Saint Lucia With Kids

Saint Lucia is a Caribbean gem, known for its dramatic landscapes, volcanic peaks, and lush rainforest. While the island has a reputation as a honeymoon destination, it’s equally captivating for families seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.

In Saint Lucia, you will feel a true sense of place – nothing about it could be “any beach, anywhere.” The Pitons, Saint Lucia’s iconic twin peaks, offer an iconic backdrop for any trip, while coral reefs and nature trails make it ideal for kids who love to explore. With family-friendly resorts in both the north and south, Saint Lucia caters to a variety of travel styles, from all-inclusive stays to boutique accommodations with local charm.

Mango Tree Memory

On my first trip to Saint Lucia, I couldn’t get over the dramatic scenery.  It’s big, it’s wild, and the Pitons ensure that you’ll never get the feeling you’re just on “any beach, anywhere.”  From jungle to reef, you truly get a mix of everything.

Something about St Lucia oozes romance – with many hotels lacking a fourth wall, and a huge number of private plupnge pools for honeymooners. But do not be put off!  Great family hotels exist, and we love the opportunities for adventures, luxury, and showing your kids an island with a true sense of place.

Best For:

  • A top Caribbean destination for travel to a luxury resort with small kids;
  • One of the best islands for older kids eager to hike, snorkel, and explore;
  • A not-to-be-missed destination for nature lovers and those who appreciate a stunning view.

Not For:

  • Families looking for long stretches of white-sandy beach
  • Travelers seeking an easygoing, flat island experience with short drives between activities
  • Parents who prefer to keep travel times short between the airport and hotel

Key Facts For

Your st lucia Family Vacation

Known For

The stunning Pitons, rainforest-covered mountains, and coral reefs that make it ideal for hiking, snorkeling, and soaking up scenic views.

Language

English is the official language, though many locals also speak Saint Lucian Creole, giving the island a unique cultural blend.

Currency

Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is the official currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas.

Size and Vibes

At 238 square miles, Saint Lucia has a larger, more varied landscape than many Caribbean islands, with a mix of quiet towns, vibrant markets, and luxury resorts.  End to end, the drive across Saint Lucia can take 2+ hours. 

Getting Around

Saint Lucia’s mountainous terrain makes driving a bit challenging, but renting a car or hiring a driver is manageable if you know what to expect. Many activities are clustered, though trips across the island can take 90 minutes or more. The airport in the south is a hike from most of our favorite hotels (45-90 minutes). 

Where to Stay

The northern coast near Rodney Bay offers family-friendly beaches and easy access to restaurants. But the south, near the Pitons, is the place to stay for adventure-seekers and offers breathtaking views.

When To Go

Peak Season: December to April; ideal for dry, sunny days perfect for hiking, snorkeling, and beach relaxation.

Shoulder Season: May to August and November; good weather with occasional showers, plus fewer tourists and better hotel rates. 

No Go: None! St Lucia is low in the hurricane belt, making it a better choice than many other island destinations for fall travel. 

How To Go

 Direct flights from major East Coast cities make Saint Lucia an easy getaway for families. The island’s main airport is located in the south, so if you’re staying up north, be prepared for a scenic drive along winding island roads. Not a fan of mountain curves? We can explore the new coastal ferry—or even a helicopter ride—for a smoother journey north. 

Why choose st lucia for your family?

Saint Lucia offers a unique mix of lush natural beauty, cultural and adventure experiences beyond the beach, and gorgeous resorts for relaxation, making it a great choice for families who want more than just beach days. Plus, you get:

  • Spectacular views of the Pitons, perfect for family photo ops and scenic hikes
  • A great mix of land activities like hiking and volcanic mud paths and water exploration with snorkeling and diving;
  • One of the best luxury resorts in the Caribbean with a true sense of place, but also a mix of hotels and villas for various travel styles.
  • Direct flights from several major U.S. cities, bringing tropical adventure within reach.
Experience st lucia ...

The Mango Tree Way

You could spend dozens of hours researching your trip. Or you could have a family travel expert curate your personalized itinerary. What’s stopping you?

