The Best of Saint Lucia, Above and Below

Vacationing divers looking to accrue maximum bottom time have many destinations to choose between. Somewhat rarer are those places that deliver underwater diversity, topside indulgence and memorable adventures in equal measure. Saint Lucia is just such a place.

The setting is right out of a travel brochure. Iconic mountain peaks rise dramatically from palm-shrouded Caribbean coves, and surf-washed beaches face the blue Atlantic Ocean. Narrow forested valleys hide waterfalls and clear flowing streams. Resorts nestle into waterfront greenery or perch on hillsides to deliver expansive views of sea and sky. This setting provides a nature-themed playground for active adventures and a scenic backdrop for relaxing pleasures. And of course, there is the underwater scene, which is equally memorable.

Along Saint Lucia's sheltered western coast, sloping coral reefs run close to shore. This provides an ideal environment for divers seeking easy immersions on colorful, fish-filled sites. But island waters will also accommodate those who want to ride the currents, explore a wreck or venture into greater depths. The region north of the town of Castries and near the Pigeon Island National Monument offers some of the most relaxed diving environments. This area includes a number of shallow reefs that can be accessed from shore, with slopes that begin at depths of 15 to 20 feet and drop gradually to 40 to 60 feet, with numerous trenches and shelves to explore. Also in the area are several exposed rock islands that rise from an intermediate sand bottom, with profiles that attract eagle rays, barracuda, kingfish and schooling snapper and jacks. Near Pigeon Island, a field of large boulders provides hiding places for moray eels and a variety of crustaceans. 

The underwater landscape transitions to steeper slopes as you move south and many of Saint Lucia's most popular and dramatic dive sites are situated on the west-central coast between Anse Cochon and the Anse Chastanet region. This area includes two wrecks and a range of walls, pinnacles and reefs slopes with vertical drops of more than 100 feet. Mild currents are encountered at some sites, making for enjoyable drift diving. Notable sites include Anse La Raye Wall, where eagle rays often follow divers on a drift along a sloping wall that drops to a depth of 110 feet. Anse Cochon delivers walls, pinnacles, coral heads, boulder fields and sandy shallows on a single dive, and semi-circular Turtle Reef is covered in the large barrel sponges that are a signature of many Saint Lucia dive sites. Nearby, the 165-foot cargo vessel Lesleen M sits upright at a depth of 65 feet. The open hold and shallow pilothouse of this wreck are ideal for first-time wreck divers and a good place to search for small marine life. A mile to the west, a huge abandoned dredge, the Daini Koyomaru sits on its side at a depth of 100 feet, with its machinery intact and awaiting exploration.

Saint Lucia's most famous dive sites are found near the twin volcanic spires known as the Pitons. Most famous is the House Reef at Anse Chastanet, which is done both as a shore dive from the resort of the same name, or by boat. Dropping from depths of 25 feet to beyond 140, this reef supports more than 150 species of fish. Two of the island's more adventurous sites are also nearby. Superman's flight is a drift dive at the base of Petit Piton that carries divers along a wall that plunges to more than 1,000 feet. With typically excellent visibility, this profile creates the sensation of weightless flight. The Keyhole Pinnacles are a group of four tall spires that perch close together on the edge of a steep slope, reaching almost to the surface. Divers can swim into the narrow gaps between these monolithic formations to discover a wealth of fish and invertebrates.

Ecotourism is at least as popular as diving on this green island. On the milder side are activities such as rainforest hikes, volcano tours and bird watching excursions, while more adventurous visitors can sign up for zip-lines and aerial tram tours of the forest canopy, mountain biking trips and a whole host of water sports adventures.

