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St Lucia might be a small country, but where it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in history, culture, and striking geographical beauty. Among other attractions, it has more than 180 bird species, an enviable year-round temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and is home to the world’s only drive-in volcano. Yup, you heard me. A volcano you can drive right into.
With 70% of the landscape made up of rainforest, the island is scattered with emerald-green mountains and screensaver-worthy beaches. The vibe? Laid-back, low-key, and relaxed enough to make you consider never going home.
But here’s the thing: where to stay in St Lucia matters. Do you want to wake up to the Pitons glowing in the sunrise? Prefer being near the lively beach bars where rum flows like water? Or maybe you’re after an off-grid jungle retreat?
From the glamorous resorts of Soufriere to the buzzing nightlife in Rodney Bay, each area has its own vibe. So, let’s dive into it and find out which place if best for you!
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in St Lucia?
Of all the wonderful places to stay on the island, these three are my top recommendations for any type of traveller:
Serenity at Coconut Bay, The East Coast | Best Hotel in St Lucia
Every detail at Serenity is designed for pure relaxation and indulgence. From the private plunge pools and seamless butler service with each suite, this all-inclusive, adults-only resort makes sure you won’t have to lift a finger during your stay.
The suites are airy and spacious, the private beach is just steps away, and the cocktails are made to order exactly as you like them. What more could you ask for?
1-Bed Apartment with Terrace and Piton View, Soufriere / The Southwest Coast | Best Apartment in St Lucia
Some places just have that perfect balance of simplicity and beauty, and this apartment is one of them. It’s a real home-away-from-home, with self-catering facilities and a spacious indoor and outdoor living space that offers absolute privacy.
The Pitons can be seen from the backyard, and the space is bright, modern, and effortlessly comfortable – ideal for couples or solo travellers looking for a relaxing stay.
Treehouse Glamping Suite with Jungle View, Rodney Bay / Gros Islet | Best Glamping in St Lucia
This is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re living in a tropical fairytale. Suspended among the trees, this wooden suite blends rustic island interiors with modern comforts. Think wooden beams, open-air living spaces, and soothing sounds of the jungle in every direction at this St Lucia Airbnb.
Your mornings will start with fresh air and birdsong, and you’ll be serenaded to sleep by the distant sounds of the sea and the stars shining bright above you. This place to stay in St Lucia is paradise.
St Lucia Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in St Lucia
Castries / The Northwest Coast
Castries is the capital of St Lucia. As far as capital cities go, it’s a small one, but it still offers a good mix of culture and convenience. It’s the hub of local life on the island, with markets, colonial-era landmarks, and easy access to some of the best beaches.
Rodney Bay / Gros Islet
Rodney Bay is the epicentre of St Lucia’s nightlife and social scene. It’s a lively area filled with hotels, villas, and beachfront condos, attracting both party-loving tourists and a few long-term expats who thrive in the buzz.
The East Coast
St Lucia’s east coast is often overlooked by tourists in favour of Castries and Rodney Bay, and this is precisely what makes it so wonderful. Considered a bit of a hidden gem, this rugged stretch of coastline is raw and wild, perfect for those seeking an affordable and adventurous experience.
Soufriere / The Southwest Coast
Soufriere is St Lucia’s tropical center. It’s the oldest town and was the capital when the French controlled the island. With white sand beaches and calm turquoise water set against a backdrop of the towering Pitons, this area is home to the island’s most luxurious resorts, boutique eco-lodges, and hotels.
While small, the landscapes from region to region shift dramatically on this little Caribbean island. One moment, you’re carving through mountains covered in thick jungles; the next, you’re sitting on a golden beach sipping rum punch.
Depending on where you stay in St Lucia, your trip could be all about sunset discos and high-end resorts, or it could be a more off-the-beaten-path adventure along a rugged coastline.
If you’ve never visited the island before, Castries and the surrounding northwest coast are the perfect introduction. The capital city itself is colourful and busy, with plenty of markets, colonial architecture, powdery sand beaches, and friendly locals.
