Things To Do
in Castries
Castries is the capital and largest city of Saint Lucia, located on the northwest coast. It serves as the island's commercial hub with a busy port, colorful markets, and a vibrant waterfront. The area blends history, Creole culture, and scenic views from nearby hills.
As a gateway to Saint Lucia's beaches and nature, Castries is a lively base for exploring the island.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the vibrant Castries Market, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and vibe. The morning air is filled with the aroma of spices and fresh produce, inviting you to sample some local delicacies. Stroll through the colorful stalls and interact with friendly vendors as you soak in the lively atmosphere.
After exploring the market, grab lunch at a nearby eatery to savor traditional Saint Lucian dishes. Visit the nearby Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception to admire its beautiful architecture and learn about its historical significance. Spend some time wandering the streets, taking in the charming colonial buildings and local art.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a waterfront restaurant, watching the boats glide by in the harbor. Sample freshly caught seafood while listening to live local music that enhances the enchanting ambiance. Wrap up your evening with a stroll along the beach, where you can relish the tranquil sound of waves.
Start your morning with a short drive to Pigeon Island National Park, where you can hike up to the historic ruins of Fort Rodney. The views from the top are breathtaking, showcasing the surrounding landscape and turquoise waters. Explore the park’s lush trails as you spot unique wildlife and vibrant tropical flora.
After your morning hike, relax on the stunning beaches of Pigeon Island, where you can swim or snorkel in the clear waters. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy while lounging in the shade of palm trees. Take some time to explore the island's historical exhibits that tell the story of its past battles.
As evening approaches, return to Castries for a sunset cruise that allows you to soak in the mesmerizing views of the coastline. Sip on a tropical cocktail while feeling the gentle breeze, and watch as the sun dips below the horizon. Disembark from the cruise and head out for a casual dinner at a local fish fry for an authentic culinary experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚕One-way local transit | $1-2 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5L) | $3-6 |
| 💻Internet/phone data plan (per month) | $10-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culture and warm hospitality
- Compact city base with easy access to beaches and nature
- Can feel touristy in peak season
- Limited dining options for strict dietary restrictions in remote areas
- "Bonzour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Kijan ou ye?" - How are you?
- "Tanpri" - Please
- "Mèsi" - Thank you
- "Kote estibla?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Castries
Visit one of these nice places.
A central square framed by historic buildings, with the marble bust of Nobel laureate Derek Walcott and shaded streets.
Colorful, neo-Gothic church with tall arches and stained glass, ideal for architectural shots.
Busy harbor with yachts, ferries, and sunset lighting over the bay.
Elevated vantage point offering sweeping views of Castries and the surrounding coastline.
Food in Castries
Castries Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Green figs (plantains) cooked with salted cod, a staple breakfast or dinner.
Must-Try!
Creamy soup made from leafy callaloo greens, sometimes with crab or okra.
One-pot rice dish with pigeon peas, meat, coconut, and spices.
Steamed seasoned dumplings served with saltfish, a classic Saint Lucian pairing.
Roasted breadfruit served with saltfish and seasonal sides.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant central market with fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Harbor-area stalls offering local crafts and quick bites after port visits.
Freshly fried bakes, patties, and roti from casual stalls around the market area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Good morning/afternoon' and a smile; handshake is common, especially with new acquaintances.
Casual, modest dress in most places; cover shoulders for churches and religious sites; respect religious sites and local customs.
Predominantly English; Kweyol (Creole) is widely spoken and appreciated when used politely.
Safety
Tipping in Castries
Ensure a smooth experience
10-15% at sit-down restaurants if service charge is not included; small tips for porters and guides.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; cash in EC$ or USD is commonly useful for markets and smaller vendors; ATMs are available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant daytime temperatures around 27-29°C (81-84°F), lower humidity, and abundant sunshine; ideal for sightseeing and sailing; occasional brief showers.
Warm and humid with higher chance of brief showers; landscapes are lush; good for hiking early in the day.
Hot and humid with tropical showers in the afternoon; stay hydrated and wear sun protection; sea breezes help.
Increased rainfall and potential tropical storms; plan with flexible dates and monitor forecasts.
Castries at Night
Hiking in Castries
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic two-pitons hike offering dramatic coastal and volcanic views; best with a guide.
Challenging climb with rainforest scenery and rewarding sea vistas; requires a guide and proper gear.
Short, accessible hike near Castries with expansive views over the city and harbor.
Airports
How to reach Castries by plane.
Castries-based airport with domestic and regional flights to nearby Caribbean islands.
Major international gateway located south of Castries; about a 60-90 minute drive depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly people of African descent, with mixed, East Indian and European influences, reflecting Saint Lucia’s multicultural heritage.
Christian majority with Catholic and Protestant communities; vibrant Creole and Caribbean cultural expressions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across the island; many local matches and clubs welcome visitors.
A favorite pastime with local leagues and casual games along the coast.
Calm northwest coast waters are ideal for sailing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Castries.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries can accommodate vegetarian diets by substituting seafood or meat with vegetables, legumes, and rice; ask for no fish stock and request fresh fruit or vegetables as sides.