On the Ground in St. Lucia: Behind the Scenes of My Travel Advisor FAM Trip
/I recently returned from an incredible FAM (familiarization) trip to St. Lucia, and I’m still dreaming about the Pitons, powdery beaches, and a variety of resorts that I know you’ll love. It’s often called the “Hawaii of the Caribbean,” because St. Lucia captivates travelers with its lush volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, offering the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.
From the stunning villas at Sugar Beach to the incredible views of Jade Mountain, and the all-inclusive luxury of Sandals Halcyon Beach, each property offered something unique and unforgettable. Seeing these resorts in person gave me invaluable insight into the vibe, service, and amenities at each location. Whether you're planning a honeymoon, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway, I can't wait to use what I learned to craft a trip that’s just right for you.
Here’s a day-by-day recap of my time in paradise and the amazing properties I had the chance to explore:
Day 1: Arrival & Beach Vibes at Coconut Bay
We kicked things off at Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, a laid-back, family-friendly all-inclusive resort near Hewanorra International Airport (UVF).
It’s split into three sections: Splash (perfect for families), Harmony (adults-only) and Serenity (considered its own adult-only premium resort). The vibe here was fun, easygoing, and perfect for clients looking for value, comfort, and a casual Caribbean escape.
While the views of the water were gorgeous, I would not go to this resort for its beach. It makes for a great walk but it is very narrow and long. Not a beach you’d lounge on. However, they have many loungers facing the ocean and plenty of pools.
Because of how close this resort is to the airport (only a 5 minute car ride, tops), it’s the perfect option if you need a one night stay before continuing on your trip or if you have an early morning flight home.
Day 2: Scenic Transfer to Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort
On the second day, we transferred across the southern part of the island to the stunning Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort. All I can say is wow, the location took my breath away. You’ll want to stay here if you prefer a thoughtfully curated luxury experience that balances barefoot island ease with five-star service.
Set between the towering Pitons, this property is a dream for honeymooners, girls trips, families, or anyone who wants a secluded, five-star escape with serious style. There are two beaches to enjoy, one often more quiet than the other, a spa tucked in the jungle (it is just as relaxing as it sounds), multiple dining options that sources local ingredients and a current fave - pickleball courts.
I stayed in a four-bedroom villa overlooking the ocean (yes, it was every bit as amazing as it sounds), and the level of service, design, and tranquility here is truly unmatched. With elopements and vowel renewals becoming more popular, I can see this villa being the perfect escape for you, your partner, and a few close friends. (I’d love to help you plan an elopement that feels true to you, meaningful and a little magical.)
Day 3: Site Inspection Marathon
This was a full day of resort tours! We spent the entire day getting a true sense of what St. Lucia has to offer across different budgets and travel styles. Here's where we went:
Ladera Resort is one of St. Lucia’s most unique and romantic properties, perched high in the mountains with breathtaking views of the Pitons—but it’s definitely not for everyone.
The rooms are famously open-air, with only three walls to maximize the scenery, meaning there's no air conditioning, just the island breeze and ceiling fans to keep you cool. It creates an immersive, nature-connected experience, but travelers should know what they’re signing up for. While the views are unbeatable, the beach isn’t on-site; guests share access to the beach at Sugar Beach and need to take a shuttle van down the hill to reach it. It's ideal for honeymooners and couples who want seclusion, adventure, and don’t mind a more rustic-luxury vibe.
Jade Mountain and its sister resort, Anse Chastanet, offer two distinct yet connected experiences on St. Lucia’s scenic southwest coast. Jade Mountain is the ultra-luxury, architectural masterpiece perched high above, also known for its three-walled open-air sanctuaries with private infinity pools and jaw-dropping views of the Pitons. It reminded me of Star Wars but with modern touches and ideal for couples seeking romance, privacy, and a completely unplugged experience. And just like the movie I recommend you take an aircraft to reach it (I can book your helicopter service for you). Anse Chastanet, just below, has a more relaxed, bohemian vibe with colorful Caribbean charm, beachfront access, and a wider range of room categories—including more budget-friendly options. Guests of Jade Mountain have full access to Anse Chastanet’s beach, restaurants, and activities, making the pairing perfect for travelers who want the best of both worlds: elevated seclusion with the amenities and vibrancy of a beach resort just steps (or a shuttle ride) away.
Windjammer Landing Resort & Spa is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired retreat perched on a lush hillside overlooking St. Lucia’s pristine sands and shimmering Caribbean waters. With a mix of spacious studios, suites, and full villas, many featuring fully equipped kitchens and living/dining areas, it’s ideal for families and multigenerational groups seeking the comforts of home alongside resort amenities. The property is fun and active, boasting a swimmable beach, multiple pools, a full-service spa, and access to water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. A convenient shuttle connects the hillside accommodations to the lower-level Cascade Village plaza, where guests can explore a variety of restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. Windjammer Landing strikes the perfect balance between relaxed resort living and lively island energy, making it a top pick for travelers who want flexibility, convenience, and Caribbean charm.
