Discover the best of St. Barts with our comprehensive guide to the island's top attractions, activities, and beaches. From luxury shopping in Gustavia to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, explore the ultimate Caribbean paradise.
Top Attractions to see in St. Barts
St. Barts is not just about stunning beaches; the island offers a range of other attractions as well. From historical sites to luxury shopping, here are some of the top attractions you might consider visiting when you're on the island:
Gustavia Harbor
The capital city's harbor is a bustling area filled with luxury yachts, sailboats, and fishing vessels. The waterfront area is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a pleasant place for a stroll or meal.
Fort Gustav
This historical site offers a glimpse into the island's past, and it also provides excellent views of Gustavia and the surrounding harbor.
St. Bartholomew's Anglican Church
This small but charming church in Gustavia is an oasis of tranquility and offers a moment to reflect amid your travels.
Wall House Museum
Located in Gustavia, this museum is dedicated to the island's history and culture. It's housed in a historic building and offers a variety of exhibits that change regularly.
Morne du Vitet
The highest point on St. Barts, Morne du Vitet offers panoramic views of the island and is a popular spot for hiking.
Lagoon of Grand Cul de Sac
Apart from its beach, the lagoon is a famous destination for water sports like windsurfing, kite surfing, and kayaking.
Luxury Shopping in Gustavia
St. Barts is known for its luxury boutiques, including high-end fashion, jewelry, and perfumes. The shopping district in Gustavia is a must-visit for anyone interested in luxury goods.
Le Ti St Barth
This is more of an experience than an attraction. Le Ti St Barth is a cabaret restaurant offering great food along with live performances, making for a unique dining experience on the island.
Colombier Viewpoint
Although Colombier Beach is often the primary attraction, the viewpoint from the hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the bay and is a perfect spot for photography.
Corossol Village
This quaint fishing village offers a glimpse into the traditional life on St. Barts. It's also known for its hand-made straw crafts, which make for lovely souvenirs.
Top Activities to do in St. Barts
St. Barts offers a wide array of activities beyond beach lounging and sunbathing. Here are some of the top activities you can engage in while visiting the island:
Sailing and Yacht Charters
St. Barts is a popular destination for sailing, and many visitors opt to explore the island and its neighboring waters by chartering a yacht or taking a sailing excursion.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
The waters around St. Barts are rich with marine life, making it an excellent destination for diving and snorkeling. There are dive shops that offer courses and guided trips for both beginners and experienced divers.
Windsurfing and Kitesurfing
The windy conditions at certain beaches make St. Barts a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Equipment rentals and lessons are available at various locations.
Hiking
St. Barts offers some scenic hiking trails that lead to panoramic views of the island. Popular trails include the one to Colombier Beach and the hike up to the viewpoint at Morne du Vitet.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in St. Barts, and you can either rent equipment for a self-guided adventure or join a chartered fishing trip.
Luxury Shopping
St. Barts is renowned for its luxury shopping scene, particularly in the capital, Gustavia. From high-end fashion boutiques to artisan shops, shopping is a popular activity on the island.
Dining and Culinary Exploration
St. Barts is known for its culinary scene, which fuses French cuisine with Caribbean flavors. Trying the local food and dining at some of the island's top restaurants is a must.
Spa Treatments
Many resorts offer luxurious spa services that range from massages and facials to full-day wellness retreats.
Water Sports
Apart from windsurfing and kitesurfing, you can also engage in paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing in the calmer waters of the island's bays.
ATV and Scooter Rentals
Renting an ATV or scooter can be a fun way to explore the island at your own pace. Many visitors opt for this mode of transportation to visit less accessible beaches and viewpoints.
Art Galleries and Museums
St. Barts has a vibrant arts scene, and you'll find numerous galleries showcasing local and international artists. The Wall House Museum in Gustavia is also worth a visit for its historical exhibits.
Nightlife
Although not as bustling as some other Caribbean destinations, St. Barts does offer some nightlife options including bars, nightclubs, and live music venues, particularly in Gustavia.
Sunset Cruises
End your day with a romantic sunset cruise. Many operators offer evening cruises complete with drinks and sometimes even dinner.
Best Beaches in St. Barts
St. Barts (Saint Barthélemy) is known for its beautiful beaches that offer a mix of natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. Here is a list of some of the best beaches in St. Barts:
Flamands Beach
One of the largest beaches on the island, Flamands offers white sand and turquoise water. It's a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, and you'll find some upscale resorts nearby.
St. Jean Beach
Divided into two parts by the Eden Rock Hotel, St. Jean is one of the most popular beaches on the island. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming and water sports, such as paddleboarding and snorkeling.
Shell Beach
Located close to Gustavia, the island's capital, this beach is unique because of the millions of tiny shells that make up its shoreline. It's a fantastic place for snorkeling and is within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
Gouverneur Beach
This beach is more secluded and offers an intimate setting. The crystal-clear waters and powdery sand make it ideal for sunbathing and swimming. It's also a popular spot for snorkeling.
Colombier Beach
Accessible only by boat or a 30-minute hike, Colombier Beach is one of the more secluded spots on the island. It's perfect for those looking for a more tranquil environment.
Saline Beach
This beach is another remote option for those who prefer less crowded spaces. It's a bit of a walk from the parking area, but the stunning views and clear water are well worth the effort.
Petit Cul de Sac
For those interested in windsurfing or kite surfing, Petit Cul de Sac offers strong winds and a large bay. It is less crowded than some of the other beaches and offers a bit of variety for water sports enthusiasts.
Lorient Beach
This beach is popular among locals and offers good surf breaks. It's also a good spot for snorkeling and has a more laid-back atmosphere.
Toiny Beach
If you're a surfer, this beach is for you. The currents can be strong, and the waves can get big, making it less suitable for swimming but excellent for surfing.
Grand Cul de Sac
This beach is perfect for families as the water is shallow and well-protected from the wind. It's also popular for various water sports like kite surfing and kayaking.
