Top All-inclusive Resorts in St. Lucia: Your Ultimate Guide to Paradise
Hey there, fellow sun-seekers and beach lovers! If you’re dreaming of a Caribbean getaway that combines stunning natural beauty with ultimate relaxation, look no further than St. Lucia. This gem of an island is home to some of the most breathtaking all-inclusive resorts you’ll find anywhere in the world. As someone who’s been lucky enough to call this paradise home for years, I’m thrilled to share my insider knowledge and help you find the perfect spot for your dream vacation.
Before we dive into the details, let’s take a quick look at how some of the top resorts stack up against each other:
| Resort Name | Rating | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Jade Mountain Resort | 5 / 5 | $$$$$ |
| Sandals Grande St. Lucian | 4.5 / 5 | $$$$ |
| Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa | 4 / 5 | $$$ |
| Ladera Resort | 4.5 / 5 | $$$$ |
| Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort | 5 / 5 | $$$$$ |
Now that you’ve got a taste of what’s in store, let’s dive into the details of these amazing resorts and a few others that might just steal your heart. Remember, each of these places has its own unique charm, so keep an open mind as we explore the best of St. Lucia!
Jade Mountain Resort
Picture this: you’re lounging in your private infinity pool, gazing out at the majestic Pitons rising from the Caribbean Sea, with a cocktail in hand and not a care in the world. That’s the Jade Mountain experience in a nutshell, and let me tell you, it’s as close to heaven as you can get on Earth.
What sets Jade Mountain apart is its unique architecture. Each of the 29 suites (they call them “sanctuaries”) is missing a fourth wall, offering unobstructed views of the Pitons and the sea. It’s like your room is part of the landscape, and trust me, waking up to that view never gets old.
The food here is out of this world. The resort’s restaurant, Jade Mountain Club, serves up a fusion of Caribbean and international cuisine that’ll make your taste buds dance. And the best part? It’s all included in your stay.
But what really makes Jade Mountain special is the attention to detail. From the personalized service provided by your butler (yep, you get your own butler) to the handcrafted furniture in your sanctuary, everything is designed to make you feel like royalty.
Is it expensive? You bet. But if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Jade Mountain delivers in spades.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
If you’re after a more traditional all-inclusive experience (with a luxury twist), Sandals Grande St. Lucian might be right up your alley. Located on its own peninsula, this resort offers stunning views of both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
One of the things I love about Sandals is the variety. With 12 restaurants to choose from, you could eat at a different place every night for almost two weeks! From authentic Caribbean cuisine at Barefoot by the Sea to high-end French dishes at La Toc, there’s something for every palate.
The rooms here are pretty swanky, especially if you opt for one of the overwater bungalows. Imagine stepping out of bed and diving straight into the crystal-clear waters of Rodney Bay. It’s the kind of experience that makes you want to pinch yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming.
Activities are plentiful at Sandals. Whether you’re into watersports, land sports, or just lounging by one of the five pools, you’ll never be bored. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even visit the other two Sandals resorts on the island for even more dining and entertainment options.
Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa
Now, if you’re traveling with the whole family, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa is a fantastic option. Located on the south coast of St. Lucia, this resort is split into two sections: Harmony, an adults-only oasis, and Splash, a family-friendly paradise.
What I love about Coconut Bay is how it caters to everyone. Got kids? They’ll love the waterpark, complete with slides and a lazy river. Looking for some adult time? The Harmony section offers tranquil pools, a bar, and plenty of quiet spots to relax.
The food here is pretty solid, with nine restaurants to choose from. My personal favorite is Calabash, which serves up traditional Caribbean dishes with a modern twist. And don’t even get me started on the jerk chicken at the beach grill – it’s to die for!
One unique feature of Coconut Bay is its location near the international airport. Now, before you start worrying about noise, let me assure you – it’s actually a plus. You’ll be sipping your first rum punch by the pool while other tourists are still on their transfer to the north of the island.
Ladera Resort
Alright, let’s switch gears a bit. Ladera Resort isn’t your typical all-inclusive, but it’s so special that I had to include it. Perched on a ridge 1,000 feet above the Caribbean Sea, Ladera offers views that will quite literally take your breath away.
