Pigeon Island National Park Gros Islet St. Lucia
Explore historic fort ruins and enjoy stunning views from this islet connected by a causeway, featuring two distinct beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Pigeon Island National Park Gros Islet St. Lucia
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic fort ruins and enjoy stunning views from this islet connected by a causeway, featuring two distinct beaches.
"Magnificent views from the top lookout and a great place for a quick hike or a day at the beach."
Bring Cash for Entry
:moneybag: Non-residents pay $10 USD cash for park entry. Be prepared as cards may not be accepted.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Trails can be challenging, especially after rain. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the ruins.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fort Rodney Ruins
Summit of Pigeon Island
Explore historic military ruins with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean.
Two Distinct Beaches
North and South sides of the island
Relax on a Caribbean Sea beach or brave the rougher Atlantic Ocean side, known for its beautiful shells.
Panoramic Vistas
Various lookout points
Capture stunning photos of the coastline, Rodney Bay, and the iconic Pitons from elevated viewpoints.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Entry & Fees
Best Time for Views & Hikes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Entry
:moneybag: Non-residents pay $10 USD cash for park entry. Be prepared as cards may not be accepted.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Trails can be challenging, especially after rain. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the ruins.
Check the Weather
:cloud: For the best views from Fort Rodney, visit on a clear day. Rain can make trails difficult.
Explore the Secret Chamber
:key: Discover a hidden chamber within the top lookout of Fort Rodney by descending the stairs.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Entry
:moneybag: Non-residents pay $10 USD cash for park entry. Be prepared as cards may not be accepted.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Trails can be challenging, especially after rain. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the ruins.
Check the Weather
:cloud: For the best views from Fort Rodney, visit on a clear day. Rain can make trails difficult.
Explore the Secret Chamber
:key: Discover a hidden chamber within the top lookout of Fort Rodney by descending the stairs.
Beach Chair Fees
:chair: Note that beach chairs may have an additional rental fee beyond park admission.
Shell Hunting
:shell: The Atlantic Ocean side is renowned for its abundant and beautiful shells.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pigeon Island National Park is praised for its historical significance, stunning panoramic views from Fort Rodney, and the unique experience of having two distinct beaches. Visitors appreciate the opportunity for a moderate hike and exploring the ruins. However, some find the additional charges for beach chairs after the entrance fee to be a drawback, and the snorkeling conditions are not ideal.
"Worth the $10. Two beaches; one is Caribbean Sea and the other is Atlantic Ocean. BEST SHELLS on entire island on the Atlantic side. Be careful; the tide is rough and the rocks are vast. Beautiful adventures in the ruins. There is a secret chamber inside the top look out; go down the stairs!"
Lola Garrison
"Great area for a quick hike if you’re staying nearby. Or spend the day and enjoy the private beaches."
Calvin Coleman
"This was a little bit underwhelming and a bit of a money grab. Firstly the trails are very difficult to navigate if it's raining, so take your time. The views at the top are probably better when it's clear. The view of the harbor is nice. Plenty of parking next to the public beach area.
The thing that rubbed me wrong was the entrance fee allowed us access to the park, but did not let us use the chaise chairs on the beach. You needed to pay another fee to use the chairs...very strange. Instead, why not just add a little more to the entry fee and not charge for chairs. Seemed very silly and the guy that told us was rude about it.
I mean it's a chair and there is 50 of them and not a single person is using them. It just seemed a little short sighted and underwhelming. The beach was fine, however the sediment in the harbor makes it very low visibility for snorkeling.
Based on the many places we visited during our trip to St. Lucia this by far was the easiest place we could have skipped."
Matthew Varley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pigeon Island is connected to the mainland by a causeway, making it easily accessible by car or taxi from Rodney Bay. Many visitors staying at nearby resorts like Sandals Grande St. Lucian can walk there. Parking is available next to the public beach area.
Yes, Pigeon Island National Park is located in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia. It's a 44-acre islet that was artificially joined to the mainland in 1972.
While the Pitons are a major landmark in St. Lucia, they are not directly visible from Pigeon Island. The views from Pigeon Island focus more on the coastline, Rodney Bay, and the surrounding waters.
Taxis are readily available and a convenient option for reaching Pigeon Island. Some tours also include transportation to the park. Renting a car offers flexibility if you plan to explore other parts of the island.
Absolutely! Pigeon Island is a great destination for a day trip, especially if you're staying in the northern part of the island. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the fort and beaches.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for non-residents is $10 USD. It's important to note that this fee is typically cash only, so be sure to have the exact amount ready.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, local residents may have different pricing. It's always a good idea to inquire at the entrance if you believe you might qualify for any special rates.
