diving tour st lucia

The Ultimate Guide To Scuba Diving In St. Lucia

Imagine a world beneath the waves, teeming with vibrant marine life, a few shipwrecks, and a mysterious creature that comes out at night. Now, picture yourself immersed in this underwater paradise, exploring the depths of St. Lucia. If you are you ready to embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure, then read on!

This guide will take you on a journey through St. Lucia’s mesmerizing dive sites and introduce you to the location of Scuba Jay’s first honeymoon (yes I’ve had more than one, but that is a story for another time and usually told with plenty of drinks). For now, let’s dive into the enchanting world of St. Lucia’s underwater wonders!

Getting There And Accommodations

Traveling internationally, you will be flying into Hewanorra International Airport (UVF). From America you can get flights to St. Lucia from multiple cities including Charlotte, Boston, Newark, Philadelphia, New York, Atlanta, Chicago and Miami. Toronto and Montreal offer direct flights from Canada.

For some island-hopping, George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU) will be your airport of choice. Flights to various islands include Curacao, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, Barbados, Antigua and St. Vincent. Hey! Why stay on just one island, when you can hit a couple! But there is plenty about St. Lucia to keep you there.

For accommodations on St. Lucia, there are many to choose from. These choices include several adults-only all-inclusive Sandal resorts and the stunning Jade Mountain resort, as well as family friendly resorts such as Coconut Bay , Coco Palm and Sugar Beach .

Remember, when traveling for diving, consider the following factors: proximity to dive sites; dive packages offered; amenities; and (of course) your budget. For example, Sandals Halcyon Beach is a popular choice, offering scuba diving with up to two tanks per day included in your stay, but is adults only and may not be in everyone’s budget.

St. Lucia Scuba Diving

St. Lucia’s volcanic origins helped to form dramatic landscapes both above and below the water’s surface. Surrounded by coral gardens and reefs, St. Lucia is the perfect playground for divers of all levels, offering a diverse range of dive sites that cater to everyone’s interests.

St. Lucia Scuba Diving Operations

St. Lucia is truly a dive-friendly island with many dive shops and dive operators to suit your needs. As with the dive sites, the majority of the diving operations are on the West side of the island.

On the Southwest part of the island you have such operators as Action Adventure Divers and Scuba St. Lucia , in the Western middle there is Dive Fair Helen and in the Northwest there is the Sandals Dive Center , Eastern Caribbean Diving Limited and Dive St. Lucia/Scuba Steve’s Diving (Disclaimer, as far as we can tell Scuba Steve is not related to Scuba Jay).

Once you’ve picked your dive center, grab your gear and get ready for some amazing diving!

Diving Season And Conditions In St. Lucia

Understanding the dive conditions and visibility in St. Lucia is essential to ensuring a smooth underwater adventure. The island’s waters are generally warm, with average water temperatures around 84°, making it comfortable for diving year-round. Visibility is typically good, with an average of over 100ft, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of St. Lucia’s aquatic life.

Peak season for diving in St. Lucia is from November to April, when sea temperatures are typically around 79°, and the weather is calm and clear. During this time, you’ll enjoy optimal diving conditions and have the best chance to encounter a wide variety of marine life. Plan your dive trip accordingly, and maximize your experience of St. Lucia’s remarkable underwater world.

Diving Sites Of St. Lucia

As mentioned above, the majority of the dive sites can be found off of the island’s West coast. Scuba divers have over 20 different diving destinations to choose from and there is enough to keep both beginner and experienced divers busy.

St. Lucia’s waters host over 150 species of fish and other marine life, leading to its nickname “rainforest of the sea.” While diving in St. Lucia, you’ll encounter a vibrant array of marine creatures, including pufferfish , parrotfish , snappers , grunts , trumpetfish , eels , lobsters and various rays .

On the Southwest side of the island there is the Anse des Pitons Marine Reserve and where you’ll find the majority of top diving spots. Many of these spots are good for all level of divers and snorkelers and many are good for night diving as well.

Turtle Reef

One of St. Lucia’s most captivating dive sites is Turtle Reef, a dramatic underwater landscape that’s teeming with marine life, albeit not many turtles (Go figure). This unique dive spot located on the islands Southwest side features a plateau adorned with barrel sponges and pillar and organ pipe coral , before dropping off into a sheer wall.

As you embark on your dive look for the smaller reef fish taking refuge near the cliff face, as well as schools of barracuda lurking nearby. This dive site provides a truly mesmerizing experience, as you glide past sea whips , soft corals , and huge brain corals that cover the reef.

The dive starts at a depth of about 40ft and can go beyond recitational limits, making it suitable for those with experience in buoyancy control.

Shipwrecks Lesleen M and Daini Koyomaru

St. Lucia’s underwater realm is not only home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life, but also fascinating shipwrecks that have become artificial reefs. Two popular wreck dive sites are the Lesleen M and the Daini Koyomaru, with each offering a unique and captivating experience for wreck diving enthusiasts.

At Anse La Raye Wall, located just about in the middle of the West side of the island, lies the wreck of the Lesleen M. This 165-foot freighter was purposefully sunk in October 1986 and rests at a depth of about 65ft. It is now home to a variety of marine life, including lobster, moray eels and frogfish .

The Daini Koyomaru wreck, lies just a little south of the Lesleen M. This old Japanese minesweeper was sunk on purpose in 1996 to also create an acritical reef. She is 246ft long and 82ft high. As she sits in about 108ft of water, her top is just about 26ft from the surface. This wreck offers the chance to encounter turtles, barracudas, angelfish , and moray eels.

Anse Chastanet Reef

Anse Chastanet Reef is a shallow dive site known for its abundance of macro marine life, making it a dream destination for underwater photographers and critter enthusiasts alike. Just 10 yards off of Anse Chastanet Beach, this site ranges in depth between 20ft and 140ft, which makes it great for all level of divers and snorkelers. This is also a great spot for some night diving.

Anse Chastanet offers an extremely wide variety of marine life to discover including seahorses , batfish , butterflyfish , blue tangs , scorpionfish , squid and octopus . This dive site is also home to St. Lucia’s very own Loch Ness Monster, affectionately nicknamed “The Thing.” This large worm-like creature sometimes is spotted at night. So bring that camera to this popular dive location and see if you can capture a photo of this mysterious animal.

The breathtaking Piton Wall dive site is located at the base of Petit Piton, one of St. Lucia’s iconic twin peaks. This awe-inspiring wall dive offers divers the chance to explore a colorful and diverse underwater ecosystem.

With depths ranging from the shallow coral gardens of around 15ft, to the dramatic wall down to abut 50ft, Piton Wall is perfect for all level of divers seeking an unforgettable experience. The diverse marine life at this site includes squirrelfish , bigeyes and parrotfish.

Superman’s Flight

Look….well not up in the sky, but below the waves at the base of Petit Piton it’s Superman’s Flight. Named after one of the film locations of Superman II, Superman’s Flight is a thrilling dive site with moderate currents and clear waters. It is perfect for experienced drift divers seeking an exhilarating underwater adventure!

As you glide along the base of Petit Piton, you’ll be amazed by the beautiful coral formations and interesting macro life that inhabit this unique dive site. Superman’s Flight is suitable for more advanced scuba divers due to its moderate currents and depths that can quickly go beyond recreational limits. But if you ever wanted to feel like the Man Of Steel flying, this site is for you!

Keyhole Pinnacles

If you are looking to dive some volcanic peaks, then Keyhole Pinnacles has you covered with four of them.

Each of the pinnacles come just feet from the surface and are covered in beautiful coral and sponge formations. And of course with all that marine life comes great aquatic life like groupers , trumpetfish, jacks and filefish . This is an island favorite not to be missed!

Heading up North there are some good sites as well including Saline Point, Smuggler’s Cove and the eerily named Bone Yard…Boooo!!

Saline Point

Let’s start with the most Northerly dive site on St. Lucia, Saline Point. Located off of LeSport Hotel with depths between 20ft to 60ft, this is an ideal spot for all level of divers and snorkelers.

There is literally an explosion of color on Saline Point with the various marine life swimming among the hard and soft coral and sponges. Divers can find here various rays and eels as well as pufferfish, scorpionfish and grunts . Beach entry is possible at this site as well.

Smuggler’s Cove

Just a little South of Saline Point is another nice easy dive site that can be done either by shore diving, or from a boat. Smuggler’s Cove is one of St. Lucia’s most beautiful and secluded beaches. Maximum depth is about 40ft and there are trenches and shelves to explore all over this site.

At Smuggler’s Cove you can typically see trumpetfish, lobster, squid and the very cool looking flying gurnard .

Make no bones about it, you will want to add Bone Yard to your itinerary if hitting St. Lucia’s Northern dive sites. Located by Castries Harbor, are the remains of an old WW II ship rumored to have been torpedoed. There also appears to be the wing of an airplane that was perhaps shot down during the conflict.

outside of the wreck remains there are also nice soft coral formations and large barrel sponges, with a variety of marine life swimming about.

Other Activities

If you’re looking for alternative ways to enjoy the beauty of St. Lucia, there are plenty of other activities to join in on in addition to the great diving. Even if you’re not a scuba diver (why would you not be a scuba diver?!), you can still experience the captivating wonders of St. Lucia and its waters.

