lagoon swim-up rooms and butler service. TripAdvisor / Booking.com
4. Anse Chastanet Beach – Best for Photos
These days, traveling the world isn’t just about having new experiences. It’s also about recording them. According to one poll, social media platforms are so powerful that they even influence where 86% of users go on vacation.
While the rise of the social media photo may be controversial, it’s definitely happening. As a result, you might as well go on your trip prepared to take some cute pictures. Anse Chastanet Beach is the best place to snap a few cute shots with your family, friends, or romantic interest. Because of its proximity to the volcano, the beach offers black sand creating a stark contrast from the white sand beaches around St Lucia.
Anse Chastanet Beach is its location. Since it is located within the Anse Chastanet resort, you must enter the resort area in order to access the beach. While this may seem uncomfortable or exclusive, you don’t have to worry. In Saint Lucia, all beaches are public property. As a result, everyone has the right to enjoy any beach on the island, regardless of where its located.
For all purposes, this means that you can drive up to the Anse Chastanet resort and park your vehicle there. Then, you can just explain that you are going to the beach. You will be welcome there.
Where to Stay on Anse Chastanet
- Jade Mountain Resort – Jade Mountain Resort is the most expensive hotel in St. Lucia located on the West Coast of the Island. When we asked our driver what are the best hotels in St. Lucia, this was at the top of his list. Located on the private estate of Anse Chastanet, it has an infinity pools and views of the ocean and pitons. See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
- Anse Chastanet Resort – owned by the same people that brought you Jade Mountain Resort, this is another high-end hotel on Saint Lucia. Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet are the only resorts with views of both the Petit and Gros Piton mountains floating upon the Caribbean Sea. See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
5. Anse Mamin Beach
Anse Mamin Beach is another beautiful beach located just south of the more famous Anse Chastanet beach. It is part of the Anse Chastanet resort but it is open to the public and visitors can access the beach through the resort where there is a small fee for non-guests to use the beach facilities.
To reach Anse Mamin Beach, visitors can take a short hike through the lush rainforest that surrounds the beach. The hike is about 15 minutes long and takes visitors away from the hustle and bustle through a beautiful natural landscape, including mango and a sugar plantation.
Once at the beach, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The water is clear and calm, making it a great spot for snorkeling and exploring the vibrant coral reef that surrounds the beach.
Anse Mamin is also home to a beautiful mangrove swamp, which provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural environment of the island. Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the mangroves, or take a guided tour to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area.
6. Anse de Sables – Best for Surfing
Anse de Sables is one of the best beaches for surfing in the entire Caribbean. The mile-long beach offers an unspoiled stretch of gorgeous white sand beach.
Due to its curvy shape, the beach receives strong winds and tall waves that have made it a favorite for surfers and windsurfers alike. In fact, Anse de Sables is home to The Reef Kite & Surf Centre. This sporting area has been in business since 1994 and attracts surfers from all across the globe. Its kite school is perfect for folks looking to try out a new hobby.
Meanwhile, its equipment rentals are ideal for ocean veterans looking to experience new waters. You don’t have to be a surfer, however, to have a good time at Anse de Sables. Spectators can also enjoy observing the white-capped waves as they crash along the coast. Plus, many of the water athletes are fun to watch.
Grab a blanket, a snack, and some icy cold sodas. Then, plop down on the soft sand and watch the surfers and kite surfers slay. With their colorful kites and sleek boards, many of these athletes aren’t afraid to put on a bit of a show.
Where to Stay near Anse de Sables
- Jade Mountain Resort – Jade Mountain Resort is the most expensive hotel in St. Lucia located on the West Coast of the Island. When we asked our driver what are the best hotels in St. Lucia, this was at the top of his list. Located on the private estate of Anse Chastanet, it has an infinity pools and views of the ocean and pitons. See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
- Anse Chastanet Resort – owned by the same people that brought you Jade Mountain Resort, this is another high-end hotel on Saint Lucia. Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet are the only resorts with views of both the Petit and Gros Piton mountains floating upon the Caribbean Sea. See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
7. Marigot Bay – Laid Back Beach Life
Marigot Bay is located just south of the capital city of Castries and is an idyllic destination of white sand beaches and swaying palm trees. The bay is more of a stretch of small beaches where you can find a beautiful stretch of soft sand to watch the boats bob in the calm waters as you sip on a cocktail at one of the many beach bars.
One of the most popular beaches in Marigot Bay is the aptly named Marigot Bay Beach. This beach is a crescent-shaped stretch of white sand that is surrounded by turquoise waters. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Visitors can rent beach chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a delicious meal or refreshing drink at one of the nearby beachfront restaurants.
