The main resort area of Saint Lucia is in the north west of the island, around Rodney Bay and Cap Estate, 90 minutes from the international airport which is located on the south coast. Here you will see the greatest development of hotels and villas and good selection of restaurants, shopping malls and some quite lively bars. Probably the best golden sand beaches, particularly Reduit at Rodney Bay which is long and expansive but can get busy, especially when cruise ships visit. The transfer from the international airport is scenic as you initially travel along the wilder Atlantic coast before crossing through banana plantations and dense forest before emerging onto the Caribbean (west) coast.