The Piton Mountains

The amazing Piton Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the image that first comes to mind in many when thinking of St. Lucia.

Made up of Gros Piton (2,619ft) and Petit Piton (2,461ft), travelers can take in these natural wonders by boat , land and air . Keep in mind that the narrower Petit Piton is not usually hiked, but the wider Gros Piton is well marked for hikers. The Trail on Gros is a little over three miles long and is designated as “challenging” taking a total of between 6 to 12 hours to complete. Whichever way you decide to explore, don’t miss the Pitons!

ATV And Horseback Tours

Looking for a cool way to explore the island, then an ATV tour may be what you’re looking for. Hop on your all-terrain vehicle and follow your guide through forested paths to see the rural side of St. Lucia. Along the way you’ll see beaches, plantations and historical sites. A great way to spend a few hours of adventure!

Perhaps you’d like to go a little slower, then you can take a tour by horseback to a beach and right into the warm tropical waters.

Snorkeling is a great activity if you want to see some of the island’s vibrant marine life without diving too deep below the surface. Anse Chastanet Beach and Anse Cochon Beach are top spots for snorkeling, offering a diverse array of marine life to discover, including frogfish, batfish, turtles, seahorses, scorpionfish, shrimp , eels, squid, and octopus.

If you’re looking to take your snorkeling to the next level, then you might want to try SNUBA . On SNUBA you’ll have a regulator connected to an air hose that leads to your compressor floating above. This allows you to not have to surface to get your air and you can remain down below, approximately 20ft maximum, up-close and personal with the marine life.

If you don’t want to worry about keeping a regulator in you mouth, then you can try a Sea Trek Adventure where you wear a diving helmet as you walk along the bottom of ocean.

Kayaking and Paddle Boarding

For those who prefer to stay above the water, kayaking and paddle boarding provide a unique way to explore St. Lucia’s breathtaking coastline. These activities offer a different perspective of the island’s natural wonders, allowing you to glide along the water’s surface and take in the beauty of St. Lucia from a new angle.

Guided tours are available for both kayaking and paddle boarding, giving you the chance to learn more about the island’s history and ecology while enjoying a fun and active water adventure.

Wrapping Things Up

St. Lucia’s underwater paradise offers a diverse range of experiences for divers of all skill levels, from the vibrant coral reefs swimming with marine life, to shipwrecks and thrilling night dives. Added to this is the plenty of above-the-wave activities to keep everyone busy.

So, whether you’re a seasoned diver seeking new challenges or a novice eager to explore the depths, St. Lucia awaits, inviting you to dive in and experience its magic both beneath and above the waves.

“How boring would the world be if everywhere and everyone were the same. Safe travels and good adventures.” Scuba Jay

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Welcome to Eastern Caribbean Diving in Saint Lucia

Diving in St.Lucia, exploring the underwater world with Eastern Caribbean Diving where YOUR SAFETY AND FUN is our BUSINESS. Come dive with us we will show you the sites and the "Critters".

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St. Lucia Scuba diving

St. Lucia diving highlights

The entire Caribbean Sea is one of the best places in the world for scuba diving thanks to diverse marine life, gorgeous coral reefs, and amazing hospitality that makes life on land just as good as diving in the ocean. One of the best islands for scuba diving is St. Lucia. 

St. Lucia is a small island country that has everything divers could possibly want, from shipwrecks and natural wonders to tour operators, all in a compact space. Before you book your Caribbean dive trip with one of our amazing dive travel agents, here is everything you need to know about St. Lucia scuba diving.

Introduction - When to go - Popular Dive Sites

Marine Life - Dive Conditions - How to Get There

Other Things to do - Safety - Other Information

Introduction to Scuba Diving in St. Lucia

One of the first things you should know about diving in St. Lucia is that it is a great destination for those looking to get into the sport. The island is surrounded by shallow coral reefs that make relatively easy excursions and there are several beach dives (to reach the best dive sites you have to take a boat though). 

St. Lucia is unique because the government of the island prioritizes sustainability and conservation. It does not have as big a problem with overcrowding or too much tourism as other Caribbean destinations, and smart management has ensured that sites stay pristine.

St. Lucia also has great infrastructure to help divers. The island has topped lists of the best scuba diving destinations for years, and locals responded to meet that demand with plenty of dive shops, and some excellent dive masters and instructors. You can get open water certified, take your dive education to the next level, or get more excursions under your belt during your visit.

As always, do your research before you go and make sure that you book with a reputable operator if you are going on an organized tour. Many resorts and hotels have in-house dive shops or can direct you to reputable operators.

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Diving Information 

When to go scuba diving in st. lucia.

St. Lucia is blessed with a nearly year-round scuba season. Temperatures are cooler in the winter, from November to April, but the temperature of the water is still in the 70s and perfectly comfortable with a 3mm ‘shorty’ wetsuit. 

People that prefer warm water diving can go in the summer, as long as they are prepared to handle some rain (summer is the island’s rainy season). 

As with other Caribbean destinations, you need to be mindful of hurricane season when planning your visit to St. Lucia. While St. Lucia is in the hurricane belt, it rarely gets hit directly by hurricanes and there have been fewer than 20 since 1850. However, from August to early October, during hurricane season, you can expect more rain which will affect your diving opportunities.

St. Lucia information

Before you go to St. Lucia, here is some basic information you should know.

St. Lucia is an island country located in the Windward Lesser Antilles, an island chain in the Caribbean Sea. It used to be a British colony (although you will notice plenty of French influence in the patois spoken on the island and the culture) and gained independence in 1979.

St. Lucia is unique because it is a volcanic island. The volcano created many stunning geographic formations, such as the Piton mountains and sulfur springs, as well as underwater rock formations. The entire island is only 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, but there is plenty to see and do.

Popular Dive Sites

When you go diving in St. Lucia, you must check out the reefs. One of the most popular reef diving sites is Fairyland, a wall of coral reef with stunning sponges and reef formations. Another popular reef diving site for more advanced scuba divers is Coral Gardens. 

St. Lucia is very popular for those who prefer shore diving or more accessible shallow dives. One of the best shallow dive sites is Anse Cochon, which has a North and South Reef. The sites are shallow but rich in coral and reef wildlife.

Although St. Lucia has many sites that are rewarding for beginners, that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to challenge more experienced divers. For example, those willing to make the trek out to Keyhole Pinnacle can see underwater volcanic rock formations and rare fish.

Besides natural wonders, St. Lucia is home to some stunning shipwrecks that make for great scuba diving. The most famous is the Lesleen M, near Anse Cochon, which was sunk on purpose to create an artificial reef that is now home to a stunning array of marine life.

Marine Life

One of the biggest reasons to go diving in st. lucia is the stunning array of marine life around the coral reefs. you can spot tropical fish such as parrotfish, pufferfish, and more. the reefs are also home to smaller fish such as delicate seahorses., st. lucia is also a great place to spot larger marine wildlife. some of the reefs are home to manta rays, while others play host to gentle turtles. if you time your visit right (we can advise you on this, so don’t hesitate to get in touch) you can even see barracudas and sharks., st. lucia is even home to some mysterious marine life. “the thing” is rumored to appear in anse chastanet during night dives. whether you believe in it or not, trying to spot it is a fun excursion.

Diving Conditions

St. Lucia scuba diving is blessed by great conditions all year round. The water temperature is warm no matter the time of year, ranging from 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. The water is cooler from November to April.

Visibility is also great all year round, with some sites boasting visibility that goes as far as 200ft.

St. Lucia also offers dives of varying difficulty levels, from gentle beach dives to challenging wall dives. Dive sites range widely in depth, from 20 feet to 140 feet. 

Finally, diving conditions in St. Lucia are pristine and clean because as mentioned above, the island is dedicated to conservation. Most of the south and west of the island belongs to a marine preserve, so the water is pristine and kept free of pollution.

Best Time to go Scuba Diving in St. Lucia

The best time to go scuba diving in St. Lucia is from November to May, to avoid the rain and potential storms.

How to Get to St. Lucia

St. Lucia has two international airports on the island that have flights to and from the United States, Canada, neighboring islands, and even some European countries. If you are island-hopping in the Caribbean, you can sometimes take a ferry from nearby islands such as Dominica but flying is faster.

How to Dive St. Lucia

The easiest way to dive St. Lucia is to get in touch with our expert dive travel agents who will be able to advise you on which resorts and hotels are best suited to your needs. You can get in touch via email at [email protected] . The island has many reputable operators that handle the logistics of scuba diving for you and we have direct partnerships with some of the best!

Alternatively, you might want to consider booking a liveaboard trip with one of the many boats that operate in the Caribbean. No matter what kind of dive trip you are looking for, we can help, so get in touch!

Other Things to Do in St. Lucia

As you relax in between dives, there is plenty to do on land in St. Lucia.

Nature lovers will love the scenery on the island. Take time to hike the Pitons, the volcanic peaks on the island, or go on the Tet Paul Nature Trail.

Culture on the island is very relaxed and welcoming. Soak in some history in the colorful island capital of Castries with its famous market or take a break in the picturesque fishing village of Soufriere—the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte’s first wife.

How Safe Is Diving in St. Lucia?

