12 Incredible Bush and Beach Accommodations in St Lucia

When it comes to unforgettable vacations, St Lucia has it all: stunning beaches, exotic wildlife encounters, and a perfect blend of bush and beach experiences.

One of my favorite places to stay in St Lucia is Lidiko Lodge. With its prime location surrounded by the iSimangaliso National Park, the lodge offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness mesmerizing wildlife encounters. In fact, one host even sent me a photo of hippos and leopards casually strolling through the town! The unique sights you’ll come across on the town’s tarred streets are truly surreal.

St Lucia has quickly become a must-visit destination for travelers on a road trip from Joburg to Durban via Kruger. As a result, numerous B&Bs have popped up all over town, with countless options for dining along Mckenzie Street.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in St Lucia, there are a few things you should consider. First, when it comes to hotels, there are some good options, but nothing really stands out except for Makakatana Bay. The self-catering category is mostly made up of apartments, many of which are run down. Unfortunately, there aren’t many large or beautifully furnished options for those who enjoy cooking.

The town itself is pretty ordinary, so I focused my search on places with a view of the estuary or the park. These west-facing and east-facing options offer some nice scenery.

St Lucia is a popular destination year-round, so the prices for accommodation don’t vary much with the seasons.

Now, let’s talk about the best hotel in town. That would be Elephant Lake Hotel, which is TripAdvisor’s number one choice out of three hotels. Located on the raised shoreline overlooking the estuary, this hotel has a prime spot. The sprawling lawns and beautiful view make it the perfect place to relax with a G&T, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a hippo nearby.

The rooms at Elephant Lake Hotel were recently renovated and they’re in pretty good shape. They come with air conditioning, a TV, and tea/coffee-making facilities. However, they don’t have a bar fridge or Wi-Fi. Keep in mind that there are 56 rooms spread over two floors, so some of them might be a bit of a trek to get to.

This hotel is popular with tour groups, so it can get quite busy. However, the pricing strategy is similar to the many B&Bs in town, so it offers good value for money. Don’t expect luxury or top-notch service, but you can count on a clean and comfortable room, friendly staff, and amenities like a bar with a great sunset view and a decent-sized swimming pool. Plus, it’s within walking distance of the shops and restaurants.

Overall, Elephant Lake Hotel is a solid choice for your stay in St Lucia. It may not be the most luxurious option, but it offers a pleasant and comfortable experience in a great location.

I’ve got a tip for you – if you want a room with a private patio that leads out to the pool, go for a ground-floor room at this place. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Now, let’s talk about the cost. You can stay here for just R665 per person if you’re willing to share a room and enjoy a delicious breakfast. That’s a pretty good deal, if you ask me.

And the winner is…

2. Lidiko Lodge

According to TripAdvisor, this place is ranked number 1 out of 30 Speciality Lodgings. Impressive, right?

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Lidiko Lodge may not have the best view in town, but it’s definitely the top choice when it comes to service and amenities. The tropical gardens are a treat for the eyes, and the rooms are well-equipped and cozy. The staff is professional and goes the extra mile to make your stay memorable.

When you arrive, they’ll greet you with a welcome drink and give you a detailed briefing on all the activities and restaurants in the area. Trust me, it’s even better than what you’ll find at the tourism bureau.

Although they only serve breakfast, you can easily find great restaurants just a short stroll away. The atmosphere here feels more like a lodge than a B&B, and there are plenty of communal seating areas for you to relax and mingle.

There are 16 rooms spread across different levels, all surrounding a beautiful courtyard with a pool and palm trees. It’s a little slice of paradise, I tell you.

The rooms themselves are comfortable and thoughtfully designed. They’ve paid attention to every detail, from the delicious cookies to the filter coffee. The mattress is super comfy, and the shower pressure is excellent. And if you want some fresh air, there’s a private patio where you can sit and relax.

Oh, and here’s a little bonus – you can stock your own minibar if you want, but they also have a good selection of drinks in the honesty bar. How’s that for convenience?

Here’s a tip for choosing your room: all the rooms are pretty much the same, so you don’t have to worry about which one you get!

When it comes to the cost, it’s R800 per person if you’re sharing a room and having breakfast. The price for children ranges from R300 to R500.

Let me tell you about the best self-catering cottages:

Number 3 on the list is the Front Chalet at Sunset Lodge!

If you’re looking for a place to stay, the Front Chalet at Sunset Lodge is highly recommended. It’s ranked number 8 out of 30 speciality lodgings on TripAdvisor!

Take a look at the image of the Front Chalet at Sunset Lodge below:

Hey there! Let me tell you about Sunset Lodge, a super cool place with a stunning view. This cozy property is located on the west side, overlooking the estuary. It has eight cozy log cabins tucked away on both sides of the driveway. But hold your horses because only one of them has an incredible view, and it’s called the Front Chalet.

