st lucia tourism

St. Lucia   Travel Guide

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16 Best Things to Do in St. Lucia

Much of St. Lucia's activity happens on the west coast and, specifically, in the Soufrière area. That's where you'll find the iconic  Pitons that visitors like to climb, as well as Sulphur Springs , a pungent drive-in volcano where

• All Things To Do

The Pitons The Pitons

Rising tall from the sea and covered in emerald-colored vegetation, these volcanic plugs (or land formations made out of volcanic materials) are the most iconic sight in all of St. Lucia. Situated between the towns of Soufrière and Choiseul, Gros Piton and its smaller sibling, Petit Piton, are easy to spot from many points in the southwest.

Travelers frequently gush about just how perfect the fraternal twin peaks are to gaze at or hike through. Those who took the hike loved the beauty of the trails and said the views at the top were breathtaking, with some describing their experience as unforgettable. Despite there being two peaks available for climbing, locals caution against hiking Petit Piton unless you are a pro climber, as the trail is incredibly steep. Though it is still a strenuous venture, many visitors choose to hike Gros Piton. Travelers who considered themselves to be in good shape reported struggling thanks to the uneven rocks, but said the sense of accomplishment in completing the hike was worth the journey. Whatever time of day you venture out, remember this is the humid, hot Caribbean, so bring plenty of drinking water. For reference, guides advise carrying no less than 1.5 liters on the hike. You'll also want to set aside about four to five hours to make the trek.

Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park

U.S. News Insider Tip : Opt for the buffet lunch at Morne Coubaril Estate for an authentic Caribbean meal consisting of St. Lucia Creole favorites like fried fish, stewed chicken, rice, plantains and cake. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Situated on the west side of the island, Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park is a working plantation dating back to the 18th century with an estate house, zip lining, hiking and more. Today, the plantation produces cocoa beans, coffee, copra (the dried, white flesh of coconuts) and various tropical fruits.

Pigeon Island National Landmark Pigeon Island National Landmark

Pigeon Island appeals to an eclectic mix of travelers. You could get a history lesson about the landmark's previous occupants (including a pirate with a wooden leg) or learn more about the development of the causeway that currently connects the island to the mainland. You could also attend a concert (this is the site of the annual St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival) or explore 18th-century military ruins, including Fort Rodney, which affords panoramic views of the ocean and Rodney Bay . There are two beaches and a few restaurants situated within the 44-acre national landmark, as well. 

Recent travelers highly recommended a trip to Pigeon Island. Many were fascinated by the history of the area and appreciated the informational signs posted throughout. Others raved about Fort Rodney, saying the views at the end of the hike were well worth the reportedly strenuous climb. There are also some uncrowded beaches, which many visitors enjoyed. Travelers recommend going early in the morning to feel like you have the whole island to yourself.

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Tet Paul Nature Trail Tet Paul Nature Trail

Nicknamed the "stairway to heaven," Tet Paul Nature Trail is the place to go for scenic views, a dose of history and a workout all in one. Located on the southwest side of St. Lucia near Soufriere, the trail offers guided 45-minute tours visiting noteworthy sites like a traditional house that shows how St. Lucians used to live, a working organic farm and a picnic area. Expect to see plenty of foliage along your way, as well as views of Gros Piton, Jalousie Bay, Maria Island and more.

Recent travelers had tons of praise for this hiking trail, highlighting the fantastic views of the Pitons and the friendly, knowledgeable tour guides. Most felt that the hike was easy enough for an inexperienced trekker, though some pointed out it was a bit steep at times. The Tet Paul Nature Trail website describes the path as "easy to moderate," and manageable for families.

Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths

If you're tired of lounging on the beach but not up for a hike through The Pitons , then whiling away a few hours at Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths is sure to be a relaxing – and eye-catching – compromise. This 6-acre attraction is filled to the brim with vibrant foliage, including hibiscus, ixora and heliconia, to name a few. The Diamond Waterfall is also a feast for the eyes, changing colors throughout the year due to the mixture of rainwater and volcanic minerals that flows down the falls. You can also take a relaxing dip in the on-site mineral baths. 

