Best Time To Visit: Peak season is December to mid-April. May offers good weather and coincides with the jazz festival.

Key Cruising Areas: The Windward Islands are one of the best sailing destinations in the world. Sailing south from St Lucia you can follow the archipelago of St Vincent, where islets sprinkled across the glittering waters are full of secluded bays to explore.

Don’t Miss: The tropical forests of the island are full of hiking trails and scenic walks, and exploring the tropical landscapes by foot is a must. For an easy walk with incredible views, follow the Tet Paul Nature Trail to look out over the Pitons. For a unique hike, follow the Soufriére trail that takes you into the crater of the volcano.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: Rodney Bay is an ideal stop for a superyacht charter, with boutique shopping and excellent restaurants nearby. Book a table at Jacques for an elegant, waterfront location with beautiful gardens and sample the French and Caribbean creations of Chef Jacques. Treat yourself to his famous coco rum crème Brulee.

Best Local Dish: The National Dish of St Lucia is green fig and saltfish. For a relaxed atmosphere, great local food, and incredible views of felt-green mountains try The Beacon Restaurant in Soufriére.

Local Culture: The cuisine, music, and heritage of St Lucia are alive in every aspect of island life. To learn about the culture, visit the Folk Museum, or for those with an interest in history explore the ruins of La Toc and Mourne batteries, with beautiful views back over the coves. For a feel of present-day culture, sail around to Gros Islet on a Friday night to experience a true Caribbean street party.

Best Beach: On the north of the Island, the white sands of Pigeon Island stretch for miles, dotted with thatched umbrellas. Perfect for sunbathing there is also a museum, restaurants, and a rum bar beneath the fort.

IYC recommends: Arranging a private tour of the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens. Award-winning tropical gardens create a magical walk through unusual flora, across wooden bridges, and past waterfalls and natural hot springs. Finish a leisurely afternoon in the gardens’ spa, treat your skin to a dip in the mud baths then relax in a private mineral bath.