St. Barths Travel Guide
About St. Barths
St. Barthelemy, often affectionately referred to as St. Barths or St. Barts, is a small island in the Caribbean Sea, approximately 35 kilometers southeast of St. Martin and north of St. Kitts and Nevis. It is an overseas collectivity of France known for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning beaches, and vibrant cultural scene.
Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, St. Barths has a rich history shaped by European colonization, piracy, and the sugarcane industry. Initially settled by the French in 1648, the island changed hands between the French, English, and Swedish before finally reverting to French control in 1878.
St. Barths has developed a unique cultural blend, reflecting its French heritage and the influence of its residents from all over the world. The island is known for its relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, attracting celebrities, jet-setters, and travelers seeking a luxurious getaway.
The local culture is celebrated through traditional festivals, music, and cuisine. The island hosts events such as the St. Barths Bucket Regatta, a prestigious sailing race, and the St. Barths Music Festival, which showcases classical music talents from around the globe.
Tourism is the main economic driver of St. Barths, with visitors drawn to its pristine beaches, upscale resorts, and gourmet dining options. Famous beaches include St. Jean Beach, Shell Beach, and Gouverneur Beach, each offering charm and amenities.
The island is also renowned for its shopping, featuring high-end boutiques and local artisan shops. At the same time, the local culture is celebrated through traditional festivals, music, and cuisine. Gustavia, the capital, is a bustling harbor town where visitors can explore historic sites, shop for luxury goods, and enjoy waterfront dining.
St. Barths strongly emphasizes environmental preservation, with efforts focused on protecting marine life and maintaining the island’s natural beauty. Many beaches and surrounding waters are designated marine reserves to safeguard fragile ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism practices.
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Best Time To visit
The best time to visit St. Barths varies based on your preferences for weather and crowds:
- Peak Season (December to April): During this time, the island enjoys warm and sunny weather, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 85°F). It’s perfect for beach activities and outdoor events, but it also sees the highest number of tourists and prices, especially around the holidays.
- Shoulder Season (May to June): The weather remains pleasant, with temperatures between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F) and a slight increase in humidity. This period offers fewer crowds and more affordable rates, making it an excellent time for a balanced experience of good weather and lower costs.
- Off-Season (July to November): The weather during this period is hotter and more humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This time also coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season, which peaks from August to October. While it is the least crowded and offers the lowest prices, visitors should be prepared for rain and occasional storms.
Whether you choose the bustling high season or the serene shoulder months, this island promises a memorable getaway.
What to expect
When visiting St. Barths, you can expect a blend of natural beauty, luxury, and a vibrant cultural scene. The island is renowned for its upscale amenities and French-Caribbean charm, making it a top destination for travelers. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Beaches and Water Activities: The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Expect pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters at spots like St. Jean Beach, Shell Beach, and Colombier Beach. The island’s waters are perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and windsurfing. You can explore colorful coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and enjoy a variety of water sports.
- Luxurious Accommodations: The island offers a range of high-end accommodations, such as Eden Rock and Le Manapany, from opulent beachfront villas to chic boutique hotels. Many properties feature private pools, stunning ocean views, and personalized service. Whether staying in Gustavia or more secluded areas, you can expect comfort and elegance.
- Gourmet Dining: If you are looking for a restaurant with a healthy menu, Ociela Restaurant is a good choice. It offers Mediterranean coastal cuisine and is known for its dedication to quality. You can expect local fresh seafood, such as langoustine, lobster, octopus, and grilled fish.
- Shopping and Nightlife: Gustavia, the capital, is a shopper’s paradise with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and jewelry stores. Expect luxury brands, unique souvenirs, and duty-free shopping. In the evenings, the island comes alive with vibrant nightlife. Enjoy cocktails at chic beach bars, dance at nightclubs, or attend exclusive parties.
- Cultural Events and Festivals: The island hosts numerous events throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere. The Music Festival in January, the Bucket Regatta in March, and the Caribbean Film Festival are just a few highlights. These events attract international visitors and provide a chance to experience the island’s vibrant culture.
- Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities: The island offers scenic hiking trails beyond its beaches, such as those in Colombier and along the Grand Fond coast. The island’s hilly terrain provides stunning vistas and opportunities for nature walks. You can also explore marine reserves, ride horses, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride around the island.
- Relaxation and Wellness: Many visitors come to the island to unwind and rejuvenate. Yoga Vidya offers yoga sessions on the beach and serene spots for meditation. The island’s tranquil environment makes it an ideal destination for relaxation and wellness.
- Friendly Locals and Service: The island’s people are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. You can expect friendly and attentive service when interacting with hotel staff, restaurant servers, or shopkeepers.
Things to know
When planning your trip to St. Barths, here are some key things to know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Language: French is the official language of St. Barths, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Here are some useful phrases:
- Good Morning: Bonjour
- Good Afternoon: Bon après-midi
- Good Night: Bonne nuit
- Please: S’il vous plaît
- Thank you: Merci
- How are you?: Comment ça va?
- I’m fine, thanks!: Ça va bien, merci!
- Nice to meet you: Enchanté(e)
- Do you speak English?: Parlez-vous anglais?
- The bill, please: L’addition, s’il plaît
Time Zone: St. Barths operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), UTC-4. The time difference between the United States and St. Barths varies depending on the time of year due to daylight saving time changes. St. Barths is 1 hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) and matches Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
Currency: The official currency is the Euro (EUR), but US Dollars are widely accepted. It’s advisable to carry some Euros for smaller establishments and markets.
Credit Cards: Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in most places. However, having cash for smaller shops and local markets is a good idea.
Plugs and Voltage: St. Barths uses Type C and E plugs with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 60Hz. If your devices use a different plug type, bring a universal adapter.
Airports: The main airport is Gustaf III Airport (SBH), which primarily handles small regional flights. Most visitors arrive via connecting flights from larger airports, such as Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten.
Restaurants: There are a few organic dining options. Places like Sand Bar, So Cuisine, and Ociela Restaurant serve dishes with local organic ingredients and offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
Safety: St. Barths, with low crime rates, is generally very safe for tourists. Nonetheless, exercise standard precautions like safeguarding valuables, staying aware of your surroundings, and avoiding deserted areas at night.
Opening Hours: Shops and businesses typically open from 9 am to 6 p. Restaurants usually serve lunch from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Many businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon, so plan accordingly.
Popular Sites: St. Barths is renowned for its stunning beaches, such as St. Jean Beach, Flamands Beach, and Shell Beach. The capital, Gustavia, offers a mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and historic sites like Fort Gustave and the Wall House Museum. Water sports, including snorkeling, diving, and sailing, are popular activities. Nature enthusiasts can explore Colombier Beach via a scenic hike. Take advantage of the island’s vibrant events like the St. Barths Music Festival in January and the Bucket Regatta in March.
Transportation: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the island. Taxis are available but can be costly. Driving is on the right side of the road, and an international driving permit is recommended.
St. Barths promises an idyllic blend of luxury, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making it a premier destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.
how to get around
St. Barths is a small island, making it easy to navigate. Here are the best ways to get around:
- Rental Cars: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the island at your own pace. Numerous rental agencies offer a variety of vehicles, from compact cars to luxury SUVs.
- Taxis: Taxis are available, but they can be costly. Agreeing on a fare before starting your journey is a good idea.
- Scooters and ATVs: Consider renting a scooter or ATV for a fun and flexible way to get around. This option is popular among visitors who want to enjoy the island’s scenic routes.
- Public Transportation: There is no public bus system on the island. However, some hotels offer shuttle services to popular destinations.
- Walking: In towns like Gustavia and St. Jean, walking is a pleasant way to explore shops, restaurants, and beaches.
- Boats: Chartering a boat or yacht is an excellent way to visit nearby islands and enjoy the coastline. Ferries also operate between St. Barths and other islands, such as St. Maarten and Anguilla.
Where to stay
Baie de Saint Jean, 97133, St. Barthélemy
Eden Rock is a 5-star luxury resort that embodies the French art-de-vivre in the Caribbean. This magnificent property, part of the Oetker Collection, is situated on a rocky quartzite bluff overlooking . . . .
