At Morne Fortune and Pigeon Island National Park, you can learn about the history of the island's many battles between the French and English, who fought savagely for its possession. Castries Market Reviews | U.S. News Travel Before I share with you the best things to do in St Lucia port, I invite you to sign up below and get my exclusive, insider SHORE EXCURSION GUIDE FOR FREE! Check out Sulphur Springs tours and activities. This six-acre retreat is an invitation to walk through lush tropical vegetation, bird watching or bathing in the mineral waters of the spa. The original fortifications still stand, and you can visit a monument, as well as old military buildings and cannons. By vyviennec. With the Aerial Tram Tour, youll get an awe-inspiring view of the islands tantalizing rainforest. There are several other spots popular for snorkeling: Anse Mamin, located near Anse Chastanet, a gorgeous quiet beach offering amazing snorkeling; Anse Cochon Bay and beach, situated further up on the northwest coast; Anse La Raye (the Bay of Rays, a rustic fishing village), Marigot Bay, and others. Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park has treats, games and activities for visitors of all ages. Pink Plantation House Perched above Castries, on Morne Fortune hill, Pink Plantation house is a 140-year-old French colonial mansion spreading over two acres of lush tropical gardens with fascinating views of the Castries port. "We as a country have good reasons to celebrate because of the economic gains we have made, notwithstanding the external challenges and concerns about . Enclosed to the north by Pigeon Island National Park and to the south by Labrelotte Point, this sheltered bay is also a popular spot for mooring. The cathedral exemplifies a Victorian variation on a Romanesque design and features an Italianate-style clock tower centered on the square. NGI1MTVhYTJmMTM0NTJmN2RkZTcxYWZhZDI4Zjc3NmM0ODUzODcwMzdhZWYw The harbor is so deep and sheltered that the British fleet supposedly hid here from the French by covering their masts with palm fronds. When this waterpark opened in 2015, it instantly became one of the best things to do in St. Lucia with kids. Many US phones may work but is advisable to check with your provider to avoid roaming charges. The Top 10 Things to Do in Castries, St. Lucia | USA Today See Tripadvisor's 49,007 traveller reviews and photos of Castries free attractions. Official site: https://diamondstlucia.com/. 7. Religion:Roman Catholic 61.5%, Protestant 25.5% (includes Seventh Day Adventist 10.4%, Pentecostal 8.9%, Baptist 2.2%, Anglican 1.6%, Church of God 1.5%, other Protestant 0.9%). The Caribbean and Latin America have seen the biggest decline in routine immunisation of any region in the world, sliding from 93 per cent to an alarming 75 per cent over the last 10 years. NDBkMGYzZjVlOWZmZTU2MmI3MWRmYWM1YjQ0OWJhY2RmYzEyYWE2NjA0ZGUx ZDM3NTFjOThjN2U5YTMwYzZjNmJjM2YzMTRiYzFjYzc0NzAzNGU0OWM4ZWMw You can read more in our cookie notice more information I agree. ZjVmNWQ2YzQxMTUxN2QzOTU1NmZkNjgyZWY3MTkwNmJlODBmNWRhMmYzOTAx The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. Soufriere is also the best base if you want to tackle the tough hikes up the Pitons - the Gros Piton Nature Trail or the Petit Piton Trail. Furthermore, the tour has a nature interpreter that will highlight the vegetation and wildlife of the area. Do yourself a favor and go on a horseback riding excursion on St. Lucias beaches. With close to 5 million passengers per year, the Cruise Port of Miami is the busiest in the World - disembarking/embarking can be at times frustrating but there are some good insiders tips to discover. See pictures and our review of Castries Market. Well be right back. St. Lucia is the epitome of a tropical paradise. However, the French-based Saint Lucian Creole (Kwyl) - or Patois ("Patwa") - is spoken by the over 90% of the local population. As one of the bona fide tourist meccas of St. Lucia as a whole, the little inlet that forms Marigot Bay midway between Castries City and Canaries on the islands western edge comes loaded with everything from enticing Caribbean restaurants to luxurious accommodation options. Castries is home to about 30,000 people of the 160,000 population of the beautiful island of St Lucia. Walking up here to snap some photos is one of the most popular free things to do on St. Lucia. THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Castries - Tripadvisor Bars may allow smoking outdoors. Kids especially will enjoy the climbing wall, the monkey bars, the rope bridges and the trampolines, while that out-at-sea volleyball court is always a real hit! From 1803 to 1844, the British made St. Lucia's capital, Castries, a major naval port and built fortifications on Morne Fortun, the mountain overlooking the harbor. If you're headed out on a sightseeing tour, be sure to stop by the town square and see the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with its striking azure accents. 