In general, St. Lucia is a very beginner-friendly scuba diving destination that is safe for divers of all levels. The usual precautions apply, such as not going on dives that are too advanced for your skillset and booking with reputable operators only.

St. Lucia with its shallow waters, colorful reefs, and excellent diving infrastructure, is one of the best destinations for scuba divers in the Caribbean.

Get in touch today and start planning your dream dive vacation to St. Lucia!

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The Best Diving in St. Lucia

JADE MOUNTAIN  and  ANSE CHASTANET  are pleased to jointly feature our premier scuba and snorkeling operation, Scuba St. Lucia, as one of the most scenic and ecologically rich locations the Caribbean has to offer – including an easily accessible coral-rich dive and snorkeling site right off shore. Scuba St. Lucia is not only the island’s longest established dive center, but a safe and well-staffed five-star PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) operation to round out the perfect vacation destination.

Scuba St. Lucia is part of our 600-acre resort estate voted to be one of the Top Five Caribbean Resorts by both Travel & Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler magazines. Beginners fear not because this can be the place to try scuba out for the first time. Cross off a bucket-list item, have some low maintenance tropical fun, expand your photography skills to below the water, or seriously channel your inner marine biologist from childhood Jacque Cousteau TV documentaries. This is  the  place. Please read more about our St. Lucia Dive Centre and Dive Resort below:

The Location

Scuba St. Lucia is just a mile and a half from the picturesque town of Soufriere on the island’s south-western Caribbean shoreline, and is part of our Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain resorts. Nestled amidst tropical forests with soft sand beaches bordering on pristine coral reefs,  ANSE CHASTANET  is in complete harmony with its natural surroundings–and, along with Jade Mountain, possesses certified sustainable achievements that give back to the environment. This is the perfect scuba hideaway for those seeking a tranquil or romantic vacation spot.

Scuba St. Lucia is situated just steps away from  ANSE CHASTANET  beach – perfect for both  BEACH AND BOAT DIVES  with a complete range of guided activities and PADI courses for first-timers to advanced and deeper enriched air nitrox diving. Our well-equipped scuba store includes three compressors, rental dive gear, and an underwater photo and video center. Don’t dive yet? No worries. This is the ideal place to take and introductory novice course for a guided and safe shallow-water beginner dive. Take the classes for the complete PADI course “up north” (back home) and come down here with a letter to complete the outdoor practical exam while on vacation.

Our Dive Facility

Scuba St. Lucia is more than a premier dive operation. In keeping with the resort’s sustainable no-impact goals and LEED Gold Certification, our center also walks the walk as the proud owner of the PADI Green Star™ Dive Center Award,identifying dive businesses that care about the environment and are acting to protect it.

With an international staff of a combined 125 years of diving experience, we operate three ecologically friendly and quiet dive boats fully outfitted with fresh drinking water, all manner of safety equipment, and a Diver Alert Network (DAN) Oxygen unit with an outstanding safety record through three decades of operation.

No need to worry about bringing equipment. You are on vacation. Everything from wet suits and masks to aluminum scuba tanks, regulators, and buoyancy compensation vests are always available and serviced regularly in excess of current safety standards. We even have photography equipment. Want pictures but don’t want the effort? On special request, the staff will be pleased to record your diving or snorkeling experience.

The  ANSE CHASTANET  reef makes an amazing and easy first – or any time –dive, day or night. Just 15 yards beyond the water’s edge, the reef’s remarkable ecosystem offers an amazing profusion of unusual tropical marine life in as little as 20 feet all the way to 140 feet of wall drop-off in calm clear water. Be sure to keep your eyes open for flounders, octopus, needle fish, and turtles. Or drop down over deeper dense coral growths to see puffers, moray eels, parrot fish, lobsters and even sea horses. The reef is a unique dive site for all abilities, and especially good for macro photography. Don’t have a camera? We’ve got you covered with our provided cameras and beginner photography activities.

And if you think summer may not be on the Caribbean travel radar, not so fast. Because that is when the sea creature action really is. From sea turtle nesting to coral spawning, our opportunities would even make Jacques Cousteau envious.

Coral spawning? Yes, that’s right. First discovered in the 1980’s at Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, this annual mass reproduction phenomena overturned a long-held belief that most coral species reproduced by fertilizing their eggs internally and “branching out”. This newer external phase of reproduction is now known to be critical to coral reef – and our own ecosystem’s – survival.

Each year, the coral release millions of packets of reproductive cells that appear as an upward underwater “snowfall”. After they drift to the surface for fertilization, the sea will be partially covered by the slicks of coral larvae before they settle to the bottom destined to build the next generation of one of the ocean’s most vital organisms.Scientists from all over the world study these miraculous events and now know what triggers this annual wonder – a critical combination of temperature, day length, rate of temperature change, lunar cycles, time of sunset, and chemical synchrony.

The ideal time for the release of the reproductive cells at our reef is a week or so after a full August moon an hour or two after sunset providing the cover of darkness. Scuba St. Lucia offers special night dives during the predicted period to allow guests to witness this magnificent spectacle.

Tropical coral reefs, although out of sight, are essential to our world-wide food chains.Anse Chastanet is able to provide access to this event and resource in close proximity due to its exemplary and progressive sustainable designs and architecture by minimizing impervious surfaces, keeping shorelines green and stable, and completely preventing runoff from entering the water – preserving this wonder for future generations.

Coral appreciation is one popular piece of the larger conservation puzzle, so don’t forget to learn about other critters. The Anse Chastanet reef is the perfect place as an easy shore-accessible experience with more than 150 different fish species on a marine plateau with a dramatic fall away. It is so easy, the Anse Chastanet reef is a required first dive for all our guests, allowing divers to re-acclimate if a bit out of practice as well as refresh skills in equipment use and buoyancy compensation to the satisfaction of our dive staff and themselves. This assures not only an enriching and fun experience but protects the marine reserve as well.

Ready for more? After the reef, let one of the resort’s amply outfitted dive boats take you to dramatic walls beneath the majestic Piton Mountains. Even better, “drift dive” it at Superman’s Flight at the base of the Petit Piton used in the filming of Superman II. Soft corals,sea whips, gorgonians, large feather duster worms, and a profusion of fish life abound. This is also the place to try a first wreck dive for the newly certified.

Frequently, wrecks are at challenging depths requiring additional experience and skills, but not here. The sunken freighter, Lesleen M, is a 20 minute boat ride to what is now an artificial reef project by the Department of Fisheries,and home to soft coral, sponges, hydroids,sea turtles, juvenile fishes, and of course whatever preys on them. Spectacular closer-to-home afternoon boat dives include Fairyland, Turtle Reef, Grand Caille, Trou Diable, and The Pinnacles. Don’t forget Turtle Reef to see rare and endangered sea turtle species adjacent to turtle grass beds.

Full appreciation of the reef’s marine biology is only achieved with a surreal night dive, revealing critters of the evening such as bioluminescent organisms, octopus, lobsters, starfish, sleeping parrot fish, and even “the thing” – a mysterious resident creature yet to be identified even by our expert guides. Maybe you will be the one? Go to our other pages to learn of even more dive opportunities and details.

Don’t want to dive but still yearn for a National Geographic experience? No problem. Some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean is right over the Anse Chastanet reef. In front of our dive center with easy shore access, the area has been buoyed off to boating for safety with depths between 5 and 25 feet – and also a favorite of professional underwater photographers. Take snorkeling lessons and go on one of our guided snorkel trips within the marine park and under the majestic Pitons.

Not to be outdone, Scuba St. Lucia is once again on the marine ecology cutting edge with its innovative and unique Lionfish removal program. Invasive – or non-natural occurring – species from human activity are a chronic problem world-wide. This once-prized ornamental aquarium fish from the Pacific Ocean has found its way into the Caribbean from cumulative releases into the wild reducing Atlantic biodiversity and adversely altering habitat.

Lionfish are not meant to be in the Atlantic. To this end, Scuba St. Lucia institutes an incentivized and contemporary mass removal program as an effective means to put things back in order. Non-St. Lucian visitors are now authorized by special permit to remove the invasive Lionfish from our reefs as part of a win-win sustainable tourism partnership.

Take traditional fishing to the next level by spearing the fish as part of our removal process! Our resorts’ chefs may even be able to prepare it to your liking if large enough as a true hunt-to-table parallel to our farm-to-table menu. Sign up for our specialty PADI Invasive Lionfish experience to show proficient pole spear safety and even get your specialty card – helping record our progress in our database along the way.

Scuba St. Lucia is the ideal place to learn to divewith warm clear waters and a shallow protected reef close to the dive center. The introductory scuba course is offered daily and Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, Dive master, Assistant Instructor, and Specialty courses are available upon request.You can even take your classes “up north” and the final practical here since we are a universal referral center. Please review our diverse offering of training opportunities and how to enroll on our  COURSES  page.

And for those who may prefer above-the-water enjoyment and nature appreciation, please also visit  BIKE ST LUCIA  and  KAYAK ST LUCIA  to learn more about our many other amazing adventure facilities right here at  ANSE CHASTANET .

