Canaries: A Hidden Gem in Saint Lucia
Discover Canaries in Saint Lucia, a tranquil fishing village offering authentic Caribbean experiences, stunning natural beauty, and warm local hospitality.
Nestled on the western coast of the picturesque island of Saint Lucia, Canaries is a quaint fishing village that offers an authentic Caribbean experience. Far removed from the hustle and bustle of the more commercial tourist spots, Canaries provides a serene and intimate atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and a closer connection with local culture. The village itself is a charming mosaic of vibrant houses, narrow streets, and friendly locals who are always willing to share stories about their homeland. As you stroll through the village, you will come across quaint shops, local eateries, and the stunning Canaries Bay, where colorful fishing boats bob gently on the azure waters. The bay is perfect for snorkeling and swimming, offering crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. One of the highlights of Canaries is its pristine natural beauty. Surrounded by lush hills and verdant forests, there are numerous hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the island's rugged landscape. The nearby Anse La Liberté beach is a secluded paradise where you can unwind on the soft sands and enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves. Visiting Canaries is not just about relaxation, but also about immersing yourself in the local way of life. Engage with the community by participating in traditional activities such as fishing and crafts. The village comes alive during local festivals, where you can witness vibrant parades, local music, and delicious cuisine that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Saint Lucia.
Local tips in Canaries
- Try out the local cuisine at small village eateries for an authentic taste of Saint Lucian flavors.
- Bring comfortable shoes for hiking to explore the lush trails around the village.
- Snorkeling gear is a must to enjoy the vibrant marine life in Canaries Bay.
- Visit during a local festival to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Canaries.
- Engage with the friendly locals to learn more about the village's history and traditions.
Canaries: A Hidden Gem in Saint Lucia
Nestled on the western coast of the picturesque island of Saint Lucia, Canaries is a quaint fishing village that offers an authentic Caribbean experience. Far removed from the hustle and bustle of the more commercial tourist spots, Canaries provides a serene and intimate atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and a closer connection with local culture. The village itself is a charming mosaic of vibrant houses, narrow streets, and friendly locals who are always willing to share stories about their homeland. As you stroll through the village, you will come across quaint shops, local eateries, and the stunning Canaries Bay, where colorful fishing boats bob gently on the azure waters. The bay is perfect for snorkeling and swimming, offering crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. One of the highlights of Canaries is its pristine natural beauty. Surrounded by lush hills and verdant forests, there are numerous hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the island's rugged landscape. The nearby Anse La Liberté beach is a secluded paradise where you can unwind on the soft sands and enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves. Visiting Canaries is not just about relaxation, but also about immersing yourself in the local way of life. Engage with the community by participating in traditional activities such as fishing and crafts. The village comes alive during local festivals, where you can witness vibrant parades, local music, and delicious cuisine that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Saint Lucia.
When is the best time to go to Canaries?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Saint Lucia
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Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths
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St Lucia Sulphur Springs
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Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park
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Piton Falls
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Gros Piton Nature Trail
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Project Chocolat
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Rainforest Adventures St. Lucia
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Fort Rodney
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Marigot Bay
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Eudovic's Art Studio
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Anse Mamin Beach
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Anse Chastanet Beach
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Samfi Gardens
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Unmissable attractions to see
Rodney Bay Marina
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Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths
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Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.
Immerse yourself in the Caribbean cricket culture at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, a vibrant venue in Gros Islet, St. Lucia, offering thrilling matches and unforgettable experiences.
Toraille Waterfall Villas & ATV
Explore Toraille Waterfall Villas & ATV in Soufrière, St. Lucia – where adventure meets paradise amidst stunning natural beauty.
Saint Lucia National Trust
Experience the enchanting history and natural beauty of Saint Lucia National Trust, where cultural heritage meets breathtaking landscapes.
Têt Paul Nature Trail
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Têt Paul Nature Trail in St. Lucia, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Ultra Lounge
Discover the energetic nightlife of Ultra Lounge, a premier destination in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia, blending bar, restaurant, and hookah lounge experiences.
The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Cathedral)
Explore the breathtaking Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a stunning Gothic cathedral in Castries, St. Lucia, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park
Explore the historical and agricultural wonders of Morne Coubaril Estate, St. Lucia's enchanting tourist attraction for adventure and culture.
Treetop Adventure Park
Discover the thrill of zip-lining and canopy tours at Treetop Adventure Park, a must-visit destination for adventure seekers in St. Lucia.
Piton Falls
Experience the serene beauty of Piton Falls in St. Lucia, where cascading waterfalls and lush landscapes create a tranquil oasis for every traveler.
Gros Piton Nature Trail
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gros Piton Nature Trail, a premier hiking destination in St. Lucia with stunning views and rich biodiversity.
Rainforest Adventure
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St. Lucia Distillers Ltd
Experience the rich tradition of rum-making at St. Lucia Distillers Ltd, where every sip tells a story of heritage and craftsmanship.