For those who enjoy water sports, the nearby Labas Beach is a great spot for windsurfing, kiteboarding, and other activities. The beach has a large open bay, which provides ideal conditions for these types of sports.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Marigot Bay is also known for its luxurious resorts and villas. Visitors can stay at some of the most exclusive and upscale properties on the island, with stunning views of the bay and easy access to the beaches and other attractions.
A great way to explore Marigot Bay it is to rent kayaks. You can book this snorkeling tour in advance to see shipwrecks and marine life living within St. Lucia’s coral reef.
Fun Fact: Pirates of The Caribbean and the original Dr. Doolittle featured scenes from Marigot Bay.
Where to Stay in Marigot Bay
- Marigot Bay Resort and Marina – See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
- Marigot Beach and Dive Club – See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
8. Anse Cochon Beach – Best Laid Back Vibe
Anse Cochon Beach is a secluded beach located in a secluded cove south of Marigot Bay on the West Coast of St. Lucia. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills, palm trees, and other tropical vegetation, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Another reason to visit Anse Cochon Beach is the excellent snorkeling opportunities it offers. The beach is home to a coral reef that is teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles. Snorkelers can explore the reef by swimming out from the shore, or by taking a guided snorkeling tour.
If snorkeling isn’t your jam, Anse Cochon Beach is also a great spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports. There are several rental companies located on the beach, where visitors can rent equipment and get advice on the best places to explore.
The beach is not as crowded as some of the other beaches in St. Lucia or at Marigot Bay, so visitors can enjoy a more relaxed and laid-back vibe while still being near several restaurants and bars.
Where to Stay in Anse Cochon
- Marigot Bay Resort and Marina – See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
- Marigot Beach and Dive Club – See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
9. Gros Islet Beach – Best for Sunsets
Did you know that Saint Lucia is famous for its spectacular sunsets? At the end of each day, you can watch as gorgeous orange and pink hues fill the sky. Just before dark, the sun dips into the ocean, leaving viewers stunned.
During your vacation to Saint Lucia, you should not miss the world-famous sunsets. However, not all beaches will give you a view. In order to catch the sunset, you will have to head to the West side of the island. Only there will you be able to watch the sun sink into the blue ocean waves.
Of all the places to watch the sunset in Saint Lucia, Gros Islet Beach is perhaps the most romantic. At the far end of this gorgeous beach stands a sharp green volcano that extends into the horizon.
When the sun sets, it sinks directly behind the volcano, sending waves of light all around it. The mixture of bright colors almost creates the impression that the volcano is “on fire.”
This is a great spot for couples to come and have a romantic evening experience. Grab a chilled bottle of white and pop it on the smooth Gros Islet sands. Then, sink back into your chairs and enjoy nature’s spectacle.
Where to Stay near Gros Islet
- Marigot Bay Resort and Marina – See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
- Marigot Beach and Dive Club – See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
10. Balenbouche Beach – Best for Romance
Saint Lucia is not just a gorgeous Caribbean island. It’s also an award-winning honeymoon destination. In fact, in 2021, Saint Lucia was listed as the “Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon” spot. But, with so many honeymooners on the island, where can you go to enjoy a romantic afternoon on the beach?
Balenbouche is one of the most secluded beaches on the entire island. Even though all beaches in Saint Lucia are public, very few people wander to this stunning stretch of golden sand. The reason is that Balenbouche is only accessible by crossing the historic 60-acre Balenbouche Estate. According to the estate’s website, the beaches are almost always empty.
“Balenbouche beaches are very private. Our guests love the fact that they are almost always alone on the beach. Quite often, one or more of our loyal dogs will accompany them.”
Beyond the luxury of privacy, the beaches of Balenbouche offer stunning scenery. For one thing, these beaches have plenty of gorgeous black sand lining their shores. They are also flanked by a line of jagged beachside cliffs. These seaside cliffs add a level of visual complexity to the paradisal shoreline.
In terms of activities, guests can enjoy a number of water sports. The tranquility of the Balenbouche waters makes the area perfect for snorkeling and SCUBA diving. Many folks also enjoy body surfing in the tiny local waves.
Whether you are in the mood for a romantic stroll or an afternoon snorkeling session, Balenbouche is a gorgeous and private place where you can have fun with your partner.
Where to Stay near Balenbouche Beach
- Marigot Bay Resort and Marina – See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
- Marigot Beach and Dive Club – See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
11. Grand Anse Beach – Best for Turtle Watching
Do you love to spot unique animals? Would you be interested in spotting turtles on the ocean shore? If so, you may be interested in exploring Grand Anse Beach. Grand Anse is sometimes referred to as “the forgotten beach,” as most tourists never stop by. The reason for this has everything to do with Grand Anse’s treacherous waters. Unlike some of the other beaches in the area, Grand Anse is plagued with strong currents and powerful tides.
