Smooth Getaway Postcard From Saint Lucia

Having a blast in Saint Lucia! You should join me. This is one of the most popular destinations for people on Caribbean holidays, but there's a lot more to do than just lie on the beach, though that should certainly be on your to-do list. There's a host of amazing options.

Probably the most obvious thing to do when on vacation to any Caribbean island, water sports come in almost every form imaginable here. This is what's so great about choosing St Lucia for an active break - the sheer wealth of things on offer means you're pretty much guaranteed to find something to suit everyone in your party.

The island is well known for its amazing marine life, so make sure snorkelling or diving makes your to-do list. The best places to give it a go are the Jalousie or Anse Chastanet beaches - spots that are renowned for their clear views of sea life.

Head to Cas en Bas, a beach on the northeast coast, meanwhile, and you can have a go at kite surfing. If, however, you're just keen on a tranquil swim, there are plenty of options for this too. Reduit Beach is perhaps the most popular on the island and it's a safe bet if you want to enjoy a dip, but the West coast in general is good for swimming.

Since the island's interior is home to rainforest, it's perhaps no surprise that there's scope for a little adventure. Well, a lot of adventure. Among the best places to really get your adrenaline pumping is Treetop Adventure Park. As you might have guessed from the name, you can zip-line through rainforest canopies here - probably one of the most exciting experiences you'll have all holiday.

Yet, that's not the only thing you can do. If you'd rather keep your feet firmly on the ground, go cycling or hiking instead. These are great ways to get closer to the local wildlife plus the weird and wonderful plants. If you fancy doing one of these along with zip-lining, you can pick a tour that offers a little bit of everything.

Since the scenery on St Lucia is so incredible, it's great for walking. While this might not sound particularly exciting, don't forget that you can discover so much as you amble around - and it'll give your muscles a chance to recover if you've been trying out more strenuous activities.

One of the top places to walk is near the Pitons, which are huge mountains that form the island's backdrop and look as if they're rising directly out of the water. While these are visible from pretty much anywhere you go, it's well worth taking a closer look so you can really appreciate their size.

Nearby is the Diamond Botanical Gardens, where you'll find the amazing colour-changing Diamond Waterfall. Yes, you read correctly - the cascades here shift hues throughout the day, something that occurs thanks to the sulphur in the water.

When planning all the things you want to do here, don't forget to think about activities available at your hotel. Smugglers Cove St Lucia, for instance, is perfect if you love being active. It's situated on its own private section of beach, home to seven swimming pools, and offers the chance to try out heaps of pastimes.

Everything from banana boat rides to kayaking is available, so remember that you don't always have to stray far from your accommodation to do something exciting. Wish you were here.

Joe Johnson is a travel blogger who thinks the rising fuel taxes on flights to the Caribbean are pricing this wonderful area out of reach. He recommends enjoying a cool Caribbean holiday before it is unaffordable. You can follow Joe's writing and exploits at totaltravelblog.co.uk.