Volcano and beach only

[Malpaso]

From searching all the tour information, it seems that each one offers activities that we don't necessarily want to do. We'd like to visit the volcano, then spend the rest of the day on a beach.

 

Should we just do this on our own, and if so, what is the best way to get between the boat/volcano/beach/boat?

 

What beach(es) would be best for this?

[dz63]

From searching all the tour information, it seems that each one offers activities that we don't necessarily want to do. We'd like to visit the volcano, then spend the rest of the day on a beach.

 

Should we just do this on our own, and if so, what is the best way to get between the boat/volcano/beach/boat?

 

What beach(es) would be best for this?

 

The fastest way for you to get to Soufriere (where the Sulphur Springs volcano is located) is by boat. Nearby is Jalousie Beach--a white-sand beach nestled between the two Pitons. If you would like to spend time on Jalousie Beach and see the volcano, I suggest you try Spencer Ambrose Tours. He offers a Jalousie Beach and Soufriere Highlights excursion that takes you down the coast to Soufriere and Jalousie Beach by speedboat (otherwise it is approx. 1 1/2 hour drive by van from Castries to Soufriere). The Soufriere Highlights excursion includes Diamond Botanical Gardens and Falls as well as Sulphur Springs. If you do not wish to spend time at the Diamond Falls you could let Spencer know and he likely could skip that part of the excursion and take you just to the volcano. This excursion allows 2-3 hours at the beach and includes lunch and drinks. Taking an excursion like this, would be cheaper than hiring a taxi and doing the trek on your own. We have used Spencer Ambrose Tours in the past and have always had a great time with him.

 

If you are interested to see our video of Sulphur Springs, click on the Youtube link below:

[kestrel]

If you cannot do both, I will suggest the beach. The volcano is actually not that interesting, especially if you have been to Yellowstone.

[kimmyg726]

I'm glad you posted this because I was thinking the same thing. I also want to check out the mud baths as well. We have been looking into Spencer Ambrose but haven't made a final decision.

[Fletcher]

I'm thinking of renting a car immediately after our ship docks and doing our own thing. Just want to see the scenery and think we may drive south from Castries to Jalousie, then around the southern tip of the island, up the east side and then across to Castries. Any flaws/problems in this idea and can you just drive up to the beach at Jalousie or must you go through the resort?

[reedprincess]

I'm thinking of renting a car immediately after our ship docks and doing our own thing. Just want to see the scenery and think we may drive south from Castries to Jalousie, then around the southern tip of the island, up the east side and then across to Castries. Any flaws/problems in this idea and can you just drive up to the beach at Jalousie or must you go through the resort?

No real flaws with the plna. Just keep in mind - the roadways and sights are not well marked (street names, etc. and signage for attractions are very poor) Also - it take longer than you think to drive to places. It is a minimum 1 hour from the Port to Jalousie. Yes, you have to driver through the resort - there is no other direct road access to the beach there. You could stop in Soufriere near the pier and take a water taxi back and forth - lovely way to see the Pitons from the water and no hassle with security or parking and shuttle at the resort.

It is a minimum - absolute minimum of 2 hours from Jalousie around the southern end and back up the east coast to the port. With any stops for drinks or lunch, etc. add in more time - and keep in mind that there will be a little bit of traffic, especially as you come into the city. Leave yourself plenty of time.

While it is a small island - it is very mountainous and it takes longer to get places than you think. That said, plenty of people do rent cars for the day and have a wonderful time.

Enjoy!