6. Undoubtedly, Reduit Beach is the most popular - the scenery, sand, water clarity and many activities offered are major attractions for the cruise traveler. August 1 - Emancipation Day Even better, it offers childcare services, making it a terrific resort for moms and dads with a baby. ZjAyMjZjMTI2YjAyZTY3ODMxMGRlNmIyNTI4NmJiYmIzZDk1OTg5NGIwNmNm The beaches are as stunning as numerous, highlights like Nelson's Dockyard and Shirley Heights shouldn't be missed. Antigua is one of the most popular cruise destinations. The largest of the two, known suitably as the Gros Piton, reaches a whopping 798 meters, making it the second-highest mountain in the country. First Timer - Looking for suggestions. Keep an eye out for the St. Lucia parrot, St. Lucia oriole, Semper's warbler, and St. Lucia wren. Another magnificent example of Victorian architecture, the estate is 122 years old and offers a wide variety of facilities to enjoy. ZTk2NGQyOTkzMmI3ODYxODdjYTY1MWUzYzYxYmRhOGUyN2I1MjRhMDBhMzE3 Although its quite small, this family-friendly spot overflows with natural beauty. NTY1N2ZmMDQ0NDJiZDdhZGFiOTAxMjBiZmEwMmE5Njk4ZjM4NmNlY2UwNjNm And, by the way, this cruise is free for children ages 5 and younger. Not only is it a short loop, but its also family-friendly. Opened in 2005, this fabulous, 250-room resort beckons families with its idyllic charm and colorful attractions for kids. Nicknamed the worlds only drive-in volcano, this spring park is truly a refreshing retreat for adults and kids. Located on the island's east coast between the towns of Mon Repos and Praslin, this lovely garden features five separate tropical garden areas, each with its own theme. 8. Land & Sea Jeep Safari with Catamaran Combo. Sugar beach for outside guests 28 April 2023. NzE1YTk2YmExNDNhZjQxNjUxMmY2NzJiNTFjMTVlMWMxMDZmMDgyZDBmMmM3 Historic landmarks, shops, restaurants, parks, and main city attractions including a famous Castries central market are within a short walking distance from the cruise terminal. Some links are affiliate links and Klarna may earn a commission. Therefore you should look into booking a day pass at the Marigot Beach Club. ZTJmNGI4ZDMwYjU1MGI5NjFmZjI0YzA3OTQ0NmNmYzVmNGI5ODBhNmZmMzcx Explore St Lucia snorkeling and scuba diving tours. The top things to do, the beaches and day-passes, what's within walking distance, shopping, and basics. You can also book a chocolate-making tour and create your own exciting chocolates with different flavors, and learn how organic chocolate bars and coconut oil are made. Copyright 2005-2023 Klarna Bank AB (publ). Can I visit the Pitons when calling at Castries Cruise Port?Yes. You do not have access to www.getyourguide.com. Ziplining, climbing the Pitons, hiking the many marked nature trails, horseback riding, sightseeing cruises, and exploring the island's active volcano are popular island activities. ODZkMjFiYzQ1NDdjZTYwYTBhYmNiOGU0MWZmMWIxODY0MzJjOTEzYzQzYmJh Essential guide for cruisers to St Lucia (Castries port): where ships dock and terminals. You dont have to dive deep to see beguiling wildlife on this beach. Vigie Beach is the closest to Castries (just under 2 miles north). Castries is located in the northern region of St. Lucia. Wonder at the Sulphur Springs. After a day of beaching and sightseeing, make your way to Rodney Bay Marina. What to See and Do in Castries, St. Lucia - Insider Founded in about 1745, Soufriere has an interesting history. 10 days in st Lucia . Accommodation: Where to Stay in Soufrire. From waterparks to plantation tours, the island teems with family fun. 28. The list is as long as your own. Anse Chastanet is part of the Marine Reserve and you can explore the beautiful, shallow reef directly from the shore. There's nothing to be afraid of at La Soufrire Drive-In Volcano, but expect the smell of sulfur from the steams. Horseback riding, sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, or jet skiing are just a few of the many thrilling activities you can experience on a cruise to St Lucia. Sea Trek will enthrall the whole gang with an underwater adventure that kiddos will remember for years to come. Whether youre aching to relax or explore the sparkling Carribean waters, youll definitely find your bliss on this tropical haven. Required fields are marked *. If you are not afraid of heights and like the challenges, join the thrilling Adventure park tours and youll have an experience of a lifetime. The well-maintained trail circles through dense rainforest to a waterfall, which has eroded its way into volcanic rock. Oranjestad the capital and cruise port of Aruba is a very neat city, clean, well kept that embraces you with a sense of relaxed safety. Cozumel is the largest island in Mexico and the most popular cruise ship port in the Caribbean. NzNlMDY3ZWMyMGMyMGMzMjQ5YjJmOWE1YWZjOGVkNGU4N2NlNzQ2MmZjOWYx Drive on to the smaller fishing village of Canaries for an authentic taste of St. Lucia, and try some of the freshly baked cassava bread. 