Things To Do
in Gustavia

The harbor skyline bathed in warm light, with yachts and pastel buildings reflecting on calm waters—perfect for golden-hour photography.

Elevated vantage point above the harbor offering sweeping views of coves, the quay, and the town’s lighthouse in the distance.

Powdery white sand and turquoise water create a vivid beachscape; ideal for wide-angle beach and waterline shots.

A scenic coastal path leads to a secluded cove with clear water, rock outcroppings, and a dramatic island backdrop.

Conch simmered in a creamy coconut sauce with lime and warm spices, typically served with rice or flatbreads.

Must-Try!

A flavorful Creole curry using meat or fish, ground spices, and a touch of palm oil, usually accompanied by rice and beans.

Crispy cod fritters spiked with herbs and hot pepper—great as a starter or street-side snack.

A hearty fish bouillon with bundled herbs, vegetables, and tender chunks of fish—comforting and aromatic.

Start interactions with 'Bonjour' (good day) or 'Bonsoir' in the evening. A polite, relaxed demeanor goes a long way.

Smart casual is typical in restaurants and shops; beachwear is appropriate on beaches but not in town centers or indoor venues. Public displays of anger or loud behavior are frowned upon.

Respect private properties along the coast; ask for permission before entering resort grounds and keep beaches clean.

Follow local tipping norms and use licensed taxis; cash is useful in markets and small eateries.

In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is customary if service is not included. For bars and casual spots, round up or leave a small amount. Tipping in cash is appreciated, but credit card tips are widely accepted where allowed.

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. US dollars are commonly accepted on Saint Barthélemy. Carry some local currency for markets and small vendors; cash is handy for taxis and street food.

June to November brings hot days and tropical showers with higher humidity. The sea is warm, making swimming ideal, but watch for tropical storms or the start of hurricane season in late summer and early autumn.

Still warm with occasional rain showers and rougher seas. This is a transitional period for crowds and pricing; great for island exploration with fewer boats and crowds.

Dry season (December to April) offers bright sunshine, gentle trade winds, and peak tourist activity. Expect comfortable temperatures and pristine beaches, with higher prices and more events.

Late spring brings warm days and improving shoulder-season pricing. Good visibility for snorkeling and hiking, with lively but not overwhelming beaches.

A small, island runway close to Gustavia with regional and seasonal international connections; travel often includes short hop flights to nearby Caribbean hubs.

Major international hub offering connections to Europe, the Americas, and beyond; travelers transfer here for many long-haul itineraries.

A smaller airport serving the northern part of Saint Martin with regional flights and easy connections to nearby Caribbean destinations.

An international gateway in Guadeloupe offering additional long-haul connections and access to Caribbean routes.

Primarily French nationals and Creole communities with a cosmopolitan mix of expatriates from Europe and the Americas; seasonal residents join visitors during peak periods.

A high-end, globally diverse mix of travelers attracted by beaches, dining, and luxury experiences.