How to Plan the Perfect Honeymoon in Saint Lucia

There’s something especially romantic about Saint Lucia. Dramatic volcanoes, lush jungles, pristine beaches, and a wide assortment of boutiquey luxury hotels all come together to create one of the most lovely island destinations on the planet. Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the eastern Caribbean, Saint Lucia has long lured honeymooners of all types – from adventurers to serenity seekers.

And it’s no wonder: When we recently polled 1,500 coupled-up people about their dream honeymoon, over 50% said they were looking for a place filled with romantic activities like cooking classes and sunset cruises. Saint Lucia is a magical destination that certainly fits the bill, with unforgettable experiences at every turn.

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About Saint Lucia

Despite feeling worlds away, Saint Lucia happens to be one of the easiest islands in the Caribbean to reach. There are direct flights to the Hewanorra International Airport from New York, Miami, Charlotte, Atlanta, and Chicago. Renting a car while there is completely up to you. Many hotels offer excursions that allow you to see the island without needing your own vehicle. However, if you’re a couple that likes to explore on your own, go ahead and rent one, and let the adventure begin – just don’t forget to stay on the left side of the road!

The laidback north side of the island is home to Rodney Bay, a jaw-dropping horseshoe-shaped bay with swaying palm trees and golden sand. In the south, you’ll find rugged beaches, historic plantations and the majestic Pitons. Technically, the best time to visit Saint Lucia is during the high season of mid-December to mid-April, though the off-season has far less crowds. Sure, it can be wetter (especially in October), but the rainfalls are usually the heavy and quick kind.

What to do and see

This island is a nature lover’s paradise. Spend your days basking in the sunshine on one of the gorgeous beaches like Sugar Beach or get out on the water. Aboard the Tout Bagay catamaran cruise and tour to Soufriere, you’ll explore the coast and historical town of Soufriere, take a mud bath in the only drive-in volcano in the Caribbean, snorkel, and swim, see Margot Bay and the twin peaks of the Pitons, and enjoy a killer Creole lunch.

Where to eat

Accessible by foot or boat, Chateau Mygo House of Seafood is a lovely dockside restaurant with a mind-boggling menu. At lunch choose from sandwiches, roti, burgers, and salads, while at dinner the chef draws on three generations of East Indian and Creole recipes. Grilled seafood with flavor bomb sauces like ginger, mango, and papaya served alongside local vegetables are sure to delight any palate.

Over in Rodney Bay, order baby back ribs in a rum-filled sauce, rack of lamb marinated in Saint Lucia cocoa, or chicken soaked in Piton beer at Orlando’s Restaurant. Also, the Friday fish fry in Soufriere should not be missed. The fishing village of Anse la Raye hosts the meal and it’s a dang good time.

Where to stay

One of the most photographed hotels in the world, Jade Mountain Resort is the only lodging on the island with an iconic view of both the Petit and Gros Pitons. The two volcanic spires jut out the earth, providing an epic backdrop for sunset cocktails or an afternoon swim in one of the resort’s numerous infinity pools.

Just next door, over on Anse Chastanet Beach, lies the beautiful boutique resort Anse Chastanet Resort. It’s the smaller sister property to Jade Mountain, both owned by famed nature-loving architect Nick Troubetzkey. Beachfront rooms are nestled subtly into the coconut palms, while the remainder of the guest rooms lie upon a floral-filled hillside. Guests at both Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet have access to all the restaurants and amenities of both properties.

Over on the other side of Petit Piton, on a postcard-perfect beach, lies the crown jewel of the Viceroy Resort Collection, Sugar Beach. Previously an 18th-century plantation, Sugar Beach is home to 100 acres of pristine rainforest dotted with beachfront bungalows and mountain cottages. Spend your days sipping rum punches at a poolside cabana or indulging in a couples massage at Rainforest Spa.

For a serene stay on the north side of the island, consider The Landings Resort & Spa on the white sands of Rodney Bay. The iconic resort has an old-world elegance, luxurious marina, and is one of the best all-inclusive hotels on the island.

And with these hotels, you can count on your honeymoon being an unforgettable experience. Each property is part of Expedia’s VIP Access program, meaning they consistently meet tough standards for quality and service—plus Expedia Rewards members can take advantage of free added perks.