Like its famous Twin Pitons, Saint Lucia’s been recognized as having two-pronged top appeal for visitors to this Windward Island in the West Indies. Recently, Saint Lucia was recognized for the 13^th time as the Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination by the World Travel Awards. And for the first time, it’s also been dubbed the region’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination. That’s a lot of love – and a lot of action - for this less than-250 square mile island.

Maybe it all starts with the captivating Twin Pitons, the symbol of Saint Lucia and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The island’s distinguishing claim to fame is its famous silhouette: two ‘Pitons’ or dramatic, craggy, dormant volcanic plugs on the southwestern coast that have served as the identifying landmark of the island for centuries. They aren’t exactly ‘twins.’ The side-by-side spires, called Gros (‘big’) and Petit (‘little’) each ring in at 2530 and 2438 feet high respectively.

Viewed at a distance, either from sea on a yacht, catamaran or cruise ship, or from land at a viewpoint or from your hotel or resort, the Pitons scream ‘tropical romance.’ Their emerald peaks conjure up fantasies of a romantic, tropical escape, and definitely feed an idyllic honeymoon atmosphere.

On the other hand, exploring these iconic landmarks defines tropical adventure. You can hike around the Pitons, discovering exotic plants and wildlife. Or you can see them from a different perspective, sailing or kayaking past the coast by water.

That duality of romance and outdoor, tropical activity is endless, from coral reefs, astonishing waterfalls, tropical rainforest, incredible nature trails, one of the world’s few ‘drive-in’ volcanoes, therapeutic hot springs and mud baths. Every element begging for both adventure and relationship-building for two.

In addition to Saint Lucia’s natural wonders and activities to experience them, couples discover the height of romance at renowned local resorts, including Jade Mountain, Ladera Resort, Sugar Beach, Stonefield Villa Resort, Windjammer Landing, Fond Doux Plantation & Resort, Serenity at Coconut Bay, BodyHoliday, The Landings Resort and Spa, Cap Maison, Sandals Grande and many more.

Saint Lucia likes to say that it’s “completely dedicated to couples in love.” Its hospitality includes staying in a room with awe-inspiring views of the Piton Mountains, a private plunge pool, outdoor shower, and a hammock for two strung across the veranda.

This is where ‘taking the plunge’ has double meaning. In addition to adventuring together, lovebirds can tie the knot in inventive and memorable destinations, from quaint tropical churches to plantation estates, private villas, botanical gardens, yachts or a lighthouse. And naturally, proceed straight from ‘I do’ to honeymooning bliss.

Beyond the Pitons and beaches, resorts and the great outdoors, honeymooners and adventurers take time to explore the bustling marketplace in the capital of Castries, quaint coastline fishing villages, and a calendar of annual events that attract visitors from around the globe.

Whether you’re in love with each other or in love with adventure – or both! -Saint Lucia should be on your tropical island travel bucket list.