I still get butterflies thinking about St. Barts. This tiny French Caribbean island stole my heart from the moment I landed on that wild airstrip, and I honestly haven’t stopped raving about it since. Every time I close my eyes, I can picture myself back at Shell Beach, watching the sun sink into the sea with sand between my toes and the sound of waves in my ears.
I’ve seen a lot of beautiful places in St. Barts, but nothing beats that first glimpse of Colombier Beach—this stunning curve of white sand that feels like it was made for postcards. The best part? You can only get there by boat or hiking down a trail, which makes it even more special. Let me show you the 12 spots that made me fall head over heels for this island.
Top Sights to See in St. Barts
Looking for the coolest things to do in St. Barts? Relax on the pristine sands of Anse des Flamands, soak up the sun at Colombier Beach, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Gouverneur Beach. Take in the breathtaking views at Grand Cul de Sac Beach for an unforgettable island experience. Whether you’re interested in relaxation, stunning beaches, or water activities, here are the top attractions to visit in St. Barts.
1. Anse des Flamands
- 📍 Location: Northern coast of St. Barts, 10 minutes’ drive from Gustavia
- 🏆 Best For: Sunbathers 🏖️, swimmers 🏊♀️, photography enthusiasts 📸
- 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on powdery white sand, swimming in crystal-clear waters, watching the sunset
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for perfect weather, early mornings for tranquility 🌅
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France – Luxurious beachfront hotel with spectacular views
The powdery white sand of Anse des Flamands stretches along a breathtaking bay embraced by verdant hills. This pristine beach features calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with enough space to find your own secluded spot even during high season. The shoreline offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and upscale amenities, with elegant restaurants serving fresh seafood right on the sand.
Arrive early to claim a prime spot and stay for the spectacular sunset that transforms the sky into magnificent hues of orange and pink. I found the rocky outcroppings at both ends of the beach particularly rewarding for snorkeling enthusiasts. Cheval Blanc provides the ultimate luxury experience if you’re looking to stay steps from this paradise, with impeccable service and direct beach access.
2. Colombier Beach
- 📍 Location: Northwestern tip of St. Barts, accessible only by boat or hiking trail
- 🏆 Best For: Adventurers 🥾, snorkelers 🤿, privacy seekers 🏝️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the scenic trail, snorkeling with sea turtles, enjoying a secluded picnic
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning for wildlife spotting, weekdays for fewer visitors 🐢
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Gyp Sea Hotel – A tropical-chic boutique hotel perched atop Colombier Hill, offering 22 colorful bungalows and villas with panoramic views of Flamands Bay, colonial-inspired décor, and access to the exclusive Gyp Sea Beach Club
The hidden gem of Colombier Beach rewards adventurous travelers with perhaps the most beautiful shoreline on the island. Accessible only by a 30-minute hike or boat, this secluded paradise remains uncrowded and pristine throughout the year. The journey offers stunning views of the coastline and neighboring islands along a moderately challenging path that adds to the sense of discovery.
Upon arrival, a perfect crescent of soft sand awaits, embraced by turquoise waters teeming with marine life. The protected bay creates ideal snorkeling conditions with excellent visibility and frequent sea turtle sightings. No facilities exist here, so come prepared with water, snacks, and sun protection for a true castaway experience. Weekday mornings typically offer the most solitude for those seeking an authentic escape.
3. Gouverneur Beach
- 📍 Location: Southern coast of St. Barts, 15 minutes from Gustavia
- 🏆 Best For: Celebrity spotters 👀, sunbathers 🏖️, swimmers in search of privacy 🏊
- 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in pristine waters, sunbathing on velvety sand, spotting luxury villas of the rich and famous
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Morning to early afternoon for optimal sun conditions, weekdays to avoid crowds 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth – An 18-acre luxury resort on a private peninsula in Grand Cul-de-Sac, offering 66 vibrant cottages and suites, two beaches, two pools, and a full-service spa
The stunning crescent of Gouverneur Beach regularly appears in luxury travel magazines for good reason. Surrounded by hills dotted with exclusive villas, this natural beach remains refreshingly undeveloped despite its popularity among celebrities. The horseshoe-shaped bay features exceptionally clear waters that transition from light turquoise to deep sapphire as you swim farther from shore.
