Things To Do
in St. Barts
St. Barts, officially known as Saint-Barthélemy, is a small Caribbean island that belongs to France, renowned for its stunning beaches, upscale resorts, and vibrant nightlife. The island is a popular destination for celebrities and luxury travelers, offering a mix of French sophistication and island charm. With its idyllic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a plethora of water activities, St. Barts is perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure.
The local cuisine reflects its French heritage, featuring fresh seafood and gourmet dining experiences.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $300 - $1500
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $30 - $100
- â Coffee: $5 - $8
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $100 - $300
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $70 - $150
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day soaking up the sun at Shell Beach, where soft sand meets crystal-clear water. Enjoy a refreshing swim or a leisurely walk along the shoreline.
Head to Saline Beach for a peaceful afternoon; relax under the sun or enjoy a picnic with stunning views. Consider renting a paddleboard for some fun on the water.
Wrap up the day with dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood specialties. Enjoy the gentle ocean breeze as you watch the sunset.
Begin your day with breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and French coffee. Wander through Gustavia to enjoy its charming atmosphere.
Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare classic French dishes, using local ingredients from the market. Savor the meal you create with fellow participants.
Dine at one of St. Barts' renowned restaurants, experiencing fine dining with gourmet dishes paired with exquisite wines. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene of the island.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches.
- Luxurious accommodations and high-end resorts, attracting travelers seeking a premium experience.
- Vibrant nightlife and gourmet dining options, including top-notch restaurants and beach clubs.
- Rich culture and history, with charming colonial architecture and local festivals.
- Opportunities for water sports and activities such as sailing, snorkeling, and diving.
- High cost of living and travel, making it less accessible for budget travelers.
- Limited accessibility with no direct flights from many locations, often requiring connections.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season, leading to congestion and high prices.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger islands, which may not cater to all visitors' preferences.
- Potential for hurricanes and tropical storms during certain months, affecting travel plans.
Best Activities in St. Barts
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant underwater life around St. Barts with snorkeling excursions to spots like Columbier Beach and the reefs near Gustavia.
Discover scenic trails with breathtaking views, such as the hike to the National Park's Pic du Paradis or the coastal paths around the island.
Enjoy sailing excursions around the island, offering the chance to explore secluded beaches and nearby islands like the uninhabited Ăles Fourchue.
Relax on the stunning beaches of St. Barts, such as St. Jean Beach or Saline Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Catch some waves at popular surf spots like Lorient Beach, suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Rent a kayak and paddle around the calm waters of St. Barts, giving you a unique perspective of the coastline.
Try stand-up paddleboarding in the clear waters, a fun way to explore the bays and beaches while getting some exercise.
Join a fishing charter for a chance to catch local fish species, making for an exciting day on the water.
Enjoy clear nights perfect for stargazing, with minimal light pollution allowing for exceptional views of the night sky.
Places to Visit in St. Barts
Visit one of these nice places.
The capital of St. Barts, Gustavia offers picturesque harbor views with its beautifully colored buildings and luxury yachts. The sunset view from the cliffs is particularly stunning.
Accessible only by foot or boat, Colombier Beach is a serene location with pristine waters and scenic backdrops of lush greenery, perfect for capturing natural beauty.
Famous for its unspoiled beauty, Saline Beach provides stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape, ideal for capturing the essence of St. Barts' untouched nature.
This historical site offers panoramic views of Gustavia and the surrounding waters. The combination of history and breathtaking scenery makes it a top photo opportunity.
A tranquil lagoon with shallow waters, this beach is perfect for capturing reflections and the vibrant colors of the sky during sunrise and sunset.
A quaint fishing village with traditional boats and a stunning backdrop of hills, Corossol is ideal for capturing authentic local life and beautiful coastal landscapes.
Known for its unique shell-covered shore, Shell Beach offers a picturesque setting combined with charming restaurants, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and photography.
A vibrant beach famous for its lively atmosphere and beach clubs, Nicki Beach provides a great opportunity to capture the energy and essence of St. Barts nightlife and beach culture.
This scenic viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of St. Bartsâ coastline and neighboring islands, making it a must-visit for stunning landscape photography.
Renowned for its dramatic cliffs and waves, Toiny Beach is less crowded and offers a great opportunity for capturing more rugged and wild elements of nature.
Food in St. Barts
St. Barts Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich and creamy lobster dish baked with a mixture of egg yolks, cream, and mustard, often served in the shell. A must-try in local fine dining restaurants.
Must-Try!
Deliciously spiced cod fritters that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect as a starter or snack.
