Discover St. Barts: Your Exclusive Caribbean Escape

St. Barts, or St. Barthélemy, is a French-speaking Caribbean island known for its luxurious resorts, designer boutiques, and stunning beaches. This glamorous destination attracts jet-setters and celebrities seeking privacy, exclusivity, and a taste of the French Riviera in the tropics.

Getting to St. Barts & Getting Around

Flights: St. Barts has a small airport (SBH) that accommodates regional flights and private jets. Most travelers fly into St. Maarten (SXM) or Guadeloupe (PTP) and then take a short connecting flight or ferry to St. Barts.

Transportation: Taxis and rental cars are available on the island. Scooters and ATVs are also popular options for exploring St. Barts' scenic roads and hidden coves.

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season: December to April is the peak season, with ideal weather and a vibrant social scene. Expect higher prices and crowds during this time.

Shoulder Seasons: May-June and November offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds and more affordable options.

Off-Season: July to October is the hurricane season, with potential for rain and storms. However, this is also the most budget-friendly time to visit.

Entry Requirements & Practicalities

Visas: Most visitors don't need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Check specific requirements for your country.

Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency.

Costs: St. Barts is known for its high-end luxury, so expect prices to be significantly higher than in other Caribbean destinations. Budget accordingly for accommodation, dining, and activities.

Why Visit St. Barts?

• Luxurious Resorts & Villas: Indulge in world-class accommodations with stunning views, private pools, and impeccable service.
• Pristine Beaches: Relax on some of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches, like St. Jean Beach, Saline Beach, and Gouverneur Beach.
• Designer Shopping: Explore the charming streets of Gustavia, filled with high-end boutiques and designer stores.
• French Flair: Experience a unique blend of Caribbean and French culture, reflected in the island's cuisine, architecture, and ambiance.
• Privacy & Exclusivity: Escape the crowds and enjoy a serene and secluded getaway in a sophisticated setting.

Must-See Attractions in St. Barts

• St. Jean Beach: This iconic beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching, with a backdrop of luxury hotels and trendy beach clubs.
• Saline Beach: A secluded and unspoiled beach, known for its natural beauty and tranquility.
• Gustavia: Explore the charming capital, with its picturesque harbor, historic Fort Karl, and duty-free shopping.
• Colombier Beach: Accessible only by boat or a scenic hike, this pristine beach offers a secluded escape and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
• Lorient Beach: A popular spot for surfing and bodyboarding, with consistent waves and a laid-back atmosphere.

Top Activities in St. Barts

Beach Hopping: Discover the island's diverse beaches, each with its own unique charm and character.

Water Sports: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters.

Hiking: Explore the island's scenic trails, offering panoramic views and opportunities to discover hidden coves and beaches.

Shopping & Dining: Indulge in luxury shopping and savor gourmet cuisine at world-class restaurants.

Nightlife: Experience St. Barts' vibrant nightlife scene, with trendy bars and beach clubs offering live music and entertainment.

Where to Stay in St. Barts

Local Cuisine: What to Eat in St. Barts

• Fresh Seafood: Enjoy a variety of locally caught seafood, including grilled lobster, mahi-mahi, and tuna.
• French Cuisine: Savor classic French dishes and pastries at the island's many fine-dining restaurants.
• Accras: These savory fritters, made from salted cod, are a popular snack across the French Caribbean islands, including St. Barts.
• Bouillabaisse: A traditional French fish stew, often served with crusty bread and rouille sauce, this dish reflects the island’s French heritage.
• Colombo: A Caribbean-style curry dish made with chicken or goat, flavored with a variety of spices including turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
• Rhum Agricole: Made from freshly squeezed sugarcane juice, rhum agricole is the perfect base for local cocktails such as the Ti' Punch.

Festivals and Events

• St. Barts Music Festival: Held annually in January, this festival attracts renowned classical musicians, opera singers, and jazz artists from around the world.
• Les Voiles de St. Barth: A prestigious sailing regatta held every April, attracting yachts and sailors from across the globe.
• Gustavia Film Festival: An annual film festival showcasing French and international cinema, with screenings held outdoors against the stunning backdrop of the Caribbean Sea.
• St. Barths Gourmet Festival: A celebration of French and Caribbean gastronomy, this festival attracts world-class chefs who host special dinners and culinary events across the island.

Plan Your Trip

Itineraries: Explore sample itineraries that focus on luxury beach relaxation, romantic getaways, or island exploration.

Packing List: Prepare for your exclusive St. Barts escape with lightweight resort wear, swimwear, sunblock, and a few chic outfits for fine dining and shopping in Gustavia.

Local Customs: St. Barts, with its French influence, observes European customs. Polite greetings in French (e.g., “Bonjour”) are appreciated, and tipping in restaurants is customary.

Maps & Transportation: Access maps and transportation guides to navigate the island, with tips for renting cars or scooters, and recommendations for scenic drives and walking paths.

Travel Tips for St. Barts

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit St. Barts is during the peak season (December to April) for perfect weather, but the shoulder seasons (May-June and November) offer fewer crowds and better deals.

Currency: The official currency is the Euro (€), but US dollars are widely accepted.

Getting Around: Renting a car or scooter is highly recommended for exploring the island, but taxis are also available for shorter trips.

Safety: St. Barts is considered one of the safest Caribbean islands, but as always, exercise caution and avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach.