Spice of Life: A Fresh Spin on St. Lucia

Contributed By Kayla Douglas

A fixture in the Caribbean for nearly thirty years, Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort is teeming with stories just waiting to be told—perhaps most surprisingly, its impressive art collection on display, particularly the pieces in its newly unveiled nine-bedroom Spice of Life villa.

Whether you’re sinking into a treatment in the Rainforest Spa with the sounds of the trees lulling you into relaxation, or reading on a lounger on one of two white-sand beaches, a stay here is about being connected to nature.

Nestled between the dramatic Pitons on St. Lucia, the sweeping vistas alone could sell you on coming to this lush island. But a stay at Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort reveals that this slice of Caribbean paradise is so much more than its epic views. Since opening as a resort in 1996, Sugar Beach has raised the bar for what luxury looks like on the island. The entire resort is meticulously designed to offer comfort and sophistication while keeping the natural beauty of St. Lucia front and center. Whether you’re sinking into a treatment in the Rainforest Spa with the sounds of the trees lulling you into relaxation, or reading on a lounger on one of two white-sand beaches, a stay here is about being connected to nature.

And while Sugar Beach has long been known as a haven for families thanks to its villa and residence-style accommodations, the owners’ passion for art and design was fueled into a years-long process of building its new nine-bedroom villa, Spice of Life. Freshly unveiled at the beginning of 2025, the Spice of Life has already been lauded for what Vogue called a “museum-worthy collection to pad past damp-footed from the beach.” We just so happen to agree—but first, it sounds like #smartflyertakemeto St Lucia is in order, so let’s talk logistics.

How to Get to St. Lucia

Whether flying commercial or private, St. Lucia is accessible from across the US and the UK. The island is serviced by Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), which welcomes regular flights from major hubs like New York, Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami, and London. Once you’ve touched down, you’ll find a scenic hour drive awaits or, if you prefer, a helicopter transfer to guide you through St. Lucia’s verdant landscapes directly to Sugar Beach. The resort team ensures your arrival is seamless, allowing you to transition into the serenity of island life without a hitch.

Location, Location, Location

…a refined yet unhurried ambiance where you can relax, recharge, and reconnect.

Situated on a former sugar cane estate, Sugar Beach sits on one of the most stunning locations in the world—its grounds span an extensive stretch of white sand situated between the iconic UNESCO-listed Pitons. The property’s diverse amenities include two picturesque beaches, five gourmet restaurants, and an award-winning Rainforest Spa. For those who value exclusivity without pretension, Sugar Beach offers a refined yet unhurried ambiance where you can relax, recharge, and reconnect.

When it comes to selecting your accommodations, your SmartFlyer travel advisor is sure to help you narrow down the best option for your needs among the resort’s variety of accommodations, including guestrooms, luxury villas, luxury cottages, beachfront bungalows, and residences, each offering breathtaking views and personalized service. We’re especially partial to the three distinct four-bedroom beachfront residences, which each have three king rooms and one twin-bedded room, plus their own beachfront infinity pools and game rooms with pool tables.

Who is Sugar Beach For?

Sugar Beach is anything but stuffy. In fact, it’s quite the opposite, as evidenced by the fellow laid-back vacationers hailing from across the US and the UK (there are daily flights on British Airways from London) during our recent scouting stay. There’s a colloquial ease amongst guests; you could strike up a conversation with anyone on a nearby lounger or dining table. And that, we did—as did fellow guests with us.

…Sugar Beach isn’t just family-friendly—it’s the kind of place where multi-generational memories are made without even trying.

​​“Did you see the caterpillar?” a barefoot little boy asked us, wide-eyed and breathless with wonder. “Yes! You can’t miss it!” we replied, pointing toward the vibrant creatures hanging from the trees overhead. Whether he was en route to the Kids Club or the pint-sized soccer field nearby, we couldn’t be sure—but hours later, we spotted him again, sprinting out of Crane Bar, blissfully unaware that he’d just whizzed past a pair of original Warhols. As we hopped in a car back to our villa, there he was once more—this time with siblings and cousins in tow, rallying for a spirited round of “I Spy” in the lobby, just past 9 pm. That’s when it clicked: Sugar Beach isn’t just family-friendly—it’s the kind of place where multi-generational memories are made without even trying.

Whether you’re traveling with little ones ready to roam, celebrating a milestone with a crew, or simply seeking a laid-back escape for two, Sugar Beach effortlessly adapts to your pace. That sense of ease is perhaps best felt at South Pier Bar, the guests-only hideaway where Jetty Burgers and piña coladas are served with a soundtrack of crashing waves—and no agenda beyond making it back to your beach chair before sunset.

