Hiking Pigeon Island National Park In Saint Lucia
Are you hoping to visit the stunning Caribbean island of Saint Lucia soon? Do you like to be active on vacation? Saint Lucia is a sought after destination for adventure travelers and one of the highlights is hiking Gros Piton. However, if you’re looking for an easier hike, and one steeped in history, you should definitely visit Pigeon Island. And if you’re staying at one of the three Sandals Resorts, especially Grande St. Lucian, this hike is literally right next door!
Pigeon Island Overview & History
Pigeon Island, one of Saint Lucia’s National Parks was a true island until 1971 when a causeway was built connecting it to the mainland. Encompassing 44 acres and with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea and Rodney Bay, the sea breezes and vistas are worth the trip along. The history that has been preserved and memorialized here by the Saint Lucia National Trust is quite amazing. I was here to experience the hiking trails leading to overlooks and to learn more about the reference that is often used to describe Saint Lucia’s history as “seven times British and seven times French”.
Saint Lucia’s is a sought after destination for those of us with wanderlust, but the island has a brutal history steeped in tales of battle between the British and French a total of 14 times. In 1778, British Admiral George Rodney identified the importance of Pigeon Island as a strategic viewpoint to warn the British of incoming ships. Fort Rodney was established and the military fortifications that were instrumental during the war periods are still standing. During my hike, I also learned of the United States connection with Pigeon Island as it was used as a naval communications signal station during World War II. Every time I travel, the world feels smaller and the connections we all share are revealed.
Location & How To Get Here
Pigeon Island is in Gros Inlet, in the northern region of Saint Lucia. If staying at Sandals Grand St. Lucian, the entrance to the park is a five minute walk. If you’re on the beach at the Grande Saint Lucian facing Rodney Bay, Pigeon Island is to your right. If you’re staying at Sandals Halcyon or Sandals La Toc, expect a 20 or 35 minute drive respectfully and remember to utilize the complimentary inter resort shuttle.
Hiking Experience
When you enter the park, you’ll notice a map highlighting trails to the two peaks that you can hike to: Fort Rodney and Signal Peak. Fort Rodney has stunning views overlooking Rodney Bay and ruins from the old fort, along with canons with the British Royal Army insignia still intact. Signal Peak is the taller (steeper) of the two peaks has incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and Martinique in the distance. After I had hiked to the top of both peaks, I visited the small museum on the island with war time artifacts, replicas of the island infrastructure and historical details of the war leaders and freedom fighters. From the time I left the property of the Grande St. Lucian, I was back to the resort in just under an hour.
What To Pack
- Cash for entrance fee ($10 when I visited)
- Small backpack
- Water
- Sturdy shoes
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Snorkel gear. I didn’t experience this, but there is a decent spot to snorkel just off the island.
Are you interested in visiting Saint Lucia? I can help you with all the details including setting up your transfers so your vacation is stress free. Reach out to me at [email protected] or fill out a quote request here. I am make your stay in Saint Lucia that much more relaxing (and adventurous)!
