St Lucia travel advice | Travel advice (2024)

FAQs

Is St Lucia safe to travel to right now? ›

US State Dept Travel Advisory

The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Saint Lucia. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circ*mstances in this country.

Don't dress inappropriately, Saint Lucia is a conservative island. Don't venture into unknown territory alone, stick to the tourist areas. Don't pet the stray animals. Don't carry obscene amounts of cash, especially in crowded areas.

For fully vaccinated travellers

Travelers must complete an Electronic Immigration form online within 3 days before departure to Saint Lucia. Travelers unable to complete the form online must complete and submit a paper version on-site at the airport on arrival in Saint Lucia.

Courses or boosters usually advised: Tetanus. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B. Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: none.

St Lucia is usually warm and balmy throughout the year, but the hurricane season – which coincides with the rainy season – begins in June and runs until November.

Places to avoid in Saint Lucia

Areas with high rates of crime are the capital, Castries – including the neighbourhoods of Wilton's Yard, Leslie Land, Chaussee Road, Marchand, Morn du Don – as well as the waterfalls in Anse la Raye.

Tap water in Saint Lucia is chlorinated and considered safe to drink. However, it's best practice for travelers to drink bottled water anyways to avoid the possibility of ingesting bacteria or other microorganisms. Bottled water is readily available throughout the country and usually costs $1 USD.

Credit cards and currency

The Eastern Caribbean (EC) dollar is used on St Lucia and can be obtained at any bank. Most places accept US dollars, but change will be given in EC dollars. Most hotels, restaurants and larger stores accept credit cards, but local stores seldom do.

Passports and visa: U.S. citizens must have a U.S. passport that is valid for the duration of your stay. No visa is required if you have an onward or return ticket, confirmation of accommodation, and can produce evidence of your ability to maintain yourself.

Is St Lucia a cash or card? ›

The local currency in St Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean dollar, however the US dollar is widely accepted. If you do use US dollars, expect your change to be in EC dollars. Most establishments will also take credit cards, but we would just recommend having some cash withdrawn to save any worry.

It is possible to catch several mosquito-borne illnesses in Saint Lucia so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. To avoid being bitten by mosquitos on Saint Lucia: opt for loose neutral-coloured clothing with good limb coverage. treat clothing and your body with a reliable insect repellent.

Carry a copy of your prescription for any medications you bring with you, especially any that may be classed as controlled drugs.

Swimming safety

Currents can be deceptively strong and not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags. Monitor all beaches carefully and obey any local warnings.

St. Lucia is generally safe, both for solo travelers and for families. That being said, there are ways to increase your safety and thus peace of mind. The most important piece of advice is to stay away from dangerous areas and spend most of your time in tourist-friendly neighborhoods.

Visas are not required where the visitor is a US, UK or Canadian citizen, or where there is an agreement for exemption between home country and Saint Lucia. Some countries do require visas (see http://www.govt.lc/media.govt.lc/www/resources/publications/saint-lucia-visa-requirements-updated.docx for list).

It is absolutely safe to go off resort in St. Lucia. Just use common sense as you would at home: don't go into dark alleys late at night, etc.