More than three-quarters of Saint Lucia remains covered in forests, with substantial portions of the land protected within national parks and nature preserves. Miles of hiking trails give access to sites ranging from remote beaches to mountain ridges and volcanic valleys. The most famous hike is the path up Soufriere Volcano, where trekkers journey into an alien landscape of bubbling mud pools and odoriferous sulfur hot springs. A steep climb to the summit of Gros Piton will challenge the fit, and reward with amazing views. Less demanding are the shaded pathways of the Millet Bird Sanctuary and the Diamond Botanical Garden, which is home to one of the most colorful waterfalls in the Caribbean.

Swap hiking shoes for bike shorts and you can be sure to enjoy even more back-country adventures. Biking in Saint Lucia centers around the Anse Mamin Plantation, which is part of the 600-acre estate belonging to the Anse Chastanet Resort. Here, miles of off-road bike trails run through jungle foliage and the abandoned stone structures of a French sugar plantation. All trails are mulched to reduce mud and prevent erosion. Roots and other sharp projections are removed, and there are routes suitable for novices to experts. Different thrills await at La Sorcière Mountain.  Here, an elevated tramway ferries passengers up the green-clad slopes of a forest reserve, where a network of ziplines runs through the forest canopy, providing exhilarating flights that showcase aspects of the highland rainforest that can't be seen from the ground.

Paddling excursions take place all along Saint Lucia's western coast, which is sheltered from trade winds and easterly Atlantic swells. A number of resorts provide kayaks and stand up paddleboards for local exploration, and there is also a wide range of organized tours to enjoy, including longer routes that venture into the mouths of coastal rivers and over coral reefs. Itineraries may also include stops at remote beaches, seaside villages and snorkel sites. Favorite itineraries include trips to the nature park and an 18th-century British fort at Pigeon Island, entries into the banyan-tree shaded channel of the Roseau River and sunset paddles around the pitons.

Equally interesting for many visitors is simply spending some time getting to know the island and its people. A long political tug-of-war for sovereignty between France and England saw the island change hands some 14 times over a 200 year period, creating a unique cultural blend of Anglo and Franco traditions that intermingle with the traditions of West Africa. While the official language of the island is English, many Saint Lucians speak French "Patois" which adds further to the island's tropical mystique. Saint Lucia's heritage and culture can be discovered not only on formal tours of historic sites and landmarks, but also by simply visiting a local market, or joining the weekly village street parties known as Fish Fries. Bigger events include annual celebrations such as Carnival, Dive Fest, Chocolate Heritage Month and the Jazz & Arts Festival.

Saint Lucia's lush surroundings set the stage for unique and upscale resorts that blend luxury, indulgence and rejuvenation. Premier spas focus on therapies adapted to fit the needs of each individual patron. In addition to traditional massage and cleansing programs, guests can experience specialties such as Chavutti Deep Barefoot massage, Anpagal four-hands massage, and touch therapies from a Master Bhutanese Practitioner, who delivers Kora Healing through a combination of deep tissue massage, Indian stretches and Reiki energy work. Many signature treatments feature natural and organic ingredients from the island's virgin rainforest, lush mountain valleys and mineral-rich volcanic waters. Guests can also opt for in-room treatments and sessions set on private terraces overlooking the Caribbean.

Equally popular for your pampering needs are the integrated wellness, fitness and nutrition programs. They can turn a vacation into a physical and mental reboot. Days can begin with beachside yoga and include guided walks that encourage mindful awareness of nature or Pranayama meditative breathing sessions to calm and strengthen the mind. On a less mystical note, activities such as afternoon sails, dolphin-watching cruises and waterfall swims also work to create an overall sense of well-being and satisfaction.

The island's rich volcanic soil yields a cornucopia of tropical fruits and vegetables. This bounty is reflected in the savory dishes of traditional Creole cooking, and it has inspired a new wave of organic and fusion cuisines that have earned island chef's top honors in international culinary competitions. In addition to enlivening resort kitchens, Saint Lucia's farms and orchards support a thriving agricultural export sector that includes bananas and chocolate. One of the island's sweetest day trips involves a tour of historic cacao plantations, followed by a chance to create your own chocolate confections.

