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Marigot Bay, Saint Lucia - Things to Do in Marigot Bay

Marigot Bay

Marigot Bay, Saint Lucia - Complete Travel Guide

Marigot Bay is a impressively beautiful natural harbor on the western coast of Saint Lucia, often described as one of the most picturesque bays in the Caribbean. This pristine crescent-shaped inlet is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest that cascades down steep hillsides to meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating a postcard-perfect setting that has served as the backdrop for numerous Hollywood films including the original 'Doctor Dolittle' starring Rex Harrison. Today, Marigot Bay easyly blends natural splendor with luxury amenities, featuring an exclusive marina, upscale resorts, and waterfront dining establishments. The bay offers visitors a tranquil escape from the busier tourist areas of Saint Lucia, with opportunities for sailing, snorkeling, and simply soaking in the serene tropical atmosphere. Whether you're seeking adventure on the water or relaxation in great destination, Marigot Bay provides an intimate Caribbean experience surrounded by some of the island's most impressive scenery.

Top Marigot Bay

Sunset Sailing and Catamaran Tours

Experience the magic of Marigot Bay aboard a luxury catamaran or sailing yacht as the sun sets over the Caribbean Sea. These tours typically include stops for swimming and snorkeling in pristine waters, with many offering complimentary rum punches and local appetizers while you watch the sky transform into brilliant shades of orange and pink.

Booking Tip: Book sunset sails 2-3 days in advance, especially during peak season (December-April). Prices range from $75-120 per person for group tours, while private charters start around $800. Look for operators offering small group experiences (maximum 12 people) for a more intimate setting.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Explore the calm, protected waters of Marigot Bay by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, gliding past luxury yachts and into hidden mangrove channels. The bay's sheltered location makes it perfect for beginners, while the surrounding coastline offers plenty of secluded coves and beaches to discover at your own pace.

Booking Tip: Rental rates are typically $25-35 per hour for kayaks and $30-40 for SUPs. Many resorts offer complimentary equipment to guests. For guided tours ($60-80 per person), book with operators who provide safety briefings and know the best spots for wildlife viewing.

Snorkeling and Diving Excursions

Discover busy coral reefs and tropical marine life in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Marigot Bay. The nearby reefs are home to colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and sea turtles, while more advanced divers can explore deeper sites along Saint Lucia's volcanic coastline with dramatic underwater topography.

Booking Tip: Half-day snorkeling trips cost $65-90 per person including equipment and refreshments. For diving, expect to pay $90-120 for two-tank dives. Choose PADI-certified operators with good safety records and small group sizes (6-8 people maximum) for the best experience.

Rainforest Zip-lining and Nature Tours

Soar through the lush tropical canopy on thrilling zip-line adventures that offer spectacular aerial views of Marigot Bay and the surrounding rainforest. These eco-tours often combine multiple zip-lines with nature walks, allowing you to spot exotic birds, tropical flowers, and learn about Saint Lucia's diverse ecosystem from knowledgeable local guides.

Booking Tip: Tours typically cost $80-110 per person and last 3-4 hours including transportation. Book with operators that have weight restrictions clearly posted (usually 80-250 lbs) and provide quality safety equipment. Morning tours offer better weather and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Local Rum Distillery and Cultural Tours

spend time in Saint Lucian culture with visits to local rum distilleries where you can learn about traditional production methods and sample premium aged rums. These cultural experiences often include stops at local markets, historic sites, and opportunities to interact with friendly locals while learning about the island's rich Creole heritage.

Booking Tip: Half-day cultural tours range from $70-95 per person including transportation and tastings. Look for small group tours (maximum 12 people) that include authentic local lunch experiences. Book tours that visit family-owned distilleries rather than large commercial operations for more personal interactions.

Getting There

Marigot Bay is located approximately 30 minutes south of Saint Lucia's capital, Castries, and about 45 minutes from Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in the south. Most visitors arrive by rental car, taxi, or pre-arranged resort transfers along the scenic west coast highway. The final approach to the bay involves a winding downhill road with spectacular views, though parking can be limited during peak times. Water taxis and private boat transfers are also available from other coastal areas of Saint Lucia, offering a more scenic arrival experience.

Getting Around

Getting around Marigot Bay is best done on foot, as the main resort and dining areas are compact and walkable along the waterfront. A free ferry service operates regularly between the two sides of the bay, connecting the main resort area with additional restaurants and beaches. For exploring beyond the immediate bay area, rental cars are recommended, though local taxis are readily available for day trips to nearby attractions. Water taxis can transport you to secluded beaches and neighboring bays, while many visitors enjoy exploring the calm waters by kayak or small boat rental.

Where to Stay

Marigot Bay Resort & Marina
Discovery at Marigot Bay
Oasis Marigot
Villa rentals on the hillsides
Nearby Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Boutique guesthouses in the village

Food & Dining

Marigot Bay offers an excellent selection of waterfront dining experiences ranging from casual beachside grills to upscale restaurants with impressive bay views. The marina area features several popular establishments serving fresh seafood, Caribbean specialties, and international cuisine, with many offering al fresco dining right on the water. Local favorites include grilled mahi-mahi, lobster thermidor, and traditional Saint Lucian dishes like callaloo soup and green fig and saltfish. Don't miss trying the local rum punches and fresh tropical fruit juices. For a more real feel, venture to small local eateries in the village where you can sample home-style Creole cooking at very reasonable prices.

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)

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Marigot Bay is during the dry season from December to April, when you'll enjoy sunny skies, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall - though this is also the peak tourist season with higher prices and larger crowds. The shoulder seasons of May-June and November offer excellent weather with fewer visitors and better value for accommodations. While the wet season (July-October) brings more frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity, mornings are often beautiful and rates are significantly lower. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with September and October being the highest risk months, though Saint Lucia's southern location means it's less frequently affected than islands further north.

Insider Tips

Take the free water taxi across the bay during sunset for incredible photo opportunities and access to Doolittle's Restaurant
Visit the small Male near the ferry dock early in the morning for the freshest tropical fruits and authentic Creole spices
Book dinner reservations in advance during peak season, as the limited number of restaurants can fill up quickly with yacht guests and resort visitors

Activities in Marigot Bay