A Stay at Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort
Saint Lucia
A Storied History with Diverse Influences
Saint Lucia, nestled in the eastern Caribbean Sea, captivates travelers with its rich history and natural beauty. Christopher Columbus sighted Saint Lucia during his fourth voyage in the 15th century. In the 17th and 18th centuries, it became a battleground for the French and British, leading to multiple changes in control until it was finally ceded to Britain in 1814.
The abolition of slavery in 1834 led to a diverse Creole culture influenced by African, European, and indigenous heritage. Despite gaining independence in 1979, Saint Lucia remains connected to its past, with landmarks like the Pitons reflecting its heritage.
Today, Saint Lucia enchants visitors with its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Whether exploring colonial forts, savoring Creole cuisine, or enjoying local music and dance, a visit to Saint Lucia is an unforgettable journey through time and tradition.
5 Days at the Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort
St. Lucia is a large island with much to offer. We were drawn to the Soufrière region in the south for its natural beauty, diverse activities, and rich culture. Nestled between the Pitons, Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, features luxurious residences that immerse guests in Saint Lucia's beauty. From beachfront bungalows to hillside villas, each residence offers exclusivity and sophistication, perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
Guests can choose from various room categories, including beachfront suites with private plunge pools, spacious villas with infinity-edge pools, and secluded residences among the hillside foliage.
Activities
With the temperatures ranging fairly consistently from around 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, we found it was best to wake up and do an activity every morning, leaving the afternoon to relax on the beach and freshen up for sunset cocktails and dinner.
We set up all of our excursions through our concierge.
Hiking Gros Piton
The hike up Gros Piton is an exhilarating adventure offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. The trail winds through dense foliage and vertical rugged terrain, taking about 4 hours to complete, though quicker for those in shape (it took us 3). Reaching the peak rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of the Caribbean Sea and neighboring peaks.
The guides are all local to the village at the base of the mountain and typically make the journey 3 to 5 times a week! Be sure to tip them well!
Sulphur Springs
The Sulphur Springs offer a unique experience, rooted in tradition, into the island's volcanic past and therapeutic present. It features bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and volcanic craters, creating a sensory experience filled with the pungent scent of sulfur. We soaked in the mineral-rich waters and mud baths and our skin was incredibly soft.
Highly recommend doing this in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
ATV with Island ATV LTD
Our expert tour guide took us on a journey through a network of riding trails, starting in the mountains south of Soufrière, within the community of Balca, Saltibus. We rode through the town to the beach before continuing on to an old plantation and the iconic Devils Bridge. It was a truly exciting and unique experience and so worth the drive!!
We booked through our concierge, but you can book directly with the Island ATV team here.
Speed Boat Tour
We took a water tour with Ocean Angel Water Taxi & Boat Tours, operated by the friendly crew stationed beneath the white hut on Sugar Beach.
Cruising along the coast, we admired lush greenery, steep mountains, and the town of Soufrière below. Our guide shared engaging insights about the local history and culture.
A highlight was the bat cave, home to hundreds of resting bats. Our 1.5-hour ride was perfect, though longer tours and different boat options are available.
Rainforest Spa at the Viceroy
The Rainforest Spa at the Sugar Beach Viceroy transports you to a collection of treehouses where you can find the treatment rooms. They have an extensive spa menu that offers a variety of different massages, scrubs, facials and more to relax.
Other Activities We Didn’t Get to but Would Have Loved to
Hikes & Nature Walks
Rainforest Hike & Birdwatching on the En Bas Saut trail
Superman Water Falls leads you to a 70 ft waterfall
Tet Paul Nature Hike
Botanical Garden walk
Activities & Excursions
Zip Lining
Horseback Riding
Cocao Tours
Sunset Cruises
Rum & Chocolate Tasting
Golf
located on the North side of the island, water taxis offer quick and picturesque transfers to various golf courses
Restaurants
While my trips typically revolve around where we were going to eat or drink next, this trip offered the luxury of five on-site restaurants with unique cuisine. The resort was truly full service and we ate every meal there.
Other Restaurants on Our Radar
Logistics
When to Visit
The best time to visit Saint Lucia largely depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowds. Generally, the island enjoys a warm and tropical climate year-round, with temperatures averaging between 75°F (24°C) and 85°F (29°C).
High season typically runs from December to April when the weather is driest and most comfortable. During these months, you can expect plenty of sunshine, minimal rainfall, and lower humidity levels, making it ideal for beach activities, water sports, and exploring the island's natural attractions. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so you may encounter larger crowds.
Shoulder seasons of May to June or November offer warm and pleasant weather, with occasional brief showers refreshing the landscape. It's a great time to enjoy quieter beaches and experience the island's lush scenery at its most vibrant.
Low Season is during the months of July to October and constitute the island's rainy season and coincide with the peak of hurricane season in the Caribbean. While this period can see higher rainfall and occasional storms, it's also when Saint Lucia's landscapes are at their most lush and green. Additionally, you may find fewer tourists, making it an appealing option for those seeking a quieter escape.
How to Get Around
Here are some of the best ways to explore the island:
Rental Car: Renting a car can offer the freedom to explore Saint Lucia at ones own pace. Driving in Saint Lucia follows the British system (driving on the left), and roads can be very narrow and winding, particularly in rural areas.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Saint Lucia. Licensed taxis are identified by a green license plate and should have a visible taxi meter. Taxis can offer convenience and reliability. It's recommended to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as some taxis may not use meters.
Water Taxi: For travelers exploring coastal areas or nearby islands, water taxis provide a convenient and scenic mode of transportation. Water taxi services operate between major ports and marinas, offering connections to popular destinations like Rodney Bay, Soufrière, and Pigeon Island.
Required Documentation
The specific requirements may vary depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. Here's a general overview of the essential travel documents you'll need:
Passport: All travelers to Saint Lucia must have a valid passport. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from Saint Lucia.
Visa: The visa requirements for Saint Lucia vary depending on your nationality. Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union member states, and most Commonwealth countries, typically do not require a visa for short stays (usually up to 90 days). However, travelers from some countries may need to obtain a visa in advance. Check with the nearest Saint Lucian embassy or consulate to confirm visa requirements for your nationality.
Immigration Form: You can complete this before entry online or by filling out a physical copy when you land. The electronic form can be found on the Saint Lucia tourism website here.
Return Ticket: It's advisable to have proof of onward or return travel, demonstrating your intention to leave Saint Lucia within the permitted time frame of your visa-free stay.
Health Documentation: Depending on your country of origin, you may need to provide proof of vaccination for certain diseases, such as yellow fever.
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