Recent visitors enjoyed their time at Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, saying the flowers and plants on display were beautiful, providing a refreshing view for a walk. Travelers also appreciated the low entrance fee, as well as the placards with information about the plants on display. Others recommended exploring the site on your own, despite offers from "guides" at the entrance offering paid tours.

Toraille Waterfall Toraille Waterfall

If you're looking for an easy-to-access waterfall with photo-worthy views, head to Toraille Waterfall. One of St. Lucia's most popular falls, Toraille is located just outside of Soufriere. The waterfall stands 50 feet tall and features a swimmable watering hole at the bottom, where travelers can pose for a quick picture or video.

Past visitors said the waterfall was picturesque and appreciated the on-site bathrooms and changing rooms. However, they noted you shouldn't expect to spend much time here – it is more of a photo opportunity than a time-consuming attraction. To avoid crowds, some vacationers recommended visiting on your own versus seeing the falls as part of a tour, and others noted to opt for days when cruise ships are not in port. 

Anse Mamin Anse Mamin free

Connected to Anse Chastanet by a coastal path, Anse Mamin Beach provides a more secluded, romantic atmosphere than more crowded beaches on the island – perfect for a quiet, relaxing beach excursion. Vacationers can lay out on the warm sand and wade into the calm surf, or strap on some snorkeling gear to see plenty of fish and other sea life.

Then, for some adventure, head into the dense tropical foliage directly behind the beach to explore the Anse Mamin Plantation. Dating back to the 18th century, the ruins of this French Colonial site can be explored on your own or on a guided tour. There are also a number of jungle trails perfect for hiking and biking. When hunger strikes, head back to the beach to grab a drink and a bite to eat at the Jungle Beach Bar & Grill. Travelers can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas through the Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain resorts (for a fee).

Castries Market Castries Market free

The Castries Market has been the capital city's local food and flea market for the last century. Open every day except for Sunday, locals gather to sell homegrown produce and spices as well as St. Lucia-stamped souvenirs for tourists.

The Castries has been a hit or miss for travelers. Some recent visitors were delighted by their experiences and enjoyed interacting with local vendors to buy unique items, such as fresh coconut and handcrafted woodworks. However, other visitors said some aggressive vendors they encountered hindered their ability to fully enjoy the market. Most travelers agreed though that there isn't a lot of diversity in the market, as many of the vendors, especially those in the craft market, sell much of the same items.

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Anse Chastanet Anse Chastanet free

Arguably the best beach on St. Lucia for snorkeling and diving, picturesque Anse Chastanet is a more peaceful alternative to the sands of  Reduit Beach . If you're indecisive about lodging, you should consider the  nearby resort of the same name . Recent guests appreciated its attentive staff and unspoiled views of the water. Even if you don't stay at the nearby resort, you can still use its on-site restaurant and dive shop, or visit its on-site bar. 

Visitors who ventured to Anse Chastanet for snorkeling said they were impressed by the clear water and were delighted by the abundance of sea life so close to the shore. However, some travelers were disappointed with the inflated food and drink prices and the conditions of the access road, which some described as difficult to navigate (though many arrived by boat via a snorkeling excursion).

Marigot Bay Marigot Bay free

There's a reason Hollywood comes calling to Marigot Bay (scenes from the original "Doctor Doolittle," starring Rex Harrison and "Firepower," starring Sophia Loren, were shot here). It's because this gorgeous shore, just south of Castries along the central western coast, is idyllic Caribbean: complete with swaying palm trees, anchored boats, and white sand beaches. Visitors describe Marigot as romantic and it's true that it's more blissfully quiet than jumping  Reduit  – making for a great escape.

Recent visitors' experiences varied by how close they got to the bay. Those who saw Marigot Bay from the surrounding hills were in awe of its beauty, while others on the ground had different impressions. A handful of travelers were disappointed by the lack of beach space and quickly grew bored with the few restaurants and shops in the area, saying if you don't have a boat docked or aren't staying at a nearby resort, there's not much to do. 

Rodney Bay Rodney Bay free

While Rodney Bay encompasses a neighborhood in itself – it is home to attractions like Reduit Beach , Pigeon Island National Park and more – it also is a literal bay where travelers can sunbathe, swim, snorkel, kitesurf and more. Recent travelers loved the soft white sand and clear water at Rodney Beach, and those traveling by cruise ship noted it is fairly easy to get to from St. Lucia's cruise terminal. (This also means that the beach can fill up with cruisers when ships are in port, so consider visiting early or late in the day, or on non-ship days, to avoid crowds.)