Like Jade Mountain, the suites at Ladera feature an open wall concept, but with a twist – here, you’re nestled in the rainforest, with the Pitons rising majestically before you. It’s like living in a luxury treehouse, complete with private plunge pools and star-gazing platforms.
The food at Dasheene, the resort’s main restaurant, is phenomenal. Chef Nigel Mitchell creates dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious, using fresh, local ingredients. And trust me, there’s nothing quite like dining with the Pitons as your backdrop.
While Ladera isn’t all-inclusive in the traditional sense, they do offer meal plans that can make your stay hassle-free. And with the level of personalized service they provide, you might never want to leave the resort anyway.
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort
Nestled between the Pitons on what was once an 18th-century sugar plantation, Sugar Beach is the epitome of laid-back luxury. The location alone is enough to make your jaw drop – pristine white sand (imported from Guyana, no less) meets the impossibly blue Caribbean Sea, with the Pitons standing guard on either side.
The accommodations at Sugar Beach are out of this world. Whether you choose a beachfront bungalow, a luxury villa, or one of the residences, you’re in for a treat. Each room comes with its own private plunge pool and a personal butler to cater to your every whim.
Food-wise, Sugar Beach doesn’t disappoint. The Great Room restaurant offers fine dining with a Caribbean twist, while the more casual Bayside Restaurant serves up beachfront meals that are perfect for lazy afternoons. And don’t miss out on the Cane Bar, an upscale rum bar that’s sure to become your favorite evening spot.
While Sugar Beach isn’t traditionally all-inclusive, they do offer packages that include meals and some activities. And trust me, once you’re here, you won’t want to leave anyway.
Serenity at Coconut Bay
If you loved the sound of Coconut Bay but were hoping for something a bit more… well, serene, then Serenity at Coconut Bay is your answer. This adults-only, all-suite enclave within Coconut Bay offers a level of luxury and personalized service that’s hard to beat.
Each of the 36 suites comes with its own private plunge pool, outdoor shower, and hammock for two. It’s the kind of place where you can truly disconnect from the world and reconnect with your significant other.
The food here is a cut above, with 24-hour room service and access to all of Coconut Bay’s restaurants. But the real star is The Greathouse, Serenity’s exclusive restaurant. With its ever-changing menu of gourmet dishes and extensive wine list, it’s a foodie’s paradise.
What really sets Serenity apart is the level of personalized service. Your butler can arrange everything from private beach dinners to couple’s massages, ensuring that your stay is tailored exactly to your preferences.
Cap Maison
Last but certainly not least, we have Cap Maison. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, this boutique resort offers a more intimate all-inclusive experience.
The rooms at Cap Maison are stunning, with a blend of Spanish Caribbean and Moroccan styles. If you can, spring for one of the ocean view villa suites – the private roof terraces with pools are to die for.
Food is a big deal at Cap Maison, and the Cliff at Cap restaurant is widely regarded as one of the best on the island. Chef Craig Jones serves up contemporary French Caribbean cuisine that’ll have you planning your next meal before you’ve finished the one in front of you.
While Cap Maison isn’t traditionally all-inclusive, they do offer packages that include meals and some activities. And with the level of personalized service they provide, you might find yourself never wanting to leave the resort.
Wrapping Up
So there you have it, folks – my rundown of the top all-inclusive (and almost all-inclusive) resorts in St. Lucia. Each of these places offers something unique, whether it’s breathtaking views, gourmet cuisine, or unparalleled luxury.
Remember, the best resort for you depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. Are you after romance and seclusion? Jade Mountain or Ladera might be your best bet. Traveling with family? Check out Coconut Bay. Want a bit of everything? Sandals Grande St. Lucian has got you covered.
No matter which resort you choose, one thing’s for sure – you’re in for an unforgettable experience. St. Lucia’s natural beauty, combined with the warmth of its people and the luxury of these resorts, creates a vacation paradise that’s hard to beat.
So go ahead, book that trip. Take the plunge (pool, that is). Sip that rum punch as you watch the sun set behind the Pitons. You deserve it. And who knows? You might just find yourself planning your next visit before you’ve even left the island.
Until next time, happy travels!
