Marigot Bay, 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 Marigot Bay, St. Lucia?

  • Marigot Bay is the most photographed bay in the Caribbean.
  • It is home to the largest marina in the Eastern Caribbean.
  • The bay is a popular destination for yachts and cruise ships.
  • The bay is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest.
  • The bay has been featured in several movies and television shows.

Marigot Bay, 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 Marigot Bay, St. Lucia

Getting to Marigot Bay, 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...® - Marigot Bay, St. Lucia Travel Tips

Before making their way to Marigot Bay, 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 Marigot Bay, St. Lucia even more relaxing.

Capital: St. Martin
Population: 2019Unknown
Size: 2018Unknown
Electric Current: 240
Time: Timezone: AST, 2025-04-30 08:59:54
(GMT Offset: -4 hours, DST: No)
Official Language: The official language spoken in Marigot Bay is English, as it is part of the Caribbean country Saint Lucia. However, due to its history as a French and British colony, French and Creole are also commonly spoken as secondary languages by the local populati
Currency: Marigot Bay is a popular tourist destination located in the Caribbean island of St. Lucia. As such, it offers a variety of currency and payment options to cater to the needs of its diverse visitors. Here are the main ways you can pay for your expenses in Marigot Bay: 1. Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) - The official currency of St. Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, which is used in Marigot Bay. It is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate of 2.70 XCD to 1 USD. This means that US dollars are widely accepted and can be used interchangeably with the local currency. 2. Credit and Debit Cards - Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Marigot Bay accept major credit and debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. However, it is advisable to inform your bank beforehand about your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions. 3. Cash - While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it is always a good idea to carry some cash with you
Tipping and Taxes: Marigot Bay is a popular tourist destination in the Caribbean, known for its beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and stunning views. While visiting this picturesque bay, it is important to understand the local customs and practices regarding tipping and taxes. Tipping is not mandatory in Marigot Bay, but it is appreciated for good service. It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, especially if the service was exceptional. Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, in which case, it is not necessary to leave an additional tip. At hotels and resorts, it is common to tip the housekeeping staff and bellboys a few dollars per day, and the concierge and spa staff a larger amount depending on the level of service. When it comes to taxes, visitors should be aware of the Value Added Tax (VAT) of 10%. This tax is added to most goods and services, including meals, accommodations, and transportation. In addition to VAT, there is also a departure tax of approximatel
Dress Code: The dress code in Marigot Bay is casual and relaxed, with a focus on resort wear and comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather.
Topography: Marigot Bay is a picturesque, natural harbor in Saint Lucia with steep hillsides surrounding a peaceful cove and sandy beach.
Telephone: +1 758

Marigot Bay, 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.