Top Attractions and Activities for Kids in St. Lucia
Thinking about whether St. Lucia is the right spot for your next family getaway? Without a doubt! Known as the 'Helen of the West,' this island is celebrated for its beautiful beaches and romantic atmosphere, but it also offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that cater to travelers of all ages.
Is St. Lucia suitable for children?
St. Lucia is an excellent choice for a family vacation. The island's stunning landscapes and diverse accommodation and transportation options cater to a variety of budgets. Family-oriented resorts like Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa and Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa feature kids' clubs, allowing children to have fun while parents relax.
Planning a trip to St. Lucia may require some additional consideration, especially for families needing specific accommodations. It’s wise to arrange appropriate activities in advance to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Travelers should keep in mind that the coastal roads in St. Lucia are quite winding, which may be a consideration for family members prone to car sickness. While public transportation can work for families with older kids, it tends to be less convenient and uncomfortable for those traveling with infants.
In such cases, hiring a private driver is a smart option. It not only eases the difficulties of driving on the left side of the road, but local drivers can also provide valuable information about rest stops and dining options.
If you prefer renting a car, it’s advisable to check in advance regarding the availability of car seats and properly fitted seat belts to ensure the safety and comfort of your younger passengers.
Top Attractions in St. Lucia for Kids
For kids interested in history and culture, a visit to Pigeon Island National Park is a must. This historic site offers a glimpse into the island's rich heritage and boasts breathtaking views.
If you're heading to the southern part of the island, be sure to visit Rudy John Beach Park in Laborie. The Papèl Craft Centre showcases the talents and creativity of local artisans, offering visitors a chance to engage in hands-on experiences. Another highlight in the south is Riverbank Adventure Land in Micoud, where bouncing, playing, eating, and laughing create a continuous atmosphere of fun.
And of course, a trip to St. Lucia wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its many beautiful beaches.
Join them in spotting vibrant parrots during an Aerial Tram Tour through the rainforest © Shutterstock / sampathcreationsTop Activities in St. Lucia for Babies and Toddlers
Kids Zone, Rodney Bay
Kids Zone is a sprawling indoor playground located at the Baywalk Mall. This enchanting play area is a dreamland for little ones, featuring a variety of toddler- and child-friendly attractions. Your kids will delight in the vibrant ball pit, slides, dome climbers, bounce houses, and countless other fun activities.
Socks are essential for both parents and kids. Did you forget to bring some? No problem – you can easily buy socks right at the venue. Just keep in mind that there’s no air conditioning, which can be a bit uncomfortable during the hot summer months.
Its prime location makes it easy to access all the mall’s amenities, and it’s situated next to Matthew's Rooftop Restaurant, ensuring food and drinks are always within reach. The mall also boasts a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and budgets, all just a short stroll away.
Top Activities in St. Lucia for Young Children
Splash Island Water Park, Rodney Bay
Located on the picturesque northwest coast, just off the sun-drenched Reduit Beach, Splash Island is the Caribbean's first open-water sports park. This family-friendly destination is an ideal spot for kids eager for an exciting water adventure.
This inflatable water park greets visitors with an array of obstacles designed to both entertain and challenge. With everything from monkey bars to exhilarating slides, swings, and climbing walls, there’s plenty to keep the kids engaged for hours on end.
For those seeking thrills, the challenges like trampolines, water volleyball, flips, and double rockers guarantee an unforgettable experience.
Safety is a top priority at Splash Island, with trained lifeguards always on duty. This vigilant supervision ensures you can relax while your children enjoy the aquatic fun. Your biggest challenge will be figuring out how to get your kids to leave at the end of the day.
Note: Children must be at least six years old and 107cm (3ft 6in) tall to enter the park.
After a fun-filled day of splashing around, head to the nearby Rodney Bay strip to satisfy their appetites. This lively area boasts a variety of restaurants, perfect for refueling after an action-packed adventure. Whether you're craving juicy burgers, hot pizza, or Indian dishes, there’s something to please even the pickiest eater.
