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Harbor in St. Barts
St. Barts
Saint Barthelemy, a French-speaking Caribbean island commonly known as St. Barts, is known for its white-sand beaches and designer shops.

St. Barts

Saint Barthelemy, a French-speaking Caribbean island commonly known as St. Barts, is known for its white-sand...

10 Best Things To Do in St Barts
Saint Barthélemy flag

Saint Barthélemy Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Gustavia

Location:

Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean; located in the Leeward Islands (northern) group; Saint Barthelemy lies east of the US Virgin Islands

Currency:

Euro (EUR)

Area:

25 sq km

Population:

7,116 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

French (primary), English

Religion:

Roman Catholic, Protestant, Jehovah's Witnesses

TimeZone:

UTC-4

Tel Code:

+590

Things to Do

  • 1. Visit Gustavia Harbor

    Take a stroll along the picturesque Gustavia Harbor and admire the luxury yachts and sailboats. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, shop at the upscale boutiques, and dine at the waterfront restaurants.

  • 2. Explore Colombier Beach

    Hike along the scenic trail to Colombier Beach and enjoy the pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Snorkel, swim, or simply relax and soak up the sun on this secluded and peaceful beach.

  • 3. Visit Fort Karl

    Discover the history of Saint Barthélemy by visiting Fort Karl. Explore the ruins of this 17th-century fortress, enjoy panoramic views of Gustavia, and learn about the island's colonial past.

  • 4. Indulge in Watersports at Grand Cul-de-Sac

    Experience the thrill of watersports at Grand Cul-de-Sac. Try your hand at windsurfing, kiteboarding, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Enjoy the beautiful lagoon and the stunning views of the surrounding nature.

  • 5. Visit Shell Beach

    Relax and unwind at Shell Beach, known for its unique seashell-covered shoreline. Take a refreshing swim, sunbathe on the soft sand, and enjoy delicious drinks at the beachfront restaurants and bars.

  • 6. Take a Helicopter Tour

    Experience Saint Barthélemy from a whole new perspective with a helicopter tour. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the island's stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and exclusive villas.

  • 7. Discover Lorient Beach

    Visit Lorient Beach, a popular spot among surfers and beach lovers. Enjoy the waves, go for a swim, or simply relax on the sandy shore. Don't forget to try some delicious local cuisine at the nearby beach restaurants.

  • 8. Explore Anse de Grande Saline

    Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Anse de Grande Saline. This secluded beach offers pristine waters, untouched sand dunes, and a peaceful atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the serene surroundings.

  • 9. Go Snorkeling at Gouverneur Beach

    Discover the underwater world of Saint Barthélemy by snorkeling at Gouverneur Beach. Marvel at the colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine life. Don't forget your snorkeling gear!

  • 10. Visit the Wall House Museum

    Learn about the history, culture, and heritage of Saint Barthélemy at the Wall House Museum. Explore the exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that depict the island's past and its transformation over the years.

Weather

Climate

Saint Barthélemy, also known as St. Barts, has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The island experiences two seasons: a rainy season from September to November, and a dry season from December to August. The average temperature ranges from the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 25-28°C) throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit St. Barts is during the dry season, from December to August. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder months of September and October, when the weather is still pleasant and the crowds are less. Avoid visiting during the rainy season, which can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities.

Visas

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Accommodation

St. Barts offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

Luxury resorts

The island is known for its luxury resorts, offering high-end amenities such as private beaches, spa services, and fine dining. Many of these resorts are located on the beach, offering direct access to the water.

Private villas and apartments

For a more private and self-catering experience, consider renting a private villa or apartment. Many of these rentals come with a kitchen and private pool, and are often located in more secluded areas of the island.

Guesthouses and small hotels

For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying in a guesthouse or small hotel. These accommodations offer a more intimate experience and often have a local charm.

Transportation

Getting around St. Barts can be a bit challenging due to the island's hilly terrain and limited public transportation. However, there are several options available to visitors:

Rental Cars and Scooters

Renting a car or scooter is a popular option for getting around the island. This allows visitors to explore the island at their own pace, and reach some of the more remote beaches and scenic spots.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available on the island, and can be a convenient option for getting around, especially for those not comfortable driving on the island's winding roads. Taxis can be found at the airport and in Gustavia, St. Jean and other major towns.

Buses

There is a small bus service on the island, which operates daily, but the bus services are limited and not always reliable.

Bikes

Bicycling is another option for getting around the island, and rentals are widely available. However, it’s worth noting that the island's hilly terrain and winding roads can make this option challenging for some visitors.

Boats

St. Barts is a small island, and as such, you can also explore it by boat. There are several boat tour operators that can take you on island-hopping tours, snorkeling excursions, and sunset cruises.

Money

Money Tips for Travel

  • Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
  • Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
  • Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
  • Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
  • Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
  • Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
  • Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
  • Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
  • NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
  • Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

  • Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
  • Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
  • Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
  • Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
  • Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
  • Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

  • Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
  • Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
  • Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
  • Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
  • Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Insurance

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

Mobile

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

Community

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.