Saint Lucia Bed and Breakfast, Cheap Hotel and Guest House Accommodation

Saint Lucia has a rich and complex history. Originally inhabited by the Arawak and later the Caribs, the island was fought over by the British and French for more than 150 years. It changed hands 14 times before finally becoming a British colony in 1814. Saint Lucia gained independence in 1979, and today it is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the famous Piton mountains, as well as its vibrant culture and warm hospitality.

The capital city of Castries is a bustling port city with a colorful market and plenty of historic landmarks, including the Derek Walcott Square and the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Soufrière, on the west coast, is a must-visit for its breathtaking views of the Pitons and nearby natural attractions like Sulphur Springs. Rodney Bay, in the north, is another popular destination, known for its lively nightlife and marina.

For quaint and unusual towns, Anse La Raye is a charming fishing village where you can experience a more traditional side of Saint Lucia. The village is famous for its Friday night Fish Fry, where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and local music. Another hidden gem is Choiseul, known for its artisans and traditional craft-making, particularly pottery and weaving. The peaceful village of Laborie is also worth a visit for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beach.

Saint Lucia is a single island, but it has several offshore islets like the Maria Islands, which are protected nature reserves home to rare wildlife, including the endemic Saint Lucia whiptail lizard. Pigeon Island, connected to the mainland by a causeway, is a popular historic site and national park with scenic views and hiking trails.

There are many fun activities to enjoy in Saint Lucia, from hiking the famous Gros Piton to taking a dip in the mineral-rich waters of the Diamond Falls. Water sports like snorkeling, diving, and sailing are also popular, especially around Rodney Bay. For those seeking relaxation, the island's many luxury spas offer soothing treatments with views of the Caribbean Sea.

The island is known for its exceptional dining experiences. The Coal Pot in Castries offers Caribbean and French fusion cuisine, while Dasheene in Soufrière is famous for its local dishes and spectacular views of the Pitons. For a more casual option, Roots Bar in Marigot Bay serves up delicious Creole food in a laid-back setting, and the Pink Plantation House is another top spot for local flavors in a scenic, garden atmosphere.

Tourist seaside towns like Rodney Bay and Marigot Bay are popular for their stunning beaches, lively atmosphere, and wide range of accommodations and activities. Rodney Bay is particularly known for its shopping, restaurants, and nightlife, while Marigot Bay offers a more serene experience with its calm waters and luxury yachts.

Accommodation options range from luxury resorts to charming guest houses. Jade Mountain in Soufrière is one of the island's most famous hotels, offering breathtaking views of the Pitons and private infinity pools. Another popular choice is Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, which sits between the Pitons and offers beachfront villas. For a more boutique experience, Cap Maison in the north provides elegant accommodations with stunning views, and guest houses like Fond Doux Plantation & Resort offer a more eco-friendly stay.

Famous hotels and lodges include Anse Chastanet in Soufrière, known for its unique architecture and excellent diving, and The Landings in Rodney Bay, which offers luxurious beachfront living. Guest houses like Auberge Seraphine in Castries provide a more intimate experience, while Balenbouche Estate in Choiseul offers a chance to stay on a historic plantation.

Saint Lucia is filled with natural and cultural attractions. The Pitons are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most iconic landmark on the island. Visitors can hike Gros Piton or take in the views from various vantage points. The Diamond Botanical Gardens and Waterfall offer a serene escape, while Sulphur Springs in Soufrière is the world’s only drive-in volcano, where you can also bathe in mud baths. Don't miss the scenic Marigot Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in the Caribbean.

Saint Lucia's carnival is one of the island's biggest festivals, held annually in July. It features vibrant parades, calypso and soca music, and colorful costumes. Other popular festivals include the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, held in May, which attracts international musicians and artists, and the La Rose and La Marguerite festivals, which celebrate the island’s rich cultural heritage through song and dance.

Local food is a fusion of African, French, and Caribbean flavors. Popular dishes include green fig and saltfish (the national dish), bouyon (a hearty meat and vegetable soup), and callaloo soup. Fresh seafood is abundant, with lobster, conch, and mahi-mahi being popular choices. Don’t forget to try a traditional rum punch or a Piton beer, the local brew.

Famous people from Saint Lucia include Nobel Prize-winning poet Derek Walcott and Nobel laureate Sir Arthur Lewis, known for his work in economics. Saint Lucia’s musical landscape has also been shaped by talented artists like calypso singer Invader and reggae musician Taj Weekes.

Attractions include Pigeon Island National Park, which offers historical ruins and hiking trails with views of Martinique on a clear day. The Edmund Forest Reserve is a nature lover's paradise, offering hiking trails through lush rainforests and the chance to spot rare birds like the Saint Lucia parrot. For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the secluded beaches on the east coast, such as Anse Louvet.

Local music in Saint Lucia is heavily influenced by calypso, soca, and reggae, with lively performances during carnival and other festivals. The island also has a strong jazz tradition, showcased at the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival, one of the Caribbean’s premier music events.

Nature sites include the Tet Paul Nature Trail, offering panoramic views of the island and its volcanic peaks, and the Maria Islands Nature Reserve, home to rare flora and fauna. The Enbas Saut Waterfalls trail takes you deep into the rainforest for a refreshing dip in a waterfall pool, and Anse Mamin Beach provides a peaceful, secluded escape with pristine sand and crystal-clear water.

Important places to visit include the Castries Market, a lively spot where you can buy local produce, spices, and crafts. The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Castries is another significant landmark, showcasing beautiful murals and stained glass. The Fond Latisab Creole Park offers an immersive cultural experience, where visitors can learn about traditional Saint Lucian cooking, music, and crafts.

For unusual things to see, visit the Massacre Ridge near Soufrière, a site linked to a tragic event in the island's history, or take a boat trip to see the legendary Snake Island, a tiny islet with an eerie reputation. The Maria Islands Nature Reserve, accessible only by guided tour, offers a chance to see rare species like the Saint Lucia racer snake, one of the world’s rarest snakes.