Up north, Rodney Bay and Gros Islet are the beating heart of the island’s nightlife scene. It’s a lively area packed with beachfront bars, nightclubs, and the famous Gros Islet Street Party, which happens every Friday night. There is a good mix of high-end resorts and budget-friendly guesthouses, as well as self-catering rentals around here.
While the Caribbean side of St Lucia is all about calm, clear water, the East Coast facing the Atlantic has a wilder, more windswept appeal. It’s less developed, which means cheaper accommodation and a more local vibe.
If you love luxury and dream of infinity pools overlooking the ocean, Soufriere is your spot. This is where you’ll find the most lavish resorts, many of which have jaw-dropping views of the Piton mountains. It’s definitely the pricier side of the island, but there are still some gorgeous apartments and affordable rentals up for grabs.
Divided into ten parishes (or districts), each part of this island offers something unique. A good piece of mind is that no matter where you end up, the island is relatively small and has decent roads, making it easy to travel around.
St Lucia’s Four Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
These four areas, spread across the island’s ten parishes, are the best places to stay in St Lucia for different reasons:
1. Castries / The Northwest Coast – Best Place to Stay in St Lucia for a First-Time Visit
Castries is the capital of St Lucia. As far as capital cities go, it’s a small one, but it still offers a good mix of culture and convenience. It’s the hub of local life on the island, with markets, colonial-era landmarks, and easy access to some of the best beaches.
Just about every major tour company operates out of the city, which makes it a convenient base for exploring the rest of the island or even taking a sailing trip in the Caribbean. You’ll find the most accommodation options around here. Think ocean-view villas, treehouses in the jungle, and apartment rentals.
Morne SeaViews Apartments | Best Apartment in Castries / The Northwest Coast
Located just above the historic city of Castries, Morne Seaview Apartments are known for their stunning views and excellent access to the town. From the balcony, you can gaze out across the harbour and surrounding neighbourhoods while sipping your morning coffee.
The interiors are spacious, comfortable, and filled with natural light. It’s the perfect home base in this busier part of the island.
Ocean Front Villa with Pool and Private Beach | Best Luxury Villa in Castries / The Northwest Coast
If you want to stay in a peaceful and secluded villa perched over one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Secret Cove Villa is the spot. The villa sits on a peninsula overlooking its own private beach.
From concierge services to housekeeping, in-house spa treatments, and a private chef, the staff will take care of absolutely everything on your behalf. All you need to do? Enjoy the beautiful space and create long-lasting memories, whether you’re travelling as a family or a couple.
Ti Kas | Best Jungle Treehouse in Castries / The Northwest Coast
Ti Kas is a charming wooden treehouse that offers visitors a classic rustic, eco-lodge experience, dusted with a whole lotta modern comfort. Wake up to the tropical birds singing and fall asleep to the murmur of the waves in the distance.
The outdoor shower on the balcony and gorgeous, lush gardens will make sure you feel one with nature from the moment you arrive to the day you leave this place to stay in St Lucia.
Things to See and Do in Castries / The Northwest Coast
- Join a tour of the Castries Central Market and buy some handcrafted souvenirs and local spices
- Check out the city and harbour views from Morne Fortune
- Visit the Governor General’s Mansion, St Lucia’s houses of parliament
- Spend a day in Marigot Bay, a pristine bay with yachts and beaches
- Tour the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the largest church in the Caribbean
- Go bar hopping around the lively streets, bars, and clubs of the area.
- Learn about the island’s wartime past at La Toc Battery
- Explore the island’s coastline and rivers on a bamboo raft
- Take a rum distillery tour and taste locally made Caribbean rum
2. Rodney Bay / Gros Islet – Best Place to Stay in St Lucia for Nightlife
Rodney Bay is the epicentre of St Lucia’s nightlife and social scene. It’s a lively area filled with hotels, villas, and beachfront condos, attracting both party-loving tourists and a few long-term expats who thrive in the buzz. It’s also a super safe place to let loose, so go for it!
