Anse La Raye, St. Lucia Guide

Know Before You Go...®

If your dream vacation includes lots of variety, both in scenery and activities, then St. Lucia has it.  The island is well-known for its changing landscape that includes the towering Pitons, black and white sand beaches, volcanoes, and rainforests.  There’s also a healthy sprinkling of bustling city life, so whatever your interests, there’s something for you when you rent a villa in St. Lucia.  Use the information here to help you as you plan your trip to this diverse island.

Why Anse La Raye, St. Lucia?

  • Anse La Raye is the cultural capital of St. Lucia.
  • Anse La Raye hosts the popular Friday Night Fish Fry.
  • The town is home to a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and other attractions.
  • The annual Anse La Raye Seafood Festival takes place in April.
  • The area is surrounded by lush tropical forests and mountains.

Anse La Raye, St. Lucia Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
82° F
° F
February
82° F
° F
March
83° F
° F
April
84° F
° F
May
86° F
° F
June
85° F
° F
July
85° F
° F
August
86° F
° F
September
86° F
° F
October
86° F
° F
November
84° F
° F
December
83° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.22
February
1.75
March
1.45
April
1.5
May
1.8
June
3.69
July
4.61
August
4.41
September
5.3
October
5.8
November
5.24
December
2.42

History

St. Lucia is a small island nation located in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib indigenous peoples before being colonized by European powers in the 17th century.

The first European to visit St. Lucia was the French explorer, François Le Clerc, in 1502. However, it was not until 1635 that the French established a permanent settlement on the island. They named it after Saint Lucy of Syracuse and quickly began cultivating crops such as sugarcane and cocoa, using enslaved Africans as laborers.

Throughout the 18th century, St. Lucia was a highly contested territory between the French and the British. The island changed hands fourteen times between the two powers, with the British eventually gaining control in 1814 under the Treaty of Paris. This marked the beginning of British colonial rule on the island, which lasted until 1979.

During the colonial era, St. Lucia’s economy was driven by sugar production and the slave trade. However, with the abolition of slavery in 1834, the island’s economy declined. Many former slaves fled to the island’s mountainous interior, establishing communities known as Maroon villages and maintaining their African cultural traditions.

In the early 20th century, St. Lucia saw a rise in banana production, which became the island’s main export. This led to an increase in immigration from other Caribbean islands, as well as from India and China, to work on the banana plantations.

In the 1950s, the island experienced a surge in nationalist movements and demands for independence from British rule. In 1958, St. Lucia joined the short-lived West Indies Federation, which aimed to unite several British Caribbean colonies. However, the federation collapsed in 1962, and St. Lucia continued its push for independence.

On February 22, 1979, St. Lucia finally gained independence from Britain and became a sovereign nation within the Commonwealth. The island’s first prime minister, Sir John Compton, led the country for most of the 1980s and 1990s, overseeing economic development and modernization efforts.

Today, St. Lucia is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and iconic Pitons mountains. The island’s economy has diversified beyond agriculture, with tourism, offshore banking, and manufacturing now playing significant roles.

Despite its small size, St. Lucia has a rich and complex history, shaped by colonialism, slavery, and a struggle for independence. The island continues to preserve its unique cultural heritage while embracing modernization and development.

Transportation on Anse La Raye, St. Lucia

Getting to Anse La Raye, St. Lucia and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa: Not required for UK citizens and most other nationalities for stays of up to 6 weeks.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from St. Lucia is required.
  • Travel Authorization: No pre-arrival authorization is needed for most visitors, but travelers may need to complete an entry form or health declaration depending on the latest regulations.

Departure Tax

A departure tax of US$30 is typically charged at the airport for international departures.

Driving

  • License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 3 months.
  • Permit: A temporary driving permit is required, obtainable at the airport or local police stations.
  • Driving Side: Left-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Generally good, with paved roads in urban areas and some unpaved roads in rural regions.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 25-35 mph (40-56 km/h) in urban areas, and 45-55 mph (72-88 km/h) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be mindful of all traffic signals, pedestrians, and local driving customs. Watch out for wildlife and motorbikes, particularly in rural areas.

