Help! First time in St. Lucia!

[merlin217]

Hi all,

 

We're cruising with the Victory in July...1st time in St. Lucia. We've decided to go ziplining in the morning, but really wanted to hit a beach for some snorkeling in the afternoon if possible. What's the best, closest beach for that (by taxi, I guess?) if we have 3/5 hrs?

 

Thanks for the suggestions.

[reedprincess]

The best snorkeling is in the southwest area of the island, around the Pitons. However - that is an hour one way from the cruise docks and if you only have 3-5 hours to hit a beach and snorkel, then it is not a good idea as at least 2 hours of that would be spent in a car!!!

Another option is Pigeon Island, up north of the port. It is about 25-35 minutes by cab and has some snorkeling - nothing major, a smallish reef, but it is pretty good, the beach and park are beautiful, there are some old British fort ruins, 2 hills for hiking, 2 restaurants with great food and facilities for showering and changing. Lots of shade and chairs for rent.

Another option is Smugglers Cove beach (not the resort) it has a small reef also - not any facilities though at the beach.

Otherwise, snorkeling is all down south.

You could also go to Reduit Beach - about 20 minutes north of the piers, there is a long stretch of beach with watersports for hire, chairs/umbrellas, lots of restaurants and bars, etc.

Hope this helps - enjoy your visit!

[merlin217]

Thanks so much.....I'll look into those! :)