The Ultimate St Barts Travel Guide

Picture this. A chic French Island in the heart of the Caribbean, filled with white sand beaches, exquisite restaurants, designer shops, and an array of yachts that line the capitol’s harbor. If that sounds like your idea of heaven, then we promise St Barts is the place to be.  

The Caribbean island has become a utopia for the rich, and the accomplishment is well-deserved. You’ll understand what all the fuss is about when you see the canopy of crimson red roofs that surround white sand beaches. It’ll feel like home. 

If you’re searching for a touch of tropical paradise with a healthy dose of luxury, you’re looking at the right guide. Don’t stop reading now, because we’ve got so much more to show you. Whether you’re looking for travel tips, vacation inspiration, or trying to become a St Barts expert before you hop on the plane, you’re in good hands here.

st barts villa rental Vitti

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Contents

  1. What’s so special about St Barts?
  2. The facts you should know before you go
  3. The geography and biodiversity
  4. When is the best time to travel?
  5. How do you get to St Barts?
  6. How can you get around?
  7. Which of the beaches are unmissable?
  8. What is there to do in St Barts?
  9. Where are the best places to stay?
  10. Conclusion

1. What’s so special about St Barts?

We know when it comes to travel, the options are pretty much endless. So you might be wondering, what’s so different about this place? We’re able to reassure you that a vacation here will be one to remember for a lifetime. The above question could be answered in so many ways, so keep reading for just a few of them.

  1. Peace of mind. If you want to truly relax, you need to feel safe. We recommend St Barts because it has a below-average crime rate. The island caters to those who crave the best of everything, so naturally, you can expect peace of mind here. 
  2. The scenery. We’ll talk more later about what you will see but, spoiler alert, it’s amazing. People talk about how the shades of blue you find in St Barts are different from anywhere else in the world, and they’re right. Come here if you want to be mesmerized for your whole vacation. 
  3. It’s celebrity-approved. Famous people have been lured to the island for a long time and they own some of the luxury St Barts villas. The list includes the billionaire investor Roman Abramovich and Pippa Middleton’s in-laws, who own the famous Eden Rock Hotel. 
  4. The villas. St Barts is home to some of the most exceptional villas around the world. We recommend Villa Ocean View (pictured below) if you’re looking for ultimate privacy, unparalleled ocean views, and plenty of open-air space for dining, swimming or enjoying each other’s company. It’s perfect for a family affair or a romantic getaway.

St Barts villas isabella in St Jean

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2. The facts you should know before you go

A successful vacation is one that you’ve researched. Like many places in the Caribbean, the island of St Barts is rich with history and culture. To make the trip as valuable as it can be, it’s good practice to have a bit of knowledge under your belt. This means you can interweave sights into your itinerary and come prepared. 

We know you’ve got a lot on your mind when it comes to planning your getaway, especially if you’ve got little ones with you. So here is our rundown of important facts, and just generally fun things to know, that should save you some time. 

  1. St Barts is located 35 kilometres (22 miles) southeast of St Martin (or St Maarten), 240 kilometres (150 miles) east of Puerto Rico, and 141 kilometers (87 miles) northeast of Antigua
  2. St Barts is a tiny island with a total population of just 9,927 people, as of January 2022. It is 24.6 square kilometers, or 9.49 square miles, in size
  3. There are plenty of exciting landmarks, such as the Swedish Clock Tower, Gustavia Lighthouse, and Fort Karl. 
  4. The official language is French, but English is usually fluently spoken. You may also hear some locals speaking Creole. 
  5. The Euro is the currency of the island, but often you’ll find vendors accept American dollars.
  6. St Barts was first discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, who named the island after his brother Bartolomeo. 
  7. Today, the island is officially addressed as the Territorial collectivity of Saint-Barthélemy and is an overseas collectivity of France.
  8. The economy is largely made up of high-end commerce and high-end tourism. Therefore you will find some treasure to bring home and to be treated like royalty. What’s not to enjoy?

Our team are incredibly passionate about our locations, so you can also ask them for their personal recommendations, including cultural or historical must-sees. They will always be happy to assist and would love to offer a helping hand wherever they can.


3. The geography and biodiversity 

Sitting pretty in the French West Indies is Saint-Barthélemy, also known as St Barths or St Barthelemy. In the United States, the island is more commonly referred to as St Barts, but if you want to blend in with the locals, we’d suggest you call it St Barth. The variety of names might seem complicated, but it shows how many people worldwide indulge in a getaway here. 