The park is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's recommended to check the official park information or inquire locally for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
Most reviews indicate that the entrance fee for non-residents is cash only. It's best to bring $10 USD in cash to avoid any issues.
No, the park entrance fee does not typically include beach chair rentals. Visitors have reported needing to pay an additional fee for chairs on the beach, which some found to be a drawback.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can hike to Fort Rodney for historical insights and stunning views, relax on the two distinct beaches (Caribbean and Atlantic sides), and explore the park's trails. It's a great spot for history buffs and beach lovers alike.
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate. However, trails can become slippery and difficult to navigate if it's raining. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Fort Rodney offers magnificent 360-degree panoramic views of the coastline, Rodney Bay, and the surrounding waters. It's a prime spot for photography and appreciating the island's beauty.
Snorkeling visibility can be low due to sediment in the harbor area, particularly on the Caribbean side. The Atlantic side is known for rougher tides and rocks, making it less ideal for snorkeling.
Yes, one of the unique aspects of Pigeon Island is that you can see both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from different points on the island.
Yes, Pigeon Island has a rich history and features the ruins of historic forts and structures, offering a glimpse into its past strategic importance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't extensive dining facilities directly within the park, there are restaurants and food stalls located near the public beach area adjacent to the park entrance.
You can find local Caribbean cuisine, including fresh seafood like fish and rice, especially if you visit during Gros Islet's Friday Night Street Party. +1
Bringing your own picnic is a good option, especially if you want to save money or have specific dietary needs. There are no explicit restrictions mentioned against it.
Duke's Place in Gros Islet is a recommended spot for waterfront fish and rice, offering a local experience. Chef Robbie's in Gros Islet is another option, though portions can be small. +1
If you're staying at Sandals Grande St. Lucian, you can easily walk to Pigeon Island. The resort itself offers numerous dining options, or you can explore local eateries in Gros Islet.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Fort Rodney offers incredible panoramic shots. The beaches provide scenic backdrops, and the historic ruins themselves are very photogenic.
While Pigeon Island offers beautiful views, it's not typically highlighted as a prime sunset viewing spot. For sunsets, consider locations facing west along the coast.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views from Fort Rodney. A standard zoom lens is versatile for the ruins and beaches. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant ocean shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone usage to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
Don't miss the view from the highest point of Fort Rodney, the contrast between the two ocean sides, and the textures of the old fort ruins.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water and snacks, as options within the park are limited. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat. The $10 entrance fee is reasonable for a family outing, but be mindful of potential extra costs for beach chairs if you plan to relax for an extended period.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Hikers
Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the trails can be uneven and potentially slippery after rain. Take your time to explore the different sections of the fort and imagine life during its active years. The historical significance combined with the natural beauty makes for a truly enriching experience.
🏖️ Beach Lovers
While the park offers natural beauty, be aware that beach chair rentals might come with an additional fee beyond the park's entrance cost. If you prefer to save on rentals, bring your own beach towels to lay out on the sand. The views from the beaches, with the lush greenery and blue waters, are picturesque.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Hike Through History and Nature
As you ascend, you'll encounter the remnants of the fort, including cannons and barracks, offering a tangible connection to the past. The real reward, however, is the breathtaking panoramic view from the summit. You can see across Rodney Bay, the Caribbean Sea, and on clear days, even catch glimpses of the distant Pitons. This vantage point is a photographer's dream and a perfect spot to appreciate the island's dramatic landscape.
Beyond the historical ruins, Pigeon Island boasts two distinct beaches. One faces the calmer Caribbean Sea, ideal for a relaxing dip, while the other faces the more turbulent Atlantic Ocean. The Atlantic side is known for its abundance of shells, making it a treasure trove for collectors. However, be mindful of the rough tides and rocky terrain on this side.
Navigating the Park and Its Amenities
The park charges a modest entrance fee of $10 USD for non-residents, which is typically payable in cash. While this grants access to the trails and historical sites, it's important to note that beach chair rentals may incur an additional cost. Some visitors have found this separate charge for chairs to be a bit unusual, so factor this into your budget if you plan to lounge on the beach.
When it comes to dining, while there aren't extensive restaurants within the park itself, you'll find food options near the public beach. For a more local experience, the nearby town of Gros Islet, particularly on Friday nights, offers vibrant street food scenes with fresh seafood like grilled fish.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit