Canaries, Saint Lucia Travel Guide

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.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring 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.

Explore Canaries: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Canaries

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Best Attractions

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Soufrière Drive In Volcano

Explore the unique geothermal wonders of the Soufrière Drive In Volcano in St. Lucia, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

4.6

Rodney Bay Marina

Explore the picturesque Rodney Bay Marina in St. Lucia, a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and vibrant Caribbean culture.

4.5

Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths

Discover the vibrant flora and tranquil mineral baths at Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, a true gem of St. Lucia's natural wonders.

4.6

Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and thrilling cricket matches at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in Gros Islet, St. Lucia – a true sports lover's paradise.

4.4

Best landmarks in Canaries

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Soufrière Drive In Volcano

Explore the natural wonders of Soufrière Drive In Volcano, a stunning showcase of geothermal activity and therapeutic mud baths in St. Lucia.

4.6

Saint Lucia

Explore Saint Lucia: A Caribbean paradise of lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

4.7

Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths

Experience the enchanting beauty of Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths in St. Lucia, where nature and relaxation meet in a stunning tropical paradise.

4.6

St Lucia Sulphur Springs

Experience the rejuvenating power of nature at St Lucia Sulphur Springs, the Caribbean's only drive-in volcano with therapeutic hot springs.

4.6

Best restaurants in Canaries

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The Coal Pot Restaurant

Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Coal Pot Restaurant in Castries, where fresh local ingredients meet breathtaking views.

4.5

The Beacon Restaurant

Discover culinary delights at The Beacon Restaurant in St. Lucia with breathtaking ocean views and local flavors.

4.5

Orlando's Restaurant & Bar

Experience authentic Creole flavors at Orlando's Restaurant & Bar in Soufriere - a culinary journey through St. Lucia's vibrant heritage.

4.3

Fedo's

Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at Fedo's in Palmiste, St. Lucia – where every meal tells a story.

4.6

Best bars in Canaries

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Valelse Sports Bar & Soup Kitchen

Experience the vibrant culture of St. Lucia at Valelse Sports Bar & Soup Kitchen, where delicious local cuisine meets refreshing drinks in a friendly atmosphere.

4.4

Horizon Cocktails View Point Bar & Grill

Experience the perfect blend of stunning views and delectable grilled cuisine at Horizon Cocktails View Point Bar & Grill in St. Lucia.

4.4

Cool Joint

Discover the vibrant flavors of St. Lucia at Cool Joint, the perfect grill and bar for delicious meals and refreshing drinks in a tropical paradise.

4.3

Bliss Nightlife

Experience the lively atmosphere at Bliss Nightlife, a top grill and bar in St. Lucia, perfect for delicious food and vibrant entertainment.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Canaries

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Ultra Lounge

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Ultra Lounge in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia—your go-to destination for great food, drinks, and entertainment.

4.2

Bliss Nightlife

Discover the dynamic nightlife at Bliss Nightlife in Canaries, St. Lucia, where great food meets an electrifying atmosphere.

4.4

Darcie's Disco Club

Unleash your inner dancer at Darcie's Disco Club, a vibrant nightlife destination in Castries, St. Lucia, where music and fun collide.

3.4

Jump Up Street Party

Dive into the cultural heart of St. Lucia at the Jump Up Street Party, where music, dance, and food unite for an unforgettable night.

4.1

Best shops in Canaries

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Castries Market

Dive into the heart of St. Lucia at Castries Market, where vibrant local culture, fresh produce, and artisanal crafts await your discovery.

4.1

Baywalk Shopping Mall

Explore the dynamic Baywalk Shopping Mall in Rodney Bay, the ultimate shopping and dining destination in St. Lucia, blending local charm with global brands.

4.2

Blue Coral Mall Ltd

Experience the heart of Castries at Blue Coral Mall, a vibrant shopping center with diverse stores and delicious dining options.

3.9

La Place Carénage

Discover La Place Carénage in Castries: A vibrant shopping mall where local crafts meet international brands, set against a stunning waterfront backdrop.

4.2

Explore Canaries on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Canaries, mapped for you.

Canaries Essentials

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

When is the best time to visit Canaries?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Canaries

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Canaries. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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)]

History of Canaries

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.