The Rodney Bay area is also home to the Rodney Bay Marina, which offers plenty of restaurants and shopping venues, in addition to a full-service marina where sailors can dock their boats. Recent visitors loved seeing the variety of sailboats and yachts on the water, as well as the waterfront bars and eateries, quaint shops and open-air decks. Highlights include Buzz Seafood & Grill, which serves up fresh seafood and cocktails; Spice of India; and the gelato at Elena's Cafe.  

Reduit Beach Reduit Beach free

St. Lucia beaches are a dime a dozen, but none are quite as loved (by travelers and locals alike) as Reduit. The expansive shoreline, glorious sunsets and close proximity to the bars, restaurants and shops of Rodney Bay make for an easygoing beach experience. Adjacent to the Rodney Bay Marina, Reduit is also a great place to try water sports like windsurfing and water-skiing. However, some honeymooners or other travelers looking for a romantic rendezvous may find the beach too loud and crowded for their taste. 

Recent visitors loved Reduit Beach's cleanliness, white sands and clear water. The most common gripe among travelers was the daily onslaught of cruise ship crowds; visit in the morning or evening to avoid the afternoon rush. Some travelers also complained of pushy vendors that stroll the shore, adding that a respectful decline can go a long way.

Sulphur Springs Sulphur Springs

Sulphur Springs is billed as having the Caribbean's "only drive-in volcano," meaning that visitors are able to safely drive right by an active volcano. Located in the western town of Soufrière, the volcano emits sulfuric steam rather than lava, so remember to hold your nose to protect yourself from the overpowering rotten egg smell. The attraction also features warm sulfuric pools that visitors can bathe in. 

Recent travelers offered mixed reviews about Sulphur Springs. Some were fascinated by the volcano and its geological history, while others were bored that it only emitted steam. The majority of visitors, however, loved the sulfuric pools, saying it left their skin feeling very smooth and that the staff and guides are excellent. For those interested in visiting the pools, past vacationers recommend getting to the attraction early to avoid tour groups and bringing a bathing suit you don't mind getting ruined. 

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Gros Islet Street Party Gros Islet Street Party free

Travelers looking for some one-of-a-kind nightlife should plan on getting down at the Gros Islet street party. Hosted every Friday night (with the exception of Good Friday), this popular "jump-up" has been a weekly fixture in the village of Gros Islet on the northern end of the island for more than 50 years. It takes place near Rodney Bay and hotels like Harbor Club St. Lucia, Curio Collection by Hilton and The Landings St. Lucia . Locals and tourists alike hit the streets to enjoy fresh grilled fish, pork and chicken; alcoholic drinks, including rum punch and local Piton beer; loud DJ music; local art vendors and even street performers spinning batons of fire.

Many recent vacationers had tons of fun at the Gros Islet street party, highlighting the electric energy, friendly locals, delicious food and strong drinks. Most arranged transportation via a taxi service or through their hotel concierge. However, other travelers noted that if you aren't comfortable in a rowdy party environment, this may not be the right activity for you. Additionally, some advised against bringing children.

Chocolate Tour Chocolate Tour

St. Lucia has a rich history in chocolate dating back to the 1700s. The island offers prime conditions for cacao tree growth and has exported cacao beans to chocolate-lover destinations like Hershey, Pennsylvania, and countries throughout Europe. In recent years, it has become a hot spot for "chocolate tourism," and there are a number of unique ways to celebrate (and indulge in) this sweet treat.

One of the most popular options is taking a chocolate tour. Plantations like Morne Coubaril Estate and La Dauphine Estate offer tours detailing the production of chocolate from bean to bar, while renowned Jade Mountain Resort offers its own tour through its "Chocolate Laboratory." You can also become a chocolatier yourself at Hotel Chocolat at Rabot Estate, which takes you through a hands-on chocolate-making process. Some tours add in perks like rum tastings or jewelry shopping.