26 Ultimate Things to Do in St. Lucia - Fodors Travel Guide For more information check the Sulfur Springs Park Website. 1 of 15. What and Where | Top Highlights | Landmarks | Shopping and Restaurants. Malabar Beach 58 Beaches Guests are usually offered refreshments and banana chips, a local delicacy.The view of the port in St Lucia from St Marks Colonial HouseSt Marks colonial house. However, you may find at the terminal typical US 110 volt 2 prong outlets. If you're looking for a no-fuss romantic getaway, you'll find one of the best luxury all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean on St. Lucia: adults-only Jade Mountain. With its verdant interior of virgin rainforest and mist-topped mountains that bubble and steam with plumes of sulphur and smoke, its hardly surprising that St. Lucia is one of the top destinations in the Caribbean for donning the walking boots and hitting the trails. 6066 Car park, Castries, St. Lucia Castries LCCastries, St. Lucia(758) 458-5151. ODU2OGFkMGI2NDliOGIzMjM5NzcyZGQ0YmYwOWRiM2U5MzM5YWU5M2Q2MzM2 You will find all the necessary cruise port facilities in the terminal area. Anse Chastanet is a true off-the-beaten-track gem that offers great beach time and a unique snorkeling experience, so make sure you bring your snorkel gear with you.Anse Chastanet. The water and soil are blackened due to the chemical reactions between sulfur, iron, copper, and other minerals and metals, and there are many hot pools and fumaroles all around a truly impressive sight to see!Sulphur Springs. As you stroll through the gardens, youll be mesmerized by its gorgeous tropical flowers and lush vegetation. A few meters downstream, youll come across the mineral baths whose construction and usage date from the era of the King Louis XVI of France. The 6 Best Things To Do In Castries, St Lucia | laaurenjade Youll find tons of sights and activities that will appease kiddos of all ages at Diamond Botanical Gardens. Saint Lucia Stepping Up Immunisation Amid A Decline In Vaccination Horseback Riding in Saint Lucia Castries, Saint Lucia St Lucia has so much to offer its visitors, and the capital town of Castries is the most popular port for cruise ships and the best way to access this beautiful Caribbean island. 16 Best Things to Do in St. Lucia in 2023 | U.S. News Travel Aside from the soothing waters and volcanic mud bath, the park will also teach kiddos about the islands geology. Among these is the medicinal herbal garden, where you can learn about how African slaves discovered them on the island and shared their knowledge about the uses of native plants. Klarna Bank AB (publ). However, when booking online, the cruise traveler should check the availability at each of Cruise Ship Terminals or in Castries. NjBjOTRiM2Y0ZWI4ZjA2MzlmODI3MmI2MTA1YWU4ZWY2NTRkNDQxNWM4OWFi It takes at least a 1 h 30 min drive to reach the Pitons. But Soufriere's history also has a grisly side - the town square was the site of the guillotine erected during the French Revolution in 1780, and many plantation owners and their families were executed here. OWRkZjE5ZjE2MTU2YWMzZmJlMGFiYjA2OTUxMTc0ZTc1Y2ZhOWZkNjBmNDYz With a network of exhilarating ziplines, this 35-acre park is sure to give your older kids the adventure of a lifetime. Area: 238 sq mi (616 sq km)Three and 1/2 times the size of Washington, DC, Saint Lucia Population: 164,464 (July 2016 est. More Best Things To Do in St. Lucia. If you want to simultaneously enjoy the beautiful nature and learn about the history of St Lucia, this place is a must-see!Pigeon Island, Throughout history, the place was occupied by the Amerindians, pirates, French and British, mainly due to its favorable strategic position. You can also opt for a horseback ride through the rain forest, to the volcano, and along a nearby beach. Also, there are lifeguards perpetually manning the waterpark. The main attraction of the Diamond Gardens is the 17 meters high waterfall. Note that you have to pay a small entrance fee to hike the trail. NDVmNDhkMWQ1N2EwZWYzMTE1MDZiMmQ5MDEwNzBmNThjNWU2MmNjNTNmNjJk Of course, your kiddos will also have a chance to find Nemo here. and peer down into the collapsed crater where the heat and the magma meet. NWNhNzRlZmI3ZDA4ZmI0OGMwNzVlMzllNDQ3MDAxOWViZTA4MTc4MGNiZGJl ZDIxOWQxN2ZmYjg5MGE1NGQwZTlkYjA4NjBhZWEyNzJkNDcwMzg4NzZkYmRj The colors change because of the various chemical reactions caused by the mixture of volcanic minerals and rainwater. Friday night starts things rolling with a huge blowout of lobster and sizzling shrimp between the streets of Anse La Raye on the west coast. January 2 - Day After New Year's Day If youre brave enough to look down, youll be able to spot the wild undergrowth below, along with colourful tropical birds flitting through the boughs