Stay & Dive in St. Lucia

• +1 758 489 0411 / +1 758 450 9433

Welcome to Dive Saint Lucia

Two of the best names in scuba diving in Saint Lucia have teamed up to bring excellence in diving! Dive Saint Lucia and Scuba Steve’s Diving, both PADI 5* IDCs (Instructor Development Centres) are now operating in partnership from their location at Harmony Marina Suites in Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia.

Both centres are affiliated with London School of Diving, a PADI 5* CDC (Career Development Centre) in the UK, one of the most respected dive centres in Europe.

DSL and SSD are PADI 5* Instructor Development Centres (IDC) offering all PADI courses from beginner to instructor together with guided dives on all the beautiful dive sites of our island. We pride ourselves on the standard of excellence we set and the exceptional service we provide.

We cater for both ‘on island’ and ‘cruise ship’ customers offering multiple pick up options!

Certified Diving

We dive at 25 different sites to suit most levels of ability and interest! We specialize in small groups of divers. As much as possible, we try and make sure that mixed ability groups are catered for by having two or more guides with the group, so if somebody needs to surface early this does not disrupt the dive for the rest of the group.

Snorkelling

We snorkel at most of the dive sites in Saint Lucia. Given the volcanic nature of the island, the reefs start close to shore and then slope gently down. This means that snorkellers get to enjoy the underwater world as much as our divers!

Private Charters

Rent our boat privately! This is great for family groups or those who just want a boat to themselves. We can accommodate your choice of activities to include, diving, snorkeling, sightseeing, swimming and chilling on the beach. The price is fully inclusive of equipment rental, 2 Instructors, drinks and snacks, fuel and SMMA Marine Park fees (where applicable). The number of dives indicated with the price is the maximum number of dives (per person). Full day charters will be south in the Marine Reserve.

Dive & Drive

This full day excursion travels by boat south to Soufriere where we stop for a two-tank dive (or snorkel for non-divers) in the Soufriere Marine Reserve. After the dives we transfer to our air-conditioned mini-bus to visit Ladera, a resort with breathtaking views high up between the majestic Pitons where we stop for drinks and Lunch (price not included).

When you participate in a Discover Scuba Diving Experience (DSD/Resort Course), you discover excitement and adventure – freedom and serenity. Nothing compares to the “weightless” exhilaration of breathing underwater. Only a diver knows the feeling!

PADI Courses

PADI eLearning is an online course enabling students to complete the self study (theory) sections of their chosen course online, at their own pace, before leaving home for their vacation.

St. Lucia is a volcanic island with stunning scenery above the water. The majestic twin Pitons, our world famous landmark, rise to over 2619ft/805M, dominating the island and the Soufriere diving/snorkeling sites. This stunning scenery is duplicated underwater with white sand, volcanic pinnacles, sheer walls, shipwrecks and coral reefs with a multitude of marine life. We regularly visit over 20 diving/snorkeling sites suitable for all levels from absolute beginner to avid dive nut.

Why Choose Dive Saint Lucia?

PADI, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, is the world’s largest and most popular diver training organization. It has instructors and facilities in more than 200 countries and territories across the world.

As a PADI 5 Star Centre our instructors are highly trained professionals and we also participate in education, community involvement and environmental projects. Our staff have been hand picked from the best St. Lucia has to offer and pride themselves in their levels of instruction, guiding and customer service.

Dive Saint Lucia and Scuba Steve’s Diving are also partnered with London School of Diving (LSD), one of the UK’s top dive centres and a PADI 5* Career Development Centre (CDC). LSD have been fully involved in the training and development of Dive Saint Lucia staff and have had input from their experience into our processes and procedures, with adaptation for the Caribbean climate of course!

Instagram – @DSLSCUBA

🐠Dive shop in St. Lucia🐠 🦀In partnership with Scuba Steve’s🦀 🌴Located in Rodney Bay🌴 🐙Click the link to book diving and snorkeling now in St. Lucia!

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Scuba Diving in St. Lucia

The 10 Best Places to Go Scuba Diving in St. Lucia

James + Courtney Forte / Getty

St. Lucia may be famous for its breathtaking Piton Mountains, but there's even more beauty to be discovered in the waters down below. In fact, there are 22 world-class diving sites in St. Lucia, boasting a veritable treasure trove of aquatic wonders and colorful marine life. The sport is so popular, it is now commemorated during a Dive Festival that draws scuba devotees to the island every September. To that end, we selected the top 10 sites every diver should visit when paying a trip to the island.

While two of our recommendations (Lesleen M Wreck and Daini Koyomaru Wreck) are catered more towards advanced divers, the rest showcase dive sites that contain relatively shallow areas, hardly ever exceeding 40 feet. (A major boon for recreational scuba adventurers, as it means that the brain corals, barrel sponges, and coral gardens growing just off the coast of St. Lucia are easily accessible for divers of all levels.)

Read on to get ready planning for your next underwater Caribbean adventure.

Lesleen M Wreck

James + Courtney Fort / Getty

Sunk in 1986, this 165-foot freighter rests 65 feet beneath the ocean's surface in Anse Cochon Bay. Accessorized with coral fans, the wreck is now home to an array of marine creatures, including lobsters, French angelfish, and moray eels—making for an appealing photo op to show off to your friends back home.

Daini Koyomaru Wreck

Located in Anse La Raye, this Japanese dredger first sunk in 1996 and now serves as an underwater reef; expect to be greeted by French angelfish, puffers, and barracudas. But be warned: This dive is tailored for advanced divers, and nitrox is a necessity. Also nearby is Rosemond's Trench , another spectacular dive site where curious explorers might be lucky enough to chance upon a seahorse, frogfish, or a playful turtle.

Anse Chastanet

Paula Jones / Getty 

There's no place that's easier to access—and more beautiful to witness—than Anse Chastenet. Ranging from 15 to 60 feet, the shallow reef off the waters of Anse Chastenet Resort is close enough to the coast for shore diving. It is also home to St. Lucia's own version of the Loch Ness Monster: a slithery creature known as "The Thing" that likes to haunt divers during night dives. Just don't say we didn't warn you.

Pigeon Island

James R. D. Scott / Getty

Head to Gros Islet to explore Pigeon Island—a must-visit destination whether you are an avowed underwater recreationist or a landlubber. Found at the base of the island, this dive begins only 15 feet above an ocean floor covered in reef, coral, and massive aquatic boulders. The maximum depth is 60 feet; expect great barracudas, eagle rays, and moray eels.

KevinPanizza / Getty

Given that Soufrière is a world-famous destination beloved by tourists for its natural beauty, it's only fitting that the picturesque splendor would continue just off its beautiful volcanic shores. The town's Fairyland dive site is famous for its multitude of colorful and diverse sponges and coral; look out for stingray, turtles, and octopus. The depth ranges from 40 feet all the way to 200 feet, and is a perfect morning dive for beginners who are just getting their sea legs. Just note that you must be dive-certified.

And, while in Soufrière, venture over to the nearby dive sites, Keyhole Pinnacles and Grand Caille (known also as "The Big House").

Virgin's Cove

 James + Courtney Forte / St Lucia

Virgin's Cove is named after a shipwreck that claimed the lives of a group of nuns in Anse La Raye. Today, their loss is marked by a cross which has been built just above this dive site. The maximum depth is roughly 70 feet, and adventurers can see brain coral, barrel sponges, and the occasional stingray.

Le Trou Diable (Devil's Hole)

Greg Johnston / Getty

Don't let the name fool you: Similar to Fairyland in Soufrière, Le Trou Diable (otherwise known as Devil's Hole) is relatively easy for novice divers to explore. The maximum depth is 100 feet, and the site features barrel sponges, tropical fish, and—on a good day—turtles galore.

 James + Courtney Forte

Located at the foot of the volcanic (and immensely beautiful) Petit Piton, this site is accessible to divers of all levels. The wall can be accessed by boat, and there are a plethora of underwater animals to satisfy the imagination. Consider it an underwater safari, with beautiful views located both above and beneath the surface of the water).

Coral Gardens

This underwater location is exactly as it sounds: A veritable garden of tropical reef and five-finger corals. Coral Gardens is located at the base of the iconic Gros Piton, which rises to a staggering 2,438 feet. Of course, we don't recommend recreational divers descend to such a depth beneath the sea—the site ranges from 15 to 90 feet, making it easily accessible to novice scuba explorers.

Superman's Flight

 Kevin Panizza / Getty

This dive along the sloping wall of Piton Wall descends to a depth of roughly 1,500 feet. As you venture on down, you will be handsomely rewarded for the journey down under—think massive gorgonians, neon sponges, and a myriad assortment of delightfully colorful tropical fish.

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Advice on Scuba Diving in St Lucia

8 Dive Sites 9 Dive Shops

Part 1: Overview of Scuba Diving in St Lucia

Flourishing coral reefs prove a delectable underwater background when visiting St Lucia. Along the leeward coast, pristine dive sites provide a rich variety of interest; the reefs are famed for giant sea fans, monstrous barrel sponges, and impressive gorgonians.

The climatic scenery of the volcanic Pitons is reflected underwater – sea mounts that rise up from the deep; dramatic walls, and boulder-strewn sloping reefs, to name a few. Purpose-sunk shipwrecks are bonus artificial structures for the colourful marine life to proliferate around.

