Nestled between the majestic Pitons and the Caribbean Sea, Choiseul is a haven for travelers seeking genuine cultural immersion, breathtaking natural landscapes, and handcrafted treasures. Let’s explore what makes this charming village a must-visit destination on your St. Lucia adventure.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Choiseul is located approximately 30 km (19 miles) from Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), the main gateway to St. Lucia. The drive takes about 1 hour along scenic coastal roads that offer breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
Most visitors arrive via rental car, taxi, or organized tour. The village is accessible by the main coastal highway that circles the island. While public buses do service the area, they run on irregular schedules, making private transportation the most reliable option.
From Castries (North)
- Distance: 38 km (24 miles)
- Driving time: 1.5 hours
- Taxi fare: Approximately $80-100 USD
From Soufrière (Nearby)
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Driving time: 20 minutes
- Taxi fare: Approximately $20-30 USD
Best Time to Visit Choiseul
Choiseul enjoys a tropical climate year-round, but timing your visit can significantly impact your experience.
Recommended (December-April)
- Average temperatures: 26-29°C (79-84°F)
- Minimal rainfall and humidity
- Perfect conditions for hiking and outdoor activities
- Peak tourist season with livelier atmosphere
- Local festivals and cultural events
Avoid (June-November)
- Hurricane season with higher rainfall
- Average temperatures: 27-31°C (81-88°F)
- Higher humidity levels
- Some attractions may have limited hours
- Potential for tropical storms
May and early June offer a sweet spot with fewer crowds and good weather before the rainy season begins. If you’re looking to experience Choiseul’s vibrant cultural scene, plan your visit during the Jounen Kwéyòl (Creole Day) celebrations in October, when the village showcases its rich heritage through music, dance, food, and traditional crafts.
Getting Around Locally
Choiseul is a relatively small village that can be explored on foot, especially the central craft market and nearby attractions. However, to fully experience all the area has to offer, you’ll need transportation.
Walking
Perfect for exploring the village center, craft shops, and nearby beaches. Wear comfortable shoes as some paths can be uneven.
Taxi Services
Available throughout Choiseul. Negotiate rates before departing and consider hiring a driver for the day for convenience.
Rental Cars
Offers maximum flexibility. Remember that driving is on the left side of the road, and some local roads can be steep and winding.
Where to Stay
Choiseul offers a limited but charming selection of accommodations that provide an authentic St. Lucian experience. Most options are small guesthouses and vacation rentals rather than large resorts, giving you a more intimate connection with the local community.
Guesthouses
Family-run establishments offering basic but comfortable rooms with authentic local hospitality. Many include home-cooked meals featuring fresh local ingredients.
Vacation Rentals
Private cottages and homes available for rent, often with stunning views of the Pitons or Caribbean Sea. Perfect for families or groups seeking privacy.
Nearby Luxury
For those seeking more amenities, the nearby town of Soufrière (20 minutes away) offers luxury resorts with spectacular Piton views.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Choiseul offers a genuine taste of St. Lucian cuisine, with small local restaurants and food stands serving dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The dining experience here is authentic rather than touristy, giving you a true flavor of the island.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Green Fig and Saltfish – St. Lucia’s national dish made with unripe bananas and salted cod
- Bouyon – A hearty meat and vegetable stew with dumplings
- Accra – Spiced saltfish fritters, a popular appetizer
- Lambi (Conch) – Prepared in various ways including curries and stews
- Cassava Bread – Traditional flatbread made from cassava root, a Choiseul specialty
- Cocoa Tea – A spiced hot chocolate drink made from local cocoa
- Fresh Seafood – Caught daily by local fishermen
- Local Fruit Juices – Made from passion fruit, soursop, and guava
Dining Recommendations
Local Eateries
Small family-run restaurants in the village center serve authentic St. Lucian cuisine at reasonable prices. Look for places where locals eat for the most authentic experience.
Beachside Grills
Fresh seafood grilled right on the beach, often accompanied by local sides and rum punches. Usually open for lunch and early dinner.
Market Food
Visit the local market to sample street food and fresh fruits. Saturday mornings are particularly lively with vendors selling homemade treats.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Choiseul offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and authentic St. Lucian life. Here are the top attractions and activities you shouldn’t miss during your visit.
Choiseul Arts and Crafts Centre
The heart of Choiseul’s artistic heritage, this centre showcases the village’s renowned craftsmanship. Watch local artisans create intricate woven baskets, pottery, and wood carvings using techniques passed down through generations. You can purchase authentic souvenirs directly from the creators and even try your hand at traditional crafts through workshops.
Choiseul Viewpoint
This spectacular lookout point offers one of the best views of the Pitons, St. Lucia’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. The panoramic vistas extend across the Caribbean Sea, with Petit Piton and Gros Piton rising majestically from the water. Early morning visits provide the clearest views before any afternoon haze develops.
Choiseul Beach (Anse L’Ivrogne)
This secluded black sand beach offers a tranquil escape from the more crowded beaches on the island. Surrounded by lush vegetation and dramatic cliffs, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing. The beach is rarely crowded, giving you a sense of discovering your own private paradise.