close-by. Cocoa, coconuts, and manioc are grown here, and you can take a tour around this working plantation, its tropical gardens, and a replica of a traditional village. NTFjMWZlMjJlYTcxMzc3OTA5YWJlMjkzNDVlYjU3MzBiNjQxZWIwNjNmZDc0 The scenery is spectacular but cruise travelers should be aware that the beach is small and can get crowded easily. This historic 18-century coffee and cocoa plantation is a surprisingly entertaining experience for families. Things to Do near Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort Accommodation: Where to Stay in Marigot Bay. The scenic landmark is a must-see on a cruise to St Lucia. ), Ethnic Groups:Black/African descent 85.3%, mixed 10.9%, East Indian 2.2%, other 1.6%, unspecified 0.1% (2010 est.). One of the more unique things to do in St. Lucia is to hop aboard the Rainforest Arial Tram. Looking for something more adventurous? Events mid-July to mid-August 27 April 2023. Impressive homes dot the hills surrounding the bay, and St. Lucia's biggest shopping mall is in the area. Mjc0YTEyMWJkNWRjZGIzYmE2MThhNWNlZWExYzdlOWJhOGI5MmQzYWY5ZmY4 After all the action, you can relax under rustling palms on St. Lucia's golden beaches or soak in the island's healing hot springs. Diving is excellent on the west side of St. Lucia, with a rich diversity of corals, sponges, and reef fish. Cruise ships offer excellent tours but if you wish to explore the island on your own the taxi services are very good alternatives. On top of the hill there are the military ruins and cannons open for visitors, and to get there, you need to take a 15-20-minute hike slightly uphill. Crowned by the towering twin volcanic peaks of the Pitons, St. Lucia is the beauty queen of the Caribbean. If you make the hike to the archaeological dig site, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the coast and Praslin Bay. Opposite the cathedral sits the restored public library and a series of brightly painted gingerbread colonial buildings with verandahs overhanging the sidewalk. The Aerial Tram Tour is safe and appropriate for visitors of all ages. Port & Terminals | Driving, Tunnel & Parking | Highlights | Shopping. Open 24 hours a day, this admission-free beach near Rodney Bay Marina is perfect for families who are aching for sunny and salty fun. Anse Cochons shallow waters and pristine sands make it a superb attraction for youngsters of all ages. For more ideas on beautiful places to visit on this idyllic island, read our list of the top attractions and things to do in St. Lucia. Cruise travelers that enjoy mother nature's travails should not miss a visit to the famed Pitons although a tour and trekking of this emblematic wonder of St Lucia may take up to 6 hours. Deep Sea Sport Fishing St. Lucia. The park also harbors exotic plants, such as the blue mahoe and Honduras mahogany. 1 of 15. For some splashy fun with the gang, head to the Carribeans first ever open-sports water park. rel="sponsored nofollow noopener"if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'adventourbegins_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',130,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-adventourbegins_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Located in the southwest of St. Lucia, around 45 km/28 miles from the port of Castries, the Pitons are the absolute highlight of the island and a must-see place in St Lucia. Things To Do In Castries 2023 - Activities & Attractions | Travelocity MTNhMDlkMGM5MzJmNzUwOTA5NWY0Y2NlZjAyMjhjMzA5NDhlZTdhZTgwYTM5 Things to Do in Castries Popular things to do Nature and Wildlife Tours Ports of Call Tours 4WD Tours Historical Tours Sporting Events Airport & Hotel Transfers Top Picks Luxury & Special Occasions Walking & Biking Tours Likely to Sell Out Weddings & Honeymoons Special Offers Water Parks Multi-day & Extended Tours Ways to tour Castries Only a 10-15 minute drive from the Diamond Botanical Gardens and the Pitons, and a 1 h 30-minute drive from the cruise port in St Lucia, the mystical Sulphur Springs are another attraction that will blow your mind away! Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or seek out the snorkeling spots. Having worked in the cruise industry for over 7 years as Concierge and Shore excursions staff (Rivages du Monde, Viking River Cruises, Royal Caribbean International), Ive gained priceless, inside knowledge about the ports of call and have become a shore excursions expert. MmJhOWEzYjczYjAzYWYwYmFiYTU5MjA4NjdjNzkwNzliMGY1M2FlZGE0YzAx before the rampage began, 'Devastated': Army names 3 soldiers killed in Alaska helicopter crash, How herring fishermen may get SCOTUS to reel in Washington's power, 16 NFL big-name veterans on thin ice after teams' draft moves, First Republic Bank seized, sold to JPMorgan Chase: What to know, A student ate an art installation worth over $100K because he was hungry, 14 things banned at Disney World that you may not be aware of.