The west of the island is managed by the Soufriere Marine Management Area (SMMA & CAMMA). The purpose of the association is to conserve the natural marine environment, and ensure the sustainable use and development of the five designated zones. There is a daily entry fee, collected by dive centers, to scuba or snorkel in this protected marine park.

Marine life is plentiful at the dive sites; schools of Caribbean reef fish festoon the tightly-packed coral slopes, where lobsters, eels, and smaller critters can be discovered. Frogfish and seahorses are reasonably common residents; however, the swaying soft corals and fans dominate the spectacular underwater scenery.

St Lucia is part of the island chain of the Lesser Antilles; remnants of the volcanic activity that created dramatic island formations between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. There is a total of 19,000 acres of rainforest in the dense interior of the island, and 29 miles of scenic hiking trails. These are great to explore when you have a day out of the water, such as the non-strenuous Barre De L'isle Trail. The Tet Paul Nature Trail, in Soufriere, is a not-to-be-missed tour - visitors explore the stunning scenery around the two UNESCO World Heritage Pitons and discover the local flora and fauna.

Average water temperature ranges between 75 ° F to 85 ° F (24 ° C - 30 ° C). The lowest air temperatures are between November and February, when the cool trade winds occur. The dry season extends from January to May (peak season), although the months through to August are suitable for scuba diving. Hurricane season (peaking from August to October) should be monitored in this area and higher rainfall can be expected during this time. A long 3mm wetsuit is suitable for most dives, but some people do prefer a 5mm on longer or deeper dives.

Part 2: Dive Sites, Marine Life & Environment in St Lucia

Nestled between Martinique, to the north, and St Vincent & the Grenadines, to the south, St Lucia holds its place in this popular diving region. St Lucia offers boat diving sites that appeal to experienced divers (Superman's Flight and the Keyhole Pinnacles), and exemplary house reefs such as Anse Chastanet - a perfect shore dive for beginners.

Turtles, rays and eels are regulars at the dive sites, as are seahorses and frogfish. More exciting is the chance to discover 'The Thing' - seen regularly on night dives at Anse Chastanet. This mysterious creature has inspired sea-monster stories of epic proportion – don't miss out!

Anse Chastanet

One of the most dramatic sites, but easiest to access from the beach, is the beautiful Anse Chastanet reef. The reef slopes away from 25 feet -140 feet in a coral wall that continues from Anse Chastanet Bay around the headland of Grand Caille. Highly recommended for its diverse marine life.

Anse La Raye

One of the most interesting walls in Saint Lucia, Anse La Raye, is a drift dive that begins beneath a shallower wall. Giant volcanic boulders make intriguing formations along the slope.

Pigeon Island

This dive is located in the north of St Lucia, at the base of Pigeon Island. Patch coral starts at 15 feet and progresses down to 60 feet, where huge boulders line the reef. Eagle rays, green morays, and barracuda are all seen regularly on this dive.

Perfect for underwater photography, this plateau reef slopes gently down from 40 feet - 60 feet. Stronger currents in the south can make this a nice drift dive with delightful hard and soft corals.

The Keyhole Pinnacles

Famed as one of the best dive sites on St Lucia; the Pinnacles consist of four coral-encrusted sea mounts that rise up from the deep to just below the surface. Seahorses sway next to the huge gorgonians and fans that decorate these volcanic giants.

Lesleen M Shipwreck

The Lesleen M, a 165-foot freighter, was sunk by the Department of Fisheries in 1986, to provide an artificial reef in the Marine Park. Lying upright in 65 feet of water, divers can spend the whole dive searching for interesting marine life such as lobsters, morays and smaller Caribbean reef fish.

Superman’s Flight

Entering the water at the base of Petit Piton, this awesome site is a drift dive along a wall that falls away to 1600 feet. With strong currents, the visibility is normally superb for spotting turtles and larger reef fish such as jacks and barracuda.

Part 3: Dive Shops, Airports & Logistics of Diving in St Lucia

St. Lucia has 10 registered PADI dive centers; NAUI and SSI are also represented within these resorts. Dive operators are located from Rodney Bay in the north, down to the southernmost, at Jalousie Plantation. Major hotels, such as Sandals Grande St. Lucian, have their own dive centers on site.

Scuba Steve's Diving is a medium-sized PADI 5 star dive resort and the most northerly, based in Rodney Bay. British owner-operated; they were awarded the TripAdvisor 'Certificate of Excellence' for 2011 & 2012. They offer an unrivalled, personal approach to guided diving and snorkelling, with the full selection of PADI certification courses available. Well-known for going that bit further in their customer service.

At the Anse Chastanet Resort in Soufriere, Scuba St. Lucia offers a multi-national 5 star dive resort service. They were recently presented an award to mark the 30th anniversary of the dive center's affiliation with PADI. Scuba St. Lucia is the only PADI National Geographic Gold Palm Resort and Universal Referral Center on the island. With an amazing shore dive (or snorkel) right on the beachfront - this resort has instant access to one of St. Lucia's top reefs.

Dive Fair Helen: St. Lucia Undersea Adventures operates two custom-built dive boats - spacious with full sun cover and washrooms; they are perfect for easy water entries and exits. Owned and operated by a St. Lucian environmentalist, this PADI IRRA dive resort offers flexibility, a very personalized service, and the ability to provide mixed level group tours.

Snorkelling and scuba equipment hire is available at all dive centers for customers. Enriched air nitrox is available at certified centers. Cruise ships are catered to, and divers can be arranged to be collected from the cruise ship dock in Castries. Large groups are welcomed at a number of the resorts with higher capacity boats.

There are two airports on St Lucia: Hewanorra International Airport at Vieux Fort (UVF) and George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU). Flights from the US, Canada, and the EU fly directly to St Lucia. Major airlines such as American Airlines, BA, Virgin Atlantic, Air Canada, US Airways, Delta, Condor, JetBlue, and LIAT serve these two airports.

Caribbean flights are offered by Air Caraibas, WinAir, and Air Antilles Express to Martinique, Guadeloupe, and the Netherlands Antilles. LIAT offers extensive coverage to Caribbean destinations for international connections and regional destinations.

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Best St. Lucia Excursions & Tours (Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Mud Baths & more)

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: April 15, 2023

Categories St. Lucia , Travel Guides

Saint Lucia is one of the best adventure islands in the Caribbean. From some of the best snorkeling locations, epic scuba diving opportunities and so many unique attractions, these St. Lucia excursions will keep you entertained the whole length of your vacation. Booking a tour is the most effortless way to experience the best that St. Lucia has to offer.

In this guide for the best tours in St. Lucia, we will cover all the must-do excursions, as well as some more unique options. But no visit to St. Lucia is complete without visiting the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Piton Mountains.

Most tours are located on the west coast of the island. Some really popular activities can get very crowded. However, these activities are popular for good reason and should not be missed. But if you want to avoid the crowds, we will include some off-the-beaten-path Saint Lucia excursions too.

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure policy .

How & Where To Find St. Lucia Excursions and Tours

Most tour companies will pick you up from just about anywhere on the island. If you are staying at an all-inclusive resort, the tour will likely pick you up from the beach/shore or right outside the resort’s main entrance. If you are staying at a vacation rental or similar, the tour will likely help you set up a taxi or ask for you to meet them at a starting location. 

Lastly, if you are coming in via a cruise ship, you can book shore excursions from the Castries Cruise Port (Pointe Seraphine Cruise Port). Tour guides will likely meet you outside the ship port checkpoint or provide additional details of the meeting point. 

Our two favorite companies to book excursions with are Get Your Guide and Viator. We have used them both for booking tours all around the world. Both are super easy to search and book for your desired tour and usually help with getting you to and from your hotel/accommodation. But you can also check with your resort to see if they offer tours or book locally. 

Be sure to have the Rakuten Browser Extension running on your webpage. You can get up to 10% cashback on booking some of these St. Lucia Excursions. Or other popular browser extensions are Honey & Capital One Shopping. These extensions can provide you with both coupons or cash back offers.

Snorkeling:  (One of our Favorite St. Lucia Excursions)

Snorkeling in St. Lucia should probably be your #1 tour when visiting the island. St. Lucia is home to some of the best snorkeling and has various protected reefs along the shore. 

Some of our personal favorite places to snorkel in St. Lucia are Sugar Beach (aka Jalousie) and Anse Chastanet Beach. Most snorkeling excursions in St Lucia will bring you to one of these spots, if not both. 

There are a few different snorkeling tours to choose from. If you are just trying to get the most out of one tour, then doing a full-day, Land & Sea tour includes snorkeling and many other top attractions around St. Lucia (which we will list below). 

Or if you are an avid snorkeler and really want to visit some of the best places and really get the full experience of St. Lucia’s marine life, then there are tours dedicated to full-day snorkeling excursions . Or you can simply book a private tour and design your own trip. 

Luckily, two of the best spots for snorkeling are near the world-famous Pitons, so you will get spectacular views from the water of these two peaks and the surrounding shoreline. 

Scuba Diving:

St. Lucia is also world-famous for epic scuba diving. A famous stop on a scuba diving tour is searching for old shipwrecks in Anse Cochon, along with beautiful marine life and coral reefs near Anse Chastanet, Soufriere, Marigot Bay, etc. 

