Choiseul, Saint Lucia Travel Guide

Discover Choiseul, Saint Lucia's hidden gem, where nature, culture, and history intertwine to offer an authentic Caribbean experience away from the crowds.

Choiseul, nestled on the southwestern coast of Saint Lucia, is a quaint and picturesque village that offers an authentic Caribbean experience. Known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, this charming town is a haven for nature lovers, history buffs, and art enthusiasts alike. The village is surrounded by lush green hills and is famous for its breathtaking views of the Pitons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is perfect for hiking, with trails that lead you through tropical forests and up to vantage points that offer panoramic vistas of the island and the Caribbean Sea. For those who prefer the ocean, Choiseul's beaches are less crowded than other parts of the island, providing a serene and tranquil environment for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Choiseul is also a cultural hotspot, renowned for its vibrant arts and crafts scene. Local artisans produce beautiful handmade items such as pottery, wood carvings, and woven baskets, which make for unique and meaningful souvenirs. The town's history is equally captivating, with several historical sites and buildings that date back to the colonial era, offering a glimpse into the island's past. Food lovers will delight in the local cuisine, which features fresh seafood and traditional Creole dishes. The village's small but cozy restaurants and food stalls serve up delicious meals that are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Whether you're exploring the natural beauty of the surroundings, immersing yourself in the local culture, or simply relaxing by the sea, Choiseul promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit the Choiseul Arts and Crafts Centre for unique handmade souvenirs.
Hike the Gros Piton Nature Trail for stunning views and a rewarding challenge.
Try the local Creole cuisine at small village restaurants for an authentic taste of Saint Lucia.
Explore nearby historical sites like the Balembouche Estate and learn about the island's colonial past.
Take a boat tour to enjoy the clear waters and marine life of the Caribbean Sea.

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

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

Best attractions in Choiseul

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Soufrière Drive In Volcano

Explore the breathtaking Soufrière Drive In Volcano in St. Lucia, a unique geological wonder, showcasing volcanic activity and stunning landscapes.

4.6

Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths

Explore the stunning Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths, a tropical paradise in St. Lucia filled with exotic plants and rejuvenating mineral waters.

4.6

Toraille Waterfall Villas & ATV

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Toraille Waterfall in Soufrière, a natural wonder showcasing St. Lucia's vibrant landscapes and serene atmosphere.

4.4

Têt Paul Nature Trail

Explore Têt Paul Nature Trail in St. Lucia, an enchanting hiking experience through lush landscapes and breathtaking views of the Caribbean.

4.8

Best landmarks in Choiseul

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Soufrière Drive In Volcano

Explore the unique geothermal wonders of Soufrière Drive In Volcano, where bubbling mud pools and steaming vents showcase nature's incredible power.

4.6

Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths

Explore the stunning Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths, a serene paradise in St. Lucia offering lush landscapes and rejuvenating mineral baths.

4.6

St Lucia Sulphur Springs

Explore the rejuvenating thermal waters of St. Lucia's Sulphur Springs, where natural beauty meets volcanic wonder.

4.6

Tet Paul Nature Trail

Explore the Tet Paul Nature Trail in St. Lucia, where stunning views, rich biodiversity, and unforgettable adventure await every traveler.

4.8

Best restaurants in Choiseul

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

The Coal Pot Restaurant

Experience authentic Caribbean seafood at The Coal Pot Restaurant in Castries, where stunning views meet exceptional culinary craftsmanship.

4.5

The Beacon Restaurant

Experience authentic St. Lucian cuisine at The Beacon Restaurant amidst breathtaking views in Palmiste.

4.5

Matthew's Rooftop Restaurant

Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Matthew's Rooftop Restaurant in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia.

4.2

Island Breeze Bar & Grill

Discover tropical flavors at Island Breeze Bar & Grill on Anse Des Sables beach—where Caribbean cuisine meets breathtaking views.

4.0

Best bars in Choiseul

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Cool Joint

Discover vibrant Caribbean flavors at Cool Joint, the ultimate grill and bar experience in picturesque Choiseul, St. Lucia.

4.3

Zabriko Bar N Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Saint Lucia at Zabriko Bar N Grill, where delicious grilled dishes meet a lively atmosphere.

4.6

Shackaville

Discover Shackaville in St. Lucia, where authentic Caribbean grilling meets breathtaking views and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.1

The bamboo Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Bamboo Bar, a tropical sanctuary in Belle Vue, St. Lucia, perfect for relaxation and socializing with locals.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Choiseul

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Ultra Lounge

Discover the lively Ultra Lounge in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia, where delicious drinks and vibrant nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.2

Bliss Nightlife

Discover the pulse of St. Lucia at Bliss Nightlife, where great food, drinks, and entertainment create unforgettable evenings.

4.4

Riverstone Country Club

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of St. Lucia at Riverstone Country Club, where every night is a celebration filled with music, dancing, and unforgettable memories.

