St. Lucia’s Towns and Villages- Where Beauty and Culture Come Together
St. Lucia is comprised of a number of towns and villages that dot the landscape, each with its own style and local flavor. If you’re looking to take a trip off the beaten path- to get away from resorts and tourist attractions and experience the real culture of the island of St. Lucia- taking a trip to some of our unique villages is a great way to do it! Simply put- no matter where you go in St. Lucia, beauty and culture await!
St. Lucia Neighborhood Guide
Anse La Raye
Anse La Raye is a beautiful fishing village located on the western coast of St. Lucia. The village is becoming increasingly well known for its Friday Night Seafood Street Party. St. Lucians local to Anse La Raye are often regarded as some of the friendliest people on the island, and the architecture of this village, which has remained virtually the same for decades, is certain to please the eye. The wall bordering the Catholic Church grounds, which spans a full block, is painted with a remarkable mural by local artist Dunstan St. Omer, and highlights the island’s history.
Canaries
This quiet St. Lucian fishing village is home to a village square as well as an old church that has been turned into a soapmaking factory. The village is home to incredibly welcoming and friendly residents, who look forward to greeting travelers whether they stop in to a local bar for a drink or come for the Creole Pot street party that is held every other Saturday night.
Castries
Castries is the capital of the island of St. Lucia and home to George F.L. Charles Regional Airport (SLU), and this remarkable little town is quite a sight. Visit Derek Walcott Square in the center of town and learn about the Nobel laureate for which it was named while relaxing under a 400 year old Samaan tree or exploring the 19th century Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Outside of the town center is a large red-roofed market that sells crafts, local fruits and vegetables, Caribbean and native food, and much more!
Choiseul
While Choiseul is one of the largest quarters in St. Lucia, it is also one of the most rural. Quiet beaches and untouched land are among the hallmarks of Choiseul, as are the lush rain forest and breathtaking river valleys. This quiet waterfront vollage is wonderful for relaxation and sightseeing, and while quiet, the residents are friendly and encourage visitors to come enjoy the area’s quiet beauty.
Dennery
Located on the less traveled east coast of St. Lucia, Dennery is a bay with a rather large crag that is popular for commercial fishing. Just north of Dennery is the stunning Fond D’Or Bay, a beautiful white sand beach with breathtaking views. Well off the beaten path, Dennery is home to Treetop Adventure Park, which offers ziplining through the rain forest!
Gros Islet Village
While Rodney Bay is known for yachting and tourism, Gros Islet Village offers a great combination of excitement and local flavor. To experience it at its peak, one need look no further than the Friday Night Street Parties for which the village is famous. Live music, great food, and locals and tourists celebrating together- it's a cultural smorgasbord! But Friday nights aren’t the only time Gros Islet Village is worth checking out. From rum shops and barbecue joints to Pigeon Island, Gros Islet Beach (which is virtually never crowded), and more, this little village has something for everyone no matter the day.
Laborie
With its breathtaking tree-lined beachfront, Laborie is considered to be perhaps the most scenic village in St. Lucia. Great for photography, even the homes and stores lining the villages’ narrow streets are beautiful and picturesque, and the unique architecture of the Laborie Catholic Church provides yet another reason why photographers will not want to miss this incredible village.
Marigot Bay
One of St. Lucia’s most scenic villages, Marigot Bay and its stunning harbor bring in visitors from all over the world. There is a hill in the village that overlooks the harbor and that makes for a fantastic photography spot. While the north side of the harbor is accessible only by ferry, the craft run regularly and offer an incredible sightseeing experience. The view at night is a sight to behold as well, as the lights from the village shining on the water give off an almost magical effect.
Micoud
Micoud is a rural village on St. Lucia’s east coast that is one of the island’s agricultural hubs. While the village itself is nondescript in appearance and is home primarily to farmers and fishermen, the history of the area and the Amerindians that once inhabited it is fascinating.
Praslin
For travelers who like taking things slow, the tiny fishing village of Praslin is perfect. Located on a small, quiet bay, this small community offers plenty of motivation for photographers and has been the subject of many photo and art exhibits.
Soufriere
Soufriere is perhaps the most popular town in St. Lucia. Home to top icons, such as Diamond Falls, Sulphur Springs, the Tet Paul Nature Trail, and of course, the Piton Mountains, Soufriere is a hub for tourism. But beyond tourist sites, travelers will find a great deal of local flavor. Rum shops, charter boats, and locally owned businesses make it easy to immerse yourself in St. Lucia’s vibrant culture while enjoying the company of friendly locals- all with the Piton mountains never leaving your site. Soufriere is also home to Sugar Beach and Hummingbird Beach, as well as award winning Airbnb rentals.
Vieux Fort
Home to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), Vieux Fort is the second largest town in St. Lucia. Near the harbor, visitors will find the old town center with its beautiful historic buildings and stunning church, while the north of town is more modern and where visitors will find the bulk of the town’s shopping. The north of Vieux Fort is also home to the Piton Beer brewery- a must-see for tourists looking to try the island’s iconic beverage named after the twin volcanic peaks in Soufriere.