Snag our FREE Caribbean Guide

Explore the islands with kids — and confidence! Our ultimate guide to the Caribbean for families offers specific destination and hotel recommendations for every age, from newborn to teen and everything in between.
Caribbean Island Guide For Families

Where to stay

Best Family Hotels in st lucia

Sugar Beach - A Viceroy Resort, St. Lucia

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

Soufriere,
St. Lucia
Stay here for unbeatable views of St. Lucia’s iconic Pitons, luxurious private villas with plunge pools, and a pristine white-sand beach perfect for snorkeling. Sugar Beach blends Caribbean charm with five-star amenities, making it ideal for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.
The Landings St. Lucia

The Landings Resort and Spa

Gros Islet,
St. Lucia

Where to play

Best Activities for Families in st lucia

For the Kids
Activities in St. Lucia
Chocolate Making Tour - Hotel Chocolat
Tour the Cacao Groves in the rainforest and learn how to make your own chocolate bar "from bean to bar" at St Lucia's Hotel Chocolat
Get Outside
Hiking in Saint Lucia
Hike the Pitons
If you're athletic travelers then don't miss the iconic hike up the Pitons. Go on your own or head up to the summit with a local guide to keep you and the kids engaged and learn about this magical destination.
On the Water
Snorkeling in St. Lucia
Don't Skip the Snorkeling
Get out on the water in St Lucia and definitely make time for snorkeling. A private boat trip is a not-to-be-missed experience.
Get Outside
Activities in St. Lucia
Go for a Volcanic Mud Bath
Take in the sights on the west side of the island, and soak in St Lucia's iconic mud paths. Recommended by locals, and definitely a blast for kids!

*Please note that some of the suggested actives are affiliate links. We only recommend activities that we know and trust.

What to bring

Favorite Travel Products for st lucia

Travel Gear
ALOHA Collection Tote Bag - Packable Splash-Proof Beach Bag with Zipper Top. Washable Tote Bag for Pool, Beach & Travel
Aloha Collection Beach Bag
This is our go-to beach bag for island getaways: It comes in multiple cool patterns, is water resistant, folds down into a suitcase, and can fit tons of travel toys and snacks.
For Kids
Greatever Dry Snorkel Set,Panoramic Wide View,Anti-Fog Scuba Diving Mask,Professional Snorkeling Gear for Kids
Snorkel Set
If you want to get your kids comfortable snorkeling, getting them their own gear will get them excited, involved, and give them a practice in the pool.
For Kids
HIITAVE Kids Water Shoes Non-Slip Quick Dry Swim Barefoot Beach Aqua Pool Socks Shoes for Boys & Girls Toddler Mermaid/Scale 4-5 M US Toddler
Water Shoes
Give your kids extra confidence for ocean swimming, beach walks, and snorkeling with water shoes to keep them sure-footed. These low profiles shoes are easy to pack and come in lots of colors.
Travel Gear
Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Face Stick Sunscreen | Broad Spectrum Sunblock with Vitamin E | Wet or Dry Skin Application | Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free)| Travel Friendly 0.53 oz
Clear Sunscreen Face Stick
We've tried a lot of face sunscreens, and these clear sunscreen sticks are really the best no-tears solution. Goes on wet or dry, and reef safe too!
For Mom
One Piece Bathing Suit For Mom
Change of Scenery Swimsuit
There’s a new gem in the market for mom swimsuits! Change of Scenery, an accessible but luxurious resort wear and swimwear line, designed by Jamie Banks, working mom of three, will make you feel fantastic on your next beach trip.
For Kids
WACOOL Inflatable Snorkel Diving Swimming Scuba Vest Jacket for Adult Youth Kids (Kids, Sky Blue)
Kids Snorkel Vest
This snorkel vest is a game changed for kids just starting out. Instead of focusing on swimming, they can focus on snorkeling skills while staying afloat -- and it deflated to pack easily in a suitcase!

* Please note that some of these product links are affiliate links, but we only recommend products we would use on our own travels.

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Rave Reviews

Amazing…kids had a blast as did we…resort was wonderful…food was wonderful..we had a hard time leaving! I hope we didn’t ruin ourselves with such a special place it will be hard to replicate.
5/5

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