It’s iconically home to the famous Gros Islet Street Party, which brings the streets alive with music, dancing, and delicious street food every Friday night. Beyond nightlife, the bay has one of the most beautiful marinas in the Caribbean, making it one of the top St Lucia neighbourhoods for yachts and water-based tours and excursions.
Treehouse Glamping Suite with Jungle View | Best Treehouse in Rodney Bay / Gros Islet
Staying in this little treetop sanctuary feels nothing short of magical. It’s not just a place to stay but a nature-filled adventure where greenery, views, and the sounds of tropical birds constantly surround you.
The rustic property was built by hand using local materials and positioned to take advantage of the sea views. It feels like a honeymoon suite with no one around, lit by warm candles and lanterns and decorated with simple island-inspired interiors.
Zandoli Villa | Top Villa in Rodney Bay / Gros Islet
Stepping into Zandoli Villa is a bit like walking into your private slice of paradise. From the gorgeous pool that seems to spill over into the ocean to the spacious interior influenced by local styles, it’s the perfect place to indulge yourself on a solo trip or as a couple.
It’s one of the most luxurious self-catering accommodations on the island, perfect for a group of friends or a big family. Whether lounging on the terrace or dipping in the pool, everything about this villa screams exclusivity.
Ocean View Apartment with Pool | Best Apartment in Rodney Bay / Gros Islet
When you walk into this apartment, the first thing you will be drawn to is the gorgeous marina views. The swimming pool is a clear highlight. It’s the best place to watch the sun dip beneath the horizon.
This accommodation in St Lucia is simple, yet well equipped with a basic kitchenette and spacious bed with mosquito netting and, most importantly, silent air conditioning.
Things to See and Do in Rodney Bay / Gros Islet
- Visit the Daren Sammy Cricket Grounds, where the 2007 Cricket World Cup was played
- Take a day trip to Pigeon Island National Park
- Hike through the rainforest to the Venus Estate Waterfall
- Dance the night away at the Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party
- Take a boat cruise along the coastline
- Snorkel or dive around the protected marine reserve around Pigeon Island
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Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey3. The East Coast – Best Area in St Lucia for a Budget-Friendly Adventure
Tourists often overlook St Lucia’s east coast in favour of Castries and Rodney Bay, and this is precisely what makes it so wonderful. Considered a bit of a hidden gem, this rugged stretch of coastline is raw and wild, perfect for those seeking an affordable and adventurous experience.
Landscape-wise, this area is known for its dramatic cliff faces, wind-swept beaches, and little fishing villages where you can experience authentic St Lucian culture without the crowds of Castries. If you’re wondering where to stay along St Lucia’s east coast, you’ll find the odd guesthouse, resort, and house rental here.
Serenity at Coconut Bay | All-Inclusive Resort on The East Coast
Located in Vieux Fort on the east coast of the island, this exclusive, adults-only, all-inclusive resort offers beautifully designed suites with plunge pools. To take things one step further, each room comes with a private butler who can help with just about any service requirement you might need.
The outdoor area is the star of the show. The pool area is lined with beach loungers (some even half-submerged by water) and features private bungalow cabanas.
Villa Colibri | Best Villa on The East Coast
The infinity pool at Villa Colobri looks like a scene from a James Bond movie. Overlooking the jungle and distant sea, it’s absolutely breathtaking. The villa has five bedrooms and an airy central living space, seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings.
I’m a big fan of the indoor-outdoor flow, where mornings begin with coffee on the terrace and afternoons are spent lounging by the pool.
Gorgeous 2-Bed House with Pool | Best House on the East Coast
This stylish two-bedroom house is the perfect mix of homey comfort and island elegance. It’s a peaceful escape with a private plunge pool, updated interiors, and a spacious backyard made for slow mornings and sunset cocktails.
The vibe at this place to stay in St Lucia is relaxed yet refined, with minimalist interiors and open spaces that let the sunlight and Caribbean breeze pour in.