Strong swimmers appreciate the generally calm conditions, though waves can pick up in the afternoon. Privacy remains the main attraction here, as the beach rarely feels crowded even during peak season. The minimal shade makes an umbrella essential for all-day visits. Exploring the rocky areas at either end reveals colorful fish darting among formations, making it worth bringing snorkeling gear on your visit.
4. Grand Cul de Sac Beach
- 📍 Location: Northeastern coast of St. Barts, facing a protected lagoon
- 🏆 Best For: Water sports enthusiasts 🏄♀️, families with children 👨👩👧👦, wildlife watchers 🦩
- 📸 Top Experiences: Kitesurfing in the shallow lagoon, paddleboarding across calm waters, dining at beachfront restaurants
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for ideal wind conditions for kitesurfing, sunset for magical dining experiences 🌅
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa – Luxury beachfront property with direct access to the lagoon
Water sports paradise awaits at Grand Cul de Sac Beach, curving around a stunning protected lagoon with crystal-clear, shallow waters. The coral reef barrier keeps waves gentle and creates perfect conditions for kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, with equipment readily available along the beach. This family-friendly spot balances excitement and relaxation, as water typically remains waist-deep for hundreds of feet offshore.
The calm waters host sea turtles often spotted grazing on seagrass just a short swim from shore. Several of St. Barts’ finest restaurants line the beach, serving exceptional French-Caribbean cuisine with barefoot elegance. Le Barthélemy offers luxury accommodations with direct lagoon access, perfect for guests wanting to maximize their time enjoying this remarkable setting. Reserve a sunset dinner table for a truly magical experience as the sky transforms into a canvas of spectacular colors.
5. Gustavia
- 📍 Location: Western coast of St. Barts, main harbor and capital city
- 🏆 Best For: Shoppers 🛍️, history enthusiasts 🏛️, yacht watchers ⛵
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring designer boutiques, dining at world-class restaurants, watching mega-yachts in the harbor
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Morning for shopping, evening for vibrant dining scene and people-watching 🌆
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf – Elegant hotel with panoramic views of the harbor
Picturesque Gustavia wraps around a horseshoe-shaped bay where impressive yachts create a constantly changing seascape of floating luxury. The capital’s distinctive red-roofed buildings house designer boutiques from Hermès to Louis Vuitton, interspersed with charming local shops selling island-made products. Well-preserved colonial architecture and landmarks like Fort Karl offer history enthusiasts panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding islands.
The town transforms as evening approaches, with waterfront restaurants filling with stylish crowds enjoying creative cocktails and exceptional cuisine. Securing a table at a harbor-facing establishment just before sunset provides the quintessential Gustavia experience. Hotel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf perches above the harbor, offering elegant accommodations with sweeping views that showcase both the natural beauty and sophisticated charm that define this remarkable town.
6. Piscines Naturelles
- 📍 Location: Eastern coast of St. Barts near Grand Fond
- 🏆 Best For: Adventure seekers 🧗♂️, nature lovers 🌊, photographers 📸
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the rugged trail, swimming in natural rock pools, watching powerful waves crash against the coastline
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Morning for best lighting conditions, calm days for safer swimming in the pools 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf Saint-Barth – An intimate 5-star retreat perched above Gustavia, offering 21 luxurious suites and bungalows with private terraces and pools
Dramatic natural swimming pools carved into volcanic rock make Piscines Naturelles unlike anything else on St. Barts. A moderate hike leads through moonscape-like terrain to this wild, untamed stretch of coastline where centuries of Atlantic waves have sculpted perfect basins in the rock. The natural pools form protected areas for swimming while powerful ocean surges crash just feet away, creating a thrilling contrast to the island’s serene beaches.
Photographers capture stunning images here, especially in morning light when the sun illuminates spray from crashing waves. Always check local conditions before swimming, as waves occasionally wash over rock barriers during rough weather. Walking through this raw, elemental landscape made me appreciate the diverse experiences this island offers beyond its famous beaches. Wear sturdy shoes for the hike and bring plenty of water to fully enjoy this remarkable natural wonder.
