Earlier this year, SL’s travel and lifestyle editor Sherri Andrew spent two weeks exploring two of the Caribbean’s most popular islands – and they couldn’t be better for an adventure-led escape. Just a 45-minute flight apart, St Lucia and Dominica offer a different kind of tropical getaway: think rainforest hikes, canyoning and river rafting in Dominica, followed by snorkelling and sunset sailing in St Lucia. With lush landscapes, dramatic coastlines and a deep connection to nature, these neighbouring islands are ideal for travellers looking to go beyond the sun lounger. Here’s everything Sherri thinks people should know before they go…
When you think of a typical Caribbean getaway, most people dream of reclining on a beach with a book and cocktail in hand. And while that does sound dreamy, my version of a bucket-list trip involves a little more adventure. That’s why St Lucia and Dominica are two of the best islands to visit in the Caribbean – yes, they’re home to beautiful beaches and warm local hospitality, but these neighbouring nations offer so much more. If you like the idea of white-water rafting, hiking through rainforest trails, swimming in emerald pools, canyoning, river tubing, whale watching and more, this could be your perfect trip.
ST LUCIA
St Lucia is a special island. Ask travel insiders and frequent visitors to the Caribbean and you’ll understand why it tops so many wish lists. It’s part of the Windward Islands – which also include countries like Grenada, Martinique and St Vincent & the Grenadines – and has one of the most interesting landscapes in the Caribbean. Its famous Piton mountains are St Lucia’s most iconic landmark, now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In fact, the island’s geography is dominated by mountains, volcanoes and other geothermal activity – think sulphur springs, volcanic beaches and bubbling mud pools.
For a small nation, St Lucia has a well-established tourism industry (accounting for more than 60% of its GDP), so you’ll find some of the Caribbean’s best hotels here. From eco-friendly lodges to five-star resorts, there’s something for everyone, as well as affordable homestays and Airbnbs for a more traditional, local experience.
EXPLORE
I would recommend setting aside at least a week to settle into island life and experience everything on offer. St Lucia is a dream for adventure-seekers – a place where rainforest hikes, volcanic landscapes and turquoise waters come together in one unforgettable trip.
Start with a guided climb up Gros Piton, the taller of the island’s two iconic peaks. The four-hour round hike is best done early in the morning with a local guide – you’ll be rewarded with views over Soufrière Bay and the neighbouring Piton mountains. For something gentler, the Tet Paul Nature Trail is a short, scenic walk through farmland and forest that offers panoramic views of both Pitons and the southern coastline. Keep in mind the tropical climate, so be sure to bring mosquito repellent, sunscreen and plenty of water (I like to bring electrolytes sachets to help with the humidity, too).
You’ll also want to visit the Sulphur Springs near Soufrière – the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano – where you can soak in mineral-rich mud baths and watch steam rise from the bubbling earth. Nearby, the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens are also worth a visit for their colourful flowers and cascading waterfall, tinted by volcanic minerals.
On the water, charter a catamaran from Rodney Bay or Marigot Bay to sail down the west coast. Most of the luxury hotels have in-property concierge and excursion teams who make it easy to book experiences around the island. When it comes to beaches, stop at Anse Chastanet for snorkelling over coral reefs or Sugar Beach for a swim beneath the Pitons. In fact, you can’t go wrong with any of St Lucia’s beaches – nearly all are well maintained with white sand, clear waters and beach shacks selling coconuts, rum punch and more. Kayaking, paddleboarding and scuba diving are also all on offer, with plenty of operators catering to different levels. Inland, zipline through the rainforest canopy at Babonneau or explore the Edmund Forest Reserve – a lesser-known spot for birdwatching and nature walks.