We don’t blame them. The island has just about everything you could hope for if you’re looking to discover a whole new world. The list is long, and certainly not limited to:

  1. Mountains 
  2. Diverse flora and fauna  
  3. Natural pools
  4. Clear water 
  5. Some of the world’s best beaches

St Barts is a volcanic island. Don’t panic though, none of them are active. Dreamy views are everywhere to be found because it’s encircled by shallow reefs and full of hills and valleys. There are towering points, such as 938 feet tall Morne Du Vilet, where you can admire the breathtaking sights all around you. It will feel like time has paused forever. 

One thing is for certain, you’d struggle to find a landscape as interesting as St Barts. To the north and the northeast, you can see St Martin and Anguilla. To the southwest, you will find Saba and to the South, you have stunning visuals of Eustatius and St Kitts. This is not somewhere you should forget your camera.

turtle swimming snorkelling st barts

We’d be astonished if those snapshots don’t impress your friends, but if they don’t, St Barts has another trick up its sleeve. If you’re lucky, you can see some fascinating wildlife such as iguanas, sea turtles, pelicans and hummingbirds. No matter where you are on the island, you will also find a proliferation of beautiful tropical sweet-smelling flowers and shrubs.


4. When is the best time to travel?

The high season in St Barts is between November and April. However, if you want to make the most of the weather in the Caribbean, we would recommend planning your vacation between late spring and early summer. 

A month like May would be perfect. The average minimum temperature is slightly higher than in April, and so is the average maximum temperature. So there is no need to worry, you won’t be missing out on soaking in the hot sun. There are many benefits to traveling during this time as opposed to the high season months. 

  • The island is quieter and less crowded
  • It is far easier to move around
  • It is easier to get good tables and reservations in the popular restaurants  
  • Car parking is more readily available

The air temperature in St Barts does not vary much between the seasons. On average, it is 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and 86 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. The ocean temperature is only slightly less than this, which makes swimming in the sea absolutely glorious.

st barts swimming blue water

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When don’t we recommend a visit?

You do your getaway however you want to. That being said, we don’t recommend going to St Barts during the months of September and October. This is because it’s the peak of hurricane season, and consequently, most of the restaurants and shops are closed.


5. How do you get to St Barts?

St Barts isn’t the easiest place to get to because there are no direct flights from Europe or the United States. This shouldn’t deter you in any way, of course, it should make the destination even more inviting. Fewer flights mean fewer people, which adds to the island’s allure. The exclusiveness makes you feel like you’ve stepped somewhere most people haven’t, which is a luxury of its own. 

Besides, there are a few ways to get to St Barts, meaning you are still able to tailor travel to your specific needs. At Exceptional Villas, we know you should never have to compromise, especially when it comes to your dream vacation. So, we’ll discuss your options with you below, and you can determine which works best for you. 

By aircraft

Definitely the most practical choice, you could take a flight to the island. The airport in St Barts is called the Gustaf 111 Airport, and it is found in popular St Jean. The runway is very short, one of the shortest in the world in fact, so because of this, it can only take up to 19 seater planes. 

All international flights must land first in one of three main gateways, which are Antigua, St Martin, or San Juan in Puerto Rico. There are regular flights from these hubs. Getting to St Barts does involve taking an extra flight, but we guarantee that it’s worth it. The journey itself is an experience and a fantastic way to get exhilarated about the sights below. 

aerial view st barts villas

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By ferry

We know flying on a small aircraft isn’t for everyone. Fret not, because it is also possible to take a ferry from St Martin to St Barts. Traveling from one remarkable island to another is a more connected and unique way to enjoy all of your surroundings. You’ll be able to see more sights along the way, and possibly even some exciting marine life. 

Each ferry service offers between 4-5 departures per day on weekdays but remains frequent enough during weekends with 3-4 departures. We’d recommend the high-speed ferry Voyager which boasts complimentary drinks and welcoming staff. You can book a private cabin with panoramic views, too. The journey takes approximately 60 minutes.

By private aircraft

Flying in any aircraft can be daunting for some people, and we know how much this can spoil a good time. It can be impossible to relax without the upmost confidence in your aircraft team. However, it can put you at ease to travel with a highly trained professional. 

The recognized airlines, Tradewinds, Winair, or St Barths Commuter, allow you to book a private charter for a more sophisticated start to your vacation. They are experts in flying to St Barts, so you know you’ll be in good hands. 

