When to Visit St Lucia: A Year-Round Guide

Its consistently warm-to-mild temperatures and lack of a harsh winter mean there’s never really a bad time to visit St Lucia. In fact, there are only two seasons — dry and rainy — but even the threat of a torrential downpour can’t stop the island’s laid-back vibe.

The island is known for throwing a lively party, and you’ll find plenty of that during the Carnival season in July. Those hoping to laze the days away might prefer a visit between mid-April and June. Regardless of your travel style or budget, St Lucia is ready to welcome you to its shores. Here’s what to expect throughout the year.

December to Mid-April: The Best Time for Hiking

The weather is significantly cooler during these months — particularly December, January, and February — but it’s still sunny, making it ideal for hikers hoping to avoid the sweltering heat. However, this period also sees a high influx of visitors hoping to escape cold-weather countries, which leads to low availability and higher prices for flights and accommodations. The Festival of Lights kicks off the festive season in style in December as the island exits the rainy season.

Tourists flock to St Lucia to ring in the New Year. Celebrate like a local at Assou Square, the two-to-three-day family festival featuring games, rides, and local entertainment. St Lucia’s two Nobel laureates, Sir Arthur Lewis and Sir Derek Walcott, are a source of immense pride, and their contributions to economics and literature are honored with a slew of activities during Nobel Laureate Week.

St Lucia’s independence from British rule on February 22nd, 1979, is marked by parades and celebratory events island-wide. Come prepared to party! March sees the last of the peak crowds for high season, and Friday night mainstays like the Gros Islet Jump Up and Anse La Raye Fish Fry are always lively, filled with flavorful barbecue and freshly caught seafood.

June to November: The Best Time for Budget Travelers

It’s no surprise that St Lucia’s low season coincides with its wet season. Rainfall is high, and residents are officially on Atlantic hurricane watch. However, budget travelers will find this stretch favorable, as airlines and hotels offer significant discounts on fares and room rates.

Toward the end of June, the first signs of the island’s biggest party, Carnival, start emerging with small events popping up in various communities. The celebrations ramp up in July, and for party enthusiasts, this is your time. Carnival season is in full swing, with many related festivities — like the Queen Show and Calypso competition — leading up to the main festival. August focuses on St Lucia’s history of world-class cocoa production, dedicating the entire month to chocolate lovers. Visitors can indulge in chocolate heritage tours, spa treatments, and interactive classes.

Discover the island’s underwater treasures during St Lucia’s dive and adventure week in September. October highlights St Lucia’s heritage, paying homage to its French and African cultural influences. The highlight is Jounen Kwéyòl (Creole Day), showcasing traditional activities and authentic St Lucian cuisine. Finally, November marks the end of the island’s wet period and ushers in sailing season as the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers makes its annual stop in St Lucia.

Mid-April to May: The Best Time for Beach Lovers

This is the ideal period for travelers looking for a relaxing beach day. Moreover, not only are the water temperatures warmer for swimming, but it’s also a low-activity time on the island, leading to less crowded beaches. You might also secure deals on accommodations and airfare, as prices begin to drop leading into the rainy season. April is a time of reflection in St Lucia, as locals celebrate Easter. Therefore, you can take your time visiting the island’s premier attractions at your leisure.

The island’s quietest period starts to transform with the arrival of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival in May, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe. Notable past performers have included Carlos Santana, Lauryn Hill, and John Legend.