🇧🇱 St. Barthelemy

Discover St. Barthelemy

St. Barthelemy, affectionately known as St. Barths, represents the pinnacle of luxury Caribbean travel. This small French island combines European sophistication with pristine tropical beauty, attracting celebrities, jet-setters, and discerning travelers seeking the ultimate island escape. With 14 stunning beaches, world-class gourmet restaurants, designer boutiques, and ultra-luxury resorts, St. Barths delivers an exclusive Caribbean experience unlike any other.

The island's chic French atmosphere permeates every aspect, from the charming red-roofed capital of Gustavia to the hillside villas overlooking turquoise bays. Duty-free shopping rivals European fashion capitals, while Michelin-quality restaurants serve exquisite French-Caribbean fusion cuisine. Despite its glamorous reputation, St. Barths maintains an intimate, laid-back island vibe where barefoot luxury meets French savoir-faire in perfect harmony.

Award-Winning Excellence

Caribbean-Wide Award Winner

• Le Barth Villas - Caribbean's Leading Holiday Villa Rental Company 2025

Notable Award-Winning Properties & Services

• Eden Rock - St Barths - St. Barthelemy's Leading Boutique Hotel 2025
• Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth - St. Barthelemy's Leading Hotel 2025
• Avis St. Barthelemy - St. Barthelemy's Leading Car Rental Company 2025

Top Attractions & Things to Do

• Gustavia Harbor - Picturesque capital harbor lined with luxury yachts, boutique shops, waterfront restaurants, and Swedish colonial architecture
• St. Jean Beach - Most popular beach with pristine white sand, turquoise waters, upscale beach clubs, and excellent water sports
• Shell Beach (Anse des Galets) - Unique beach covered in shells steps from Gustavia with calm waters and stunning sunset views
• Colombier Beach - Secluded paradise accessible only by foot or boat with pristine sands, exceptional snorkeling, and complete privacy
• Saline Beach (Grande Saline) - Natural beauty with long white sand beach, powerful waves for bodysurfing, and unspoiled setting
• Fort Gustav - Historic hilltop fort overlooking Gustavia harbor with panoramic views and restored lighthouse
• Lorient Beach - Local favorite with gentle waves perfect for families and surfers, authentic island atmosphere
• Gouverneur Beach - Secluded crescent beach with dramatic cliffs, excellent swimming, and romantic sunsets
• Nikki Beach - Legendary beach club with champagne brunches, music, and St. Barths' signature party atmosphere
• Inter Oceans Museum - Fascinating seashell collection with over 9,000 specimens from around the world
• Corossol Village - Traditional fishing village preserving old St. Barths culture with basket weaving demonstrations
• New Year's Eve in Gustavia - World-famous celebration with mega-yachts, fireworks, and glamorous parties

Best Beaches

Luxury Shopping & Dining

St. Barthelemy's shopping scene rivals European fashion capitals with duty-free boutiques featuring Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and other luxury brands lining Gustavia's streets. The island offers exceptional value on jewelry, watches, designer fashion, and French perfumes. Shopping combines high-end retail with charming local boutiques and art galleries showcasing Caribbean artists.

The dining scene features Michelin-quality French cuisine infused with Caribbean flavors. Renowned chefs create innovative dishes using fresh local seafood, tropical fruits, and French techniques. From casual beachside bistros serving fresh-caught fish to elegant hilltop restaurants offering tasting menus with wine pairings, St. Barths delivers culinary excellence. Authentic French bakeries, cafes, and wine cellars bring European culture to this tropical paradise.

Island Culture & Lifestyle

St. Barths maintains a unique blend of French sophistication and Caribbean laid-back charm. The island attracts celebrities and high-profile visitors who appreciate the privacy, understated elegance, and absence of paparazzi culture. Despite the luxury, the atmosphere remains relaxed and welcoming, with barefoot beach clubs, casual elegance, and genuine island warmth.

French is the official language, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The island celebrates French holidays alongside Caribbean festivals. New Year's Eve transforms Gustavia into a spectacular celebration with mega-yachts, fireworks, and world-class parties. Year-round, visitors enjoy luxury yacht charters, spa treatments, water sports, and the simple pleasure of pristine beaches and gourmet dining.

Travel Tips

• Entry Requirements: US citizens need valid passport. No visa required for stays up to 90 days. Part of French overseas collectivity
• Getting There: Gustaf III Airport (SBH) receives small aircraft from St. Martin (20 min), San Juan, and Caribbean islands. No direct US mainland flights. Ferry service from St. Martin available
• Getting Around: Rental cars essential for exploring (book months in advance for peak season). Drive on RIGHT side. Scooters and ATVs popular. Taxis expensive for touring
• Currency: Euro is official currency. US dollars widely accepted but exchange rate may not favor you. Credit cards accepted at most establishments
• Best Time to Visit: December-April for peak season with perfect weather and celebrity sightings. May-June and November offer excellent value. Avoid September-October for hurricane risk
• Accommodation: Book villas and hotels 6-12 months in advance for winter season. Many properties have minimum stays during holidays
• What to Pack: Chic casual resort wear, elegant evening attire for fine dining, reef-safe sunscreen, beach essentials
• Dining: Reservations essential at top restaurants, especially December-April. Many close September-October
• Beach Etiquette: Some beaches are clothing-optional (Saline, Gouverneur). Topless sunbathing common and accepted
• Budget: Expensive destination. Plan for high costs on food, accommodation, car rental. Lunch can be more affordable than dinner