Saint Lucia is home to a number of world-class resorts. Seven, in particular, elevates the vacation experience far above the average dive trip. At these properties, diving and watersports are paired with active pursuits and an unapologetic extra helping of luxury.

For more than 25 years, Anse Chastanet has reigned as one of the most noted and award-winning eco-luxury resorts in the Caribbean. This expansive coastal estate is located next to the Piton World Heritage, with two palm-lined beaches fronting the waters of a marine reserve. Waterfront and hillside rooms feature open floor plans, with large louvered windows and flower-draped terraces that usher in trade winds and coastal views. Handmade furnishings made from native island woods complement the earth tones and clay tile interiors.

On-site amenities include three restaurants and two bars, two beachside boutiques and an art gallery, the Kai Belte Spa a full-service watersports center and Scuba Saint Lucia, which supports both boat and shore diving activities. The 600-acre grounds includes12 miles of jungle biking, walking and hiking trails in the Anse Mamin valley.

Book your next vacation stay at Anse Chastanet online or send us an email at sales@caradonna.com.​

Anse Chastanet sister property, Jade Mountain takes full advantage of its lofty setting and panoramic views. Perched high above the Caribbean, hillside accommodations known as sanctuaries juxtapose the natural textures of traditional wood and stonework with futuristic networks of crisscrossing stairs, cantilevered walkways and columns. Dramatic floor plans remove the fourth wall to open sleeping and living spaces to the Caribbean far below. Private infinity pools perched on the outer edge of elevated terraces seem to hang in mid-air. The Jade Mountain Club offers similarly dramatic tableside views, along with a proprietary fusion cuisine created by a James Beard awarded chef. Personalized perks such as private in-room and beach dining, personalized wine pairings and sunset champagne presentations take the epicurean experience to the next level. Jade Mountain is also home to the highly regarded Kai en Ciel Spa.

Book your next vacation stay at Jade Mountain online or send us an email at sales@caradonna.com.

Ti Kaye Resort & Spa is intimate, casually elegant and inspired by nature. In fact, that’s exactly how the owners of Ti Kaye describe their unique seaside retreat. The Creole-language phrase “Ti Kaye” translates to little house, which is appropriate for the collection of gingerbread cottages that perch on a bluff above Anse Cochon Cove. Each of the 33 hillside guest accommodations is situated for both privacy and panoramic views, which can be enjoyed from private terraces and plunge pools. Features such as wood-louvered windows, beamed ceilings and gauze-shrouded beds add an island flair, while outdoor garden showers and tandem hammocks introduce a touch of natural whimsy.

Undulating pathways lead from rooms down to the beach, which opens to one of the island's best snorkeling and shore diving bays. The on-site dive shop also conducts boat trips to a number of west coast sites. Guests at the all-adult resort can engage in a wide range of water sports and land activities such as cooking sessions that begin with chef-escorted shopping trips to local markets. Equally popular is the Kai Koko Spa. Fast becoming one of the most sought-after saps on the island, this oasis of relaxation is constructed entirely from local coconut wood and perches on the cliff’s edge to provide dramatic views of azure Caribbean Sea. Culinary offerings at Ti Kaye are on par with Saint Lucia's other premier dining venues. What stands above is the property's Rum and Wine Tasting Cellar. This vault, which was once an underground water cache, now holds a 3000-bottle collection of premium vintages and rums and has earned top honors from Wine Spectator.

Book your next vacation stay at Ti Kaye Resort & Spa online or send us an email at sales@caradonna.com.

BodyHoliday is not your typical beach resort. The stated goal of the resort is to create “a balanced and restorative experience for body and mind that leaves you feeling rejuvenated, relaxed and ready to face life with renewed vigor.” This is accomplished through the four pillars of healthful eating, exercise, restorative beauty and relaxation. But don't think fitness camp or wellness retreat, because this upscale all-inclusive sequestered on the island's quiet north end also delivers a full range of premium services, amenities and luxuries. Rooms with private balconies command sweeping views of Cariblue Beach, where canopied daybeds fitted with crisp linens await, and evenings are a time for candlelit waterfront dinners.

