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.

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

Currency

  • The currency of Saint Barthélemy is the Euro (€).

Cash And Cards

  • Credit cards are widely accepted in Saint Barthélemy.
  • It is recommended to carry some cash for small establishments and taxis.

ATMs

  • ATMs can be found in Gustavia, the capital of Saint Barthélemy.
  • It is advisable to withdraw cash before traveling to the island, as there are limited ATMs available.

Tipping

  • Tipping is not expected in Saint Barthélemy as a service charge is usually included in the bill.
  • However, it is common to leave a small tip for exceptional service.

Cost Of Living

  • Saint Barthélemy is known for its high cost of living, especially for accommodation and dining.
  • Grocery shopping and dining at local establishments can help save money.

Scams

  • Be cautious of people offering counterfeit goods or services.
  • Always verify the legitimacy of tour operators or excursion providers before making any payments.