7. Saint Barthelemy Natural Reserve
- 📍 Location: Northern coast of St. Barthélemy, accessible via hiking trails from Colombier Beach
- 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, hikers 🥾, birdwatchers 🦜
- 📸 Top Experiences: Spotting rare island wildlife, hiking scenic coastal trails, enjoying pristine beaches
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April during dry season for clearer hiking paths and better wildlife viewing 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa – A serene 5-star beachfront resort nestled in Grand Cul-de-Sac Bay, offering 44 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, along with two luxurious villas
The lush Saint Barthélemy Natural Reserve protects nearly 3,000 acres of diverse habitats, from tropical forests to dramatic coastal cliffs. Well-maintained hiking trails wind through native vegetation where visitors might spot the rare St. Barth’s anole lizard or indigenous bird species found nowhere else. The coastal sections provide breathtaking views of turquoise waters below, with frigatebirds soaring overhead and occasional sea turtle sightings.
For the ultimate experience, I recommend taking the trail from Colombier Beach into the heart of the reserve to discover secluded coves accessible only by foot. Pack plenty of water and sunscreen, as shade is limited on many exposed coastal paths. The untouched beauty of this ecological treasure offers a perfect contrast to the island’s famous beaches and resorts.
8. Saint Jean Beach
- 📍 Location: North coast of St. Barthélemy, just 5 minutes from the airport
- 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, people watchers 👀, watersports enthusiasts 🏄♂️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in crystal-clear water, plane spotting at the adjacent airport, dining at beachfront restaurants
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: High season (December to April) for perfect weather and vibrant beach scene 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Eden Rock – A legendary luxury hotel perched on the rocky promontory dividing the beach
The stunning Saint Jean Beach serves as the social heart of St. Barthélemy, where celebrities rub shoulders with locals on one of the island’s most accessible shores. This magnificent bay is divided by the iconic Eden Rock hotel, with the western portion buzzing with activity at beach clubs like famous Nikki Beach, where champagne flows freely. The eastern side offers a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for swimming in the protected bay or trying watersports like paddleboarding.
Watching small aircraft dramatically descend over the beach to land at the adjacent airport creates a thrilling spectacle throughout the day. When hunger strikes, you’re steps away from excellent beachfront dining options ranging from casual feet-in-the-sand eateries to upscale restaurants. Arrive early to claim a good spot on this popular beach where luxury and accessibility perfectly blend.
9. Saline Beach
- 📍 Location: Southern coast of St. Barthélemy, a 10-minute drive from Gustavia
- 🏆 Best For: Sunbathers 🌞, privacy seekers 🤫, naturists 🍃
- 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in pristine waters, hiking the dune path to reach the beach, sunset viewing
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Morning hours for solitude or late afternoon for spectacular sunset views 🌅
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hôtel Le Village Saint Barth – A cherished family-run boutique hotel nestled on the breezy hills of St. Jean, offering panoramic views of the bay and a tranquil tropical garden setting
The breathtaking Saline Beach showcases a perfect crescent of powdery white sand stretching for nearly half a mile, backed by rolling dunes and framed by green hills. This natural masterpiece remains wonderfully undeveloped due to its protected status, with a short trail over a dune ridge leading to one of the most pristine shorelines in the Caribbean. Crystal-clear waters in varying shades of blue stretch to the horizon, creating a paradise for swimmers and sunbathers alike.
The beach’s eastern end welcomes clothing-optional sunbathers, while the western portion tends to attract more traditionally attired visitors. Without facilities or shade, coming prepared with water and sun protection ensures the best experience at this unspoiled gem. The complete absence of development creates a genuine connection with nature that few Caribbean beaches can match.
10. Shell Beach
- 📍 Location: Western coast of St. Barthélemy, walking distance from Gustavia harbor
- 🏆 Best For: Shell collectors 🐚, snorkelers 🤿, sunset chasers 🌅
- 📸 Top Experiences: Finding unique shells, swimming in protected waters, dining at Shellona restaurant
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Low tide for shell collecting, late afternoon for golden hour photos 🌟
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hôtel Le Village Saint Barth – A charming, family-owned 4-star hotel nestled on the hillside of St. Jean, offering panoramic ocean views and a tranquil tropical garden setting
The charming Shell Beach lives up to its name with millions of tiny shells that crunch pleasantly underfoot as you stroll along the shore. Located just a short walk from Gustavia’s shopping district, this hidden cove feels surprisingly tranquil despite its central location. Rocky outcroppings create a natural swimming pool with calm, clear waters perfect for snorkeling, where colorful fish dart among the rocks.
