Castries is the largest and capital city of Saint Lucia and offers a safe harbor for ships be it for trade or tourism. Tourists flock to the duty-free shops at Point Serphine and La Place Carenage, where they can find local artisan goods and yummy local food. Be sure to check out the Church of Immaculate Conception, Derek Walcott Square, the City Library, the Government House, and Fort Charlotte where you can get an excellent view of the city from the top of Morne Fortune. Enjoy the view of the Pitons, the twin peaks that sit 2,500 feet above sea level. They offer their shelter for rainforests with brightly colored flora and fauna, including many tropical birds and endangered species. Castries is also known for its varied marine life and remote beaches such as Vigie Beach, Choc Beach, and La Toc Beach.
This public park honors Derek Walcott, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize for Literature in 1992 and is a popular destination in Castries. In 1948, a fire devastated 80% of Castries, and Derek Walcott, 18 years old at the time, wrote the poem, “A City’s Death by Fire” which propelled him to fame. Now Walcott Square is surrounded by iconic and historic architecture in the heart of the city. Sit under a 400-year-old monkey pod tree that offers shade over the park for those looking for a break from the sun. Tourists and locals enjoy visiting the bronze bust of not only Sir Derek Walcott, but also Sir William Arthur Lewis, who won the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize for Economics and was also born in Castries.
Just down the road from Walcott Square is the iconic Church of Immaculate Conception. Construction on the cathedral began in 1894 and was completed in 1897. It was declared a sacred church in 1931, and in 1957 the Church of Immaculate Conception officially became a cathedral. A beautiful mural was painted inside the cathedral by one of the island’s most infamous artists, Dunstan St. Omer. This artist also had the honor of creating the Saint Lucia flag when the island became independent in 1979.
One of the best parts about Castries is their many duty-free shops located at Pointe Seraphine and La Place Carenage. If you are looking for local, handmade goods, crafts, food, or fashion, you will find it at these popular shopping destinations. Rumor has it that you can flash your passport or plane ticket and get a discount! These shops are located close to the harbor and airport, and open Monday through Saturday, making them a convenient, fun, and affordable place to look for local products.
Castries' winter, from December to February, offers warm and pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. It's an ideal time to visit the capital city of Saint Lucia as it allows for enjoyable exploration of its historical sites and natural beauty. Winter is perfect for visiting the Derek Walcott Square, a historic plaza named after the renowned Nobel laureate poet, and the nearby Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception with its impressive architecture.
Spring in Castries, from March to May, brings slightly warmer temperatures with highs in the low to mid-80s Fahrenheit. The city's landscapes remain lush and green from the previous rainy season. Spring is ideal for relaxing on the scenic beaches of Vigie Beach and Choc Beach, known for their soft sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can also take boat tours to explore the nearby Pigeon Island National Landmark, a historic site with hiking trails and panoramic views.
Castries' summer, from June to August, marks the beginning of the rainy season. While it can be hot and humid with temperatures in the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit, it also provides a refreshing respite from the dry season. Summer offers opportunities for experiencing local culture and attending events like the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival, showcasing international and Caribbean jazz artists. Visitors can also explore the Morne Fortune, a hilltop with historical significance and fantastic views of the city and the sea.
Fall in Castries, from September to November, is the peak of the rainy season. The weather remains warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. Despite the rains, fall is an excellent time to experience the city's vibrant markets, such as the Castries Central Market, where visitors can find fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs. Fall is also an ideal time to take eco-tours to the nearby rainforests and waterfalls for a glimpse of Saint Lucia's diverse flora and fauna.