We offer our own luxury private jet charter to many locations, so we understand the importance of stress-free and flexible travel to start your journey the right way. Other benefits to this type of transport include the convenience of being able to travel when it suits you and being taken care of by an incredibly experienced team. 

st barts private jet charter

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6. How can you get around?

One crucial thing to remember is that there is no public transportation in St Barts, so take this into consideration before traveling. Renting a car is essential for visitors to the island. Our complimentary in-house concierge at Exceptional Villas will be delighted to organize cars for you at preferential rates. 

In the evenings, when you want to take advantage of the colorful nightlife, there are taxis on the island which will pick you up and bring you to your destination. Your concierge will be able to arrange them for you, along with any reservations for restaurants. Don’t worry though, once you are on the island you can get to most places in less than 20 minutes.


7. Which of the beaches are unmissable?

We aren’t exaggerating when we say that St Barts has some of the most unforgettable beaches on the planet, nothing can compare. If this is what draws you to this island, then you’ve got a lot of ground to cover as the island is home to 22 coves and beaches. 

You can take your time and see what each one has to offer. Each beach has something distinctive, such as restaurants, views, and bars. You could never be bored with so many choices. Still, if you’re running on a tight schedule or have less time here than you’d like, we can give you our top picks for beaches you simply cannot miss while you’re here. 

Colombier Beach

All the beaches in St Barts are public, and they all allow topless bathing. If you’d prefer to be a little less friendly with the sunbathers, we’d recommend trying Colombier Beach. It is located on the northeast point of the island and the only way to get to it is by hiking, which takes about 45 minutes, or by boat. As a result, it is always quiet. 

You begin your journey here from Flamand’s beach, so we suggest enjoying them both as a part of a day trip. This is a great choice if you want to be a little adventurous, or just get some exercise. Plus, there’s no better motivation to complete a hike than a finishing point like this, we can assure you. 

flamand's beach st barts

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St Jean Beach

Arguably the most famous and popular beach is St Jean. If you choose to fly to St Barts, this is the beach you’ll be welcomed by. We know what you’re thinking: how can I enjoy somewhere right next to an airport? Honestly, the tiny planes won’t affect your lounging. 

You’ll also find the famed Nikki Beach Restaurant here. If you have a craving for refreshing Caribbean flavors and dinner with a view, you should definitely stop here. It’s the perfect watering hole for a relaxing gathering before you start exploring again. Delight in good music, fresh seafood, and laidback luxury. 

Alex at Nikki Beach in St Barts

Shell Beach

An alternative to sandy beaches, this is another notable pick. The beachfront is made up of shells, which isn’t always as comfortable when you’re trying to tan. However, it has the most ideal location right in the center of the island capital, Gustavia.

The waters are calm, making it a good choice for families who don’t mind it being a bit rougher underfoot. If you want to get some good photos and think a sunset might make the perfect backdrop, this is where you should come as the view is awe-inspiring. Also, shell-collecting will keep everyone busy and you could find some pretty souvenirs. 

 

Gouverneur Beach

Last but not least, we have Gouverneur Beach, found in the south of the island. You can expect picture-perfect stretches of sparkling white sands. If the weather is nice to you and pay a visit on a clear day, you’ll find spectacular views of St Kitts and Saba. 

There aren’t any buildings to ruin the sights either, so there’s nowhere better to really connect with nature around you. You’ll feel at one with it. There isn’t as much shade here as a result, so pack accordingly. If you come during the off-season, you may be fortunate enough to have the beach to yourself, in which case the shade is all yours.

st barts Gouverneur Beach

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8. What is there to do in St Barts?

We get it, dragging yourself away from these luscious beaches is going to be a difficult battle. Maybe we can convince you with our extensive list of other activities you can participate in. We curated it to optimize your time here, and our concierge team at Exceptional Villas will organize everything through the most reputable companies to put your mind at ease. 

Sports

The range of sports available on St Barts will exceed your highest expectations. The island itself will spark your sense of adventure, so why not lean into it and try something thrilling? Of course, there is an incredible opportunity to discover your talent for watersports, but for those who prefer to keep their feet on land, there are options too. 

