The only island named after a woman has direct flights from Toronto and here's what to see
The Caribbean is a popular destination for Canadian travellers, but one island stands out for its welcoming culture and stunning natural beauty — and it's the only one in the world named after a woman.
Saint Lucia is a lush island in the Eastern Caribbean Sea, and a true hidden gem for a tropical getaway. With pristine rainforests and golden sand beaches, the island is named after Saint Lucy of Syracuse, the patron saint of light.
Though Saint Lucia measures just 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, it's packed with diverse, one-of-a-kind experiences. From volcanic landscapes and vibrant street festivals to world-class diving and luxurious stays, there's no shortage of ways to explore.
Only in Saint Lucia can visitors stay in a room with awe-inspiring views of the Pitons, a private plunge pool, an outdoor shower and a hammock for two strung across its veranda.
Here's what you have to check out in Saint Lucia.
The Pitons
Hands down one of Saint Lucia's most recognizable natural attractions, the Pitons are two dramatic volcanic spires rising from the sea, reaching heights of over 750 metres. Known as Gros Piton and Petit Piton, these iconic peaks are home to a unique ecosystem both on land and beneath the water.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pitons are one of (if not the most) photographed spots on the island.
For breathtaking views, visit nearby restaurants, hotels, and beaches along the southern coast, particularly around the towns of Soufrière and Choiseul. To experience them up close, hop on a catamaran or boat tour, or take it a step further with a guided hike to the summit.
Gros Islet Street Party
The Gros Islet Street Party is a weekly tradition, where Friday night fish fries come alive once the sun goes down. Locals and travellers alike gather for live bands, dancing, and the infectious rhythms of calypso and soca, while food stalls serve up fresh-off-the-grill bites and barbecue.
Walk through the streets, dance the night away, and take in the Saint Lucia spirit. Foodies will love the local grilled seafood delicacies like lambi (conch), lobster, and blue marlin. To make it an authentic Saint Lucia celebration, be sure to try a glass of the island's favourite rum punch or a cold Piton beer.
Chasing waterfalls
Saint Lucia is also known for its breathtaking waterfalls across the island, with cascading beauty waiting to be discovered. Top highlights include Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, known as the most colourful waterfall in the Caribbean due to the water's changing mineral content.
The 50-foot-long Toraille Waterfall is one of the most popular sites on the island, nestled among the lush rainforest, while the warm mineral waters of Piton Falls are a picturesque sight to see. Relax among the volcanic phenomena and soothing mineral pools, nestled at the foot of the majestic Pitons.
Diving spots
It's no wonder Saint Lucia is home to some of the best diving in the Caribbean, thanks to its lush natural landscapes and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Among its standout spots are the Keyhole Pinnacles near Soufrière Bay, world-renowned for their dramatic underwater formations set against the backdrop of the Pitons.
Since the area is covered in coral reefs filled with majestic sea life, this dive site offers an unforgettable experience beneath the surface.
Check out the remains of the Lesleen M, a 50-metre sunken vessel at Anse Cochon Bay, for another unique dive. Deliberately sunk in the 1980s, the wreck has become an artificial reef and is home to many ocean species. A great dive for all levels, you'll catch moray eels, angelfish, snappers, and more.
Sulphur Springs and Mud Baths
Experience the Sulphur Springs Volcano and Mud Baths — the world's only drive-through volcano.
The mud baths at Sulphur Springs attract people from all over the world because of their detoxification powers. Jump right into the purifying clay mud and see the healing properties for yourself.
Major cultural events
Feel the vibe and rhythm of the island at the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival. The festival's roots date back to 1992, and it's a major celebration of art and music with a stacked lineup of local and international talent. Next year, the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival runs from April 30 to May 9 and will mark its 35th anniversary
Spanning multiple days, the festival features performances of gospel, afrobeats, country, soca, reggae, and jazz. This open-air festival, set against the stunning backdrop of Pigeon Island, promises an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and artistic expression.
Don't forget to visit the Saint Lucia Carnival from July 1 to July 22.
Rooted in Saint Lucia's rich Caribbean and Creole heritage, Carnival is one of the island's most vibrant celebrations, filled with music, dance, parades, and spectacular costumes.
World-class accommodations
Saint Lucia has welcomed a new wave of internationally recognized resorts and brands, offering guests an elevated and relaxing stay.
Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences, a Canadian-owned luxury resort, has just finished a $40 million investment, and the results are incredible. We're talking 5-star quality infrastructure, guest experience, culinary offers, and service standards.
As Saint Lucia's only property recognized by The Leading Hotels of the World, Windjammer Landing just expanded its luxury portfolio with the debut of La Belle Hélène, an ultra-exclusive ten-bedroom villa set between the island's legendary Gros and Petit Pitons. Windjammer Landing becomes the only resort brand in Saint Lucia to offer luxury villa access spanning from the northwest coast to the iconic southwestern region.
The largest development in Saint Lucia's history is underway by A'ILA Development at Mount Pimard with a US$1.3 billion investment. Featuring exclusive villas and apartments, it's designed for privacy, comfort, and breathtaking ocean views. Once complete, A'ILA will include a family hotel, an adults‑only resort, luxury villas, residences, a shopping boulevard, and one of the country's largest conference centres.
TheLifeCo St. Lucia is set to open this summer within the new A'ila Resort in Rodney Bay, becoming the Caribbean's first physician-led longevity and wellness resort. It focuses on tailored longevity programs, including detox, stress recovery, and metabolic reset, featuring 100 key luxury wellness.
Let her inspire you
Experience her natural beauty with direct flights from Toronto to Saint Lucia on Air Canada and WestJet and discover her golden soft sand beaches, the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, sulphur springs, mud baths, Carnival, and more.
Start planning your escape and discover why this island deserves a spot at the top of your travel list.
