Anse Chastanet Beach & Snorkeling – St. Lucia
Anse Chastanet is one of St. Lucia’s most beautiful and unique beaches, known for its dark volcanic sand, calm water, and excellent snorkeling right from the shore. The beach sits at the base of lush green hills near Soufrière, offering a peaceful, scenic setting that feels tucked away from the busier parts of the island. Cruise visitors love Anse Chastanet for its easy access to coral reefs, relaxed atmosphere, and postcard‑worthy views. It’s one of the best places in St. Lucia to enjoy both a beach day and underwater exploring without needing a boat tour.
Fun Facts & History About Anse Chastanet
Anse Chastanet is located within a protected marine reserve, which helps preserve its coral reefs and vibrant sea life. The area has long been known for its excellent snorkeling and diving, attracting underwater photographers and marine enthusiasts from around the world. The beach sits below the Anse Chastanet Resort, but all shorelines in St. Lucia are public, so visitors are welcome to enjoy the sand and water.
Where Anse Chastanet Is Located
Anse Chastanet is located near Soufrière on St. Lucia’s southwestern coast, just north of the Pitons and close to several major attractions.
Why Anse Chastanet Is Worth Visiting
The beach offers a rare combination of calm water, volcanic sand, and easy access to coral reefs. Snorkelers can see colorful fish, coral formations, and sometimes even sea turtles just a short swim from the shore. The scenery is stunning, with lush hillsides and clear water creating a peaceful, tropical setting. It’s a great choice for cruise visitors who want a relaxing beach day with built‑in adventure.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Expect a calm, scenic beach with dark volcanic sand and clear water. Snorkeling areas are marked and easy to reach, and the marine life is abundant thanks to the protected reef. The beach has a quiet, upscale feel, and visitors can rent chairs or enjoy food and drinks from the nearby resort. The road to the beach is steep and bumpy, but the views and snorkeling make it worth the trip.
How to Get to Anse Chastanet From the Cruise Port
Anse Chastanet is about 60–90 minutes from Port Castries by taxi or guided tour. Some visitors choose a boat excursion that includes snorkeling at the beach.
Best Time to Visit Anse Chastanet
Morning and early afternoon offer the best visibility for snorkeling. The beach stays calm throughout the day.
Tips for Visiting Anse Chastanet
- Bring your own snorkel gear if you prefer, though rentals are available.
- Wear water shoes if you’re sensitive to volcanic sand or pebbles.
- Arrive early for the best beach spots.
- Combine with nearby Soufrière attractions for a full day.
Common Complaints About Anse Chastanet
- The access road is steep and rough.
- Beach chairs can be pricey due to the resort setting.
- The dark sand can get hot in the midday sun.
- Snorkeling areas may feel crowded on busy cruise days.
Final Thoughts
Anse Chastanet is one of St. Lucia’s best beaches for snorkeling, offering calm water, beautiful scenery, and easy access to vibrant coral reefs. It’s a perfect choice for cruise visitors who want both relaxation and adventure in one stop.
If you’re planning your trip to St. Lucia, be sure to check out the full Top Things to Do in St. Lucia guide.
