Family Fun Awaits in Saint Lucia

Does this sound nice?

Cool drink in your hand, toes in the warm sand, fun in the sun. That scenario appeals to many people. The thought of lying on the beach listening to the waves gently crash, as the smell of salt water drifts towards you, really does put you in a peaceful state. While vacations can be about culture, history and activities, sometimes we all need to unwind, slow down, and relax – at least for part of the trip.

The Coconut Bay Resort & Spa in the Windward Islands of the Caribbean is the perfect place to be introduced to the beautiful, mountainous island of St. Lucia. With a lush-green rainforest in the center of the island to the many beaches and small fishing villages on its perimeter, St. Lucia is definitely a treat and one of those places where visitors may find “fun in the sun.”

Coconut Bay spent millions of dollars to create a fun environment for the entire family. They love kids and they welcome families in their wing called “Splash.” And the “Harmony” wing is for adults only. Half of the visitors are from America and the other half from the United Kingdom – it’s a wonderful mix of English-speaking travelers – many on their honeymoons and family vacations.

Just add water!

The resort has a quiet area and pool for the adults near the spa. However, the main pool area is the hot spot with a swim-up bar, two pools, two giant waterslides and a lazy river.

“Cocoland” is an area designed to constructively entertain the little ones. Supervised activities including games, art & crafts, and a smaller water park area create a fun, safe zone. There are even kid-sized bathrooms and a room to take a nap. Parents are now free to spend some much needed quality time alone at the spa, walking on the beach, or maybe on the tennis courts.

But what can visitors do outside of the resort?

One thrilling activity everyone jumps in the air for is going on a canopy tour; or sometimes called zip-lining. Harnessed to a network of cables high above the forest floor, thrill seekers zip along from tree to tree, landing on a series of platforms. Participants receive a fantastic view of the forest and the natural beauty around them for a couple minutes and then they’re off, flying toward another platform.

Another interesting adventure is the Diamond Falls Sulphur Springs. This is the only drive-in volcano in the world. Guests may bathe themselves in the waters, walk through the botanical gardens, or just watch the volcanic gases rising out of cracks in the earth.

Water-lovers and boating enthusiasts should go to the nearby city of Soufriere, hire a boat, and go cruising up the coastline. It’s a great way to see the island and the all the tiny villages along the way. Stop in Castries Harbour for lunch and go snorkeling in Marigot Bay. Bring a swimsuit and towel; the boat should have all the snorkel equipment.

Final tips …

All of these side-trips and more can be arranged by the Coconut Bay Resort’s concierge desk. Remember your sunscreen and flip-flops or water shoes (I burned my bare feet on the hot cement walkways). The Coconut Bay is an all-inclusive resort and only five minutes from the airport. Fun in the sun, adventure and spa treatments make for a great island getaway on St. Lucia.

IF YOU GO: 

Coconut Bay Resort & Spa

Vieux Fort, St. Lucia

www.cbayresort.com 

Canopy Tours

www.adventuretoursstlucia.com 

Additional information

www.stlucia.org

Michael Dwyer is a freelance writer and travel columnist. Michael writes about happenings in the Rochester area, travels across Michigan and destinations around the world. Contact him at [email protected]