Things To Do
in Saint Barthelemy
Saint Barthélemy, often known simply as St. Barts, is a French-speaking Caribbean island known for its white-sand beaches, luxury yachts, designer boutiques, and upscale restaurants that dot its landscape. Despite its small size, the island is a popular destination for the rich and famous, offering a blend of natural beauty, European flair, and a relaxed, chic atmosphere.
Its capital, Gustavia, encircles a yacht-filled harbor and is renowned for its historical architecture, including the 17th-century Fort Karl, providing a picturesque setting that combines the island's colonial past with its modern-day opulence.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
- "Oui" - Yes
- "Non" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $200 - $1,200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $25 - $150
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $8
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $75 - $200
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $150
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic St. Jean Beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Consider renting a paddleboard or snorkeling gear to explore the underwater beauty.
Head to the nearby Nikky Beach for a delicious lunch with a view. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or taking a dip in the ocean.
Enjoy a sunset cocktail at a beachfront bar. Savor a fresh seafood dinner at a local restaurant.
Visit the Wall House Museum to learn about the island's history and culture. Stroll through the charming streets of Gustavia, taking in the local architecture.
Stop by local art galleries showcasing works by Caribbean artists. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a cafe, trying out some local dishes.
Explore Gustavia's vibrant nightlife with a visit to a local lounge. Indulge in a gourmet dinner with a mix of French and Caribbean flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches with white sand and crystal clear waters.
- Luxurious accommodations and high-end amenities.
- A vibrant nightlife with various bars and restaurants.
- Rich cultural influences from French and Caribbean traditions.
- Excellent opportunities for water sports such as snorkeling and sailing.
- High cost of living and expensive accommodations.
- Limited access to medical facilities and services.
- Potential overcrowding during peak tourist seasons.
- Transportation can be complicated due to limited public options.
- Hurricane season poses a risk for travel disruptions.
Best Activities in Saint Barthelemy
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life around the island, with popular spots including Colombier Beach and Pinel Island.
Enjoy scenic trails with breathtaking views, such as the hike to the top of Morne du Vitet, the highest point on the island.
Paddle through the calm waters and discover hidden coves and beaches, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Experience the beautiful coastline from a different perspective by gliding over the crystal-clear waters.
Join a game at one of the popular beaches like St. Jean, where you can have fun while enjoying the sun.
Rent a sailboat or join a sailing tour to explore nearby islands like Anguilla and Sint Maarten.
Catch some waves at the surf-friendly beaches like Grand Cul-de-Sac, suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Take a deep-sea fishing trip to try your hand at catching tuna, marlin, and other game fish.
Places to Visit in Saint Barthelemy
Visit one of these nice places.
This picturesque harbor offers stunning views of luxury yachts and vibrant sunset colors. It's a perfect spot for sunset photography.
Accessible by a hiking trail or by boat, Colombier Beach boasts crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal location for photos.
A unique beach covered in colorful shells, it provides a wonderful backdrop for photos, and the views of the surrounding cliffs are breathtaking.
This is one of the largest beaches in St. Barthelemy, with golden sands and azure waters, making it a great spot for scenic beach photography.
The highest point on the island offers panoramic views of St. Barthelemy and the surrounding sea, perfect for capturing the island's beauty.
A lesser-known viewpoint that provides a stunning landscape of the surrounding islands and ocean, it’s great for quiet photo opportunities.
The ruins of this historic fort offer dramatic cliffs and ocean views, making it an exceptional place for unique photography.
A popular hotspot, Nikki Beach is known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning beachfront views, especially during sunset.
Food in Saint Barthelemy
Saint Barthelemy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish made of fish, often cod, mixed with flour, spices, and herbs, then deep-fried to a golden crisp. Best enjoyed with a side of spicy dipping sauce.
Must-Try!
Lambi, or conch, is a delicacy in St. Barts. The meat is often prepared in a Creole sauce or served in a citrus-infused ceviche, showcasing the island's affinity for fresh seafood.
A savory casserole featuring christophine, a versatile vegetable similar to chayote squash, seasoned with garlic, herbs, and creamy béchamel sauce, then baked until golden brown.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for freshly caught fish, lobster, and other seafood. Visitors can savor the vibrant atmosphere while sampling grilled fish skewers and local Creole seafood specialties from the nearby street vendors.