This secluded beach is located on the eastern coast of St. Lucia on the Caribbean Sea and is known for its beachside cliffs. These cliffs rise up dramatically from the ocean, providing a picturesque backdrop for the beach. Consequently, people cannot swim, sail or do water sports in the Grand Anse waters. It would, unfortunately, be too dangerous for anyone to take a dip.
However, what Grand Anse lacks in swimming it makes up for in sightseeing. The beach is one of the best places in the world to spot sea turtles hatching.
Every year, between the months of February and October, turtles crawl onto the beaches to lay their eggs. You can visit the beach in the evenings to watch the turtle nesting process. But if you dare step near the nests, beware! Volunteers patrol the beach at night to keep the baby turtles safe in their shells.
For true nature lovers, this experience is truly one-of-a-kind. At Grand Anse, you can spot green turtles, as well as loggerhead turtles, leatherback turtles, and hawksbill turtles. Visitors can explore the surrounding hills and forests, taking in breathtaking views of the coastline and the ocean. The trails are well-marked and provide a great opportunity to get some exercise while enjoying the natural beauty of the island.
Where to Stay near Grand Anse Beach
- Marigot Bay Resort and Marina – See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
- Marigot Beach and Dive Club – See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
12. La Toc Beach
La Toc Beach is a beautiful golden sand beach located in Castries near Sandals St. Lucia La Toc Resort, but it is open to the public.
La Toc Beach is known for its dramatic natural scenery, with its dark sand contrasting beautifully against the clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The beach is backed by lush green hillsides, adding to its natural beauty.
Visitors to La Toc Beach can enjoy a wide range of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The water is calm and clear, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and paddling.
There are also several beachfront restaurants and bars where visitors can enjoy delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks while taking in the stunning views of the ocean.
Where to Stay
Sandals Regency La Toc – Couples travelers can’t go wrong with Sandals luxury resort. This Sandals St. Lucia has private butlers, private pools, and infinity pool with open glass walls.
La Toc Beach is also a popular spot for golfers, as it is situated near the Sandals La Toc Golf Resort and Spa. This 9-hole golf course offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding hills and is considered one of the best golf courses in the Caribbean.
When you stay at one of the Sandals St. Lucia, you stay at one and play at Three with free shuttles between Sandals Grande St. Lucian and Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort. Guests enjoy access to their luxurious amenities.
13. Cas en Bas Beach – Best For Local Experience
Cas en Bas Beach is somewhat of a local secret, located on the northeast coast. It is home to one of the island’s most popular local places to eat, Marjorie’s beach shack, enhancing the cultural experience for visitors??.
Cas en Bas is a beautiful horseshoe-shaped bay with calm waters, providing a natural and less commercialized setting that is a step away from the typical tourist trail. Its location on the east coast makes it a popular spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. It is also a great place to go horseback riding on the beach.
All of these aspects make Cas en Bas Beach a standout destination in St. Lucia for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in a beautiful natural setting.
14. Vigie Beach For a Quiet Day
With its close proximity to George F.L. Charles Airport and within walking distance from Pointe Seraphine, where cruise ships dock Vigie Beach is accessible to visitors??. The beach boasts a white coastline with clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, offering beautiful views and a pristine environment for visitors to enjoy??.
Despite the number of tourists that may be present in St. Lucia, Vigie Beach tends to be less crowded providing a more private beach experience.
It is particularly popular among locals due to its easy access, giving visitors a more quiet and authentic experience of St. Lucia’s natural beauty and local lifestyle??.
Learning More About Saint Lucia Beaches
Are you planning a trip to one of these Saint Lucia beaches? Or, are you hoping to put together a beach vacation budget? Our Caribbean travel guide is packed with information on how to have the best possible trip. Click here to learn more about Saint Lucia attractions, options for beaches, and ideas for sticking to your travel budget.
Smooth, warm white sand coats the coastline. You can smell the salty sea air as it bounces off of soft, crystal waves.
Map of St. Lucia Beaches and Accommodations
We have been traveling the world for over twelve years. Because of this, we have all the best tips for how to have an amazing experience abroad. With our help, we are sure that you will have the best possible Saint Lucia vacation.
And, if you are still open to exploring other destinations, don’t be afraid to check out our guides and itineraries. Whether you want to go to Europe or Oceania, we are here to give you our favorite travel tips.
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