Front Chalet gives you a jaw-dropping vista of a beautiful part of the estuary. Picture yourself chilling on the deck during sunset, stoking the fire while hippos mosey on the nearby lawn. It’s like a dream come true! You’ll feel incredibly lucky as you watch the stars start to paint the night sky. The decorations might not win any awards, but who cares when you have that kind of view, right?

If you’re not in your cabin, you can hang out in the communal pool area. Trust me, it’s just as amazing! The pool is a decent size, and it’s surrounded by spacious decks where you can relax. And guess what? The view from here is just as magnificent. You can soak in the breathtaking scenery while you enjoy a refreshing swim or cozy up around the fire pit.

Now, let me introduce you to Shelley Klomfass and Richard Cawood – the super friendly owners of Sunset Lodge. They live on the property and go above and beyond to make sure their guests have an unforgettable stay. So, you can rest easy knowing that your time at Sunset Lodge will be filled with warmth and hospitality.

Here’s a tip: If the Front Chalet is already booked, you can choose one of the cabins behind it. They’re close together, but you can still enjoy your days at the pool.
Price: The Front Chalet starts at R1 795 and can sleep 4 people. Other chalets start at R795 and can accommodate two people.
Contact Information: You can reach them at 0355901197 or visit their website at sunsetstlucia.co.za

A special treat

4. Makakatana Bay Lodge

Ranked 1st on TripAdvisor out of 4 speciality lodgings in the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park.

Image by Melanie van Zyl

If you are not on a tight budget, this luxury lodge is the best way to experience the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park. With knowledgeable wildlife guides and exclusive game drives, you’ll have access to roads that regular visitors can’t reach. You can also go on private boat trips. The landscapes are breathtaking, and the lodge itself is worth every penny. The elegantly designed bungalows are privately located and connected by raised walkways. Each bungalow has a private deck, outdoor bathtub, and shower. The Morrison family, who are the fourth-generation custodians of this pristine wilderness, manages the lodge professionally and warmly. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy sundowners in the beautiful pool. The dinners, served around the campfire, are delicious three-course meals. This is a place that will leave a lasting impression on you.

Looking for the perfect room? Let me help you out. The Honeymoon Suite at our beautiful lodge offers the best, unobstructed view of the wetlands. It’s truly breathtaking.

But before you book… let’s talk about the cost. We offer a full board package with exciting activities like game drives and boat safaris, all for just R4 943. If you prefer, you can also opt for the DBB only package, which is R3 884 per person sharing. The choice is yours!

If you have any questions or want to make a reservation, contact us at 0355504189 or visit our website at makakatana.com

Allow me to introduce Serene Estate…

5. Serene Estate – The most exclusive B&B around!

Ranked No. 9 of 33 B&Bs/Inns on TripAdvisor.

And here’s an image of our beautiful Serene Estate.

I just have to tell you about this amazing B&B I stayed at. It’s so unique and different from anything else in the village. The rooms are huge and have a minimalistic design, which I really loved. The best part is that some of the rooms open right up to a stunning pool. It’s a 12-meter-long, 1.8-meter-deep oasis, raised up a bit with decks on both sides. You can relax on the loungers and take in the incredible views. The B&B is surrounded by lush wilderness and borders a park, so the scenery is just stunning.

When I arrived, I was greeted by the most incredible sight. There was a big group of mongooses playing around, while vervet monkeys were munching on fruit that the owners, Hans van de Wijgert and Olga Bilderbeek, leave out for the wildlife. It was like being in paradise! And speaking of wildlife, we regular

Room Tip: If you want the best views and extra space, go for one of the six Parkside Suites. They are huge, with a seating area and extra-long, king-size beds. For more privacy, choose one of the downstairs corner suites.
Cost: The Park Suites cost R1 075 per person sharing, while the Garden Room starts from R975 per person sharing. Breakfast is included, and there is a minimum two-night stay requirement. You can get a 15% discount in May and June, as well as from 1-17 December, if you book directly.
Contact: Call 0723652450 or visit serene-estate.co.za.

Best Bargain

6. Monzi Safaris Tented Camp & Backpackers

Looking for a happening spot in St Lucia? Look no further than Monzi Safaris Tented Camp & Backpackers. This tented encampment is located right in the center of town. It boasts two cool lounge-bar swimming pool areas and open-air, shaded kitchens. While both pools are available to all guests, each room has its own kitchen to use.

Monzi Backpackers offers a comfortable communal area with loungers separated by flowing curtains, as well as a pool table and sofas under shade. The well-equipped kitchens are kept spotless, and guests are not allowed to do any dishes. There are also several braai spots available.

The Tented Camp section of Monzi Safaris has en-suite tents on timber platforms built at different levels. Although the tents are quite close together, the camp has a strict no-noise policy to ensure a peaceful stay. Backpackers can enjoy domed tents on a raised platform, as well as three private rooms and two dorms.

If you’re interested in exploring the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park and Cape Vidal, you can arrange for open safari vehicles to take you there at an additional charge.

