St Lucia has pristine beaches and breathtaking views, hardly surprising it’s considered one of the most romantic Caribbean islands. But if you think this lover’s bolthole has nothing for kids, think again.
Diamond Waterfalls, St. Lucia
Diamond Botanical Gardens, Soufriere
Enjoy the beauty and the warmth of the tropics and take a walk through Diamond Botanical Gardens.
Steeped in history, the gardens are the oldest in St Lucia with a diverse range of plants and easy terrain which makes them very child-friendly.
After strolling through the gardens you’ll come to the stunning Diamond Waterfall where the water is uniquely pigmented due to the mixture of rainwater and sulphur springs. On scorching hot days, the Botanical Gardens are also the perfect place to relish in St Lucia’s natural beauty and shelter from the sun.
Playing with the view, Pigeon Island
Pigeon Island, St Lucia
Relax and pause on Pigeon Island, an idyllic spot with rich history, stunning views and glorious beaches. This national park is marked with trails that will lead you through the ruins of Fort Rodney, an 18th century fort built by the British. Although a challenging climb to the top of the fort repays you with panoramic views of the island’s magnificent coastline.
After the hike, recline on one of Pigeon Island’s gorgeous beaches. More peaceful than the popular Reduit beach, the southern side of Pigeon island has two sheltered stretches of golden sand, perfect for families.
Splash Island Waterpark, St Lucia
Splash Island Water Park, Reduit Beach
Splash Island is a thrilling inflatable obstacle course located on St Lucia’s picturesque Reduit Beach. Parents get the chance to sit back, relax and soak up some rays while the kids tire themselves out with trampoline, slides, monkey bars and water volleyball.
The obstacle course is suitable for kids aged six and over. All participants must wear life vests and lifeguards are on duty at all times. For teeny tots, the calm and shallow waters of Reduit Beach are perfect for a paddle.
La Soufriere Hot Springs, St Lucia
Hot Springs and Mud Bath, Soufriere
Visit the hot springs of La Soufriere and bathe in the volcanic baths. Advertised as the ‘world’s only drive-in volcano’, visitors are able to drive and walk right into the heart of a dormant volcano (handy for kids with tired little legs). Sulphur Springs park is in the midst of a dormant volcano that last erupted in 1766. The boiling springs give rise to the therapeutic and relaxing waters, which form the park’s mud bath.
This is a unique and adventurous experience, where your children will learn about St Lucia’s geology, take in some beautiful landscapes and of course, roll around in a volcanic mud bath.
Aerial Tram, St Lucia
Aerial Tram Tour, St Lucia
Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the luscious rainforest of St Lucia with the Aerial Tram Tour. The tram transports guests to an ecological park located in St Lucia’s rainforest reserve. Your tour guide is an experienced nature interpreter who will point out the calls of the hummingbirds and the giant ferns, teaching your kids about St Lucia’s fascinating habitats and vegetation.
If you’re feeling really brave, you can try the canopy zipwire. The tram tour is suitable for all ages, so even your tiny ones can enjoy the tropics from a height. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy the incredible panoramic view of the island’s natural beauty.
Dolphin spotting, St Lucia
Whale and Dolphin watching
See whales and dolphins in their natural habitats on Hackshaws whale-watching cruise. A far cry from a cramped aquarium, you’ll witness these incredible animals relishing their freedom and playing in vast wild waters. You’ll sail past picturesque, quaint fishing villages on your way to deeper waters, soaking up more and more of St Lucia’s beauty.
Your kids will love looking out for sperm whales, humpback whales and dolphins. There’s certainly no shortage of wildlife in the island’s waters, with 25 varieties of whale and dolphin waiting to be spotted.
Tet Piton, Caribbean
Tet Paul Nature Trail, St Lucia
If you have small children, you may not want to hike for hours up steep mountains, but don’t let this deter you from the delights of St Lucia’s nature trails. Tet Paul is one of the easiest hikes on the island. The walk takes around 40 minutes and offers incredible views. The unforgettable scenes of the sea, pitons and valleys will be among your most treasured vacation moments.
You won’t need hiking boots on this trail, but make sure your shoes are comfortable. Take the trail at your own pace or, if you want a more informative experience, you can opt for a guide. Embarking on Tet Paul is a great opportunity to learn about vegetation and farming in the area, while taking in the breathtaking landscapes.
Sunset, Rodney Bay Marina
Rodney Bay Marina
Looking for a quick bite to eat after a busy day of sightseeing? There are plenty of places to get delicious and inexpensive food in Rodney Bay Marina while you chill out under a shaded umbrella overlooking the glistening water of the Marina. Café Olé offers refreshing smoothies – the perfect accompaniment to the hot Caribbean sun – as well as an extensive choice of made-to-order baguettes, wraps, paninis and salads. The cafe offers simple and light food, and caters well to fussy little eaters.
Anse Cochon, St Lucia
Snorkel at Anse Cochon beach
The natural beauty of St Lucia’s coastline is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The waters are so shallow and calm that even little ones can try some snorkelling.
You don’t need to dive deep to see all sorts of fascinating wildlife, such as blowfish, reef fish and intricate corals. There are several notable spots that are home to an array of wildlife, including Anse Chastenet, Anse de Pitons and Anse Cochon. If the water’s not for you, there are excellent sandcastle building opportunities on the shore.