St. Lucia, located in the eastern Caribbean and most commonly known for the iconic Pitons (part of a UNESCO World Heritage site), is one of the Caribbean’s most mountainous and diverse islands. This 238-square-mile island has turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean Sea to the west, rugged coastline along the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and beautiful rain forests, banana plantations, and volcanic beaches in between. Given its unique topography, St. Lucia lends itself to hiking and zip lining as well as the more traditional island activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing.

During a recent scouting trip to this adventure-filled island, we had the opportunity to tour some of St. Lucia’s most luxurious resorts.

Cap Maison, Gros Islet

• Vibe: Laid back, intimate, romantic
• Accommodations: 49 rooms, suites and villas (some with private roof terraces and pools)
• Amenities: Beach, pool, 2 restaurants, wine cellar, spa, fitness, private yacht
• Good For: Couples seeking a romantic getaway at a secluded, boutique property with lots of activities nearby

Capella, Marigot Bay

• Vibe: Relaxed, resort-like, modern luxury
• Accommodations: 7 spacious guest rooms and suites, each with a private balcony
• Amenities: 2 pools, 4 restaurants, swim-up bar, spa, fitness center, hair and nail salon
• Good For: Families or groups looking for modern amenities and prioritize direct access to boats in the marina over a beach

Jade Mountain

• Vibe: Exclusive, romantic, lavish, bold design
• Accommodations: 29 ‘sanctuaries’ (accommodations) across 4 categories varying in size and view, each with a private infinity pool or jacuzzi, views of the Pitons, and a 24-hour butler
• Amenities: Restaurant, rooftop lounge, spa and shared with its neighboring sister resort, Anse Chastanet, 2 beaches, 4 restaurants, tennis, fitness, private yacht and catamaran
• Good For: Couples seeking the ultimate in intimacy, romance, and service and appreciate a three-walled, open-plan layout with incredible views

Ladera, Soufrière

• Vibe: Adult-only, romantic, zen, eco-luxe
• Accommodations: 32 suites, each with a three-walled open-plan layout, private plunge pool, and stunning views of the Pitons
• Amenities: Pool, restaurant, spa, fitness, daily shuttle service to the beach
• Good For: Couples looking for privacy, romance, and arguably the best views of the Pitons (and the occasional rainbow!) from within the rainforest at 1,100 feet above sea level

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, Soufrière

• Vibe: Beachfront, tranquil, spacious, timeless
• Accommodations: 85 rooms, villas, bungalows and residences with spectacular views of the Pitons and Caribbean Sea and personalized butler service
• Amenities: Beach, pool, 2 restaurants, 2 bars, lounge, fitness, sauna, spa
• Good For: Couples or families seeking beautiful white-sand beaches, a variety of outdoor activities, and close proximity to the island’s most well-known attractions