Project Chocolat Bean to Bar Experience from Hotel Chocolat - Authenticity and Value

We Rank The 6 Best Drinking Tours In St Lucia

St Lucia isn’t just a stunning island with lush landscapes and sparkling beaches; it’s also a fantastic place to explore local flavors through specially crafted drinking tours. Whether you’re a chocolate lover eager to see how your favorite treat is made from bean to bar, or you want to experience lively bar-hopping with island cocktails, St Lucia has a wide range of options. We particularly enjoy the Project Chocolat Tree to Bar Tour. Not only does it offer a hands-on chance to craft your own chocolate while enjoying rainforest views, but the included lunch makes it a full-day experience that hits all the right notes.

From elegant bean-to-bar chocolate workshops to vibrant sunset bar hops, each tour captures a different aspect of St Lucia’s local culture—perfect for foodies, craft enthusiasts, or those just looking to sample island spirits. With options catering to varied budgets and interests, there’s something here for everyone. The key is deciding whether you want a quick chocolate fix, a full-day deep dive into cacao, or a lively evening exploring the island’s bars and beaches.

Quick Overview

This list covers a mix of chocolate-making experiences and bar-hopping tours that showcase St Lucia’s local drinks and treats. Whether you prefer hands-on workshops, scenic drives, or sunset drinks, each tour offers a unique way to experience the island’s flavors. For those interested in learning about chocolate, options include Project Chocolat, which combines rainforest excursions and chocolate crafting, and the Hotel Chocolat Bean to Bar Experience. For evening fun, the St Lucia Sunset Bar Hop offers a lively look at local nightlife with scenic waterfront stops.

Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you decide which one best fits your interests.

1. Project Chocolat Tree to Bar Tour at Hotel Chocolat Saint Lucia

Project Chocolat Tree to Bar Tour at Hotel Chocolat Saint Lucia

At number 1 on our list, this Tree to Bar Tour is a standout for its comprehensive, sensory-rich approach to chocolate making. It’s ideal if you want to see every step of the process—from cacao cultivation in the rainforest to crafting your own chocolate bar from scratch. The tour starts with a walk through the cacao groves, where you’ll learn about how cacao is grown and harvested. Then, in a guided session, you’ll graft cacao trees and hand-make your own chocolate bar, experiencing the process firsthand.

What makes this tour especially memorable is the combination of learning, tasting, and eating. The included lunch features cacao-infused dishes like the Cacao Burger and Cacao Beer-Battered Fish & Chips, plus a variety of desserts and cocktails. The setting over a UNESCO World Heritage Site adds to the appeal, providing stunning rainforest scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. With a 4.5/5 rating based on over 500 reviews, visitors praise the engaging guides and the fun, hands-on experience. The value for money is clear: for $124, you get a multi-sensory experience, a delicious lunch, and a memorable day.

Bottom line: Perfect for chocolate enthusiasts who want a full, immersive experience with fantastic food and scenery.

2. Project Chocolat Bean to Bar Experience from Hotel Chocolat

Project Chocolat Bean to Bar Experience from Hotel Chocolat

For those with a tighter schedule or a desire for a shorter taste of cacao, the Bean to Bar Experience provides a quick yet engaging introduction. This 1-hour activity is designed to introduce you to the entire process of turning cacao pulp into chocolate, from harvesting to roasting. You’ll meet fellow travelers, learn about the history of chocolate making, and get hands-on by making your own chocolate bar to take home.

This experience is especially suitable for families or travelers who want a fun activity without dedicating the whole day. While it’s less in-depth than the Tree to Bar tour, the reviews highlight the friendly guides and the enjoyment of crafting something personal. Priced at $69 per person, it offers good value for a bite-sized experience that fits into a busy itinerary.

Bottom line: An excellent choice if you’re looking for a fun, quick chocolate activity that’s perfect for families or casual travelers.

3. Hotel Chocolat Bean to Bar Experience in St. Lucia

Hotel Chocolat Bean to Bar Experience in St. Lucia

At number 3, this Bean to Bar Experience is a premium, 2-hour tour designed for true chocolate lovers. It offers a more intimate look into the process of transforming roasted cacao beans into the chocolate we all enjoy. The tour includes tasting fresh cacao pulp, learning about cacao history, and, notably, creating your own handcrafted chocolate bar.

