
My family and I have been visiting St. Barths every year (at least once) for 10 years, and we fall more in love with the island every time we return. Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, St. Barths offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, natural beauty, and the French-Caribbean spirit. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this island’s charm never fails to captivate.
Getting to St. Barths
St. Barths is famously exclusive, and part of its allure lies in the journey to get there.
Most travelers arrive via a short flight from nearby islands like St. Martin or Puerto Rico, with the descent into Gustaf III Airport offering breathtaking views of turquoise waters, moored yachts, and lush hills.
For the adventurous or budget-conscious, a ferry ride from St. Martin is another option—though it’s not for the faint of heart due to choppy waters.
Where to Stay
Luxury is synonymous with St. Barths, and accommodations on the island reflect that.
From sprawling private villas with infinity pools to chic boutique hotels like Le Toiny and Cheval Blanc, there are countless incredible options. For those seeking a home-away-from-home vibe, renting a villa is the way to go—imagine waking up to panoramic ocean views and ending your day with a private sunset dinner.
For my favorite hotels, see this blog post. And if you want to get the best rate on a hotel or villa, send me an email and I will hook you up with my partners on the island!
Beaches You Can’t Miss
St. Barths is a haven for beach lovers, with some of the most stunning stretches of sand in the Caribbean.
St. Jean Beach: My family ends up spending most days here. This is a lively spot perfect for families and music lovers. It’s also home to the iconic Nikki Beach, as well as other beach clubs, where you can sip cocktails, dance to live music, and enjoy world-class people-watching.
Shell Beach: Known for its unique shell-covered shore, this beach is a favorite for snorkeling and sunset views. You can enjoy lunch at the one restaurant on the beach, Shellona Beach Club, or pack a picnic in the sand.
Saline Beach: For a more secluded experience, Saline offers pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a slice of paradise. My family and I love the nearby restaurant, Grain de Sel, but they operate on island-time!
Colombier Beach: Accessible only by boat or a scenic hike, this hidden gem is ideal for those seeking a peaceful day, away from the buzz of the music and crowds.
Indulge in St. Barths Cuisine
St. Barths’ culinary scene is a fusion of French sophistication and Caribbean flavors. The island is dotted with luxury restaurants, beach clubs, and casual cafes.
Bonito: Overlooking Gustavia’s harbor, Bonito combines fresh seafood with a touch of French flair.
Grain de Sel: Tucked away near Saline Beach, this charming spot is one of the best to try local flavors and creative, seasonal dishes.
JoJo Burger: For a casual yet delicious bite, head to this local favorite for gourmet burgers and friendly vibes.
L’Isola: Featured in Dave Portnoy’s pizza series, this casual Italian restaurant spot is the perfect place for a family dinner and the most delicious pizza and Italian food.
Activities Beyond the Beach
While the beaches are the star of the show, St. Barths offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained. From luxury shopping in Gustavia’s designer boutiques to exploring the island’s scenic hiking trails, there’s something for everyone.
Water Sports: Try paddleboarding, windsurfing, or diving to explore the vibrant marine life.
Yacht Charters: Experience the island’s coastline from the water with a private yacht or catamaran rental.
Cultural Sites: Visit the Wall House Museum to learn about the island’s history or stroll through Gustavia to admire its colonial architecture.
Insider Tips for Your St. Barths Adventure
Rent a Car: The best way to explore the island is by renting a car—just be prepared for narrow, winding roads.
Book Early: From accommodations to dining, everything books up fast, especially during the high season from November to April.
Pack Light: St. Barths embraces casual elegance, so lightweight, breezy clothing is perfect.Getting to St. Barths
St. Barths is famously exclusive, and part of its allure lies in the journey to get there.
Most travelers arrive via a short flight from nearby islands like St. Martin or Puerto Rico, with the descent into Gustaf III Airport offering breathtaking views of turquoise waters, moored yachts, and lush hills.
