St Lucia

St Lucia is one of those ports that gives you a bit of everything. It’s a lush, mountainous island where jungle meets coastline, and the tropical vibes hit you the second you step off the ship. The cruise port itself is located on the grounds of what used to be a penal colony. Today, it’s been reimagined as a bustling tourist area filled with shops and local vendors offering everything from souvenirs to bottles of their famous banana ketchup.

On my first visit back in April of 2018, I booked an excursion out to Diamond Botanical Garden. It had rained that morning, so the trails were a bit muddy, but that only seemed to make the rainforest feel more alive. The garden was in full bloom, and the colors were just bursting against the deep greens of the foliage. I also got a look at the island’s banana plantations, where you can see the clusters wrapped in blue plastic bags to protect them while they ripen. We traveled along winding mountain roads with occasional glimpses of the Tetons, sharp volcanic peaks that instantly reminded me of the Grand Tetons in the U.S.

Fast forward to my return visit in May of 2024, and I decided to skip the sightseeing and just relax. I booked a beach excursion to see another side of the island. Calm turquoise water, a few beach bars, and the occasional local boat pulling up made for the perfect contrast to the rainforest hike of my last trip. It was just what I needed.

St Lucia manages to feel wild and serene all at once, and whether you’re wandering through gardens or wading into warm ocean water, it leaves a lasting impression. It’s is one of those islands that reveals more each time you visit. Whether you’re drawn to the trails or the tides, you’ll find something here to fall in love with.