Around the Pitons: St. Lucia

Island of beautiful mountains, best bananas ever, and incredible beaches, Saint Lucia is a green gem in the Caribbean blue. The lush rainforests and gorgeous Caribbean sunsets make this a perfect destination for lovebirds seeking a tropical adventure.



PACK IT UP
In September, the temperatures were in the 80s with mild to high humidity. It felt like a Virginian summer! Shorts, breezy dresses, floppy hat, light fabrics, sandals, and typical island wear are definites in your suitcase.

Quick Tip: Bring the bug spray and sunscreen. Island bugs and sun will get to you! If you're a light sleeper, a white noise app or ear plugs might also be of benefit for you. Island frogs are also in abundance!


ISLAND TRAVEL
As part of the press trip, we had a private driver pick us up from the Hewanorra Airport to make the hour-long journey to the other side of the island to Gros Islet. Typically, most all resorts can arrange taxi or private car transfer options for you. Rental cars are also available and could be a great option for those staying at least a week on island.




RELAXING AND DIVERSE ACCOMMODATIONS
Beautiful resorts, like Cap Maison and Sugar Beach Viceroy where I stayed, were breathtaking and charming in their own ways -- I would have had no idea how I could choose which one to stay at because there are so many fantastic options in Saint Lucia. I personally loved where I stayed, and not just because both had resort cats!

On the northern side of Saint Lucia atop a bluff, Cap Maison has private suites with old world charm and a private beach in a secluded cove. Their on-site restaurant is open air and overlooks the ocean, but their Naked Fisherman Bar and Grill on their private beach was one of my favorites. Diet Cokes with lime slices, WiFi, and fun floating lounge mats are certainly a way to win over this gal anytime.



On the west coast in Soufrière, Sugar Beach Viceroy is nestled in a rainforest with an astonishing view of the Pitons. And while I have lived near oceans all my life, Sugar Beach's white powder sands and cabanas made me love beaches; I finally found my kind of beach here. Want plantain chips delivered straight to your cabana? Done.

And beyond the cabanas at Sugar Beach? Personal butlers. I didn't know how much I appreciated having someone unpack and pack my suitcase until this trip. It's hard to un-experience that!



LOCAL EATS
I stayed mostly resort-bound because of being on a press trip, but there was no shortage of delicious local fruits and dishes from the amazing on-site restaurants' chefs who were very accommodating with my dietary restrictions. Rice and beans, plantains, mangos, bananas were my personal favorites, and due to food allergies, I wasn't able to try some of the regional favorites such as salt fish, breadfruit, and loads of seafood entrées.

But it bears mentioning again that the fruit on island is simply the best I've ever had. There's something to be said for picking a banana in your backyard that same morning versus having a banana shipped from another country a week prior.



DIVERSE ACTIVITIES
The Rainforest Spa at Sugar Beach Viceroy is an spa experience I still think about two years later. Not only is the spa housed in connected treehouses, I had an incredible massage in a beautiful bamboo-walled room with low-light and therapeutic sounds. Even in the changing room, the tranquil basket-covered globe lighting and outdoor shower with a view of Grand Piton definitely didn't disappoint.

Beyond the typical boat rides and relaxing on the beach, also in Soufrière is the world's only drive-through volcano called Sulphur Springs where you can also partake in some hot, hot, hot mud baths with volcanic minerals and properties said to be healing. It's a perfect couple's activity for your own DIY massage!

Quick Tip: Be sure to bring your swimsuit, a pool towel, and flipflops if you go to the mud baths! There is a restroom and changing room nearby, but the mud definitely needs to be rinsed off before you hop back in your car/bus.




Saint Lucia is one of my favorite island experiences because of the people, food, and sights. It's a fantastic honeymoon and vacation option for couples looking for a unique tropical destination filled with everything that makes a getaway memorable.

- Chelsea

VENDOR CREDITS
Photography: Chelsea LaVere


Lil Disclaimer: Airfare, accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities were provided to Chelsea for the immersive St. Lucia wedding-related experience. All opinions are our own. All photos in this post were taken by Chelsea LaVere.


Saint Lucia via Burnett's Boards
Inspired by Saint Lucia's Spices Cooking Studio via Tidewater and Tulle

#tidewaterandtulleinstlucia