4.1

Jump Up Street Party

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of St. Lucia's Jump Up Street Party, where music, dance, and local culture come together in a vibrant celebration.

4.1

Best shops in Choiseul

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Gablewoods Mall

Discover the vibrant shopping and dining experience at Gablewoods Mall in St. Lucia, a must-visit for every traveler seeking local culture.

4.1

Massy Stores - Choiseul

Explore the vibrant flavors of St. Lucia at Massy Stores - Choiseul, your one-stop destination for local and international groceries.

4.2

Choiseul Plaza

Explore Choiseul Plaza, a lively shopping mall in St. Lucia, where local charm meets international flair for a unique shopping experience.

4.4

Kell’s Supermarket

Discover local flavors and unique souvenirs at Kell's Supermarket in Mongouge Choiseul, your go-to variety store in St. Lucia.

4.6

Explore Choiseul on the Map

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

Choiseul Essentials

Choiseul is located in the southwestern part of Saint Lucia. The nearest international airport is Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in Vieux Fort, approximately 18 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Choiseul, which usually takes about 30 minutes by road. Alternatively, travelers can arrive at the George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) in Castries and then take a taxi or bus, although this route will take longer, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by road.
Choiseul is a small village, and many attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around. Public buses, also known as minibuses, operate routes connecting Choiseul to other parts of Saint Lucia, including Vieux Fort and Soufrière. Renting a car is another option for those who wish to explore the area at their own pace, but be mindful that road conditions can vary.
The official currency of Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Choiseul, but it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash when in larger towns like Vieux Fort or Castries to avoid any inconvenience.
Choiseul is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Choiseul does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Choiseul. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the village where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The nearest hospital is St. Jude Hospital in Vieux Fort, which is approximately 30 minutes away by car.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches. 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 warm smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Choiseul like a local, visit the local arts and crafts centers where you can purchase handmade souvenirs such as pottery, baskets, and wood carvings. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the village's history and culture. Don't miss the Choiseul Heritage Route, a self-guided tour that takes you through historical sites and scenic landscapes. Additionally, visiting the La Tille Waterfall and Botanical Garden is a must for nature enthusiasts.

When is the best time to visit Choiseul?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Choiseul

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 Choiseul. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh reh-vwar]
- YesWi
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
  [seel voo pleh/dee ryehn]
- Thank youMerci
  [mer-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
  [ex-kew-zay mwa/dey-zoh-lay]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byehn/eh voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwar luh men-yoo, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh seh-coor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay vooz ahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uh meh-deh-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ah-shet-ay]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhew-stuh]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vez voo bay-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kell ur ay eel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay oon ur]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [dees ur ay duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swah]
- YesterdayHier
  [yehr]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor dewee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kat]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [set]
- 8Huit
  [wheat]
- 9Neuf
  [nuhf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est le/la...?
  [oo ay luh/lah]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kell ay la-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vez voo muh mon-tray (soor lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kawn ay luh pro-shan (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Choiseul

Before the arrival of Europeans, the area now known as Choiseul was inhabited by the indigenous Arawak and Carib peoples. These early settlers lived in harmony with nature, cultivating crops and fishing in the abundant waters surrounding Saint Lucia. Archaeological sites in Choiseul, such as the Balembouche Estate, provide evidence of their sophisticated pottery and tools.
In the 17th century, the French established Choiseul as an important settlement due to its fertile lands. Named after the French Minister of War, Étienne François, Duke of Choiseul, the area became a hub for sugar cane plantations. The labor-intensive sugar industry relied heavily on enslaved Africans, whose descendants form a significant part of Choiseul’s population today.
In 1795, Choiseul was the site of the Battle of Rabot, a significant conflict during the Brigand Wars. The Brigands, consisting of formerly enslaved Africans and French Republicans, resisted British attempts to reassert control over Saint Lucia. The battle ended in a strategic victory for the Brigands, showcasing the spirit of resistance that characterizes Choiseul's history.
After the abolition of slavery in 1834, Choiseul transitioned from a plantation economy to a more diversified agricultural base. The free communities established during this period laid the foundation for Choiseul’s rich cultural heritage. Events such as La Rose and La Marguerite festivals, celebrating Saint Lucia’s African and European heritage, are deeply rooted in Choiseul’s post-emancipation history.
Choiseul is renowned for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, particularly its pottery and basket weaving. The community’s artisans have preserved traditional techniques passed down through generations, creating unique works that are celebrated island-wide. The Choiseul Craft Market is a testament to the area’s enduring commitment to artistic expression and cultural preservation.
Today, Choiseul is a blend of historical richness and natural beauty. It remains a largely rural community with a strong sense of tradition and heritage. Modern Choiseul continues to celebrate its past while embracing sustainable tourism and development, making it a cherished destination for those seeking an authentic Saint Lucian experience.