If you are staying at a Sandals Resort or similar, they might include scuba diving in the all-inclusive package. But if you are staying somewhere else, then there are tons of great scuba diving excursions in St. Lucia to choose from. 

One popular scuba dive tour with Viator takes you on a 5-hour journey exploring Anse Chastanet, a drift dive in Soufriere, and the shipwreck in Anse Cochon. Or you can choose a similar scuba diving excursion with Get Your Guide . But do note, these tours require you to be scuba-certified.

But Get Your Guide also offers a unique experience for non-certified Scuba divers . You will learn from pro scuba divers and they will walk you through everything you need to know. 

If you are looking to expand from the popular destinations, some other cool scuba diving spots in St. Lucia are: Coral Garden, Fairy Land, Grand Caille, Tou Diable, Turtle Reef, Keyhole Pinnacle, Malgretoute, Superman Flight, Piton Wall, Wreck of the Lesleen, Humming Bird Wall. Plus some companies offer unique night diving opportunities.

Sulphur Springs Mud Baths: 

A super unique excursion that only St. Lucia offers, is visiting the only drive-in volcano. But don’t be alarmed, because it is not an active volcano. The last time the volcano erupted was over 200 years ago in the 1700’s.

After driving into the volcano you can visit the Sulphur Springs mud baths. Tourists will lather themselves in the volcanic mud and enter the steaming hot springs. This is known to be healing and therapeutic. It is assumed to detoxify the body and help heal sun burns, eczema, arthritis, sore joints, etc.

If you are doing a Land & Sea tour , then the tour guides will likely tell you to not wash off the mud just yet. But if you rented a car in St. Lucia , then there are showers to wash off the mud. Many of the tours will bring you to Toraille Falls next, a waterfall that drops 50 feet (15m) over a cliff edge. 

If you are not interested in the sea tour but still want to explore the land adventures in St. Lucia, then this Mud Baths/ Toraille Waterfall excursion will bring you to these epic locations. 

Project Chocolat (Tree to Bar Experience):

If you love chocolate (okay who doesn’t?) then one of the most fun Excursions in St Lucia, is a tour through a cacao farm where you can learn to make your own chocolate bar from scratch. Project Chocolat offers an immersive experience, starting the excursion with a tour of the cacao groves to show the full process of how chocolate is grown and made into delicious food. 

Hotel Chocolat offers two different tours:

Bean to bar: (approx 1 hour) The Bean to Bar experience offers a unique opportunity to learn from experts how a cacao pod transforms into chocolate. During this tour, you will learn hands-on, how to make a chocolate bar from scratch using cacao from their farm. Cost is $69 per person – Book Now .

Tree to bar: (approx 2 ½ hours) The tree to bar is the full experience that takes you through the rainforest to the cacao groves where you will learn how to graft a cacao tree and make it into your own chocolate bar. This tour includes lunch with unique flavors of cacao. Cost is $119 per person – Book Now .

Or if you wanna skip the tour, and just taste the food, their on-site restaurant Rabot offers an upscale dining experience with cacao in EVERY dish and cocktail. Rabot is definitely one of the top restaurants in Soufriere and an experience we will never forget.

ATV Tour: (Best St. Lucia Excursions for Adventure Seekers)

One of the best St. Lucia excursions for you adrenaline seekers is an ATV tour. These tours can really get you off the beaten path to places that can’t be easily accessed via car. Tours run about 3 hours long and will take you back in time as you visit the Marquis Estate, visit remote beaches, and explore lush interior rainforest. 

Private Boat Cruise: (One of the best St. Lucia Excursions for tourists looking to beat the crowds)

Whether you want to design your own St. Lucia excursions, want to beat the crowds, or simply have a private romantic getaway, private tours can be a great way to explore the island. You can usually pick between a half-day tour or full-day tour. And most tour companies will provide complimentary drinks and the option of stopping for an authentic Creole lunch.

Private boat tours are the best way to see some places on the island that aren’t often included in the group tours. For example, cruising by old fishing villages like Canaries or Anse La Raye. Or being able to soak up the sun on the white sand beach at Sugar Beach Resort. Another favorite stop Jake and I did on our private tour is cliff jumping off Love Rock (which was actually used in a scene of Pirates of the Caribbean). 

A private boat tour can provide a different perspective of the island that many tourists don’t get to experience. 

Book a private boat cruise with Viator

Book a private boat cruise with Get Your Guide

Sunset Catamaran Cruise: (One of the most romantic St. Lucia Excursions)

What’s more romantic than a sunset cruise with a view of the famous Pitons? There are a few different tours that will take you out on a sunset cruise. Or of course, you could always book your own private tour as well.

Book a sunset sail excursion with Viator

Aerial Tram:

An aerial tram is probably one of the most unique St. Lucia Excursions. On this tour, you get to witness the true beauty of the rainforest from above in an aerial tram. The gondola fits 8 people making it the perfect family-friendly excursion. 

Each tour is led by a professional naturalist who will teach about the local flora and wildlife, including the endangered Jacquot Parrot.

Zipline Through The Rainforest:

One of the best St. Lucia Tours for the adrenaline junky is a Zipline excursion. This activity can easily be paired with the above aerial tram for the full experience. There are 10 zip lines that guide you through the lush forest. 

For a more all-inclusive St. Lucia excursion, try out the Get Your Guide, Zip, Sip, and Dip . This tour brings you on this epic zipline tour, brings you to the rum factory to sip on local rums, and dip in Marigot Bay. I mean the name just sounds like a fun adventure on its own!

Hiking Tour (Tet Paul, Gros Piton, Petit Piton, Diamond Waterfalls, etc):

There are tons of great hiking tours in St. Lucia. One of the most popular being hiking up Gros Piton. But this tour is not for everyone, as even physically fit people will find this hike a challenge in the tropical climate.

While hiking is often a free activity to do in the U.S, Saint Lucians insist that most hikes are guided experiences. When booking a tour for the Gros Piton Hike , the guide will set up a taxi and get you to and from your accommodation to the trailhead. When hiking Gros Piton, you must be with a guide at all times. The hike is 2.9 miles (4.66km) with 1814 ft (561m) elevation change. Once you reach the summit of Gros Piton, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy a nice Piton Beer looking at Petit Piton. 

The hike to Petit Piton is much less popular, but can still be done. You might need to inquire locally or with your resort to set up a taxi and guided tour for Petit Piton. The hike is a straight up 1 mile (1.6km) climb with 1250 ft (381m) elevation change. There are a few technical sections where having a guide is very beneficial. 

Other Popular Hiking Trails in St. Lucia:

Tet Paul is probably one of the more rewarding hikes in St. Lucia because you get to view both of the Pitons from a much more attainable viewpoint. The hike is breathtaking and offers panoramic views of the island. If you have interest in just doing this hike, you might need to book a taxi or private tour on your own. But if you want to add this awesome hike into an existing tour, Viator offers a great combined excursion . 

Or this Get Your Guide tour guides you along the Tet Paul Hike and includes the Sulphur Springs Mud Baths and Toraille Falls. 

A popular hike in the North near Gros Islet at Pigeon Island National Park is Fort Rodney and Signal Hill. The hike is 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and 288 ft (88 m) in elevation. Or this private north tour will guide you through this hike and any other northern activities of your choice. In our St. Lucia hiking post, you can learn more about this hike and other great hikes in St. Lucia .

There are a few hikes that are a little more off-the-beaten-path. Diamond Falls is located in the Botanical Gardens and offers more than just a hike to a waterfall. It offers an immersive experience where you can learn about all the native and imported plant life on the island. 

Or one of our personal favorite hikes is En Bas Saut Waterfall . If you are looking for a private tour, it might take some advanced planning to find the right tour guide. This location is not that easy to get to. Be sure to also check out some other unique ideas for exploring hidden gems in St. Lucia . 

Rum Tasting:

If you haven’t had a famous St. Lucian rum punch, then get excited because they simply do it best down here in the Caribbean. They use local rum with local spices for a tasty cocktail. Almost all St. Lucia excursions and tours include a rum punch drink with the price of admission. 

But if you want to take it one step further, there are also some fun rum-tasting excursions in St. Lucia . A tour will explain how sugarcane is turned into rum. Plus you get to try 25 different rums, so having a driver for this St Lucia excursion is key!

Horseback Riding:

Always a fun excursion in the Caribbean is to explore the island via horseback . Tours consist of riding the horse along the shore. You can experience stunning views of Anse La Voute, Cas En Bas, Lapis Bay, and more. There are also a few other tours offered for more advanced riders as well.

One of the more unique St. Lucia excursions is exploring the water via seaTrek. This is a great St. Lucia tour if you are not scuba certified. Or even a great opportunity for trying out what scuba diving might feel like. 

For this St. Lucian seatreking experience , tourists put on a diving helmet that provides oxygen to the helmet while swimming underwater. You even stay dry from your shoulders up. You get to experience the beautiful colors of the coral reef and active marine life.

Deep Sea Fishing:

If you want to bring back dinner for the whole fam, try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Saint Lucia has some of the deepest waters in the Caribbean. And some tours will even cook the fish right on the boat for you.

