Is Rodney Bay the Best Destination in Saint Lucia? Here’s Why
Saint Lucia’s most important tourist resort is located 10 km north of the capital Castries, in the Gros Islet quarter.
As can be easily guessed, it is a seaside place: Rodney Bay is developed around the bay of the same name, bordered by the headlands of Pigeon Island and Mount Pimard, in the northwest of the island. It is home to the country’s main accommodation facilities.
History
The place name derives from the English Admiral George Brydges Rodney, who, after driving out the natives, built a military fort on Pigeon Island in the 18th century. At the time, the island was a small landmass at the northern end of the bay. The purpose was to monitor the French naval base in neighboring Martinique.
Today, Pigeon Island is connected to the mainland by an isthmus artificially created in the 1970s to close off the bay and build the Rodney Bay Marina. In recent decades, the area has become a focal point for those spending their holidays in Saint Lucia.
What to See in Rodney Bay: Beaches and Nightlife
It is, of course, the beaches that are the focus of tourism in Rodney Bay.
The most famous and popular is Reduit Beach, with its soft golden sand, fringed with palm trees and lapped by a crystal-clear sea. It occupies the southern part of the bay.
Behind the beach are hotels and a busy shopping street (Reduit Beach Avenue) that turns into an entertainment destination every night.
The Rodney Bay Marina, now the second-largest yachting center in the Caribbean, lies behind the beach. This artificial lagoon runs between the hotels and restaurants of Rodney Bay Village.
Pigeon Island: A Blend of History and Nature
For those looking for something more cultural to do during the day, Pigeon Island National Landmark is an excellent option.
It is one of Saint Lucia’s most important sites of historical, cultural, and natural interest. Until 1972, it was an actual island (as its name suggests), later joined to Saint Lucia by an embankment.
In the 18th century, a British garrison was established here, and visitors can still explore Fort Rodney, which housed the troops. The viewpoint, with its old cannons, offers stunning coastal views, including glimpses of Martinique across the Caribbean Sea.
The site is also a nature center, featuring two small beaches, an interpretation center, and a restaurant. Small hikes are possible among the remains of barracks, guard posts, and other structures that once formed part of the military complex.
Pigeon Island is open as a national park 365 days a year.
Getting to Rodney Bay
Rodney Bay is easy to reach from anywhere in Saint Lucia.
There are two airports on the island:
- George F.L. Charles Airport (Vigie Airport): Located a few meters from the sea, just north of Castries, it serves regional flights.
- Hewanorra International Airport: Near Vieux Fort, it handles intercontinental flights and is 65 km away. Visitors can rent a car, take a minivan, or use resort shuttles to reach Rodney Bay.
From Castries, it is just a 10 km drive past Choc Bay. Numerous buses and minivans also connect the capital to Rodney Bay.
Where to Eat
Rodney Bay offers a variety of dining options. Big Chef Steakhouse is ideal for meat lovers, while Spice of India provides authentic Indian flavors. For a beachfront experience, head to Buzz Seafood and Grill, or try casual bites at Jacques Waterfront Dining for stunning views.
Where to Stay
Luxury seekers will enjoy the Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort, offering premium amenities. The Coco Palm Resort provides a boutique charm with easy access to the village. Families can opt for the Bay Gardens Hotel, offering spacious accommodations and proximity to the beach.