What sets this apart is the focus on quality and storytelling. The tour guide shares deep insights, and the views of local landmarks like Morne Fortune and Marigot Bay add to the experience. The reviews are glowing, emphasizing personalized service and the chance to taste authentic chocolate in its purest form. At $190 per person, it’s an investment—well-suited for those who want a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look.

Bottom line: Best for serious foodies and those wanting an in-depth, educational experience with a luxurious touch.

4. St Lucia Sunset Bar Hop: Island Rhythms

St Lucia Sunset Bar Hop: Island Rhythms

Moving from chocolate to cocktails, the Sunset Bar Hop offers a lively 3-hour tour of Gros Islet’s best bars. Starting in the heart of the city, you’ll visit three different venues, each with its own vibe—from the energetic downtown cafes to the relaxed marina bar and the beachfront sunset spot. It’s a social tour that encourages mingling, with local drinks like rum tastings and island cocktails.

What makes this tour fun is the authentic local atmosphere and the chance to meet fellow travelers. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it hassle-free, though drinks are paid for separately. Reviewers mention how the experience feels like a street party, with some noting the guide’s local knowledge and friendly approach.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want to experience local nightlife, enjoy scenic views, and have a festive evening out.

5. Bar & Food Hopping in St. Lucia

Bar & Food Hopping in St. Lucia

For a personalized, laid-back experience, the Bar & Food Hopping tour combines local cuisine with drinks in the Gros Inlet area. Over around 4 hours, you’ll visit several spots, sampling dishes like grilled fish, hearty stews, and local drinks such as rum and beer (at your own expense). The tour is private, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.

The guide will introduce you to real local flavors and landmarks, making it perfect for foodies who want an authentic taste of the island’s culinary scene. From the reviews, it’s clear that the food is delicious and the guide is knowledgeable. The private nature of the tour and the relaxed pace make it a good choice for those seeking a customized experience.

Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a flexible, intimate food and drink tour with personal attention.

6. St Lucia Coffee Crop to Cup and Cocoa Bean to Chocolate Bar Tour

St Lucia Coffee Crop to Cup and Cocoa Bean to Chocolate Bar Tour

Finally, for the serious connoisseur, the Coffee Crop to Cup and Cocoa Bean to Chocolate Bar Tour offers a full-day, 6-hour exploration of Saint Lucia’s coffee and chocolate heritage. You’ll visit a working estate, see how raw beans are processed, and learn about the cultivation of these crops. The highlight is the chance to craft your own signature coffee and chocolate, plus the opportunity to purchase local products.

This tour is suitable for travelers who want to learn in depth, enjoy scenic estate views, and leave with practical souvenirs. It’s the most expensive option at $250 per person but offers a comprehensive look at two of the island’s most beloved exports.

Bottom line: Perfect for dedicated food and drink enthusiasts keen to understand and taste Saint Lucia’s rich coffee and cocoa traditions.

$250.00 per person

How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in St Lucia

When selecting your ideal tour, consider your interests and priorities. If you’re a chocolate fanatic wanting a deep dive Project Chocolat Tree to Bar offers an immersive experience with a delicious lunch. For a quick, family-friendly activity, the Bean to Bar Experience provides a fun introduction.

Looking for nightlife? The Sunset Bar Hop is perfect for lively social evenings, whereas the Bar & Food Hopping offers a more personalized, relaxed culinary adventure. And if you want a comprehensive, educational journey into coffee and chocolate, the Crop to Cup and Bean to Bar Tour is your best bet.

Budget, time constraints, and your specific interests will guide your choice. Booking early ensures availability, especially for popular tours like the full-day crop-to-cup experience.

St Lucia’s variety of drinking and chocolate tours ensures you’ll find something that perfectly suits your style. For a comprehensive day that combines rainforest scenery and chocolate making, the Project Chocolat Tree to Bar Tour is a standout. Want a quick, fun activity? The Bean to Bar Experience hits the mark. For lively nightlife, the Sunset Bar Hop offers a festive evening out that’s hard to beat.

No matter your choice, each tour offers a taste of St Lucia’s vibrant local culture—so pick one, and start planning your flavorful adventure today.