The Caribbean island of St. Lucia is so beautiful that the French and British fought over its ownership for 150 years. One of the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, St. Lucia is just 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, but packed into that small area is a little slice of paradise. St. Lucia is still relatively unknown to travelers, which makes it all the more desirable for those looking for a private getaway. Whether you seek a romantic vacation, a quiet holiday, or a fun-filled retreat from everyday life, the lush island of St. Lucia contains the all inclusive resort that will fulfill your needs.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort occupies a private peninsula of the island of St. Lucia, with views of the bay and the mountains, and also of the island of Martinique. The resort, which is built in the style of a British palace, houses six restaurants. In addition, guests may dine at two other Sandals resorts on St. Lucia. Only adults over age 18 are permitted to stay at Sandals Grande. Included in the all inclusive rate are land sports, water sports, nightly entertainment, dining and drinking at six restaurants and 12 bars, scuba diving, golf, airport transfers, use of the fitness center, and wireless Internet services. Rates average $500 per night per person in the summer months (2010). Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort is at P.O. Box G.I. 2247, Gross-Islet, St. Lucia, West Indies. Telephone (758) 455-2000.

East Winds Inn is on La Brelotte Bay, just five miles from the capital of St. Lucia, Castries. This all inclusive resort is secluded and private, perfect for a romantic getaway.  It is surrounded by eight acres of tropical gardens. Thirty rooms and one suite are housed in 15 cottages. Amenities on site that are included in the all-inclusive rate include meals in the open-air restaurant, bar, boutique, swimming pool with swim-up bar, afternoon tea, and activities in the Activities Pavilion. Rates average $500 per person per night in the spring and $400 per person per night in the summer (2010). East Winds Inn is on La Brelotte Bay, Gros Islet, P.O. Box 1477, St. Lucia, West Indies. Telephone (758) 452-8212.

The Jalousie Plantation is a private luxury resort situated among the beautiful Piton Mountains, surrounded by 100 acres of tropical rainforest.  The resort features 100 air-conditioned villas and suites, some with private swimming pools. Amenities at this all inclusive resort include golf, tennis, squash, a fitness center, spa, Jacuzzi, swimming pool, and water sports. There are four restaurants on the premises from which guests may choose to dine, as well as a bar and 24-hour room service. All inclusive packages start at $270 per person for seven days and include breakfast and dinner each day of the stay. The Jalousie Plantation is located at Val des Pistons, Forbidden Beach, La Baie de Silence, P.O. Box 251, Soufriere, St. Lucia, West Indies. Telephone (758) 456-8000.