When it comes to planning an unforgettable honeymoon or family vacation, Jamaica and St. Lucia should be at the top of people’s must-see destinations.
Both of these Caribbean island paradises have so many experiences revolving around the sun, sand, and sea that you may never want to leave.
While they are both islands that many travelers long for, the islands couldn’t be more different. So, which one should you choose for your next vacation?
We will compare St. Lucia vs Jamaica to help you make the right decision based on your needs. We will look at factors such as their culture, beaches, resorts, and even cost and safety. Ready to plan your next trip? Let’s go!
St. Lucia Vs Jamaica: Overview
While Jamaica is quite a bit bigger than St. Lucia, there are similarities between the two islands. The most obvious is that they are both located in the Caribbean, so they boast fantastic weather, white-sand beaches, and turquoise waters.
You will also find that both islands have lush mountains scattered throughout, making them great to explore and find jungle waterfalls. St. Lucia, in particular, is known for its iconic Piton mountain range, and if you are into hiking, then this is a great choice.
Next, you will notice that both islands speak primarily English with their own local dialects. This is beneficial as you can mingle with the locals and easily navigate the islands.
Culturally speaking, Jamaica and St. Lucia have vibrant cultures. Visitors can completely immerse themselves in the music, art, and local cuisine.
Since Jamaica has a higher population and a bigger landmass, so you will find more hotels, resorts, and restaurants. With that, you may be able to find better deals on accommodations and food.
However, like other places with higher populations, the crime rate will also be higher. St. Lucia’s low crime rate may make less experienced travelers more comfortable.
In terms of beaches, you will find that both islands have enough to go around. However, since Jamaica is over 4,200 square miles compared to St. Lucia’s 230 square miles, you will have more options to choose from if you decide to stay in Jamaica.
Now that we have given an overview of both islands, let’s look at each factor to help you narrow down your selection.
St. Lucia Vs Jamaica: Resorts
Since they are both island paradises, you won’t have a hard time finding resorts in either destination. Again, since Jamaica is twenty times bigger than St. Lucia, you will have more options to choose from.
St. Lucia and Jamaica both have popular Sandals resorts. These luxurious all-inclusive resorts are perfect for honeymooners or even family vacationers looking to take the stress out of planning a vacation.
In Jamaica, you will find the most popular areas to stay in are Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios. You will find many all-inclusive resorts, boutique hotels, and overwater bungalows here.
Since St. Lucia is smaller, tourists mainly stick to the island’s North or South during their stay. The North of the island is perfect for family vacationers and those who want a nightlife scene. The South of the island is geared more towards romantic getaways, and relaxing honeymoon stays.
As a whole, St. Lucia is quieter and more geared toward upscale tourism. With that, you may have a harder time finding budget stays.
St. Lucia Vs Jamaica: Beaches
Beaches are one of the main reasons tourists flock to St. Lucia and Jamaica. This is especially true if you live in a region with below-freezing winters.
You will be happy to know that both islands have plenty of beaches to choose from. Jamaica is going to have more options, and visitors can spend their whole week jumping from beach to beach.
You will find both white and black-sand beaches in Jamaica. Seven Mile Beach is one of the most popular beaches, also known as Negril Beach. With a long stretch of white sand, turquoise water, and endless activities, it won’t take you long to see why it’s a must-visit.
Other beaches to add to your list are Doctors Cave, Frenchman’s Cove, James Bond, and Bloody Bay. Each of these beaches has its unique atmosphere and scenery, so it’s worth exploring them all.
On the other hand, St. Lucia is more volcanic based, so you will see darker sand beaches. One of the most popular is Sugar beach. Here, you can sit back and relax while staring at the Pitons. Be sure to check out Anse Chastanet in the north cove, as it also has stunning views of the jungle mountains.
St. Lucia Vs Jamaica: Cost
Cost plays a big factor in the decision-making process for many people planning a vacation. In general, you will find that Jamaica will be significantly cheaper than St. Lucia.
This includes flights, accommodations, food, and drinks. St. Lucia is a remote island, making traveling to it more difficult and, as a result, more expensive. Jamaica is a lot easier for US travelers to get to and has several international flights.
In terms of resort stays, it will depend on the type of vacation you are looking for. Jamaica has several all-inclusive resort options, which is a great way to save money. With an all-inclusive resort, you don’t need to worry about paying for your food and drinks, which can add up quickly.
Even if you plan to wander off the resort, you will find a wider range of food and drink options in Jamaica vs St. Lucia. Not only is St. Lucia more geared towards upscale tourism, but Jamiaca’s size gives tourists more options when it comes to dining and bar hopping.
If cost isn’t a concern, then take the chance to go to St Lucia!
St. Lucia Vs Jamaica: Safety
Safety is a viable concern when traveling to a new place. St. Lucia is a safe place to visit between the two islands as it has a low crime rate. With that, solo female travelers can add St. Lucia to their bucket lists without any concern.
On the other hand, Jamaica has a high crime rate, which has been increasing over the last few years. That’s not to say you should cancel your travel plans but refrain from wandering into unknown places.
While there are great things to explore in Kingston, it is one of, if not the most dangerous places to visit in Jamaica. Always be aware of your belongings and avoid walking alone at night.
One of the best ways to see areas like Kingston is to hire a local guide. Not only does a local guide where to go and where not to go, but they can shed light on the history and culture of the areas you visit.
As long as you have common sense, you will have an enjoyable time in both countries, but St Lucia is safer.
St. Lucia Vs Jamaica: Best Time Visit
Last but not least, when should you visit these Caribbean island paradises? Since they aren’t too far from each other in terms of flight time, the best time to visit is from December to April. This is when the weather is at its best, and you will have nothing but sunshine seven days a week.
The downfall of visiting during this time is the high tourist season. More than likely, flights and accommodations will be more expensive. Plus, the beaches and top attractions will be crowded with people.
If you want to save money and avoid the tourist rush, visit during late April, May, October, and November. The weather may have a little rain, but it will still be nice enough to enjoy the beaches and scenery.
June through September is considered hurricane season, and rain is abundant. However, there is a low chance you will experience a hurricane, but the weather will be hot and humid.
The great advantage to St Lucia is hurricanes are rare since it is so far south, so you can visit year-round without having to worry about that.
St. Lucia Vs Jamaica: Final Verdict
Honestly, you should try to visit both of these destinations at some point. St. Lucia and Jamaica are beautiful islands with stunning beaches, vibrant cultures, and endless activities.
However, you will find that Jamaica will be more cost-friendly, have more to do, and have better flight options. But if you want a destination with peace and quiet with a jaw-dropping landscape, then St. Lucia is the best place for you.
Even though this is a website dedicated to Jamaica, if you have the budget we recommend trying St Lucia as well.
Still not sure if Jamaica is the right destination for your next vacation? These articles, Jamaica vs Dominican Republic: Which Is Better?, Jamaica vs Trinidad: Which Is Better?, and Barbados vs Jamaica: Which Caribbean Island Is Better? may help with your decision.