Best Areas to Stay in St. Lucia
People often ask about the best areas to stay in St Lucia. And that depends on the kind of experience you want to have. St Lucia has several regions that appeal to different types of travelers, from lively resort hubs to quiet fishing villages. Some visitors enjoy being in the middle of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, while others prefer to connect with the island’s natural beauty and local communities.
Most St Lucia hotels and resorts are located in the north of the island. This is where you’ll find the widest range of accommodations, tour operators, and modern conveniences. Gros Islet and Rodney Bay are the main tourist sectors, offering white sand beaches, shopping malls, and a lively nightlife scene. While vibrant and fun, these areas tend to be crowded, more expensive, and less representative of local island life.
South of Castries, the capital city, is Marigot Bay. This beautiful marina area is home to a handful of hotels and resorts and is known for its postcard views. In this sector, you’ll find activities like sailing, diving, kayaking, or a visit to the rum distillery. Marigot Bay can be enjoyed as a day trip if you don’t want to stay there several nights.
Between Marigot Bay and Soufrière, there are relatively few accommodation options. The same can be said for the East Coast, stretching from Castries down to Vieux Fort. Both regions are scenic and authentic, with fewer tourists, but they are more limited when it comes to places to stay. These areas offer amazing viewpoints and local attractions for those who enjoy exploring.
Travel tip: If you are looking for peace and quiet, it is best not to stay directly in towns or densely populated neighborhoods. Traffic and noise can sometimes be disruptive. Many travelers also hope to find accommodations directly on the beach, which is possible, but more affordable options are often just a short walk or drive from the shoreline.
In our experience, the best area to stay in St Lucia is in the south and southwest, between Vieux Fort and Soufrière. This region is home to many of the island’s famous landmarks and natural sites. It also offers more opportunities to experience St Lucia’s history, culture, and everyday life.
Discovering the Best Part of St Lucia to Stay
When planning your visit, it helps to think about what kind of trip you’d like to have.
- The north is lively and convenient, with plenty of entertainment.
- The south is quiet and authentic, with cultural and natural highlights.
- The west coast balances both, with scenic views and small resorts.
- The east coast is rugged and scenic, the least crowded out of all.
By considering what matters most to you, it becomes easier to decide on the best area in St Lucia to stay.
The Top Areas to Stay in St Lucia
Best Area of St Lucia to Stay for Different Travelers
The best area of St Lucia to stay depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. The north is often chosen by first-time visitors who want easy access to restaurants, nightlife, and tours. The southwest appeals to adventure seekers and nature lovers who want to be close to the Pitons and the island’s natural attractions. Couples and honeymooners often lean toward quiet West Coast retreats, while budget-minded travelers enjoy the charm of smaller guesthouses in villages like Laborie.
Travel tip: If you stay in and around the southern communities of Balenbouche, Laborie or Choiseul you can find affordable accommodations and then and rent a car to explore Soufriere and surroundings, which is only a 25 – 35 minute drive away!
For many travelers, though, the real highlight is finding a place that blends these elements together: a base with natural beauty, cultural authenticity, easy access to both south and west coast highlights, and accommodations that feel personal rather than commercial. Those who value this kind of balance often discover that the southern region near Balenbouche Estate offers this great combination.
Areas to Stay in St Lucia
Across the island, there are many different areas to stay in St Lucia:
Rodney Bay / Gros Islet (North): A hub for shopping, dining, and nightlife, best for convenience.
Castries (Northwest/Central West): The capital city, suited for short cultural visits but less ideal for long stays.
Marigot Bay (West Coast): A peaceful setting, but fewer options in terms of activities.
Soufrière (Southwest Coast): Surrounded by major attractions like the Pitons, but often busy in the town center.
Vieux Fort (Southeast): Close to the airport with long beaches, popular among kite surfers.
Laborie (Southwest Coast): An authentic fishing village with affordable accommodations and a laid-back lifestyle.
Choiseul (Southwest Coast): Limited in lodging but home to boutique stays with striking views of the Pitons.
Exploring the Best Side of St Lucia to Stay On
Best Part of the Island to Stay in St Lucia
The best part of the island to stay in St Lucia is often debated. Some travelers prefer the north, others the south. The west and south, however, offer the most authentic mix of culture, scenery, and local life. Soufrière, Laborie, and Choiseul in particular allow visitors to enjoy famous sites while also connecting with the island’s heritage and traditions.
How to Choose the Best Area in St Lucia to Stay?
For many, the southern communities of Balenbouche, Laborie, and Choiseul represent the ideal base. These areas allow you to find affordable accommodations, rent a car, and explore Soufrière and its surroundings just a short drive away.
If you cannot decide on just one region, consider splitting your time between the north and the south. This way, you can experience both sides of the island, one filled with restaurants and nightlife, the other with peaceful beaches and cultural immersion.
Why Balenbouche is the Best Choice for Your Stay
Focus on Sustainability and Simplicity
Balenbouche Estate stands out as one of the most meaningful places to stay in St Lucia. Unlike larger resorts, the estate emphasizes sustainability, simplicity, and a close connection to nature. Guests stay in restored historic cottages surrounded by gardens, fruit trees, and forest trails. The estate practices eco-friendly living and encourages visitors to enjoy a slower, more mindful experience.
Perfect for Every Traveler
Balenbouche is also versatile. Couples find it romantic and private, families enjoy the spacious grounds, and solo travelers feel welcomed and safe. With its balance of seclusion and accessibility, Balenbouche makes it easy to explore nearby villages like Laborie or attractions such as the Pitons while still having a peaceful home base.
Plan Your Visit to Balenbouche Estate
How to Get There
Balenbouche Estate is located between Vieux Fort and Soufrière, making it easy to reach from the Hewanorra International Airport. The drive takes about 20 minutes. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the surrounding areas, though taxis and buses are also available. The estate’s location is ideal for visiting both the quieter southern beaches and the iconic attractions near Soufrière.
Villages like Laborie and Choiseul, along with estates such as Balenbouche, allow you to experience both the natural beauty and the heritage of St Lucia. By exploring these different areas to stay in St Lucia, you’ll find the perfect base for your Caribbean holiday.
Final Thoughts
St Lucia offers something for everyone. The north is lively and full of amenities, the south is authentic and scenic, and the west balances both worlds. While every region has its advantages, many travelers agree that the best area to stay in St Lucia is in the south and southwest, where the pace is slower and the culture more genuine.