Deep sea fishing excursions typically start 1-mile off-shore and can venture 6-8 miles off-shore depending on the length of the tour. The species that are typically caught in the Caribbean are: Blue Marlin, White Marlin and Sailfish, Yellow Fin/ Black Fin Tuna, Dorado, Barracuda, King Mackerel/ Spanish Mackerel, Wahoo, Rainbow Runners, Horse Eye Jacks, and Yellowtail Snapper.

The closest St. Lucia excursion to make you feel like a pirate is a Coastal and River Kayaking Adventure at Marigot Bay . The tour guide takes you on routes once explored by legendary pirates and admirals. Plus you get to visit the St Lucia Distillers where you can truly feel like a pirate! 

Cooking Class:

One of the best ways to really immerse yourself into St. Lucian culture is by cooking the food. St. Lucia has creole-style cuisine which is a blend of African, European, and Southeast Asian cultures.

There is so much to learn from a professional chef. Plus in the St. Lucia Cooking Class, you get to use local tropical fruits, flowering plants, and medicinal herbs right from their garden. 

Whale and Dolphin Cruise:

We’ve talked about St. Lucia’s extraordinary marine life, but we haven’t even talked about the dolphins and whales. There are dolphins and whales that live in the Caribbean near Saint Lucia year-round.

A whale and dolphin excursion will bring you out to sea to potentially see humpback, sperm, and pilot whales as well as spinner, spotted, fraser, and common dolphins swimming around the boat. 

Helicopter Tour :

One of the most thrilling St. Lucia excursions is touring the island from the air. Many tourists will use helicopters for airport transfers to and from their resort in the north or south. Which honestly can be a win-win, tour and transportation all in one. 

But you can also do a helicopter ride as a stand-alone tour as well. 

St. Lucia Helicopters has 3 different tour options: North Island, South Island, or a combo of both North & South. The tours range from 10 – 30 minutes long. From the air, you can witness the beautiful beaches of St. Lucia, fly over Pigeon Island National Park, Rodney Bay, the famous twin Pitons, and more. 

For transfer tours, the cost for adults to fly from Hewanorra to George F.L. Charles (south to north) starts at $190 per person. During the flight, the helicopter takes you over Mt. Gimie (the highest peak in St. Lucia), Roseau Dam, the Atlantic Coast, and Marigot Bay.

They also offer returning helicopter transfers (north to south) for $205 per person. The flight is 5 minutes longer and experiences a few other unique sights on the island. Such as views of Marigot Bay, West Coast Shoreline (reefs), the Pitons, the rainforest, and the Soufriere Volcano.

Takeaway For The Best St. Lucia Excursions:

As you can see, there are so many amazing St. Lucia excursions and tours to choose from. Honestly, maybe too many! In conclusion, I can say that seeing the Pitons is an absolute must-do, followed by visiting the Sulphur Springs Mud Baths, snorkeling at Sugar Beach and Anse Chastanet, and at least trying some local rum and chocolate are must-do St. Lucia tours. 

Overall, if you are short on time or just want to do one tour that brings you to St. Lucia’s top attractions, then the Land & Sea tour will do just that. 

If you are still trying to decide where to stay in St. Lucia , we have written a whole guide dividing the island up into each cardinal direction and which area is best. And if you choose to stay in the town of Soufriere (our personal favorite location), be sure to check out some of these divine restaurants in Soufriere . 

Save these ‘St. Lucia Excursions’ For Later

Best Hotels in Soufriere St. Lucia w/ Epic Piton Views - tworoamingsouls

Wednesday 3rd of May 2023

[…] Guests can soak in the plunge pool, pamper themselves at the spa, or go on a fun excursion around the island.  […]

12 Affordable St. Lucia Resorts & Hotels (Budget Options) - tworoamingsouls

Sunday 30th of April 2023

[…] Guests can dine at Doolittle’s Restaurant and Bar which is famously named after the movie Dr. Doolittle. Plus Marigot Bay is a great location to hop on a water excursion to visit the world-famous Piton Mountains. […]

The best snorkeling in St. Lucia

Picturesque bays, dramatic mountain scenery, and healthy sea life make St. Lucia an ideal snorkeling destination for nature enthusiasts. Here are the top snorkel sites on the island.

Saint Lucia is famous for its pristine mountain landscapes and is not always the first place that comes to mind when people think of a Caribbean snorkeling trip. However, the island’s healthy marine ecosystems, fringing reefs, and soft coral gardens create many exciting snorkeling opportunities.

St. Lucia is located in the Eastern Caribbean between Martinique and St. Vincent and the Grenadines . The best snorkeling sites are along the west coast, where the calm Caribbean Sea is protected from the trade winds.

From all-inclusive resorts with house reefs to remote bays requiring a boat ride, St. Lucia offers diverse snorkel spots to suit various preferences. Here’s where to go for the best snorkeling in St. Lucia.

• Anse Chastanet Beach

Near Soufriere on the southern side of the island, Anse Chastanet Beach is one of the best places in St. Lucia to explore the underwater world. The gorgeous beach offers views of the Pitons, St. Lucia’s twin volcanic peaks, and easy access to a coral reef.

This site is suitable for beginners and experienced snorkelers and is a top location for scuba diving in St. Lucia. The Anse Chastanet Reef is marked with buoys, making it easy to find and safe for snorkelers since boats are prohibited from entering the roped-off area.

Parts of the bay are protected as a marine reserve, which contributes to healthy sea life. If you want to explore the marine reserve, head to the snorkeling area at the south end of the bay.

Snorkelers at Anse Chastanet can view squid, corals, sponges, moray eels, and reef fish, including sergeant majors, trumpetfish, French angelfish, and parrotfish. It’s also possible to spot sea turtles here, although they are rarer in St. Lucia than many other Caribbean snorkeling destinations.

If you’re not staying at the Anse Chastanet Resort or Jade Mountain Resort in the bay, you can take a half-day or full-day boat trip to Anse Chastanet from Castries or Soufriere. The area gets busy with tour boats and water taxis between around 9 am and 3 pm. Head to Anse Chastanet outside of these peak hours if you’re looking for a calmer outing.

In addition to snorkeling, the bay is an ideal spot to enjoy other water sports, including windsurfing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding. While you’re there, check out the secluded Anse Mamin Beach just to the north (about a 10-minute walk along the coast).

• Anse Cochon Beach

Anse Cochon Beach has beautiful scenery in and out of the water. On shore, you can relax on the dark sand and take in views of the calm cove surrounded by lush vegetation. In the water, you’ll have the chance to see coral reefs, shrimp, eels, stingrays, nurse sharks, and more.

The beach is between Soufriere and Castries, next to the Ti Kaye Resort and Spa . You’ll find the best snorkeling along the northern side of the bay.

You can reach Anse Cochon by boat or car, but you’ll want an all-terrain vehicle capable of navigating the bumpy access roads. The beach is a popular stop on catamaran tours and can get quite busy around midday.

• Anse des Pitons

Located between the Pitons, this scenic bay is a top place to visit in St. Lucia for snorkelers and scuba divers. The towering peaks provide a beautiful backdrop to the sandy beach, and the sea here is teeming with marine life.

The best spot for shore snorkeling is Sugar Beach, also called Jalousie Beach. Head to the northern side of the bay beneath Petit Piton to access the protected marine reserve, which is marked off with ropes and buoys. If you’re not staying at the Sugar Beach Resort , you can take a boat tour or water taxi or purchase a day pass to access the beach by land.

Coral Gardens at the base of Gros Piton is another excellent snorkel and dive site around Anse des Pitons. As the name suggests, the coral here is abundant, and you can spot sea whips, gorgonians, feather duster worms, and numerous reef fish. The site is accessible by boat.

• Marigot Bay

Marigot Bay on the northern side of the island is one of the most famous places in all of St. Lucia and has made an appearance in several Hollywood films. There are various restaurants and beach bars at this popular destination and activities like kayaking and boat tours.

The best snorkeling is off of Marigot Beach on the north side. The sheltered cove has shallow waters that are suitable for those new to snorkeling and children.

Although sea life is richer at some of the island’s other sites, you’ll have the chance to see coral formations, seahorses, and various tropical fish. More experienced snorkelers will likely be happier exploring a different spot.

• Pigeon Island National Park

Pigeon Island National Park is a fantastic stop for snorkelers who also want to do some hiking and learn about St. Lucian history. Visitors can enjoy two beautiful beaches, military ruins, an old fort, and scenic hiking trails.

The best snorkeling starts about 15-20 feet from the beaches. Marine life in the area includes starfish, barracudas, eagle rays, moray eels, and lobsters.

Despite the name, Pigeon Island National Park is no longer an island. A man-made causeway connected it to the mainland in 1972. 1 You can reach the park by taxi or walk from the Sandals Grande St. Lucian resort nearby.

There is a small fee to access the national park (US$10 for adults and US$3 for children). While you’re there, hike up to Fort Rodney for a gorgeous panoramic view of St. Lucia’s northwest coast.

• Reduit Beach

Located in the Rodney Bay area on the island’s northern end, Reduit Beach offers easy shore snorkeling. The calm, clear waters and sandy bottom make this site suitable for beginners and families with children.