Baie de Saint Jean on the central north coast. White coral beaches surround the resort and offer the ambiance of an English country house under the warm tropical sun. It was constructed on the island of St. Barths by Caribbean aviator Rémy de Haenen. The resort provides individually designed luxury beach houses, suites, and guest rooms perched on the rocks or bordering the sand. It is also home to the renowned Chef Jean Georges Restaurant, Sand Bar.
- Hotel
Gustavia 97133, St. Barthélemy
In Pointe Milou, there is a luxurious 5-star hotel with stunning ocean views. The hotel offers rustic charm alongside contemporary French design and boasts 42 guest rooms, including . . . .
three 4-bedroom villas. Since 2019, the hotel has been committed to sustainable tourism and received certification from Green Globe, a leading global certification for sustainability in travel and tourism, for three consecutive years in 2021, 2022, and 2023. This certification is a testament to their dedication and efforts in implementing sustainable practices in their operations, such as reducing their environmental impact through energy efficiency, waste management, and water conservation. They also actively promote local culture and biodiversity.
- Hotel
Baie de Grand Cul de Sac, Saint-Barthélemy 97133, St. Barthélemy
In Grand Cul-de-Sac, this luxurious beachfront hotel blends Caribbean charm and Parisian chic. Designed by Sybille de Margerie, the interiors exude elegance. With 44 rooms and suites, . . . .
80% of which have ocean views, the hotel also includes two exclusive villas. The resort has consistently been ranked among the Top 5 Best Resorts in the Caribbean by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards for seven years. It was also honored as the #1 Resort in the Caribbean in 2018, 2020, and 2022.
- Hotel
Anse des Cayes 97133 Saint-Barthélemy
Overlooking the stunning Caribbean Sea, this luxurious 5-star eco-resort is surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens. The resort offers a variety of lavish accommodations, including sophisticated rooms, . . . .
spacious suites, and private villas with elegant interiors and luxurious amenities. Each accommodation provides a peaceful haven with breathtaking views of the crystal-clear ocean or lush gardens. Known for its personalized services and serene natural environment, the resort offers guests morning yoga and Pilates classes. These sessions are designed to harmonize the body and mind by the sea under the soothing touch of the dawn.
- Hotel
Where to EAT + DRINK
St Jean Bay, St Barthélemy, F97133 French West Indies
Under the guidance of renowned chef Jean-Georges, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its signature dishes, such as truffle pizza and crispy salmon. The colonial-style atmosphere, . . . .
complemented by DJ and music playlists, captures and evokes the island vibes of Eden Rock. With a panoramic view of the sparkling Caribbean Sea just a few feet away, the Sand Bar offers refined international cuisine and cocktails. It’s a place for gourmets who wish to enjoy well-balanced dishes at leisure.
- Cafe
2, rue de Dinzey Saint-Barthélemy, France
Situated in downtown Gustavia, this restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that draws inspiration from Mediterranean coastal cuisines. Known for its dedication to quality, the restaurant serves . . . .
various dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, hormone-free beef and chicken, GMO-free, local fish, gluten-free, and organic options. The emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures the food is delicious and nutritious. The restaurant provides top-notch service in a comfortable setting, where you can either enjoy small Mezze plates at the bar or dine from the dinner menu on the outdoor terrace with a breathtaking view of Gustavia Harbour. The restaurant is open from Monday to Sunday from 6:30 pm and closed on Wednesdays.
- cAFE
Immeuble Palm Plaza, St. Jean 97133 St. Barthelemy
Located in the heart of St. Jean, So cuisine is known for its healthy and diverse menu. The restaurant offers a range of dishes that cater to various dietary preferences, including traditional Vietnamese . . . .
dishes with Chinese influences and raw food options. So cuisine is committed to promoting wellness through its food. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, brunch, and drinks and provides takeout services. It is open Monday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is closed every Sunday.
- Restaurant
Organic Markets
97133, St. Barthélemy
La Vie Claire offers a wide selection of organic products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, bulk staples like beans and nuts, organic wine and beverages, cosmetics, and household cleaning aids. The store’s commitment . . . .
to excellence includes ensuring its products are nutritional and organic. The store is open Monday through Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. It’s closed on Sundays.
- Store