Vigie Beach is one of the closest beaches to St. Lucia’s capital of Castries and makes for the perfect destination for a quick afternoon dip or laze in the sun. Enjoy the undeveloped, uncrowded beach, which is a firm favorite with locals looking for a welcome sea breeze in the height of the summer. Swim in the clear blue sea, find shade under the trees or simply relax with a good book and soak up the rays.
Amenities at the beach are basic and that is exactly what makes it so charming. Find a couple of small, simple snack shacks at the entrance to the beach and a restaurant right on the beach. Dine in the restaurant, bring a picnic or head into Castries for a late lunch or early dinner in one of the numerous dining establishments there.
While swimming and relaxing on the sand are the top activities at Vigie Beach, it is also a delightful place to go for a walk. Amble barefoot along the sand of the sheltered bay fringed by palm trees. For a longer walk, head for Vigie Lighthouse at the end of Beacon Road, which sits on the peninsula overlooking the harbor.
The beach runs along Vigie Airport, yet despite this, it is one of the most popular beaches among locals and the small amount of air traffic doesn’t deter from its appeal. A lack of hotels and resorts along this strip has resulted in a wild and undeveloped appearance, with just a stretch of golden sand, lapped by perfectly clear Caribbean waters. Go shopping in the morning and then head to the beach after lunch for a cooling swim.
Vigie Beach is located a short distance from downtown Castries. Get there by taxi in under 5 minutes. A shack on the beach provides deck chairs for rent and has restroom facilities.