Image by Melanie van Zyl

Here’s a great tip for your room choice: If you’re looking for privacy, go for one of the three double rooms in the Backpacker section. However, if you want stunning views, room number 6 in the Tented Camp is the best option as it sits at an elevated position.
As for the cost: The Tented Camp starts at R535 per person sharing, while the Backpackers dome tent is priced at R480 for two people or R285 per person sharing a room. They also offer packages with activities included.
If you need to get in touch: Give them a call at 0355901697 or visit their website monzisafaris.com.

A Haven for Bird Lovers

8. Kingfisher Lodge

Ranked as the 14th out of 33 B&Bs/Inns on TripAdvisor

Kingfisher Lodge is located at the far end of Mckenzie Street, offering a secluded retreat overlooking the estuary. This cozy B&B is perfectly situated next to the famous iGwalagwala Forest walking trail, where you can immerse yourself in nature. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens that seamlessly blend into the forest, it’s no wonder that birding enthusiasts flock here. In fact, more bird species have been spotted in the lodge’s garden than in the park itself! The lodge, which used to be a family home, has a charming and welcoming atmosphere. While the public spaces might have a touch of frilliness in their decor, the eight purpose-built garden suites are excellent. Spend a relaxed afternoon on the shady deck lounge by the pool, overlooking the estuary. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a minibar, but no TV. Kingfisher Lodge is located on the outskirts of town, within walking distance of various restaurants. Just be mindful of hippo sightings at night!

When it comes to finding the perfect room for your stay, there are a few factors to consider. Let me give you some tips and recommendations to help you make the best choice!

Firstly, let’s talk about the garden rooms. These cozy cottages have their own private entrance and a lovely outside seating area. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a sofa, table, and chairs. Keep in mind that Room 5 is the smallest and most affordable option, while rooms 3 and 4 are the biggest.

Now, let’s talk about the cost. The price per person, including bed and breakfast, starts from R650. Sharing a room can help you save some money.

If you’re looking for something unique and worth a look, I have a few recommendations for you. Umlilo is a treehouse-style lodge that offers the sounds of running water and lush greenery. Make sure to book a top-floor room for added privacy. The price starts from R800 per person, including bed and breakfast. You can find more information at umlilolodge.co.za.

Another option worth considering is the St Lucia Eco Lodge. Some rooms may appear tired, but the self-catering Ocean Suites are fantastic. Located on the top floor, they offer breathtaking sea views. The price starts from R985 per person sharing. For more details, check out stlucia-ecolodge.co.za.

If you’re interested in an Africa-themed guest house with excellent service, Kwalucia Safari Retreat is the place for you. With only four rooms, this place guarantees exclusivity. The price starts from R1,125 per person, including bed and breakfast. Please note that a two-night minimum stay is required. You can learn more at kwalucia.com.

For a top choice that has been open for over 21 years, consider the St Lucia Wetlands Guest House. With welcoming owners, a great pool, and garden, this place offers good value for money. They have five rooms and a five-sleeper family unit. The price starts from R650 per person, including bed and breakfast. Visit stluciawetlands.com for more information.

Lastly, if you’re traveling with a group, Amazulu is a fantastic option due to its 18 spacious and identical rooms. The central pool area is a great spot to socialize. The price starts from R780 per person sharing. Check out amazululodge.com for further details.

I hope these tips and recommendations help you find the perfect room for your stay. Enjoy your trip!

Don’t Miss Out on These Amazing Experiences!

Let me tell you about some incredible things you can do and see in this area. Trust me, you won’t want to miss them!

First off, you have to check out the wildlife. This place is home to an impressive variety of animals. Just imagine: over 500 different birds, almost 100 mammals (including some that live in the water), snakes, frogs, beautiful flowers, butterflies, and even coral reefs! It’s like a whole new world waiting for you to explore.

Now, picture yourself cruising along the estuary on a safari boat. You’ll be able to spot crocodiles and hippos as you go. How exciting is that?

If you’re a fan of underwater wonders, you’ll love snorkeling at Cape Vidal. This spot is located at the northern end of the lake, and it’s an absolute paradise for anyone who wants to see colorful fish and fascinating marine life up close.

After all that adventure, it’s time to relax with a drink or two at the Ski-Boat Club. Just be careful on your way back into town — the road is known for being frequented by hippos!

For a different kind of experience, why not go horse-riding along the breathtaking white beach? As you ride past the tallest forested sand dunes in Africa, you’ll feel a sense of freedom and wonder like never before.

If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, I recommend taking a bicycle tour of Khula Village. This tour includes planting a tree, visiting a butterfly dome, enjoying a traditional barbecue, and having a tasty beer at the local tavern. It’s a great way to connect with the community and learn more about their way of life.

So, what are you waiting for? These incredible experiences are waiting for you. Don’t miss out on the chance to create unforgettable memories and discover the beauty of this extraordinary place.