Splash Island Water Park Splash Island Water Park

Families with kids and young-at-heart vacationers will have a blast at Splash Island Water Park. Located in the crystal clear waters of Reduit Beach, it is the first open-water sports park in the Caribbean. The fun-filled park consists of massive floating slides, trampolines, rock climbing floats, obstacle courses and more.

Recent visitors said they had tons of fun and felt safe on the equipment; all participants are required to wear life vests, and there are certified lifeguards on site. Others noted that the staff are friendly and upbeat, and that the park provides quite a workout.

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Explore St. Lucia

Plan Your Trip to St. Lucia: Best of St. Lucia Tourism

Travel advice, essential st. lucia.

My favorite things to do in St. Lucia

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St. Lucia Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing st. lucia.

For farm produce, spices, locally grown fruits, and freshly caught fish, the Farmer's Market held on Saturday mornings in Soufriere is a great place to shop. Just go really early for the best selection.

When driving, keep to your side (left), use your horn when the road is narrow and you can't see oncoming traffic (blind curves), watch for animals by the roadside, and don't expect Lucians to indicate when turning/overtaking or that street names are marked.

Eat at some of the small restaurants on the side of the road - that is where we had our best meals.

Customs and immigration take forever no matter where you are, so just be prepared when you get off the plane.

This was the most beautiful place I have been in the Caribbean.

St. Lucia has been on my bucket list for years and it was more than I could ever ask for.

The Pitons are what drew me to St. Lucia, and they do not disappoint. They’re simply magnificent and you must experience them in person to fully appreciate their beauty. We love you, St. Lucia!

There's an amazing amount of things to see and do in St Lucia.

What is the best way to get there?

St. Lucia has two airports. Most international flights land at Hewanorra International Airport, while flights from other Caribbean islands often land at George F. L. Charles Airport.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting St. Lucia from overseas, check the  government website  to see if you need a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

St. Lucia’s Caribbean climate means that the sun shines year-round. The most popular time to visit is during the dry season, when temperatures average between 77°F (25°C) and 84°F (29°C) — perfect for beach days and island-hopping cruises. If you don’t like crowds, avoid the peak months of February and March.

Low-season visits are a more budget-friendly option, but prepare for frequent showers as it’s also the wet season (June to November).

The cheapest way to get around the island is by minibus and popular routes run between Castries, Vieux Fort, and Soufrière, as well as to many of the island’s smaller towns and beaches. Various private companies operate the buses, so it’s best to enquire locally about timetables and fares.

Water taxis cruise the island’s west coast, linking Rodney Bay, Marigot Bay, and Soufrière.

Taxis are widely available and can also be hired for longer trips and day tours. Agree on a price before you set out.

ridesharing

Paycab is available in Castries.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Atlantic Standard Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in St. Lucia is 240V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. The plug is a British-style plug with three pins.

What is the currency?

Eastern Caribbean Dollar

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted, how much do i tip, hotels/restaurants:.

Most in St Lucia add a 10% service charge to the bill; additional tipping is not expected.

Are there local customs I should know?

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Drive on the left

If you hire a car, be aware that St. Lucians drive on the left side of the road. Similarly, when crossing the road, be sure to look to the right.

St. Lucia’s tap water is drinkable in all of the main cities and resorts, so bring a refillable water bottle.

Leave the camo at home

Wearing camouflage clothing is illegal in St Lucia for non-military members and fines apply.

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11 of the best things to do in St Lucia

Nov 8, 2023 • 9 min read

Experience the best of St Lucia with this guide to things to do © BlueOrange Studio / Shutterstock

It takes about an hour and a half to travel from one end of tropical St Lucia to the other – maybe one hour with light traffic.

But don’t be fooled by the limited real estate. A trip to this idyllic Caribbean island will keep you busy with activities from dawn till dusk, whether your taste runs to cacao estate tours or jungle hikes.

Beyond the bone-white sands and turquoise waters, St Lucia offers an abundance of nature trails, family-friendly experiences and mouthwatering cuisine, plus overall good vibes. To help you plan your itinerary, here's our guide to the best things to do in St Lucia.

1. Go hiking on St Lucia's pitons

As you might expect from an island with such mountainous terrain, St Lucia is a hikers’ paradise . Most walkers start the adventure on the twin volcanic plugs known as the Pitons. Gros Piton is the larger of the two, and the ascent gets progressively more taxing as you get closer to the summit. Though the climb is shorter, the trek up Petit Piton is unforgiving from the get-go.