Stories Abound: An Art-Lover’s Dream

Here, the art isn’t tucked away behind velvet ropes, but woven into the fabric of everyday moments.

Koons. Hirst. Lichtenstein. Warhol. Within moments of arriving at Sugar Beach, you’re not just checking into a resort—you’re stepping into a living gallery. Here, the art isn’t tucked away behind velvet ropes, but woven into the fabric of everyday moments. A stroll from the lobby to breakfast might find you passing a Banksy, subtly perched in a corridor. On your way to the sea, Tom Sachs’ cast bronze sculpture anchors the lawn, catching the light as the Pitons tower in the distance. Earlier this year, J. Seward Johnson himself visited to witness the installation of The Awakening, a massive, partially buried sculpture of a head emerging from the ground—a piece that invites you to pause and reflect before continuing on to the beach. Each work isn’t just decoration; it’s part of a larger narrative that the property is quietly telling through creativity, curiosity, and contrast.

Even the coffee shop, Boopa’s, holds a story: named after a local elephant once known to roam Jalousie Bay, its spirit lives on in the whimsical energy of the space. Now, the coffee shop in Boopa’s honor is beside an outdoor library of books, perfect for flipping through with an iced latte in hand before heading down to the beach. Tucked just beneath the residences and the Spice of Life villa, the stretch of sand by South Pier Bar feels like a secret—another scene in the resort experience that feels as thoughtfully crafted as the art on the nearby villa’s walls.

The Jewel in the Crown: The Spice of Life Villa

Introduced as a crown jewel of Sugar Beach this winter after several years of meticulous construction, the Spice of Life villa is nothing short of a Caribbean dream. Commissioned by the resort’s owners, the villa seamlessly combines architectural brilliance, striking natural surroundings, and an awe-inspiring private art collection.

A Museum-Quality Art Haven

Upon entering the villa, you’re greeted by museum-worthy works of art. Contemporary giants like Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst, and Andy Warhol grace the walls and spaces, effortlessly blending high art with the villa’s clean, modern design. Strolling through the villa is akin to taking a personal tour of some of the greatest contemporary collections on record. From sculptures perched strategically in sunlit corners to vibrant canvases that bring life to the interiors, the art is both impactful and perfectly integrated into its tropical setting.

One highlight? A custom piece unveiled this year by an internationally celebrated sculptor (and personal friend of the owners), whose life-sized installation now takes center stage in the villa’s beachfront garden. It’s not just a place to stay—the Spice of Life is a cultural experience.

Designed with Families in Mind

While the art might make headlines, the Spice of Life villa is designed to cater to families, ensuring functionality meets comfort. Boasting nine bedrooms configured for ultimate flexibility, the villa welcomes multigenerational groups or large parties with ease. Whether you envision transforming the space into a retreat for intimate corporate gatherings or using the expansive suites for your extended family, the villa can adapt to your needs.

An industrial-grade kitchen allows the villa’s private chef to prepare customized meals for your group, while the infinity pool melts into the horizon, offering uninterrupted views of the Caribbean Sea. From sunset cocktail hours on the terrace to indulgent dinners under the stars, the Spice of Life villa elevates every moment.

A Stress-Free Caribbean Escape

What sets the villa apart is its ability to simplify the art of vacationing. From dedicated staff who anticipate your every need to a design that allows groups to spread out comfortably, the Spice of Life is built for effortless stays. Picture the convenience of kids enjoying the beach just steps away while adults sip rum punch by the pool. This is a place where everyone can find their own slice of paradise.

Beyond the Villa—Exploring St. Lucia

Sugar Beach ensures that both relaxation and recreation are never in short supply.

During your stay, you’ll want to explore all that Sugar Beach and St. Lucia have to offer. Whether embarking on a private sunset cruise, hiking Gros Piton, or snorkeling through vibrant coral reefs, the island is a playground for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous Sulphur Springs or tour the Tet Paul Nature Trail for panoramic views. Back at the resort, you’ll find everything from paddleboarding and beachfront yoga to wine tastings and culinary masterclasses. Sugar Beach ensures that both relaxation and recreation are never in short supply.

Elevate Your Stay at Sugar Beach

Sugar Beach is more than a luxury resort—it’s a destination where art, nature, and human connection converge. Whether you’re a family with young children, an art aficionado, or a couple seeking the pinnacle of Caribbean authenticity, Sugar Beach has something special waiting for you. And for those truly looking for something special, the Spice of Life villa represents the pinnacle of this ethos, offering an unmatched Caribbean experience for art lovers, families, and discerning travelers, promising memories to last a lifetime.