Local Transportation

1. Public buses: St. Lucia has a reliable and affordable public bus system that covers most major towns and tourist spots. The buses are usually colorful and easy to spot, and they operate between 6:00 am to 9:00 pm.

2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in St. Lucia and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. They are a convenient mode of transportation for shorter distances or for exploring off-the-beaten-path areas.

3. Water taxis: For those staying near the coast, water taxis are a unique and scenic way to get around. They can take you to popular beach destinations or remote coves and offer a different perspective of the island.

4. Rental cars: Renting a car is a great way to explore St. Lucia at your own pace. There are several car rental companies available on the island, and you can choose from a variety of vehicles, including SUVs, jeeps, and compact cars.

5. Minibuses: Minibuses are a popular mode of transportation for locals and tourists alike. They operate throughout the island and are a more affordable option than taxis. However, they can get crowded and may not be the most comfortable option.

6. Helicopter transfers: For a luxurious and unforgettable experience, consider taking a helicopter transfer to your desired destination in St. Lucia. It is a great option for those staying at remote resorts or for visiting neighboring islands.

7. Walking: St. Lucia is a small island, and many attractions and destinations are within walking distance. This is a great way to explore and get a closer look at the local culture and scenery. Just be sure to stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes.

Know Before You Go...® - Anse La Raye, St. Lucia Travel Tips

Before making their way to Anse La Raye, St. Lucia , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Anse La Raye, St. Lucia even more relaxing.

Capital: Castries
Population: 2021Approximately 10,000.
Size: 1Small
Electric Current: 240
Time: Timezone: AST, 2025-04-30 11:30:01
(GMT Offset: -4 hours, DST: No)
Official Language: The official language spoken in Anse La Raye is English, while the secondary language is Saint Lucian Creole French. This reflects the island's colonial history and cultural diversity. English is widely used in government, education, and business, while S
Currency: Anse La Raye is a small coastal village located on the western coast of Saint Lucia. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and vibrant culture. As a tourist destination, Anse La Raye offers a variety of currency and payment options to cater to the needs of its visitors. The official currency of Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD), which is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate of 2.7 XCD to 1 USD. This means that most businesses in Anse La Raye accept both US dollars and Eastern Caribbean dollars. However, it is recommended to exchange currency beforehand as the exchange rates at local vendors may not be as competitive. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Anse La Raye, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is always advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and street vendors. MasterCard and Visa are the most commonly accepted cards, but it is always best to check
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in Anse La Raye, a small fishing village located on the western coast of Saint Lucia, are a customary part of the local culture and economy. In general, tipping is not expected or required in Anse La Raye, but it is always appreciated and considered a generous gesture. Tipping is most commonly seen in the tourism sector, particularly in restaurants, bars, and hotels. Many establishments in Anse La Raye include a service charge in their bill, which is usually around 10% of the total. This service charge is often shared among the staff, so leaving an additional tip is not necessary. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is always a kind gesture to leave a small tip for the waiter or bartender. In terms of taxes, the standard sales tax rate in Saint Lucia is 15%, which is applied to most goods and services. This includes hotel accommodations, meals at restaurants, and purchases at shops. Some hotels and resorts in Anse La Raye may also charge a room tax,
Dress Code: The dress code in Anse La Raye is casual and relaxed, with a focus on comfortable and breathable clothing appropriate for the tropical climate.
Topography: Anse La Raye is a hilly coastal village located on the western coast of Saint Lucia, known for its stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and lush green landscape.
Telephone: Country code: 1 Area code: 758

Anse La Raye, St. Lucia Weddings and Honeymoons

In St. Lucia, the process of getting married is relatively simple and popular among couples seeking a destination wedding. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the Civil Registry Office in Castries. Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in St. Lucia (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs approximately XCD 200 (about US$75). Additional fees for the officiant can range from XCD 300 to XCD 700 (approximately US$110 to US$260). It is recommended to apply for the license at least 24-48 hours before the intended wedding date.