Guests are encouraged to do as little or as much as they like, choosing from a daily roster of activities from yoga sessions, T’ai Chi, dance and fitness classes to scuba diving, sailing, tennis and golf, plus offsite adventures such as coastal bike tours and mountain hikes. When it's time to wind down, the temple-like full-service spa offers a wide range of therapeutic and relaxing treatments. Good food is also a central element of the Body Holiday experience. The resort's chefs cater to every taste and lifestyle. Custom-crafted meal plans can be created for everyone from vegetarians to devotees of Ayurvedic principles, but menus also provide a tempting assortment of indulgences. The onsite TAO Asian is considered one of the island's top restaurants. All cuisines served at Body Holiday feature locally-sourced foods and ingredients grown at the resort’s organic garden.

Book your next vacation stay at BodyHoliday online or send us an email at sales@caradonna.com.

Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa is located directly on the beach at Rodney Bay, and overlooking Saint Lucia's largest marina, this all-inclusive property is a great choice for anyone who enjoys active water sports. Guests have unlimited use of Hobie Cat sailboats, kayaks, standup paddleboards, paddle boats, and access to Splash Island Water Park. The marina is the home of Dive Saint Lucia, and the launching point for deep sea fishing trips, whale watching excursions, wakeboarding, waterskiing, sailing charters and taxi boat service to Pigeon Island.

The mid-size resort features an inviting French-Caribbean and Georgian Plantation style and is centered around an expansive lagoon-style pool. Value-priced accommodation packages include all meals and beverages and offer perks such as complimentary spa treatments, property-wide WiFi, and a Dine Around program that allows guests to sample up to eight additional restaurants in Rodney Bay Village.

Book your next vacation stay at Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa online or send us an email at sales@caradonna.com.

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is a premium all-inclusive resort that sits on powder-fine white sand shores of Labrelotte Bay. With Mediterranean-style rooms, suites and villas face the beach or perch on a wooded hillside above it delivers stunning water and sunset views. The resort's modern villas feature fully-equipped kitchens, and some have private plunge pools. Windjammer's 60-acre grounds include six swimming pools and an on-site spa. Guests have their choice of five restaurants ranging from beach casual to fine dining, plus the option of personalized experiences such as candlelight dining at a private beach gazebo.

The property is family-friendly and provides a range of age-appropriate activities for children and teens, including beach pizza parties, coconut bowling, dance lessons, and more. All guests have access to the water sports center for paddle sports, sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing and snorkeling.

Book your next vacation stay at Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort online or send us an email at sales@caradonna.com.

A stay at this boutique, villa-style resort begins with a  short water taxi ride across Saint Lucia's most scenic harbor. Marigot Beach Club & Dive Resort sits on the palm-fringed shore of its namesake bay, surrounded by rainforest and accessible only by boat. The resort's studio rooms and villas offer private verandahs with sunset views. A laid-back beach club atmosphere permeates the property, but the staff also takes pride in delivering a high level of personal service. The on-site Doolittle's Restaurant and Bar serves a mix of Caribbean fare and international favorites, with options for casual meals, gourmet dinners and a healthful raw-foods menu.

The resort's location near the head of the bay is ideal for water sports enthusiasts. The on-site dive operation has access to all of the island's best mid-coast dive sites, and snorkelers can explore right from the beach, or by boat. Paddlers can tour the bay by kayak or standup paddleboard, and a wide range of fishing, sailing and whale watching charters can be arranged. After an active day, guests can relax with a treatment at the Soothing Touch Spa.

Book your next vacation stay at Marigot Beach Club & Dive Resort online or send us an email at sales@caradonna.com.