Fort Rodney
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Essential places to dine
The Coal Pot Restaurant
Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Coal Pot Restaurant in Castries, where fresh local ingredients meet breathtaking views.
The Beacon Restaurant
Discover culinary delights at The Beacon Restaurant in St. Lucia with breathtaking ocean views and local flavors.
Orlando's Restaurant & Bar
Experience authentic Creole flavors at Orlando's Restaurant & Bar in Soufriere - a culinary journey through St. Lucia's vibrant heritage.
Fedo's
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at Fedo's in Palmiste, St. Lucia – where every meal tells a story.
Petit Peak Restaurant
Experience exquisite Caribbean flavors at Petit Peak Restaurant, where stunning views meet delightful cuisine in Soufriere, St. Lucia.
Island Chef
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at Island Chef in Palmiste, St. Lucia - where every dish tells a story.
The Mango Tree
Experience the best of Caribbean cuisine amidst stunning views at The Mango Tree in Soufriere, St. Lucia.
Treetop Restaurant and Bar
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite Caribbean cuisine at Treetop Restaurant and Bar in St. Lucia's lush landscape.
Chef Robby's Caribbean Pirates
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Chef Robby's Caribbean Pirates in Castries - where every meal is a vibrant culinary adventure.
Horizon Cocktails View Point Bar & Grill
Discover exquisite dining with stunning views at Horizon Cocktails View Point Bar & Grill in Anse la Verdure, St. Lucia.
Martha's Tables
Experience authentic Caribbean dining at Martha's Tables in Belle Vue, where fresh local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Seashell Beach Restaurant
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine at Seashell Beach Restaurant on Hummingbird Beach – where every meal is a seaside celebration.
Club Whispers | Restaurant & Bar
Discover the vibrant flavors of St. Lucia at Club Whispers – your go-to restaurant for delicious Caribbean cuisine in Palmiste.
Sea View Creole Restaurant
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The Dream Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blue Coral Mall Ltd
Experience the heart of Castries at Blue Coral Mall, a vibrant shopping center with diverse stores and delicious dining options.
Gablewoods Shopping Mall
Explore the vibrant Gablewoods Shopping Mall in St. Lucia for a unique shopping and dining experience amidst local culture and modern amenities.
Duty Free Pointe Seraphine Shopping Complex
Experience the ultimate shopping adventure at Duty Free Pointe Seraphine in St. Lucia - luxury goods at duty-free prices with stunning Caribbean views.
Cacoa Sainte Lucie
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Excellent Stores
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Sea Island Cotton Shop
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Hobie
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Colombian Emeralds International Royalton St.lucia
Experience luxury shopping at Colombian Emeralds International, where exquisite emeralds meet the vibrant culture of St. Lucia.
Cost U Less Boutique
Discover vibrant Caribbean fashion at Cost U Less Boutique in Vieux Fort, your go-to destination for unique clothing and accessories.
Scott's Underground Boutique
Explore unique fashion and local designs at Scott's Underground Boutique in Castries, a must-visit destination for every tourist in St. Lucia.
Valcyn Ltd
Discover trendy and stylish baby clothing at Valcyn Ltd in Castries, the perfect shopping destination for parents and tourists alike.
The People's Shop/ Brian's Bakery
Discover local flavors at The People's Shop in Canaries, St. Lucia - your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and baked delights.
One Stop Shop
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Irie Blue
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The Lady Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Valelse Sports Bar & Soup Kitchen
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Horizon Cocktails View Point Bar & Grill
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Cool Joint
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Bliss Nightlife
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Cheaperz Bar
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Acquinas's Bar
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Genesis Entertainment Bar And Grill
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Sunset View Snack bar And Grill
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Alison' Bar
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Harmony's Bar
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Tasty Bay
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Soaps Corner Bar
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Lucy's Bar&grill
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Reeno's Bar
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Back Lane Bar
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Local Phrases
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- HelloBonjour
[Bon-zhoor] - GoodbyeAurevoir
[Ohr-vwah] - YesWi
[Wee] - NoNon
[Noh] - Please/You're welcomeSi ou plé
[See oo pleh] - Thank youMèsi
[Meh-see] - Excuse me/SorryExkizé mwen
[Ex-kee-zay mwen] - How are you?Kijan ou ye?
[Kee-jahn oo yay] - Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
[Byen. Eh oo?] - Do you speak English?Ou pale angle?
[Oo pah-lay ahn-glay] - I don't understandMwen pa konprann
[Mwen pah kohn-prahn]
- HelloBonjour
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni a, silvouplè
[Mwen tah ren-mehn way meh-nee ah, see-voo-play] - I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
[Mwen pah mahn-jay vee-ahn] - Cheers!Santé!
[San-tay] - I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, silvouplè
[Mwen tah ren-mehn pay-yay, see-voo-play]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni a, silvouplè
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- Help!Edé mwen!