Royalton St. Lucia is a sleek, modern all-inclusive resort that is a refreshing balance between contemporary style and relaxed Caribbean hospitality. This resort makes a stylish first impression with its clean architecture, crisp finishes, and vibrant public spaces. The accommodations range from comfortable swim-out or beachfront suites to spacious multi-bedroom family rooms, all designed for both relaxation and convenience. Guests enjoy a wide array of dining options, multiple pools (including dedicated adult-only areas), and water sports, plus a full spa and fitness center.
If you’ve stayed at other Royalton resorts, you already know this is a solid choice for families, couples, and groups seeking a quality resort experience without a stuffy vibe.
Each property had its own distinct personality, budget range, and location; and seeing them back-to-back gave me invaluable insight into how those factors shape the overall guest experience. All of these details help me make thoughtful, personalized recommendations when matching clients with the right resort because the right fit makes all the difference in how a vacation feels.
Day 4: Boat Transfer to Sandals Grande St. Lucian
One of the coolest moments of the trip? Arriving at Sandals Grande St. Lucian by boat. Cruising up to see this sprawling property was unforgettable. The overwater bungalows are beautiful!
And the boat? It is one of the better transfer options in St Lucia given how rough some of the roads still are. I enjoy rollercoasters and even I didn’t feel great after driving around all day during inspections.
Dinner at Kimonos, the hibachi (teppanyaki) restaurant, is a quintessential Sandal’s experience. The food is reliably satisfying and the lively atmosphere makes it a great way to connect with other travelers. I love it because it offers a fun, interactive experience that is an easy recommendation for clients who want a memorable evening without committing to a more formal dinner.
Day 5: St. Lucia’s Sandals Sampler
We enjoyed site inspections at the other two Sandals properties on the island:
Sandals Regency La Toc is built into a lush hillside with dramatic views and a more romantic, tucked-away vibe on a vast 220 acre estate. It’s separated into three distinct areas, offering a variety of room types and views (my favorite was Oceanview Bluff Village).
Emerald Village is the central hub of the resort, where you'll find the lobby, the main pool, the beach, and the nightly entertainment. This area tends to have a more lively atmosphere with the rooms in the Emerald Village are very close to the beach.
Piton Village is nestled in the middle of the resort. This area is named after the blue, two-story "Piton" buildings.
Oceanview Bluff Village (also known as Sunset Bluff) is tucked at the top of the resort on the hillside, this section offers the highest elevation ocean views. It includes rooms and villas, some with private pools and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and sunset. The Sunset Bluff pool is also a favorite, offering a relaxed vibe and swim-up bar.
Sandals Halcyon Beach: Smaller and quieter, with a laid-back, garden-like feel. Great for couples who want a peaceful, intimate atmosphere. During my recent FAM trip to St. Lucia, I had the pleasure of experiencing Sandals Halcyon Beach, and it quickly became my favorite of the three Sandals resorts on the island. This intimate, adults-only resort offers a serene and romantic atmosphere, perfect for couples seeking a peaceful getaway. Set along a pristine stretch of white sand beach, the resort's lush gardens and low-rise architecture create a tranquil, garden oasis feel. One of the standout features of Halcyon Beach is its exceptional dining options. With six specialty restaurants, including Kelly’s Dockside, a Caribbean cuisine restaurant on its own 150 ft. pier over the Caribbean sea, guests can indulge in a variety of culinary delights. The resort also boasts seven bars, including a piano bar, ensuring that guests have ample opportunities to relax and enjoy their favorite beverages.
Each Sandals resort offers a different experience, but they all maintain that signature level of all-inclusive luxury. And yes—they're absolutely honeymoon-worthy.
Day 6: Soaking It In at Sandals Grande
The final day was spent exploring Sandals Grande St. Lucian more in depth. This property is ideal for couples who want that picture-perfect beach, tons of dining options, and snorkeling or scuba diving.
If you're a certified diver seeking an exceptional underwater experience, Sandals Grande St. Lucian should be your first choice among Sandals resorts in St. Lucia. The resort offers direct access to a dedicated dive boat, eliminating the need for shuttle rides to marinas, which is a significant advantage over other resorts like La Toc and Halcyon. And guests at Sandals Grande St. Lucian can enjoy up to two tank dives per day at no additional cost, provided they are PADI certified and have recent dive experience. The resort's dive team is highly regarded, offering professional and safe diving experiences . Whether you're interested in drift dives, exploring coral gardens, or simply enjoying the vibrant marine life, Grande offers an unparalleled diving experience in St. Lucia.
This resort offers more than just scuba diving. I personally love the unique accommodations, including overwater bungalows and beachfront rondovals with private plunge pools, which I got to take a peek.
Day 7: Heading Home with a Full Heart (and a Full Camera Roll)
I boarded my flight home feeling so inspired. St. Lucia is a destination that really delivers, from its dramatic landscapes to its incredibly diverse resort offerings. Whether you’re looking for romantic seclusion, family-friendly fun, or all-inclusive luxury, there’s a property waiting for you. I’d love to help you find the one that’s perfect for your travel style and group size. When you book with a travel advisor (like me!), you get insider recommendations, personalized planning, and sometimes even exclusive perks.