For the adventurous or budget-conscious, a ferry ride from St. Martin is another option—though it’s not for the faint of heart due to choppy waters.
Where to Stay
Luxury is synonymous with St. Barths, and accommodations on the island reflect that.
From sprawling private villas with infinity pools to chic boutique hotels like Le Toiny and Cheval Blanc, there are countless incredible options. For those seeking a home-away-from-home vibe, renting a villa is the way to go—imagine waking up to panoramic ocean views and ending your day with a private sunset dinner.
For my favorite hotels, see this blog post. And if you want to get the best rate on a hotel or villa, send me an email and I will hook you up with my partners on the island!
Beaches You Can’t Miss
St. Barths is a haven for beach lovers, with some of the most stunning stretches of sand in the Caribbean.
St. Jean Beach: My family ends up spending most days here. This is a lively spot perfect for families and music lovers. It’s also home to the iconic Nikki Beach, as well as other beach clubs, where you can sip cocktails, dance to live music, and enjoy world-class people-watching.
Shell Beach: Known for its unique shell-covered shore, this beach is a favorite for snorkeling and sunset views. You can enjoy lunch at the one restaurant on the beach, Shellona Beach Club, or pack a picnic in the sand.
Saline Beach: For a more secluded experience, Saline offers pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a slice of paradise. My family and I love the nearby restaurant, Grain de Sel, but they operate on island-time!
Colombier Beach: Accessible only by boat or a scenic hike, this hidden gem is ideal for those seeking a peaceful day, away from the buzz of the music and crowds.
Indulge in St. Barths Cuisine
St. Barths’ culinary scene is a fusion of French sophistication and Caribbean flavors. The island is dotted with luxury restaurants, beach clubs, and casual cafes.
Bonito: Overlooking Gustavia’s harbor, Bonito combines fresh seafood with a touch of French flair.
Grain de Sel: Tucked away near Saline Beach, this charming spot is one of the best to try local flavors and creative, seasonal dishes.
JoJo Burger: For a casual yet delicious bite, head to this local favorite for gourmet burgers and friendly vibes.
L’Isola: Featured in Dave Portnoy’s pizza series, this casual Italian restaurant spot is the perfect place for a family dinner and the most delicious pizza and Italian food.
Activities Beyond the Beach
While the beaches are the star of the show, St. Barths offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained. From luxury shopping in Gustavia’s designer boutiques to exploring the island’s scenic hiking trails, there’s something for everyone.
Water Sports: Try paddleboarding, windsurfing, or diving to explore the vibrant marine life.
Yacht Charters: Experience the island’s coastline from the water with a private yacht or catamaran rental.
Cultural Sites: Visit the Wall House Museum to learn about the island’s history or stroll through Gustavia to admire its colonial architecture.
Insider Tips for Your St. Barths Adventure
Rent a Car: The best way to explore the island is by renting a car—just be prepared for narrow, winding roads.
Book Early: From accommodations to dining, everything books up fast, especially during the high season from November to April.
Pack Light: St. Barths embraces casual elegance, so lightweight, breezy clothing is perfect.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with St. Barths
St. Barths has a unique way of blending luxury with an unpretentious charm. The island’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty, combined with its vibrant culture and world-class amenities, makes it a destination unlike any other. Every visit feels like a new adventure, with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Ready to Plan Your Perfect St. Barths Escape?
While The Ultimate Travel Guide to St. Barths gives you a glimpse into the magic of St. Barths, there’s so much more to uncover. Over the past decade, my family and I have discovered countless hidden spots, insider tips, and unforgettable experiences that I can’t wait to share with you.
In my exclusive travel guide, you’ll find the best day trips and activities, more beach recommendations, dining guides tailored to every palate, and tips to make your trip seamless and unforgettable. Don’t just visit St. Barths—experience it like a seasoned traveler. Click here to purchase my guide and start planning your dream escape today!
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