Best time to visit St Lucia

Let’s get to it. If you’re after a classically sun-soaked Caribbean holiday, the best time to visit St Lucia is between December and April. But, as much as a bit of winter sun makes for a super snappy headline, this one’s even better. Picture-perfect, sand-smothered, always-sunny St Lucia is serving up hot holidays all year round. This stunner goes top of the class when it comes to temperatures, hovering in the high 20s for 12 months of the year. It would almost be boring if it wasn’t exactly what you want from a summer holiday… 

So, St Lucia is always a winner. But you’ve still got to choose a time to go. Take a look at our guide and find out when suits you to set off for St Lucia…
 

Best time for budget travellers 

St Lucia’s rainy season runs from June to November. But that doesn’t have to dampen your holiday spirits. The temperatures still sit in the high 20s, and the rain tends to come in short, warm bursts. Off-season tends to split the crowds, so if you can survive a few showers, you can probably save a fair bit on your travel costs too. If you prefer your weather warm but dry, February to May is made for you.  

Get clued up on the weather with our St Lucia travel tips 

Best time for music fans  

Turn up the music and make for St Lucia in April or May. These months sing a playlist of top temperatures and blast out the equally hot St Lucia Jazz Festival. The internationally renowned musical celebration mixes sounds of jazz, soul, reggae and soca. Everyone gets involved with events and concerts, but Pigeon Island is where the main party’s at.  

See more top things to do in St Lucia 

Best time for nature lovers 

Fancy a green getaway? Then St Lucia between June and November is ideal for you. There’s a little more rainfall in these months, which means this already green-fingered island goes extra emerald. St Lucia might be known for its beaut beaches, but 77% of its surface is blanketed by rainforest, and during these months, they’re especially impressive. Hiking trails criss-cross through the forests, so you can get a close-up look.

Read more about holidays to Smugglers Cove – home to Pigeon Island National Park 

Best time for whale and dolphin watchers 

The prime time to spot whales in St Lucia is between October and February, when these gentle giants head for the warm waters of St Lucia to escape the Arctic chill. Book yourself a boat tour, and you could get up-close-and-personal with humpback whales, sperm whales and pilot whales. Don’t worry, dolphins make this sea their permanent home all year round so they’re always down for a surf.  

Got some kids on board? Here are all of our St Lucia family breaks 

Best time for party animals 

July in St Lucia’s the peak time for party people because this month is all about one thing – Carnival. Think calypso music and colourful costumes, all rounded off by a massive parade through the streets of the island’s capital, Castries. Fishing village, Gros Islet also turns into a nightlife hub every Friday at the Jump Up street party. This is on all year round, so you can get your after-dark fix no matter when you visit.

Best for street parties? Check out our Rodney Bay holidays 

Best time for foodies  

January’s the tastiest time to book your St Lucia holiday if you’re a top foodie food fan. This is when the annual St Lucia Food & Rum Festival takes place over the island for three days, celebrating the best in colourful Caribbean flavours. Events like street food markets are ready to line your stomachs, ideal for taking in the sights and smells, and most importantly, the tastes of St Lucia.

Ready to try some Creole cuisine? You’ll love Castries market in Corinth, too 

So, does St Lucia sound like a bit of you? Or, have a browse of some more getaway deals. Maybe a Mauritius holiday is more up your street? 

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Authors: Hannah Stratton and Lily Owen
Last updated: 01/12/2024