Fond Doux Plantation
Located just outside Choiseul, this 19th-century working cocoa plantation offers fascinating tours where you can learn about traditional chocolate making from bean to bar. Walk through the lush estate, see how cocoa is harvested and processed, and sample delicious organic chocolate made on-site.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Choiseul’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its traditions, historical sites, and vibrant festivals that celebrate St. Lucian identity.
Cultural Highlights
Choiseul Heritage Museum
A small but informative museum showcasing the village’s history, from its indigenous Carib roots to French and British colonial influences. Displays include traditional tools, historical photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of Choiseul’s evolution.
Traditional Pottery Workshops
Visit the workshops of master potters who create distinctive coal pots, water jugs, and decorative pieces using techniques unchanged for centuries. Some artisans offer hands-on classes where you can create your own piece.
Historic Churches
Explore charming historic churches that blend European architectural elements with Caribbean influences. The Church of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary dates back to the 19th century and features beautiful stonework.
Local Festivals
Jounen Kwéyòl (Creole Day)
Celebrated in October, this island-wide festival has special significance in Choiseul, where traditional practices are proudly maintained. Experience folk music, dance performances, traditional dress, and authentic Creole cuisine. The village comes alive with colorful decorations and cultural demonstrations.
Choiseul Fishermen’s Feast
Held annually in July, this celebration honors the fishing heritage of the community. Enjoy boat blessings, fresh seafood prepared in various ways, local music, and competitive fishing events. It’s a perfect opportunity to interact with locals and experience authentic village life.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Choiseul’s dramatic landscape, nestled between mountains and sea, provides the perfect setting for outdoor adventures and nature exploration.
Hiking & Nature Trails
The area surrounding Choiseul offers excellent hiking opportunities with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The Tet Paul Nature Trail, located just outside Choiseul, provides spectacular views of the Pitons and southern St. Lucia. For more adventurous hikers, guided tours to Gros Piton start from the nearby village of Fond Gens Libre.
Water Activities
The coastline around Choiseul offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. The clear waters reveal colorful coral formations and tropical fish just offshore. Local operators offer guided snorkeling trips and kayak rentals for exploring the dramatic coastline and hidden coves.
Bird Watching
The forests around Choiseul are home to numerous bird species, including the endangered St. Lucia Parrot (Amazona versicolor). Early morning guided bird-watching tours provide opportunities to spot these colorful birds along with hummingbirds, bananaquits, and tropical mockingbirds.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Choiseul is generally a safe destination with friendly locals who appreciate visitors who respect their customs and traditions.
Safety Tips
- Take standard travel precautions with valuables
- Stay hydrated, especially when hiking
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment
- Inform someone of your plans when exploring remote areas
- Carry insect repellent, particularly during evening hours
Local Etiquette
- Greet locals with a friendly “good morning/afternoon/evening”
- Ask permission before taking photos of people or private property
- Dress modestly when visiting churches or village centers
- Learn a few basic Kwéyòl (Creole) phrases to delight locals
- Support local businesses and artisans directly
Cultural Insights
St. Lucian culture blends African, French, and British influences. In Choiseul, traditional practices remain strong, with many families continuing crafts and cooking methods passed down through generations. Religion plays an important role in community life, with most residents being Catholic. Sunday is considered a day of rest, and many businesses operate on reduced hours.
Visitor Comments About Choiseul
“The craft village in Choiseul was the highlight of our St. Lucia trip. Watching the artisans create beautiful pieces by hand and learning about techniques passed down through generations was fascinating. We brought home a handwoven basket that’s now our most treasured souvenir.”
“Don’t miss the viewpoint above Choiseul for the most spectacular photos of the Pitons! We spent an entire morning just taking in the view. The local restaurant nearby served the best fresh fish I’ve ever tasted, caught that morning and grilled to perfection.”
“We stayed in a small guesthouse in Choiseul for three nights and it was the most authentic experience of our Caribbean travels. The owner took us to meet local craftspeople and showed us how to make traditional cassava bread. The genuine hospitality was unforgettable.”
Practical Travel Tips
Currency & Payments
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller establishments in Choiseul, so carry cash for local purchases. ATMs are available in larger towns like Soufrière but not in Choiseul village itself.
Communication
English is the official language, but many locals also speak Kwéyòl (St. Lucian Creole). Mobile coverage is generally good, but may be spotty in some mountainous areas. Many accommodations offer Wi-Fi, though connection speeds may be slower than you’re accustomed to.
What to Pack
Lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen), insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes for exploring, and a light raincoat or umbrella (especially during the rainy season). A reusable water bottle is also recommended.
Your Choiseul Adventure Awaits
Choiseul represents the authentic heart of St. Lucia, where traditions are preserved, natural beauty abounds, and visitors are welcomed with genuine warmth. Unlike the more developed tourist areas of the island, this charming village offers a glimpse into real St. Lucian life and culture.
From watching skilled artisans create beautiful crafts using centuries-old techniques to hiking trails with breathtaking views of the iconic Pitons, Choiseul rewards travelers who venture off the beaten path. The memories you create here—of fresh local cuisine, pristine beaches, and meaningful cultural exchanges—will stay with you long after your tan fades.
As you plan your St. Lucia adventure, consider giving Choiseul the time it deserves. This hidden gem might just become the unexpected highlight of your Caribbean journey.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
0 Comments