  • Snorkeling and scuba diving. Most of the waters that surround St Barts are protected, which means you can find a very diverse marine life. You’re sure to see something amazing, especially with such clear waters. Due to the protection of the coastline, there is a distinct increase in turtles. What a treat! 
  • Sailing. Why not enjoy the coastline from the back of a boat? In fact, Saint Barth Sailing offer a sunset champagne experience for a couple of hours or a whole day. Lunch is served by a private chef on board, and afterwards, you can dip your toes in the ocean. A glass of champagne will make the setting sun even more sublime. 
  • Kitesurfing. If you venture to Grand Cul-de-Sac Beach, you’ll likely find skilled surfers speeding up and down the bay. If it looks like something you’d like to try, there are brilliant sports shops on the island where you can rent equipment. They also provide coaching with qualified and talented instructors. 
  • Tennis. Sure, some of the best hotels have tennis courts, but why not enjoy private courts in our private villa rentals? If you like the sound of that, check out the incredible Villa Ella. Once you’ve worked up a sweat, the large pool, expansive terrace, and wet bar will be just what you need to unwind. Alternatively, if you stay at any other indulgent villa of ours, you can play at the St Barts Tennis Club in St Jean. The facilities are fantastic and you’ll love the atmosphere. 

st barts villa with tennis court

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Dining

With any luxurious getaway, the food should blow you away. This absolutely won’t be a problem when you visit St Barts. The island has some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean and the high-quality dishes will have you contemplating a move across the world. We can’t mention all of the wonderful spots for lunch or dinner, but here are our firm favorites. 

  • L’Isola. Located in Gustavia, this fine dining restaurant offers Italian deliciousness in the candle light of a historic stone building. The fresh ingredients are directly from Italy, and you can taste the fact for certain. 
  • Shellona. If the trip to Shell Beach sounded inviting, then this will only add to it. The Greek restaurant and beach club offers authentic cuisine (the mouth-watering grilled food is a must-try) with esteemed chefs. 
  • Tamarin. You’ll find this restaurant on the way to Saline Beach and when you do see it, you should stop for a bite. There are private dining areas for the family or date night, along with a main area and a bar. Did we forget to mention it’s all set in a beautiful tropical garden? The atmosphere is tranquil and the food is gourmet. 
  • Bonito. A visit to St Barts is incomplete without a trip here. Also located in Gustavia, you’ll see the restaurant overlooking the harbor. The menu is extensive and the food is delicious, so there should be something for everyone. Some evenings offer live music too, so be sure to stop by. 

Shopping

Sometimes a vacation can become pretty overwhelming. Why not relax in the best way and do a bit of retail therapy? Or a lot. When you come to St Barts, the shopping will be like nothing you’ve ever seen before. After all, the island was named one of the world’s top 12 shopping destinations by Forbes. 

shopping in st barts fashion

For a more in-depth look at the island’s relationship with fashion, check out our thorough guide here. If you’re searching for a more concise rundown, then here is what awaits you in the grand shopping haven. We’re sure you won’t be disappointed.

  • Whether you’re looking for some designer treasure or fancy exploring some unique boutiques, you’ll be satisfied in Gustavia. The capital showcases some of the best brands, such as Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Cartier. 
  • In St Jean, you’re more likely to find jewelry and clothing from the island’s top artisans. If it’s island chic you’re after, you’ll definitely want to plan a visit. You won’t be just buying a product, you’ll be buying one-of-a-kind art that cannot be purchased anywhere else.

As expected from such a vibrant shopping location, you will find all of the well-known brands. However, St Barts also has its own designer brands. The products are inspired by the island, making them extra special. We recommend Vanita Rose if you want to indulge in feminine silks and linens. The designer Valérie Bourdin has been a St Barts resident since 2002, and her love of the island is evident in her work. 

If you’re interested in local brands, we must give a special mention to Ligne St Barth. The cosmetics shop is a family company, specializing in people and their well-being. The products will capture your senses with the best ingredients the Caribbean has to offer. 

After a stay in one of our villa rentals, you might think our bathroom products smell familiar. You’d be right. Our visitors will have the pleasure of trying this brand when they book with us. Purchase some of your favorites on your shopping trip to take a piece of your vacation home with you. 

Relaxing

Heavy holidaying can wear you out, and that’s no good. Whether you’ve packed your time away with activities or you’ve had little ones running around, it’s natural that you feel a bit out of sorts. Before you go to St Barts, sprinkle some amazing peaceful experiences into your schedule. Below are our favorite ways to give your body and mind the reset it needs. 

