Recreation

In addition to the wide array of opportunities to tour St. Lucia's outstanding natural attractions and tourist spots, the island is replete with a full range of recreational facilities. St. Lucia's ideal climate makes outdoor activities such as tennis, jogging, horseback riding and golfing extremely pleasurable. Tourists can enjoy a relaxed tour of the island either via horseback ride or an evening sail or day cruises on a chartered yacht. For visitors that enjoy the thrill of more dynamic pursuits, there are plenty of places to windsurf, dive and water-ski. There are also several activities more closely associated with the traditional life of St. Lucia, including weekly "jump-ups" at Gros Islet, deep-sea fishing and visits to the at Castries weekly market.

Horseback Riding and Carriages

A large number of stables and riding schools on the island of St. Lucia offer visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty and attractions of the island on well trained horses and in carriages.

Country Stables feature the ‘great horse adventure' that takes horse riders through verdant plantations, natural forests and along the Atlantic coastline. The trail is ideal for amateurs and advanced riders.

The International Riding Stables at Beausejour in Gros Islet offers insured horse riding for all levels, including children. A wide variety of trail rides are available at the riding stables and include the enthralling riding tour featuring a beach picnic at Cas en Bas, a picturesque ride through the countryside, with extra time for swimming. The International Riding Stables accepts credit cards and is open 24 hours.

Biking

The island has numerous bike tours that pass through the country side. The St. Lucia Mountain Bike Tour is renowned and hosts a maximum of 20 bikers. It leaves the Morne Fortune Monument and makes its way to Babonneau, a community on the East coast. The tour makes stops at Caribelle Batik and numerous water stations. In addition, there are panoramic views of the la Sorcière Mountain. The roads pass through banana plantations and in Babonneau, bikers stop at Mrs. Joseph's house for fruit and coconut water refreshments. Waves on the beach is the final stop of the tour.

Helicopter Tours

A Helicopter tour around the island is a thrilling way to view its splendid beauty. Visitors can embark upon flights and helicopter rides that circle the northern and southern portions of the island, offering an aerial view that includes the steaming cauldron of Soufriere volcano and the lush green carpet of the National Rain Forest.

Water Sports

Water sports facilities are a vital part of the St. Lucia's vacation when you stay at any of the island's large beach resorts.

Most resorts and hotels offer tuition and first-class equipment for windsurfing. Favorite spots amongst intermediate and advanced windsurfers are Cas en Bas and Vieux Fort. The waters off the west coast of the island are calm and ideal for beginners.

Sailing is another popular activity on the island. Yachts can be leased from several charter operations housed in marinas at Rodney Bay and Marigot Bay. Both areas have secured anchorages and yacht maintenance facilities. Day boat trips make stops at a few fishing villages and hidden coves and other St. Lucia natural wonders. Sunset cruises along the northwest coast offer tourists with an incredible view as the sun dips over the horizon. Meals and beverages are offered on the cruise.

Water skiing instructions and equipment is available at several resorts. Training programs for beginners and intermediate skiers are also available. Jet skis can also be rented at certain beaches.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

St. Lucia's warm clear waters and fabulous reefs and marine life offer an ideal environment for both amateurs and expert divers. Several hotels and resorts offer scuba diving facilities and snorkeling gear. Independent dive centers situated along the beaches on the island offer short boat dives, night dives and an assortment of scuba courses.

Some of the underwater haunts waiting to be explored are the Anse Cochon and Anse Chastanet reefs and an old sunken ship.

Tennis and Golf

Tennis and squash courts are available at most hotels and resorts. Almost all tennis courts are floodlit and have trained professionals that provide coaching lessons.

St. Lucia has two golf courses, namely the Sandals La Toc and the Cap Estate. The Cap Estate is a public golf course that spans over 6,815 yards and has 18 holes.