This colorful market in Lorient offers an array of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and spices, providing a delightful opportunity to experience the island's agricultural diversity and authentic flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Saint Barthelemy is known for its stylish and laid-back atmosphere. While swimwear is acceptable at the beach, it's important to dress appropriately when visiting restaurants and shops. Casual chic attire is preferred for dining and social events.
The French influence is strong in Saint Barthelemy, and greeting locals with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' is expected during the day. A friendly smile and a warm greeting go a long way in demonstrating respect for the local culture.
When dining out, it's customary to wait for the host to begin the meal or to raise a toast before starting. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small percentage is commonly practiced.
Safety
Tipping in Saint Barthelemy
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint Barthelemy, tipping is generally expected in the service industry, with 10-15% of the bill being a standard practice. It's common to tip waitstaff, taxi drivers, and hotel staff for good service. However, many establishments may include a service charge in the bill, so it's advisable to check before deciding on the tip amount.
Payment methods in Saint Barthelemy are flexible, with major credit cards widely accepted at most establishments. Euro is the official currency, and visitors can also find ATMs throughout the island. It's advisable for visitors to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in places that may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the peak tourist season in Saint Barthelemy, characterized by pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and vibrant festive activities. Expect a lively atmosphere with numerous events, luxury parties, and fully booked accommodations. Average temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F.
Spring is considered one of the best times to visit as the weather remains warm and pleasant but crowds begin to thin out. Rates for accommodations may start to drop, and visitors can enjoy clearer skies and fewer tourists. Average temperatures are typically between 75°F to 83°F.
Summer is the off-peak season, with hotter temperatures and an increased chance of rain. However, visitors can enjoy lower prices on accommodations and a more relaxed atmosphere. Expect average temperatures around 80°F to 90°F and occasional tropical showers.
Fall features warm weather and is considered the hurricane season, though Saint Barthelemy is usually less affected. Tourist numbers remain low, offering a calm experience. Prices are typically lower than in peak season, with average temperatures ranging from 78°F to 87°F.
Saint Barthelemy at Night
Hiking in Saint Barthelemy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers stunning coastal views and leads to calm beaches, perfect for a day hike.
A moderate hike that features beautiful landscapes and leads to the secluded Colombier Beach.
A short hike that takes you to historic forts with panoramic views of Gustavia and the surrounding sea.
A challenging trail with rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding hills.
A picturesque hike through lush greenery leading to secluded beaches, ideal for nature lovers.
Airports
How to reach Saint Barthelemy by plane.
Located in Sint Maarten, this is the nearest major airport to Saint Barthelemy, offering international flights and direct connections to many global destinations.
Situated in Guadeloupe, this airport serves as a significant hub for international travel in the Caribbean region, with connections to Europe and North America.
Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, this is a major international gateway to the Caribbean and the Americas, offering a wide range of international flights.
In Barbados, this international airport provides flights to various destinations in North America and Europe, serving as a crucial point for travelers to the eastern Caribbean.
Located in Saint Lucia, this airport facilitates international travel to and from numerous countries, providing services to various Caribbean destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, primarily from Metropolitan France and other French territories.
Includes various Caribbean nationals and residents, such as those from nearby islands.
Tourists and expatriates from the United States and Canada, often involved in tourism and real estate.
Residents from Latin American countries, primarily for work in service sectors.
Small communities from other European countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sailing is a prominent sport in Saint Barthelemy due to its favorable wind conditions and beautiful waters. Many local and international regattas are held throughout the year.
Saint Barthelemy's beaches provide excellent waves for surfing, attracting both beginners and experienced surfers to its shores.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding Saint Barthelemy offer fantastic diving opportunities, featuring vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Tennis is a popular recreational sport on the island, with several courts available for both locals and tourists to enjoy.
Football is widely played and followed in Saint Barthelemy, with local leagues and community games being popular among residents.
Various water sports, including paddleboarding, jet skiing, and snorkeling, are popular among both locals and tourists visiting the island.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is predominant, many restaurants in St. Barts offer creative vegetarian and vegan dishes inspired by local produce and international influences. However, it's advisable to inquire in advance to ensure ample options.
A growing awareness of gluten intolerance has led to an increase in gluten-free offerings at various eateries on the island. Visitors can find gluten-free alternatives to traditional French and Creole dishes, particularly at upscale dining establishments.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Barthelemy.