The payoff is a panoramic, unobstructed view of the island that will leave you breathless. Wildlife enthusiasts should tackle the Piton Flore Trail that loops through lush rainforest to the top of Piton Flore near Castries; endemic St Lucia parrots are often spotted along the trail.

Planning tip:  If you’re just after a leisurely stroll against a brilliant backdrop, the Tet Paul Nature Trail climbs through an organic farm to a lofty lookout near Soufrière. The route is achievable for hikers of all ages and fitness levels, but an early morning start is best for keeping cool and avoiding the midday sun.

2. Take a cruise to admire the St Lucia sunset

There are few more romantic experiences than watching the Caribbean sun dip below the horizon and feeling its orange glow kiss your skin while you sip on a cold drink and nibble on hors d’oeuvres. A sunset cruise will be a highlight of any trip to the island described as the "Helen of the West Indies." Most cruises offer two relaxed hours at sea, with the perfect trifecta of good drinks, good food and Caribbean music.

Planning tip:  For a novel twist on the typical St Lucia sunset cruise, Mystic Man offers a sunset cruise that sails along the inner bay of the Pitons, serving up dramatic coastal views. Increase the intimacy factor with a private cruise or rent a catamaran for an evening sail with just your nearest and dearest. You might even catch that elusive phenomenon known as the green flash, an optical illusion caused by the refraction of the sun's light. 

3. Indulge in St Lucia chocolate 

St Lucia’s long history of cacao production can be traced back to the 1700s when plantations were established to supply beans to Europe to be transformed into premium chocolate. Today, the industry is thriving once again with the growth of premium chocolate brands, and the entire month of August is dedicated to events celebrating the confection.

The Rabot Hotel is the centerpiece of a 250-year-old cocoa farm, the oldest on the island, and it supplies beans to the Hotel Chocolat brand. Beyond the cocoa-inspired decor, the property’s meals are also chocolate-infused. Standouts at lunchtime include cacao nib-marinated chicken rotis and watermelon salad; for dinner, the beef tenderloin is paired with seasonal vegetables, cacao nibs and garden mint.

For a sweet addition to an intimate getaway, try a revitalizing "Chocolate Delight" spa treatment at the innovative Jade Mountain resort, or a sensuous "Sweet Surrender Chocolate Wrap" at Kai Koko Spa inside the tranquil Ti Kaye Resort .

For a more immersive experience, take a heritage tour with  Fond Doux Eco Resort for a deep dive into all things cacao, including the cocoa-rina dance traditionally used to polish the beans. Cacao Sainte Lucie , in the village of Belvedere near Canaries, takes visitors through the slow roasting and stone grinding process that forms the foundation of its handcrafted small-batch chocolate. You can even try your hand at making a bar.

4. Enjoy natural spa treatments at St Lucia's Sulphur Springs

One oft-quoted piece of St Lucian trivia is the fact that the island boasts the world’s only drive-in volcano. It's not quite a Bond villain's lair, but arriving at this steaming natural volcanic spa is certainly an experience, with four pools fed by volcano-heated water where you can soak.

The dormant volcano that produces all this geothermal heat last erupted in the 1700s, but its mud baths, hot springs and waterfalls continue to draw a global crowd. The mud baths are believed to contain detoxifying properties that soothe sunburn, joint soreness, arthritis and skin conditions like eczema.

Planning tip: Try to nab a spot in the first mud bath – the water flows from one to the next and gets a bit mucky by the fourth bath.

5. Get wet at Splash Island Water Park  

Splash Island is the Caribbean's first floating water park, and it's a firm favorite with families in St Lucia. The inflatable water park sits just off of Reduit Beach on the island's northwest coast, and it features a kid- and adult-friendly obstacle course with hurdles, monkey bars, a slide, swing and climbing wall, a trampoline, water volleyball and more. Lifeguards are stationed close by to ensure a safe aquatic adventure.

Planning tip:  After working up an appetite, visitors can tuck into a meal from one of the small, cozy restaurants lining the nearby Rodney Bay strip.