Pizza Pizza, Rodney Bay
Nestled along the waterfront of Rodney Bay Harbor, Pizza Pizza is a beloved St Lucian gem. For decades, this eatery has been delighting guests with its hot, delicious pizzas made from the freshest ingredients, as well as rotisserie chicken, sandwiches, seafood, and delightful sides. The outdoor seating area is ideal for those who prefer dining al fresco, enjoying meals with the soothing sound of waves nearby.
What truly makes this restaurant stand out is its dedication to family-friendly dining. Right next to the dining area, there’s a well-equipped, complimentary children's playground featuring slides, swings, a trampoline, a bouncy castle, a jungle gym, and more.
Parents and guardians can enjoy their meals while easily keeping an eye on their children, as the playground is visible from most seating areas. The playground features equipment designed to inspire imaginative play and promote physical activity for kids of all ages.
Encourage your teens to try sea kayaking on the tranquil Caribbean waters © fokke baarssen / ShutterstockTop activities in St Lucia for teenagers and tweens
Aerial Tram Tour, Chassin, Babonneau
In the heart of the island, a vibrant, emerald rainforest invites those eager to immerse themselves in nature’s wonders.
This lush paradise serves as a haven for a variety of plant and animal life, including the island's national bird, the Amazona versicolor, affectionately known as Jacquot. This endemic parrot brings a burst of color, enlivening the deep green surroundings.
The island's Aerial Tram soars to 36.5m (120ft) above the rainforest canopy, enhancing the adventure. As you rise, breathtaking views of the forest unfold, providing a distinctive perspective on the wildlife and cascading waterfalls below.
Each gondola, which accommodates up to eight guests, is guided by an expert who shares insights about the rainforest’s intricacies, from the orchids adorning the trees to the fern-lined trails beneath.
Kayak on the Bay, Praslin
Kayak on the Bay is situated along the shoreline in Praslin on the East Coast. This peaceful location serves as an ideal launchpad for discovering the untouched charm of Praslin Bay, whether by kayak or on foot.
Embark on a kayaking adventure through the calm waters, gliding past thriving sea moss farms and uncovering the distinctive sandbar that stretches across the bay. For a more leisurely experience, small boat cruise excursions provide a unique viewpoint of the bay’s splendor.
Take a moment to relax on a charming islet, the perfect spot for a mid-journey respite. While you’re out exploring, keep an eye out for the whiptail lizard, a species native to St Lucia.
The guides at Kayak on the Bay are attentive and well-informed, eager to highlight bird eggs and plants while sharing fascinating insights about the local ecosystem.
If your teens prefer land exploration, consider an early morning hike along the Praslin Peninsula. This invigorating trek offers stunning views in the tranquil hours of dawn.
After your hike, head back to Kayak on the Bay for a delicious breakfast at their waterfront restaurant and bar.
Their menu features mouthwatering dishes and refreshing beverages, ideal for reenergizing after your morning adventures. The restaurant also offers lunch and dinner, making it a perfect place to relax at any time of day.
Let the kids take charge of some trip planning and discover where they’d like to go next © Marc Romanelli / Getty ImagesTips for planning your trip
Whether you're an experienced traveler or visiting for the first time, these tips will help streamline your journey.
When choosing your accommodation, it's essential to verify if your room has air conditioning. Some guesthouses or Airbnbs might not provide this feature, and having it can greatly enhance your comfort, especially during the warmer months.
Don't forget to bring mosquito repellent and any creams or treatments you usually use for bites. These simple steps can help keep you and your kids comfortable and free from itching during your trip.
If you take medication, it's wise to refill any prescriptions before you head out. Availability of certain medications can vary by location, so having enough on hand will give you peace of mind during your stay.
Budget-savvy travelers should ask about children's discounts when booking tours. Many providers offer lower rates for younger travelers, which can help make your trip more economical.
Finally, it's wise to keep an umbrella on hand if you'll be using public transportation. Many bus stops lack coverage, leaving you vulnerable to the elements. An umbrella will offer shade from the sun and protection from unexpected rain showers.
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