Car Travel in St. Lucia

To rent a car you must be at least 25 years old and provide a valid driver's license and a credit card. If you don't have an international driver's license, you must buy a temporary St. Lucian driving permit at car-rental firms, the immigration office at either airport, or the Gros Islet police station. The permit costs $20 (EC$54) and is valid for three months. Car-rental rates are usually quoted in U.S. dollars and range from $50 to $80 per day or $300 to $425 per week, depending on the car. Car-rental agencies generally include free pickup at your hotel and unlimited mileage.

St. Lucia has about 500 mi (800 km) of roads, but only about half (281 mi [450 km]) are paved. All towns and villages are connected to major routes. The highways on both coasts are winding and mountainous—particularly on parts of the West Coast Road. Driving in St. Lucia is on the left, British style. Observe speed limits, particularly the 30-mph (50-kph) limit within Castries. Respect no-parking zones; police issue tickets, and penalties start at about $15 (EC$40). And wear your seat belts—it's the law!

Car Rentals

Avis (Vide Bouteille, Castries. 758/452-2700. www.avisstlucia.com). Cool Breeze Jeep/Car Rental (Soufrière. 758/459-7729). Courtesy Car Rental (Bois d'Orange, Gros Islet. 758/452-8140. www.courtesycarrentals.com). Hertz (Castries. 758/452-0679. www.sunfuntoursltd.com).