Pigeon Island National Park
Gros Islet
Pigeon Island National Park, located in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, is a 44-acre historic islet connected to the mainland by a causeway. The island features two prominent peaks and was once a strategic British military base with Fort Rodney and other fortifications used to monitor French naval activity from nearby Martinique. The park preserves remnants of 18th and 19th-century British military architecture, including barracks and officer quarters. It also holds archaeological significance with Arawak and Carib artifacts dating back to around 1000 AD. The island played a role during World War II as a US Navy communication station. Today, it is a protected national park managed by the Saint Lucia National Trust and serves as the main venue for the annual Saint Lucia Jazz Festival. Visitors can explore historic ruins, enjoy scenic views from Signal Hill, and experience cultural events in a lush natural setting.
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Tip: The best time to visit Pigeon Island National Park is during the dry season, typically from December to May, when the weather is pleasant for hiking and outdoor events. Purchasing tickets or passes in advance is recommended during the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival to ensure entry. The park offers discounts for seniors and children. Visitors should bring sun protection, comfortable footwear for exploring the ruins and trails, and check opening hours on the official Saint Lucia National Trust website.
Interesting facts
- •Pigeon Island was artificially connected to Saint Lucia's mainland in 1972 by a causeway built from dirt excavated for Rodney Bay Marina.
- •Admiral George Rodney used the island as a lookout to spy on French naval forces from Martinique during the late 18th century.
- •The island was a base for French pirate François le Clerc in the 16th century.
- •During World War II, the US Navy operated a communication station on the island and patrolled the Caribbean for German submarines.
- •The island hosts the annual Saint Lucia Jazz Festival, one of the Caribbean's premier music events.
History
Pigeon Island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples around 1000 AD.
In the 16th century, French pirate François le Clerc used it as a base.
The British took control between 1779 and 1782, with Admiral George Rodney constructing Fort Rodney and clearing trees to gain a strategic vantage point over French forces.
The island served military purposes through the 19th century, including barracks and artillery installations.
In the 20th century, it was used by the US Navy during World War II as a communication station.
The island was connected to the mainland by a man-made causeway in 1971 and was designated a national park in 1979, later becoming a national landmark under the Saint Lucia National Trust in 1992.
Place Guide
Fort Rodney1779-1782
An 18th-century British fort built by Admiral George Rodney, offering panoramic views over the Caribbean Sea and the French naval base on Martinique. It was a strategic military lookout during the Battle of the Saints in 1782.
Signal Hill
The highest peak on Pigeon Island, used historically as a vantage point to observe enemy ships. Today, it provides visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and coastline.
Officer's Quarters and Barracks1808
Military buildings constructed in the early 19th century, including living quarters for officers, barracks, kitchens, and an Officer's Mess, reflecting the island's role as a British military base.
Contact
Phone: (758) 450-0603
