Rodney Bay is where most first-time St Lucia travellers stay. Reduit Beach is the calm turquoise strip that anchors the area. Pigeon Island National Landmark closes off the north end. Gros Islet town, with its Friday-night jump-up, is a 10-minute walk from the Sandals Grande peninsula. Rodney Bay Marina sits inland with the restaurants and the yacht club.
The five Rodney Bay resorts we recommend
- Sandals Grande St Lucian. On the peninsula between Rodney Bay and Pigeon Island. The strongest of the three Sandals St Lucia for first-time Sandals honeymooners. Overwater bungalows since 2016.
- Bay Gardens Beach Resort. Independent mid-market on Reduit Beach, family-friendly, $250 to $500 per room per night.
- Royal by Rex Resorts. Independent, adults-only, on the beach, dining plan optional.
- Coco Palm. Boutique in Rodney Bay village, walk to marina restaurants, $180 to $320 per night.
- Harbor Club Marriott Autograph. Rodney Bay Marina, adults-preferred, sailing-forward.
Getting there
George F.L. Charles airport (SLU) is 15 minutes south. Hewanorra International (UVF) is 90 minutes plus Castries traffic (bank on two hours in practice, and pre-book the transfer). Most Rodney Bay resorts include return airport transfer on premium tiers.