The beach’s west-facing position has spectacular sunsets, best enjoyed with a tropical cocktail from Shellona, the stylish beach restaurant serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine right on the shore. This unique combination of convenient location, shell-covered terrain, and excellent amenities makes it my favorite spot to unwind after exploring the island’s capital. Visit at day’s end to experience the seamless transition from shopping to swimming to sunset drinks in one perfect afternoon.
11. Toiny Coast
- 📍 Location: Eastern coast of St. Barthélemy, facing the open Atlantic
- 🏆 Best For: Surfers 🏄♂️, adventurers 🧗♀️, photographers 📸
- 📸 Top Experiences: Watching (or riding) powerful waves, hiking the wild coastline, visiting the natural pools
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Surf season (November to March) for impressive waves, calmer summer months for exploring tidepools 🌊
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Le Toiny – Luxury hillside hotel overlooking the dramatic coastline
The dramatic Toiny Coast presents a striking contrast to St. Barth’s sheltered western beaches, with the full power of the Atlantic creating a rugged, wild shoreline. Experienced surfers flock to Toiny Beach to challenge themselves against consistently good waves, making it the island’s premier surf spot. The coastal hiking trail provides breathtaking vantage points of the wave action below and panoramic views across the eastern side of the island.
Hidden among the rocky landscape lies the natural pool, a protected swimming area formed by volcanic rocks that create a calm oasis amidst the thundering surf beyond. The elegant Le Toiny Beach Club offers refined dining in this wild setting, with shuttles transporting guests down to their private stretch of beach. Morning visits reward photographers with golden sunlight illuminating the coastline and highlighting the powerful beauty of this untamed shore.
12. Lorient Beach
- 📍 Location: Northern coast of St. Barthélemy, between Saint Jean and Grand Cul de Sac
- 🏆 Best For: Families 👨👩👧👦, beginning surfers 🏄♀️, locals 🏝️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Gentle swimming in protected reef areas, surfing the beach break, picnicking under sea grape trees
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with calmer waters during summer months (May-November) 🌊
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Les Ilets de la Plage – Villa resort offering direct beach access and privacy
The authentic Lorient Beach captures the true spirit of St. Barths, beloved by locals seeking a more laid-back experience away from the island’s high-profile hotspots. The beach’s eastern end features a reef, creating a natural swimming pool perfect for families with small children. Meanwhile, the center offers consistent small waves that make it ideal for surfing beginners looking to catch their first rides without intimidating conditions.
Tall sea grape trees provide natural shade along portions of the beach, a rare feature on sun-drenched St. Barths. Convenient amenities include a small grocery store across the street for picnic supplies and the local bakery, La Petite Colombe, just a short walk away for fresh morning pastries. Sunday visits offer a glimpse of authentic island life when local families gather for weekend beach time away from the tourist crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in St. Barts
Want to discover more about the most captivating spots in St. Barts? Below are some questions that I commonly receive about the region’s must-visit attractions.
Where do celebrities stay in St Barts?
Celebrities often opt for ultra-luxurious villas and exclusive resorts when staying in St. Barts. Eden Rock and Cheval Blanc are among the top choices, offering utmost privacy and top-notch amenities. These resorts provide not just a place to stay but an entire experience, complete with private chefs, butlers, and personalized excursions.
Which is better, St Maarten or St Barts?
The “better” island depends on your preferences. St. Maarten offers a mix of Dutch and French cultures, larger land area, and more varied activities. It’s generally more budget-friendly but can be crowded. St. Barts is smaller and more exclusive, known for luxury and privacy. If you’re looking for a high-end, intimate experience, St. Barts is the better choice.
Is St Barts expensive?
Yes, St. Barts is one of the more expensive Caribbean destinations. The cost of living is high, and most goods are imported. Dining, shopping, and accommodations are geared towards a luxury market. However, the quality of services and experiences often justify the price tag.
Is Cartier cheaper in St Barts?
Contrary to popular belief, Cartier is not necessarily cheaper in St. Barts. Prices are generally consistent with those in other countries when you factor in exchange rates and taxes. However, you might find limited-edition items or unique pieces that aren’t available elsewhere.
What is the best area in St Barts?
