Staying at one of our St Lucia resorts gives you direct access to some of the island’s most breathtaking beaches. Whether you opt for an all-inclusive package or a self-catered stay, from family-friendly retreats to romantic apartments on the seafront, the choice is yours.

• If you prefer to be away from the nightlife, book in at Rendezvous. This relaxed resort is quieter than its name would suggest. The beachfront cottages are a romantic choice for honeymooners or couples looking for seclusion.
• Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa is the ideal option for families or couple, with both adults-only areas and a kids' club to keep little ones entertained. Expect a beautiful beach, multiple pools and a fantastic menu featuring cuisine from around the world. Be sure to try the tropical cocktails in the lobby bar.
• For a truly relaxing break, stay at St James's Club, Morgan Bay. The staff here are experts in helping holidaymakers unwind. You can take an excursion to explore the island, then come back and chill out in the spa.

If you’re headed to St Lucia, chances are that you’re dreaming of sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, the island does not disappoint in this regard.

• Anse Chastanet is a sheltered bay that’s protected by cliffs, making it the perfect spot for a bit of secluded quiet time. The easiest way onto the beach is via the resort of the same name, where you can rent sun loungers and water sports equipment.
• For pristine white sand that stretches for miles, make sure to drop by Sandy Beach. The breeze here is perfect for kitesurfing, if you want to get active while you're away.
• Situated between the two Pitons, Sugar Beach offers fantastic vistas of the island and the ocean. Head to the north end for sun loungers that are free to use.

Whether you’re planning a holiday in St Lucia for the beach life or the island life, its fascinating landmarks and history are sure to draw you away from the sand (for at least a day or two).

• Pigeon Island national park is one of the most popular attractions in St Lucia filled with history and heritage. To this day you will still see ruins of military buildings, beautiful beaches and local cuisines to entertain your visit.
• Sulphur Springs is one of the most unique attractions St Lucia can offer, most famous for being the world's only drive-in volcano. As well as seeing the springs, why not take a dip in nature's extraordinary mud baths for a theraputic, memorable eperience.
• Take a Rhythm of Rum tour at the St Lucia Distillery to learn more about how the spirit is made, before ending with a buffet of rums to sample and buy.
• Get your souvenirs at the Castries Market. This colourful market is the best place to see local life in full swing. Sample the local hot sauce while you're here – it makes a great present to take home, too.
• Castries is the capital of St Lucia and a must-visit for history lovers. See art painted by local artists at the cathedral, then head to the top of Morne Fortune for some of the best views on the island.
• The Pitons are St Lucia's iconic emblem. The best way to see them is to join a tour but the walk is reasonably strenuous, so be prepared. Going up takes around three hours and coming down takes two, so reserve a full day for your trip.

St Lucia is home to some of the most unspoilt beauty spots in the Caribbean. From birdwatching to hiking or having a picnic amongst lush greenery, discover more to holidays in St Lucia than beaches.

• Go bird-watching and look out for St Lucia parrots and white-breasted thrashers. The best spots to catch them are the Bois D’Orange Swamp, Boriel’s Pond or the rainforest.
• Get your hike on at the Edmund Forest Reserve. Hire a tour guide if you want to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
• Spend a day exploring the forgotten barracks, batteries and garrisons of Pigeon Island. Accessible by causeway, this ghost town is the perfect place for an atmospheric picnic. Head to the top of Signal Peak for the best views.

Live like a local by immersing yourself in the island's nightlife. From delicious restaurants to dancing in the streets, there’s entertainment for everyone to enjoy.

• For craft beer and a vibrant Caribbean atmosphere, head to Delirius. There's live music every night and the baby back ribs are a must-try.
• Visit Doolittle's for delicious seafood and boat-watching. You can enjoy local cuisine then dip your feet in the water at this oceanfront restaurant.
• The Gros Islet Jump Up is a weekly street party. Drink punch and dance with the locals – it’s the best way to get an authentic taste for island life. Be sure to go hungry, because the masses of street food on offer is bound to get your mouth watering. If you're not staying nearby, it's worth pre-booking a taxi to take you back as it can get very busy.

If you’re lucky enough to be on the island at the right time, you might just spot one of St Lucia’s many festivals and parades. Here are the ones to look out for.

• Soleil Summer Festival is the Caribbean’s biggest summer festival from January through October. The festival brings you live performing jazz with a mix of reggae, hip-hop, Afropunk and R&B in Saint Lucia’s most enchanting venues and weeks of explosions of colour, rhythm and creativity. Experience the cultural, and artistic heritage that this festival brings.
• The St Lucia Jazz Festival is one of the island’s main draws. Held in May, you'll be able to attend concerts all over the island. The headliners usually finish the event with Friday, Saturday and Sunday shows at Pigeon Island.
• In December you can celebrate the Festival of Lights and Renewal. Go to the Castries to soak up the atmosphere and see lantern parades and Christmas lights.
• Carnival happens every July and it's just as lively as you would expect, with steel bands and calypso music lasting for several days. Try to catch the last day in Castries to see the biggest street parade of the festival.