  • Gustavia port. Enjoy a drink in one of the waterside cafes, just watching the world go by. Soak up the sun and spot the yachts as they come and go. Spending a morning here will really set you up for the day ahead. 
  • In-villa spa treatment. If you’re staying in one of our villas, it’s going to be difficult to say goodbye to it every morning. What if we said you didn’t have to? Experts, such as the Excellence Des Sens, take appointments all over the island and will bring relaxation to your front door. You could try anything from a healing massage, and a cleansing facial, to transpersonal therapy. 
  • Private chef. Maybe you don’t fancy the hustle and bustle of restaurants and bars. Instead, have a mind-blowing meal prepared for you in your villa. Your chef will handle all of the work while you enjoy it on your private terrace or picnic in style.

9. Where are the best places to stay?

The setting of this island looks as though it came straight out of a book or film. After seeing the rolling hills, mountains, and blissful beaches, you might start wondering if it’s even real. We won’t pinch you, but we will promise you, it is. The fantastical surroundings mean you can choose to stay on the hillside or on the beach. 

For us the sky is the limit, so we can offer a range of villas wherever you’d like them to be situated. If you plan to spend all your time on the beach, maybe stay in the hills for a taste of something different. Or if your getaway is filled with wild excursions, staying on the beach might help you unwind in your downtime. 

Our favorite villas

We adore all of our St Barts rentals, and it would take a long time for us to pick one above the rest. Each property has something special about it. To make the decision easier for you than it is for us, below are some of our personal favorites.

  • Do you desire the most opulence we can offer? Villa Neo is for you. Perched on a sloping hill, the contemporary rental is only a 10-minute walk from the popular St Jean Beach, so you really can have the best of both worlds. Take a dip in the infinity pool and enjoy ocean views from the heated water. Some alfresco dining in the sun afterwards will dry you off in no time.

Neo luxury villa st barts

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  • Perhaps you want a villa designed for gatherings, with romance in mind too? Villa Teman is just what you need. The guest suites are found up the path to the garden, and each bedroom has it’s own private terrace. If you’re lucky enough to be in the master suite, enjoy the exterior bathtub hidden in tropical trees. This property is perfect for friends who want to go away with their partners or celebrate a milestone as a group, but still need some alone time.

teman luxury villa st barts

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  • Is privacy the most important factor for you? Take a look at Villa Imagine. The well-kept garden will make you feel as though you’re in your very own world. Pamper yourself with breakfast under the covered terrace or a few laps in the long pool knowing you’ll have a complete lack of disturbance.

villa imagine sta barts rental

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If you’re not sure where you’d like to be, or these don’t feel right for you, then don’t be afraid to ask. Our passionate and trusted St Barts specialist at Exceptional Villas will provide an unbiased assessment of our rentals to match you with one suited to your taste and needs. All of our team are experts in matching each client with the perfect villa, so they’ll find whatever it is you desire. 

Conclusion

We pride ourselves on knowing and bringing the definition of exceptional to life, and St Barts is it. Hopefully, our detailed guide has not only made you feel confident about traveling to the island but excited for your adventure too. Without a doubt, you will share our enthusiasm and see what a privilege it is to walk these coastlines. 

With building anticipation after every paragraph, you might be well on your way to booking your next getaway. While we try not to leave any stone unturned, we understand you will want to do as much research as possible, So, contact us for any further information you feel you need, any clarification, or if you just want a chat about your vacation options. 

We would love to hear from you, so please feel free to leave us a comment or send us a message. If you have a favorite St Barts experience or something you’re looking forward to the most, we want to know. Now, safe travels, and go make some memories.

About Alexandra Baradi

Alexandra Baradi is the founder and owner of Exceptional Villas. She started the company 1992. Alex is a hotel manager by background and has travelled around the world in search of the best villas.

Her personal passion for travel and her entrepreneurial flair for making guest feel very special from the moment they enquire to the moment they arrive home, has enabled Exceptional Villas to become the world’s leader in luxury villas.

She believes anything is possible when you travel with Exceptional Villas and ensures you will be pampered every step of the way.

Alexandra and her team all have one thing in common; to provide their guests with an unmatched holiday experience and to go beyond expectations.

Each of the team members specialise in just one destination rather than in multiple destinations allowing them to become total experts in their fields.

Both Alexandra and her team spend much of their time travelling to all the destinations inspecting new villas and re-inspecting already featured villas.

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