6. Get above the rainforest on the aerial tram

A dense stretch of emerald rainforest covers the interior of the island, providing shelter for the national bird, the St Lucia parrot (Amazona versicolor) , found only on this tiny Caribbean island. In local parlance, it’s called the Jacquot, and you may be lucky enough to spot one from the aerial tram that crosses the jungle at Rainforest Adventures , inland from Castries.

The open, cage-like gondolas soar 37m (120ft) above the rainforest canopy, providing an incomparable overhead view of the lush flora and fauna. Each gondola holds eight people, and a nature interpreter accompanies each group to point out noteworthy plants and wildlife along the way. At ground level, you can search for flourishing animal life, waterfalls and tree orchids on the fern nature trail.

7. Join the fun at the Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party  

St Lucia's most famous party is not its annual carnival but the Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party, which has been a staple on the island's nightlife scene for more than 50 years.

Held in St Lucia's northernmost town, the weekly jump-up and jam session starts as soon as the sun sets. Residents pile up their coolers with ice, local fruit juice and Piton beers, and it’s not long before the telltale scent of barbecues and garlicky fish and chicken starts wafting through the air.

Add in a few hundred revelers and DJs spinning records ranging from groovy soca to the “riddim-driven” sounds of Caribbean dancehall, and you have a shindig lasting well into the wee hours on Saturday morning. If you want to party like a true Lucian, there’s no better place to strut your stuff.

8. Shop for crafts and tropical fruit at the Castries Market

Since 1894, the Castries Market on Jeremie Street in Castries has been the island's main hub for the sale of fresh fish and meat, produce, herbs and spices. It's a great place to browse for fresh, sun-sweetened fruit and vegetables, displayed in neat piles.

Nearby, the covered section of the market features rows of colorful stalls selling handcrafted trinkets, decorated calabashes, woven baskets, straw hats, art, spicy island condiments and locally produced beachwear. It's also a fine spot to sample authentic St Lucian treats such as bakes (fried dough), cocoa tea and cow heel soup.

Planning tip:  The market operates daily, but Saturday is the busiest day of the week – locals gather before 7am to have the pick of the fresh produce.

9. Watch a cricket match at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground

One of the holdovers from St Lucia’s time under British colonial rule is the national obsession with cricket. This British pastime is tied with football (soccer for you Americans) as the most popular sport on the island. If you're unfamiliar with the game, ask a local to talk you through the rules.

St Lucians, like most West Indians, are passionate about cricket, so don’t be surprised if you see locals walking along holding small transistor radios to their ears to follow matches. The best place to see a match is the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground at Gros Islet, named after the first St Lucian to be called up to the West Indies Cricket Team.

Planning tip:  For the ultimate Caribbean cricket-watching experience, grab a seat in the party stands, where the drinks are always free-flowing and the celebrations spirited and uninhibited.

10. Take a rum tour to sample St Lucia's spirit

Rum is the rockstar ingredient in some of St Lucia’s best-loved culinary traditions, from the island's famous rum punch to the local fruitcake. Locally produced Bounty Rum has even been described as the spirit of St Lucia in every way!

Planning tip:  Bounty Rum is manufactured and bottled by St Lucia Distillers , which also produces the award-winning premium rum, Chairman’s Reserve. You can follow its production process on a Rhythm of Rum tour, which also includes tastings of its extensive collection of rums and rum-based liqueurs.

11. Eat like a local in St Lucia   

St Lucia’s cuisine is a mélange of Amerindian, British, French, African and Creole influences, boiling down to a dizzying array of flavorful local fare. Starchy sides such as yam, sweet potato and dasheen (a kind of taro) are typically accompanied by stewed meats or fish broth and vegetables. Legumes are a popular accompaniment, particularly lentils or red (kidney) beans. 

A traditional breakfast starts with cocoa tea made from cacao sticks and aromatic spices, with fried dough "bakes," stewed saltfish and cucumber salad.

Planning tip:  You can sample any of these dishes and many more at local restaurants around the island. During Jounen Kwéyòl – a festival dedicated to Creole culture held annually in October – you can find many authentic local meals served in towns and villages, including the national dish: saltfish and green fig (unripened banana). Also, look out for bouyon (meat stew) and breadfruit with smoked herring. 

This article was first published October 2014 and updated November 2023

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