Marine life is more diverse and plentiful at some of St. Lucia’s other top sites, but there is still plenty to see. Snorkelers at this beautiful sandy beach can view eels, crabs, and a range of tropical fish.

With a variety of amenities for tourists, Reduit Beach is an easy place to spend the day. Restrooms, showers, beach chairs, umbrellas, and water sport rentals are available on the beach, and there are many restaurants, bars, and shops nearby. The area is quite touristy and not ideal for those looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path spot.

• Best places to stay

St. Lucia offers excellent lodging options with direct access to the island’s best snorkeling sites.

Anse Chastanet Resort and Jade Mountain are two highly-rated choices just steps away from Anse Chastanet Beach and its pristine reef. The resorts provide complimentary snorkeling gear and watersports equipment and have an onsite dive center at the beach.

Ti Kaye Resort and Spa on Anse Cochon Beach is another popular hotel among snorkelers. The adults-only resort has a PADI dive center with free watersports rentals for guests and guided snorkeling trips to the Pitons and Soufriere several days a week.

Located on Jalousie Beach, the Sugar Beach Resort is nestled in a gorgeous bay between the Pitons. The scenery alone makes staying at Sugar Beach worthwhile, but the resort also has numerous amenities for snorkelers. There is a variety of watersports equipment available and a PADI dive facility for snorkelers and divers who want to explore more of the Anse Piton Marine Reserve.

• Best snorkeling tours

If you’re not staying at a resort with direct snorkeling access, booking a guided tour is the easiest way to experience snorkeling in St. Lucia. This full-day land and sea tour highlights St. Lucia’s natural beauty, with snorkeling at Jalousie Beach and sightseeing at Sulphur Springs, Toraille Waterfall, and Soufriere Bay. If you prefer to explore more of the island’s coastline, this eight-hour catamaran cruise features snorkeling in the Soufriere Marine Management Area and Anse Cochon and provides stunning views of St. Lucia’s famous Pitons.

A private boat charter with snorkeling and beach time is a great way to customize your experience and visit many of St. Lucia’s top snorkeling sites in a single trip. This speedboat cruise from Castries is available in half-day and full-day versions and includes snorkeling stops at Anse Chastanet Reef and Jalousie Beach.

• St. Lucia snorkeling FAQ

What should I bring with me when snorkeling in St. Lucia?

At a minimum, you should bring comfortable swimwear, a mask and snorkel, and sun protection with you when snorkeling in St. Lucia. Although many beaches have places to rent snorkel gear, we recommend bringing your own equipment for the best experience. You can see our top picks for travel-friendly snorkel sets here .

Boat traffic is a potential danger at many of St. Lucia’s best snorkeling spots. If you’re going on your own, you’ll want to bring a brightly colored snorkel vest, swim buoy, or marker flag to make yourself more visible to passing boats. You can see which snorkel vests we recommend here .

If you book a guided snorkel tour, the guide should monitor boat traffic for you, keep the group in a safe area, and provide each guest with a flotation device like a snorkel vest. However, the snorkel vests provided may be cheap or uncomfortable, and bringing your own will make your experience more comfortable.

To learn more about what to bring on your St. Lucia snorkeling adventure, check out our article about what to wear snorkeling .

When is the best time to go snorkeling in St. Lucia?

The best time to snorkel in St. Lucia is during the dry season, which lasts from mid-December to May ( 1 ). Although it’s possible to snorkel in St. Lucia during the rainy season (June to early December), the water tends to be less clear. It’s best to avoid planning your trip between July and October when hurricanes are most likely.

No matter when you visit, you can expect warm weather thanks to St. Lucia’s tropical climate. Average high temperatures range from 84 to 87°F (29 to 31°C), and December, January, February, and March are typically the coolest months ( 2 ). Water temperatures in St. Lucia are also fairly steady throughout the year. The sea temperature reaches about 84°F (29°C) in September and October and drops to around 79°F (26°C) by February ( 3 ).

Is snorkeling in St. Lucia easy?

Snorkeling in St. Lucia is relatively easy if you don’t mind taking a boat ride. Although most of the top sites have snorkeling close to shore, the mountainous landscape makes access to many of these spots simplest by boat.

As a result, these places are more challenging to get to than Caribbean destinations with numerous easy shore snorkeling sites, such as Curaçao and the U.S. Virgin Islands . Still, there are many beginner-friendly options for snorkeling in St. Lucia. The best places on the island for novice snorkelers include Anse Chastanet Beach, Sugar Beach, and Reduit Beach.

FAQ sources

• “Weather.” Saint Lucia Tourism Authority .
• “Best Times to Visit St. Lucia.” U.S News & World Report .
• “Saint Lucia Climate.” Climates to Travel .

“Pigeon Island National Landmark.” Saint Lucia National Trust .  ↩

Last updated 17 February 2022

Table of contents

About the author

Rebecca Jambrovic

Rebecca lives next to the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, where she guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and snorkeling tours. She is passionate about outdoor activities and enjoys writing pieces that inspire others to get outside.

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I've been to 20 Caribbean islands — these are the 5 I'd return to and the 2 I'd skip despite having great experiences.

• After visiting 20 islands in the Caribbean , I have lots of favorites and a few I wouldn't return to.
• St. Lucia offers wellness activities, fun nightlife, and great food.
• Although I enjoyed my time on Grand Bahama, this island left me wanting more.

There's a misconception that all Caribbean islands are the same. However, as someone who's been traveling to the Caribbean for almost two decades, I've found that each island has its own distinct food, festivals, and cultural traditions.

After visiting 20 Caribbean islands, I can see why the area is such a hot spot for tourism. In fact, travel to the Caribbean is already off to a strong start this year, with many destinations seeing an uptick in visitors compared to 2023 .

As someone who's spent a lot of time in the Caribbean, these are the five islands I'd love to return to and the two I'd skip.

St. Lucia offers wellness activities and great food.

Though St. Lucia is typically billed as a romantic destination , I visited on a solo trip and had a blast exploring the island.

Some of my favorite activities included a mud bath in Sulphur Springs, a rum and chocolate tour, and an afternoon boat ride past The Pitons.

St. Lucians also have some great street food and love to have a good time. During my stay, I headed to the lively Friday night Gros Islet street party for grilled conch and fried fish straight off the boat.

Dominica is great for hiking and natural attractions.

Nicknamed " the nature island ," Dominica is one of the Caribbean's best-kept secrets.

One of my favorite excursions was a hike to Trafalgar Falls, a pair of stunning waterfalls about a 20-minute drive from the island's capital city, Roseau.

I also rode horseback on the island's black-sand beaches and floated on an inner tube through Titou Gorge, a cave with a hidden waterfall and swimming hole.

St. John has gorgeous beaches.

I spent my 15th wedding anniversary on St. John, the smallest of the three main US Virgin Islands. One of the highlights of my stay was a beach day at Trunk Bay.

The beach is located inside Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, and though there's a small entry fee, it's worth every penny. The beach is framed by lush mountains, and towering palm trees dot the wide, sandy shore. In short, it's paradise.

St. John isn't a hub for partying or late-night entertainment, but the island's gorgeous sunsets and natural setting are ideal for honeymoons and special anniversary trips.

Grenada is a snorkeling hot spot with a unique national park.

During my stay on Grenada, I encountered lots of warm and inviting locals, who would strike up conversations and ask how I was enjoying my visit.

Besides enjoying the popular Grand Anse Beach, I booked a day tour to Grand Etang National Park to check out Grand Etang Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by a lush rainforest.

I ended my stay on Grenada with a snorkeling trip to Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park to see the submerged sculptures.

Turks and Caicos are great for decompressing on the beach.

There's a reason Turks and Caicos are a magnet for celebrities and socialites, but you don't have to be an A-lister to enjoy the islands.

Providenciales is the most populated island in Turks and Caicos. Provo, as some locals call it, offers a laid-back, tranquil beach vacation. Most hotels on Provo are located along Grace Bay, a picture-perfect stretch of pearly white sand and turquoise water.

Water sports like jet skiing, snorkeling, and clear-bottom kayaking are popular, but I was content to spend most of my days alternating between reading on the beach and cooling off in the pool.

However, Grand Cayman was one of the priciest islands I’ve visited.

Grand Cayman has a lot going for it: beautiful resorts, delicious food, and a flight from Miami that's under two hours.

The soft white sand and sparkling turquoise water of Seven Mile Beach have also helped make Grand Cayman a popular vacation spot .

But when I visited, I experienced a bit of sticker shock since US currency doesn't go as far as it does on other islands. The Caymanian dollar has a fixed exchange rate, and one Caymanian dollar is worth $1.21 USD.

I've visited more affordable islands with equally stunning beaches like Klein Curaçao Beach in Curaçao, Crane Beach in Barbados, and Palm Beach in Aruba.

Grand Bahama left me wanting more.

One of my first trips to the Caribbean was to Grand Bahama via a ferry from Fort Lauderdale . My husband and I stayed on the island for about a week, filling up on fresh conch and visiting the Port Lucaya marketplace.

While I enjoyed the laid-back stay, I've found that other Bahamian islands have more to see and do.

If you want to be closer to the action, skip Grand Bahama for New Providence, which is home to top-notch restaurants and hotels, historic landmarks like Queen's Staircase, and the annual Junkanoo parade.

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