Things to See and Do on The East Coast
- Follow the Des Cartiers trail through the rainforest
- Join a unique aerial tram tour through the rainforest
- Go kitesurfing at Grande Anse Beach
- Eat your way through the city on a food and rum-tasting tour
- Experience the calm jungle at the Latille waterfall and botanical gardens
- Book a zip-lining adventure through the rainforest canopy
- Learn about pre-Columbia at the Fond d’Or Nature Historic Park
- Visit the Mamiku Botanical Gardens
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Grab an eSIM!4. Soufriere / The Southwest Coast – Best Area in St Lucia for Luxury
Soufriere is St Lucia’s tropical centre. It’s the island’s oldest town and was the capital when the French controlled the island, so it’s packed full of history. With white sand beaches and calm turquoise water set against a backdrop of the towering Pitons, this area is home to the island’s most luxurious resorts, boutique eco-lodges, and hotels.
Many of the accommodations here have private pools, open-air suites, and, usually, stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. But it’s not all spas and fine dining here. Soufriere is also the official port of entry, with a marina that has plenty of visiting yachts. It’s also the closest town to the famous drive-in volcano.
Sugar Beach – A Viceroy Resort | Most Luxurious Resort in Soufriere / The Southwest Coast
There’s luxury, and then there’s Sugar Beach. Considered one of the most extravagant properties on the island, Sugar Beach is pure, unfiltered opulence set between the dramatic Pitons, with views so gorgeous they don’t feel real.
Every inch of this place to stay in St Lucia is designed for indulgence, from the private pools to the crisp white beach cabanas to world-class dining. The sand feels softer here, the spa treatments are more rejuvenating, and the champagne tastes crisper. If you’re looking for a luxury travel experience, then this is it!
Samfi Gardens | Best Hotel in Soufriere / The Southwest Coast
Some places are all about the view, and Samfi Gardens delivers in the best way possible. Perched high above Soufriere, this hotel offers panoramic scenery that stretches from the rainforest to the sparkling Caribbean.
The rooms are bright and airy, designed to make the most of the natural beauty around you. It’s peaceful, quiet, and perfect for anyone looking to escape the noise while still being close to the city.
1-Bed Apartment with Terrace and Piton View | Best Apartment in Soufriere / The Southwest Coast
This apartment is the definition of waking up in paradise. It’s the ideal spot for those who like to have their own space, kitchen, and terrace, but it has a few additional features up its sleeve. Take, for example, the Pitons peeking over the fence and the quiet atmosphere.
The space is modern, bright, and thoughtfully designed for a comfortable stay.
Things to See and Do in Soufriere / The Southwest Coast
- Take a mud bath at the Sulphur Springs, the world’s only volcano you can drive into!
- Hike Gros Piton, a challenging climb with extraordinary views
- Join a bean-to-bar chocolate tour at Project Chocolat
- Follow the Tet Paul Nature Trail to the Stairway to Heaven for gorgeous views
- Take a sunset cruise along the coastline or explore the region by boat
- Book a spa day at one of the area’s five-star resorts
- Spend a day in the sunshine at Sugar Beach or Anse la Raye
- Snorkel around Anse Chastanet, a marine reserve with beautiful reefs
- Learn about the local plants at the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in St Lucia
If you’re not sure where to start your planning, this is a good place. These FAQs are based on what others are asking about where to stay in St Lucia:
What To Pack For St Lucia
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me: packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for St Lucia
Unfortunately, things can go wrong wherever you travel. This is why good travel insurance is essential before your trip to St Lucia.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in St Lucia
St Lucia is one of those breathtaking islands where lush rainforests meet volcanic peaks and sandy beaches. Like many places, deciding where to stay in St Lucia depends on what kind of trip you want.
Castries and the northwest coast are the centre of it all, perfect for first-time visitors. Rodney Bay and Gros Islet bring that classic Caribbean nightlife and social scene to life. The East Coast is ideal for budget-conscious travellers (yet it also has a fair share of opulent resorts). However, for the most luxurious resorts and best views of the Pitons, consider the indulgent St Lucia neighbourhood of Soufriere and the southwest coast.
Whether you choose a sea-facing villa like Zandoli Villa or a five-star hotel like Serenity at Coconut Bay, St Lucia has something for every type of traveller.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in St Lucia instead.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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