[Ay-day mwen] - Go away!Alé!
[Ah-lay] - Call the Police!Rele Polis!
[Ray-lay Poh-lees] - Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
[Ray-lay yohn dok-tay] - I'm lostMwen pedi
[Mwen peh-dee] - I'm illMwen malad
[Mwen mah-lahd]
- Help!Edé mwen!
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- I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
[Mwen tah ren-mehn ash-tay...] - I'm just lookingMwen jis gade
[Mwen zjee gah-day] - How much is it?Konbyen sa koute?
[Kohn-byen sah koot] - That's too expensiveSa twò chè
[Sah twah sheh] - Can you lower the price?Ou ka redwi pri sa a?
[Oo kah reh-dwee pree sah ah]
- I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
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- What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
[Kee lay lee yay] - It's one o'clockLi fè yon zè
[Lee feh yohn zay] - Half past (10)Demi (10)
[Deh-mee (dix)] - MorningMaten
[Mah-ten] - AfternoonApremidi
[Ah-pray-mee-dee] - EveningAswè
[Ah-sway] - YesterdayYè
[Yay] - TodayJodi a
[Zho-dee ah] - TomorrowDemen
[Deh-mehn] - 1Yon
[Yohn] - 2De
[Day] - 3Twaz
[Twa] - 4Kat
[Kaht] - 5Senk
[Sank] - 6Sis
[Sees] - 7Sèt
[Set] - 8Wit
[Weet] - 9Nèf
[Nef] - 10Dis
[Dees]
- What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
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- Where's a/the...?Ki koté...?
[Kee koh-tay] - What's the address?Ki kote ladrès la?
[Kee koh-tay lah-dress lah] - Can you show me (on the map)?Ou ka montre mwen (sou kat)?
[Oo kah mohn-tray mwen (soo kaht)] - When's the next (bus)?Ki lè prwòchen (bis)?
[Kee lay pro-shen (bees)] - A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
[Yohn tee-kay (poo)]
- Where's a/the...?Ki koté...?
History of Canaries
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The area now known as Canaries was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples. These indigenous groups lived off the land and sea, utilizing the abundant natural resources available to them. They were skilled farmers, fishermen, and craftsmen, leaving behind a legacy that can still be glimpsed in the local culture and traditions.
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The 18th century saw the arrival of European powers to Saint Lucia, with the French establishing settlements in the area. Canaries, known then as 'Au Cannelle,' became a strategic point due to its accessible harbor and rich natural resources. The French influence is still evident today, particularly in the local architecture and place names.
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During the colonial period, Canaries became a significant site for sugar plantations. The fertile land and favorable climate made it ideal for growing sugarcane, leading to the establishment of several large estates. Enslaved Africans were brought to work on these plantations, and their descendants form a significant part of the local population today. The remnants of these plantations can still be found in the area, providing a poignant reminder of this period in history.
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In the 20th century, Canaries played a role in Saint Lucia's movement towards independence. The village became a hub for political activity and social change, with local leaders advocating for greater autonomy and rights for the people. This spirit of activism and community solidarity continues to define Canaries today.
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Canaries is a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage. The village is known for its traditional music, dance, and festivals, which reflect a blend of African, French, and indigenous influences. Events like the annual La Rose and La Marguerite flower festivals celebrate the village's unique cultural identity and are a testament to its enduring traditions.
Canaries Essentials
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Canaries is located on the western coast of Saint Lucia. The nearest international airport is Hewanorra International Airport in Vieux Fort, approximately 50 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Canaries, which usually takes about 1.5 hours. George F. L. Charles Airport in Castries is another option, located about 30 kilometers away, with a travel time of around 45 minutes by road.
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Canaries is a small village, and many attractions are within walking distance. For traveling to nearby areas, local buses known as 'minibuses' are a budget-friendly option. Taxis are also available and can be arranged through your accommodation. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the island at your own pace.
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The official currency of Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments. ATMs are available in larger towns, and it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to Canaries.
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Canaries is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Canaries itself does not have high-crime areas targeting tourists, always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
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In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Canaries has a local police station and a health center for minor medical issues. For more serious medical emergencies, it is advisable to go to the nearest hospital in Soufrière or Castries. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is highly recommended.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good day'. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.
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To experience Canaries like a local, visit the Saturday market where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with the residents, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the village's history and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to try fresh seafood at one of the local eateries. For a unique experience, join in community events or festivals to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Trending Landmark in Canaries
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Soufrière Drive In Volcano
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Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths
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St Lucia Sulphur Springs
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Gros Piton Nature Trail
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Project Chocolat
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Rainforest Adventures St. Lucia
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Fort Rodney
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Marigot Bay
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Eudovic's Art Studio
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Anse Mamin Beach
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Anse Chastanet Beach
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Samfi Gardens
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