St. Barthélemy

Travel guide

St. Barthélemy

St. Barthélemy, a French Caribbean island, is known for its stunning beaches, upscale boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Beyond the capital, Gustavia, explore its charming villages and natural beauty.

Saint_Barth_-_Vue_panoramique_-_Octobre_2009.jpg : Starus derivative work: Massi · CC BY-SA 3.0
  • Best MonthsDecember to April
  • AirportsGustaf III Airport (SBH)
  • TransitCar rentals and taxis
  • Power220V, Type C and E plugs
  • Tipping10-15% in restaurants
  • LanguageFrench (English widely spoken)

01

When to go

The best time to visit is from December to April when the weather is pleasant and dry.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
dry

Dry Season

Enjoy sunny days and minimal rainfall, perfect for beach activities.

wet

Wet Season

Experience occasional showers, but still warm and lush.

hurricane

Hurricane Season

Risk of storms; travel with caution during this time.

02

Where to stay

Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.

01
Luxury

Gustavia

The capital offers luxury accommodations and proximity to shops and restaurants.

Can be crowded during peak season.

02
Vibrant

St. Jean

Known for its beautiful beach and vibrant nightlife, perfect for those seeking entertainment.

Can be noisy at night.

03
Quaint

Corossol

A quaint fishing village with a local feel, ideal for a quieter stay.

Limited dining options.

04
Relaxed

Lorient

Offers a more laid-back atmosphere with beautiful beaches and local charm.

Fewer amenities compared to Gustavia.

05
Scenic

Saline

Famous for its stunning beach, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.

Limited facilities nearby.

06
Active

Grand Cul-de-Sac

A serene area known for its calm waters and water sports activities.

Less nightlife options.

07
Family-friendly

Anse des Cayes

Offers a mix of local culture and beach access, great for families.

Can be quieter than other areas.

08
Secluded

Toiny

A secluded area with stunning views and a peaceful environment.

Limited dining and shopping.

03

What to eat

Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.

Lobster

Freshly caught and often grilled, available at beachside shacks.

→ Try it with local spices.

Conch Fritters

A local delicacy, best found at casual eateries.

→ Perfect as a snack.

Creole Fish

Seasoned and cooked in a variety of styles, popular in local restaurants.

→ Ask for the catch of the day.

Roti

A Caribbean wrap filled with meat or vegetables, found at food stalls.

→ Great for a quick meal.

Tarte Tatin

A delicious upside-down caramelized apple tart, available at bakeries.

→ Best enjoyed warm.

Accras

Fried cod fritters, a popular appetizer at many local joints.

→ Pair with a cold drink.

04

What to see

An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.

01

Shell Beach

Famous for its unique shell-covered shoreline, perfect for sunbathing.

Beach
02

Colombier Beach

A secluded beach accessible by hiking or boat, ideal for tranquility.

Secluded
03

Fort Gustave

Historical site with panoramic views of Gustavia and the harbor.

History
04

Corossol Beach

Known for its picturesque scenery and local fishing boats.

Scenic
05

St. Barthélemy Museum

Showcases the island's history and culture, located in Gustavia.

Culture
06

Anse de Grand Cul-de-Sac

A beautiful bay perfect for water sports and relaxation.

Active
07

Saline Beach

Renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

Relaxation
08

Toiny Beach

A quiet beach known for its surf and stunning views.

Surfing
09

Gustavia Harbor

The heart of the island's activity, lined with shops and cafes.

Shopping
10

La Petite Plage

A charming beach with a lively atmosphere, great for people-watching.

Social
11

Eden Rock

A famous hotel and beach club known for its stunning views.

Luxury
12

Lorient Beach

A family-friendly beach with calm waters and amenities.

Family

05

Getting around

Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.

Gustaf III Airport

The main airport serving St. Barthélemy, offering connections to nearby islands and direct flights from select locations.

SBHSBH

Ferry Services

Regular ferry services connect St. Barthélemy with St. Martin, providing an alternative way to reach the island.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is a convenient way to explore the island at your own pace.

Scooter Rentals

Scooters are a popular choice for navigating the island's roads.

06

Practical notes

Plugs

Type C and E plugs are used, with a standard voltage of 220V.

Cash

Euros are the main currency; credit cards are widely accepted.

Tipping

A tip of 10-15% is appreciated in restaurants.

Language

French is the official language; English is commonly spoken.

Data

A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.

Trip Duration

A stay of 5-7 days is recommended to explore the island.

St. Barthélemy eSIM

Maps, ferries and tickets are easier with data as soon as you land.

See eSIM plans
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