A fresh salad made with diced conch, vegetables, and a zesty citrus dressing, reflecting the island's Caribbean influences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main market in Gustavia, where locals and visitors can find a variety of fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods. Itâs a great place to explore and sample local flavors.
Offering a casual atmosphere and a variety of street food options, visitors can enjoy freshly made crepes, grilled seafood, and mouth-watering desserts right by the beach.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
St. Barts is known for its stylish atmosphere. It's important to dress elegantly, especially when dining out or attending events. Swimwear should only be worn on the beach or by the pool.
Greetings are important in St. Barts. Always greet locals and other visitors with a 'Bonjour' (hello) during the day and 'Bonsoir' (good evening) in the evening. A polite demeanor goes a long way.
St. Barts has a unique blend of French and Caribbean cultures. Be mindful of local customs, such as timing for meals and business hours, and show appreciation for local traditions and festivals.
Safety
Tipping in St. Barts
Ensure a smooth experience
In St. Barts, tipping is generally not required as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and bars. However, it is customary to leave a small tip if you are satisfied with the service, usually around 5-10% of the total bill. For hotel staff, it is also appreciated to leave a small tip, especially for exceptional service.
Most establishments in St. Barts accept major credit cards, and cash in Euros is also widely accepted. ATMs are available throughout the island for those needing cash. Itâs advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops or local markets, where cards may not be accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the peak tourist season in St. Barts, characterized by sunny weather, warm temperatures, and vibrant nightlife. Expect crowded beaches and high prices, but also the chance to experience exciting events and a lively atmosphere.
Spring offers slightly fewer crowds compared to winter, while still maintaining warm weather and sunny skies. This is a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the island's natural beauty, with the added bonus of lower accommodation rates.
Summer is the off-peak season, with warm temperatures and occasional rain showers. Visitors can enjoy quieter beaches and significantly lower prices. It's a good time for those looking for a more relaxed experience, although some restaurants and hotels may close for renovations.
Fall sees warm weather and the potential for rain, especially in September and October. This is a quieter time on the island, making it ideal for those wanting solitude. Prices continue to be lower, but visitors should be aware of the hurricane season and potential weather disruptions.
St. Barts at Night
Hiking in St. Barts
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and access to several secluded beaches.
The highest point on the island, this hike provides breathtaking panoramas and lush vegetation along the way.
A relatively easy trail that leads you through beautiful landscapes and ends at the picturesque Anse des Cayes beach.
A coastal walk that takes you from the capital Gustavia to Shell Beach, perfect for beach lovers and casual hikers.
A trail that meanders through the nature reserve en route to the beautiful Petit Cul de Sac beach, ideal for a day trip.
Aiports
How to reach St. Barts by plane.
Located in Sint Maarten, this airport is the main gateway to St. Barthélemy with numerous international connections.
Situated in Guadeloupe, this international airport serves the Caribbean and offers flights to and from various international destinations.
Located in Martinique, this airport provides international flights and is one of the larger airports in the French Caribbean.
Located in Puerto Rico, this major international airport connects various parts of the Caribbean and the Americas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in St. Barts is of French nationality, as the island is a part of France.
This group includes individuals from other West Indian islands, who may have historical ties to St. Barts.
A significant number of expatriates and second-home owners from the United States and Canada.
Includes individuals from other European countries, predominantly those who visit or reside temporarily.
Includes immigrants and residents from Latin American countries, contributing to the multicultural demographic.
A small population of various other nationalities and ethnicities, contributing to the diversity of the island.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sailing is one of the most popular activities in St. Barts, thanks to its beautiful waters and consistent winds, attracting both recreational sailors and competitive regattas.
The vibrant marine life and clear waters around St. Barts make snorkeling and scuba diving popular among tourists and locals alike.
St. Barts offers several surf spots that attract enthusiasts from around the world, especially during the winter months.
With several courts available, tennis is a favored sport among both residents and visitors, often played in scenic settings.
The scenic landscapes and coastal paths make running and walking a popular pastime for both fitness enthusiasts and casual walkers.
Yachting is not just a sport but a lifestyle in St. Barts, with many visitors chartering yachts to explore the stunning coastline and nearby islands.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting St. Barts.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in St. Barts offer vegetarian options, featuring fresh salads, pasta, and local vegetables. Restaurants like 'Le Repaire' and 'Eddy's' cater well to vegetarians.
While options may be less common, some places like 'Loren' are accommodating to vegans and offer plant-based dishes upon request.
Several establishments in St. Bart's, such as 'Restaurant Christopher', provide gluten-free options, and many local dishes naturally cater to gluten-free diets due to their reliance on seafood and vegetables.