Overview
Castries is the lively capital of Saint Lucia, set around a natural harbour on the island's north-west coast. It is the island's cruise and shopping hub and a handy base for Rodney Bay, the rainforest interior and the Pitons further south. UK travellers can expect year-round Caribbean warmth and straightforward onward travel around the island.
Best time to fly to Castries
Saint Lucia is warm all year, with daytime temperatures usually in the high 20s Celsius. The dry season from December to April brings the most reliable sunshine and the highest fares. June to November is hotter, wetter and within the Atlantic hurricane season, though showers are often short-lived. May and early December tend to offer the best value. See the When to book chart above for how prices move through the year.
Airlines and routes
Long-haul flights from the UK arrive at Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in the south of the island. British Airways flies direct from London Gatwick, Virgin Atlantic flies direct from London Heathrow, and TUI Airways operates direct holiday flights from Gatwick and Manchester. The non-stop flight from London takes around eight and a half to nine hours; from Manchester, allow a similar time on direct services or connect through a London airport. Connecting routes via the US are also widely available and can work out cheaper.
Things to do in Castries
Castries rewards a wander on foot, with more of the island's highlights a short drive away.
- Castries Central Market: A colourful covered market for spices, hot sauces, crafts and local produce.
- Derek Walcott Square: A shady city-centre park named after the Nobel Prize-winning Saint Lucian poet.
- Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception: The island's largest church, known for its vivid painted murals.
- Morne Fortune: A hillside viewpoint with old military ruins and sweeping views over the harbour.
- Pigeon Island National Landmark: Forts, beaches and walking trails on a causeway-linked islet near Gros Islet.
At Hewanorra International Airport (UVF)
Hewanorra sits near Vieux Fort at the southern tip of Saint Lucia. Castries is about 65 km away, a drive of roughly 75 to 90 minutes along the scenic west coast. Pre-booked private transfers and fixed-rate taxis are the simplest options, car hire is available at the terminal, and a helicopter transfer to Castries takes about 15 minutes. Local minibuses are cheap but impractical with luggage.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Castries
- Book roughly three to six months ahead for the best choice on direct flights, and earlier still for Christmas, Easter and February half-term.
- Travel between June and November, outside UK school holidays, for the lowest fares.
- Keep your dates flexible and check midweek departures, which are often cheaper than weekend flights.
- Compare British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and TUI against connecting options, and use the price charts on this page to time your booking.
Travel essentials
UK passport holders do not need a visa to holiday in Saint Lucia and can usually stay for up to six weeks; your passport should be valid for the length of your trip and you may be asked to show a return ticket. Complete the online immigration and customs form before you travel. The currency is the East Caribbean dollar, which is pegged to the US dollar, and US dollars and cards are widely accepted. No vaccinations are required for travellers coming from the UK, but sun cream and insect repellent are sensible.