The best area in St. Barts can vary depending on what you’re looking for:
- Gustavia: This is the capital and the hub of all activity. If you’re looking for luxury shopping, fine dining, and a bustling nightlife, Gustavia is the place to be. The harbor is filled with yachts, and the streets are lined with high-end boutiques.
- St. Jean: This area is known for its beautiful beach and is a hotspot for water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding. It’s also home to the famous Eden Rock Hotel.
- Grand Cul de Sac: If water sports are your thing, this area is perfect. The lagoon is ideal for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and other water activities.
- Colombier: For those looking for a quieter experience, Colombier is a secluded paradise. Accessible only by a hiking trail or by boat, it offers a peaceful and serene environment.
- Flamands: This area offers one of the island’s largest beaches and is less crowded than St. Jean or Gustavia. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds but still want amenities like beachside restaurants.
What is St Barts famous for?
St. Barts is famous for its stunning natural beauty, luxury lifestyle, and French flair. Here’s a breakdown:
- Beaches: With 14 public beaches, each offering its own unique charm, St. Barts is a beach lover’s paradise. From the popular St. Jean Beach to the secluded Colombier Beach, there’s something for everyone.
- Luxury: St. Barts is synonymous with luxury. From high-end boutiques to luxury yachts dotting the harbor, the island exudes opulence.
- Culinary Scene: The island is known for its exceptional dining experiences, blending French cuisine with Caribbean flavors.
- Celebrity Haven: The island is a playground for the rich and famous, especially during the New Year period. Celebrities often escape here for its privacy and luxury services.
- Water Sports: The island offers a plethora of water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and kite surfing, among others.
- French Influence: Being an overseas collectivity of France, the island has a strong French influence, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and even the language.
- Festivals and Events: St. Barts hosts several high-profile events, including the St. Barts Music Festival and the St. Barts Bucket Regatta, attracting visitors from around the world.
- Exclusivity: Unlike other Caribbean islands, St. Barts has no all-inclusive resorts, adding to its exclusive appeal. The island is less commercial and more focused on offering a unique, high-quality experience.
Where do celebrities stay in St Barts?
Celebrities seeking a luxurious and private getaway often choose St. Barts for its exclusivity and high-end amenities. Here’s where they usually stay:
- Eden Rock: One of the most iconic hotels on the island, Eden Rock offers top-notch services and has hosted celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Beyoncé.
- Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France: This lavish resort is known for its privacy and has been a choice for celebrities like Victoria Beckham.
- Le Sereno: Offering a blend of simplicity and luxury, Le Sereno is another hotspot for celebrities. The secluded location makes it ideal for those looking to escape the paparazzi.
- Hotel Christopher: Situated in Pointe Milou, this hotel offers stunning sunset views and has been frequented by celebrities looking for a romantic getaway.
- Villa Rentals: Many celebrities opt for private villas that offer the ultimate in privacy and luxury. These villas often come with a full staff, private pools, and beach access.
- Le Toiny: Located in a secluded area, this luxury resort offers individual villas and is known for attracting high-profile guests who prefer staying away from the limelight.
- Private Yachts: Some celebrities choose to stay on private yachts docked in Gustavia Harbor, offering both privacy and quick access to the town’s high-end shops and restaurants.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in St. Barts
In wrapping up this whirlwind tour of St. Barts, it’s clear that the island is a slice of paradise that offers something for everyone. From the sun-kissed beaches like Anse des Flamands and Colombier Beach to the bustling life in Gustavia, St. Barts is a blend of natural beauty and upscale luxury. Whether you’re a celebrity seeking a private escape or an adventurer looking to explore Saint Barthelemy Natural Reserve, this Caribbean gem never disappoints.
The island’s allure goes beyond its stunning locations. It’s a lifestyle—a blend of French sophistication and laid-back Caribbean vibes—that makes you want to return, year after year. The culinary scene is a gastronomic adventure, the shopping ranges from high-end boutiques to charming local markets, and the people are as warm as the Caribbean sun.
So, if you’re planning your next vacation and wondering where to go in St. Barts, remember that you can’t go wrong with any of the destinations we’ve explored. Each offers its own unique charm and activities, ensuring that your trip will be filled with unforgettable experiences.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through one of the most beautiful places in St. Barts. Until the next adventure!
