At the northern most tip of Saint Lucia sits the city of Gros Islet. This is the second populous city on the island, and the newest as it was recently promoted from being a village. While defined as a city and now a popular tourist destination, Gros Islet still holds its quaint fishing village charm. The port at Gros Islet has historic roots in the Anglo-French war and has been passed between Britain and France for centuries. Saint Lucia is known for its spectacular beaches and water sports opportunities. Try kite surfing on the beaches to the east of Gros Iselt where the wind is perfect. Snuba (half snorkeling, half scuba diving) is a popular sport that thrives in the waters here. For those looking for great shopping and yummy food, head down to the Rodney Bay Mall, just 10 – 15 minutes from the marina. Be sure to make your visit on a Friday evening when the streets of Gros Islet become “The Jump-up”, a fun and energetic street party. Enjoy street vendors with local foods and bars that stay open all night.
Like all Caribbean cities, Gros Islet is nestled next to many beaches within walking distance. The most popular beach on the west coast is Reduit Beach, known for having all the amenities beach goers will need. Cas en Bas is another popular beach on the east coast that has a couple of restaurants and is a popular spot for water sports activities. Visitors also love Anse Lavoutte for its remoteness and untouched beaches.
The Rodney Bay Marina is where all the activity happens in Gros Islet and is the main yacht arena on Saint Lucia. Rodney Bay was created by dredging out a local mangrove swamp and is now the location for many hotels, resorts, and villas. The Atlantic Ralley for Cruisers (ARC) ends their journey at the marina every December! Rodney Bay Marina is known for its yummy and picturesque cafes that serve European food and their fun shops.
Located just north of Rodney Bay sits Pigeon Island National Park. There you can experience the area’s history by exploring the ruins of military buildings from the British and French wars. Referred to as a living museum, conservation efforts have been taken seriously to keep the history and nature alive. A man-made causeway was built in 1972 to reach the park which was originally surrounded by water. Designated a National Park in 1979 and a National Landmark in 1992, it is open to visitors! Be sure to check out the panoramic view of the coastline from the top of the Fort.
Gros Islet's 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 this northern town of Saint Lucia as it allows for enjoyable beach days and water activities. Winter is perfect for visiting the famous Rodney Bay, a vibrant area known for its beautiful sandy beaches, watersports, and lively nightlife.
Spring in Gros Islet, from March to May, brings slightly warmer temperatures with highs in the low to mid-80s Fahrenheit. The town's landscapes remain lush and green from the previous rainy season. Spring is ideal for exploring the Pigeon Island National Landmark, a historic site with hiking trails, ruins of military buildings, and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
Gros Islet's 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 Carnival, a vibrant celebration featuring parades, music, and traditional dances. Visitors can also take boat tours to explore nearby islets and enjoy snorkeling and diving in the clear waters.
Fall in Gros Islet, 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 town's relaxed atmosphere and enjoy the lower tourist crowds. Visitors can explore local markets and taste traditional Caribbean cuisine. Fall is also an ideal time to indulge in fresh seafood at the beachfront restaurants and relax on the tranquil beaches with fewer visitors around.