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Laborie, Saint Lucia - Things to Do in Laborie

Laborie

Laborie, Saint Lucia - Complete Travel Guide

Laborie is a charming fishing village located on the southwestern coast of Saint Lucia, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Caribbean life away from the bustling tourist centers. This peaceful coastal community is located between rolling hills and pristine beaches, where colorful fishing boats dot the shoreline and local fishermen still practice age-old traditions. The village serves as a gateway to some of Saint Lucia's most spectacular natural attractions, including dramatic coastal drives and secluded beaches. What sets Laborie apart is its genuine local atmosphere and impressive natural beauty, from the historic Balenbouche Estate to the impressive views along the southern coastline. The area offers excellent opportunities for cultural immersion, with friendly locals eager to share their heritage, traditional fishing practices, and island stories. Visitors can enjoy a slower pace of life while still having access to adventure activities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and authentic Caribbean experiences.

Top Laborie

Balenbouche Estate Exploration

Explore this historic 18th-century sugar plantation estate featuring beautiful gardens, archaeological sites, and traditional Caribbean architecture. The estate offers guided tours through its grounds, showcasing the island's colonial history and natural beauty with walking trails leading to secluded beaches.

Booking Tip: Tours cost around $15-25 USD per person and are best booked directly with the estate. Visit during morning hours (9-11 AM) for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.

Traditional Fishing Village Experience

spend time in local culture by visiting the colorful fishing harbor and interacting with local fishermen who still use traditional methods. Watch the daily catch being brought in and learn about the community's maritime heritage and fishing techniques passed down through generations.

Booking Tip: Best experienced early morning (6-8 AM) when fishing boats return with their catch. No formal booking required, but bringing small tips ($5-10 USD) for fishermen willing to share their stories is appreciated.

Coastal Hiking and Beach Hopping

Discover pristine beaches and dramatic coastal scenery along hiking trails that connect Laborie to nearby secluded coves. The trails offer spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and opportunities to find your own private beach away from crowds.

Booking Tip: Self-guided activity requiring sturdy hiking shoes and plenty of water. Early morning starts (7-9 AM) are recommended to avoid midday heat. Local guides available for $30-50 USD for half-day excursions.

Sunset Viewing at Laborie Bay

Experience impressive sunsets over the Caribbean Sea from various vantage points around Laborie Bay. The bay's western orientation provides perfect sunset views, often accompanied by local musicians and the peaceful sounds of the fishing village winding down for the day.

Booking Tip: Free activity best enjoyed between 5:30-6:30 PM year-round. Bring insect repellent and consider purchasing drinks from local vendors. Some restaurants offer sunset dinner packages for $25-40 USD per person.

Local Market and Artisan Visits

Explore local markets and visit artisan workshops where craftspeople create traditional Caribbean items including pottery, woodwork, and textiles. This authentic cultural experience provides insight into local daily life and opportunities to purchase unique handmade souvenirs directly from the creators.

Booking Tip: Markets are most active on Friday and Saturday mornings. Bring cash (Eastern Caribbean dollars preferred) and expect to negotiate prices. Budget $20-100 USD depending on purchases.

Getting There

Laborie is located approximately 45 minutes south of Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) via the main coastal road. Rental cars provide the most flexibility for exploring the area, with several international companies available at the airport. Taxi transfers from the airport cost around $60-80 USD, while local buses (route taxis) offer a more economical option at $5-10 USD per person but may require transfers. The scenic drive along the southern coast offers beautiful ocean views and passes through several small villages, making the journey part of the experience.

Getting Around

Getting around Laborie and the surrounding area is best accomplished with a rental car, as public transportation is limited and attractions are spread out along the coast. Local route taxis operate along the main coastal road but run infrequently and may not reach all destinations. Walking is pleasant within the village center, which is compact and pedestrian-friendly. For day trips to nearby attractions, consider hiring a local taxi driver for the day (approximately $150-200 USD) or joining organized tours that include transportation.

Where to Stay

Laborie Village Center
Balenbouche Estate Area
Coastal Road Properties
Hilltop Villas with Ocean Views
Beachfront Accommodations
Rural Plantation Settings

Food & Dining

Laborie's dining scene focuses on fresh seafood and traditional Caribbean cuisine, with several local restaurants serving catch-of-the-day prepared in authentic Creole style. The village features small family-run establishments where you can enjoy grilled fish, curry dishes, and local specialties like green fig and saltfish. Many restaurants source ingredients locally, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs from nearby farms. For a unique experience, some guesthouses and estates offer traditional Caribbean cooking classes and farm-to-table dining experiences. Expect to pay $15-30 USD for main dishes at local restaurants, with fresh fish being particularly excellent and affordable.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Saint Lucia

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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The Coal Pot Restaurant

4.5 /5
(583 reviews) 3

Naked Fisherman Restaurant

4.5 /5
(573 reviews) 3

Big Chef Steakhouse

4.6 /5
(532 reviews) 3

KeyLargo Italian

4.6 /5
(428 reviews) 2
Montenegro meal_delivery meal_takeaway

Treetop Restaurant & Bar

4.8 /5
(282 reviews)

Jacques Waterfront Dining

4.5 /5
(283 reviews)

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Laborie is during the dry season from December to April, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are comfortable with cooling trade winds. This period offers the most reliable weather for outdoor activities and beach time, though it's also the busiest tourist season. The shoulder months of May and November can offer good weather with fewer crowds and better accommodation rates. While the wet season (June-November) brings more rainfall and is hurricane season, morning and late afternoon are often clear, and the landscape is lush and green. Temperatures remain warm year-round (75-85°F), making any time suitable for those seeking authentic cultural experiences over perfect beach weather.

Insider Tips

Visit the local rum shop in the evening to experience authentic Caribbean social culture and meet friendly locals who are happy to share stories about village life and island history.
Bring cash in small denominations as many local businesses don't accept cards, and having Eastern Caribbean dollars will help you get better prices at markets and with local vendors.
Time your visit to coincide with local festivals or church events to experience traditional music, dancing, and community celebrations that showcase authentic Saint Lucian culture.

Activities in Laborie