The island of St Barts, known for its European refinement, natural beauty, and laid-back island charm, boasts stunning golden sand beaches. Backed by lush green hills, these beaches open onto secluded coves or stretch along picturesque coastal villages, attracting tourists with their clear waters and coral reefs.
This Caribbean island is home to boutique hotels and private villas hidden behind tropical foliage. St Barts is essentially French, although it was leased to Sweden in 1785 for a period of 93 years. The capital Gustavia is a popular cruise port named after a Swedish king. The town's streets are lined with chic boutiques and galleries, and its restaurants serve continental specialties.
Kitesurfing, kayaking, fishing, surfing, and sailing are popular activities in St Barts. Snorkeling and diving on wrecks and fish-filled reefs, many of which are covered by a marine reserve, are also popular activities.
With our list of top attractions in St Barts, you'll discover the best places to visit on this enchanting island.
1. Gustavia
Gustavia, the capital of St Barts, is the best place for shopping, with its chic boutiques, duty-free shops, and art galleries lining the streets. Foodies will also enjoy St Barts' gourmet restaurants serving French-inspired cuisine, from crêpes to croissants to succulent fresh seafood.
The town is U-shaped and surrounds the harbor. You can see fishing boats and mega-yachts there. For a beautiful view, visit the ruins of Fort Gustav or head to the top of the 29-meter hill. From there, you can see Shell Beach among the few remaining stone walls of Fort Karl.
If you're looking for a place to take a dip, Shell Beach is an excellent option. This picturesque spot is ideal for a picnic, and the shells that bear its name add to the atmosphere. You'll find lounge chairs and umbrellas on the beach, as well as several nearby restaurants where you can grab food and drinks.
2. Kitesurfing at Grand Cul de Sac
Grand Cul de Sac is an ideal spot for water sports like kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayaking, jet skiing, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can also swim there, but the water isn't as clear as at other beaches. The narrow beach is lined with restaurants, which is ideal after playing in the water. Additionally, you can often spot sea turtles swimming in the shallow waters.
3. St Jean Bay
St Jean Bay will certainly seduce you with the beauty of its aquamarine waters and the glamour of its bathers. This stretch of water is ideal for windsurfing or snorkeling, and a few nice boutiques and bistros are nearby for you to take a break.
4. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
The St Barts Natural Reserve protects the island's marine ecosystems by dividing them into five distinct zones. Most of the island's best dive sites are within the reserve, where divers and snorkelers can observe turtles, spotted eagle rays, and reef sharks, as well as many varieties of colorful corals in the reserve's high protection zones.
5. Grand Saline
This beach is ideal for sun lovers! It's accessible via a green corridor and has magnificent coral sand. There's no shade or amenities, but that doesn't matter because the sun and sand are all you need!
6. Inter Oceans Museum
The Inter Oceans Museum in Corossol is a must-visit for anyone visiting St Barts. With thousands of unique shells, tropical fish, and corals from around the world, this private collection is much more than a traditional museum. The enthusiastic owner will give you a tour and share some of his best stories.
7. St Barts Submarine
Come discover the incredible underwater world that unfolds before your eyes: the colorful underwater flora and fauna of St Barts. You'll see sea turtles, whether hiding among the rocks or passing through shipwrecks.
8. Fort Gustav
Fort Gustavia is located on the outskirts of town. This historic fort, built in 1787 by the Swedes, offers stunning views of the harbor below. Once a pirate refuge, the harbor now hosts various lively regattas. Visitors can discover the fort's lighthouse and old cannons, and learn about the fort's historical significance.
9. Gouverneur Beach
On the island's south shore, Gouverneur Beach is a secluded white sand beach backed by lush green hills, yet remains pristine and private. Parking is close to the sand but quite small. Don't forget your beach umbrella!
10. Festivals
St Barts is known for its busy calendar of festivals and events. The St Barts Film Festival, which has existed since 1996, is a major attraction for filmmakers in the region. The festival takes place toward the end of April. The St Barts Music Festival, which brings together high-level musicians from around the world, takes place in January.
Ballet and jazz were introduced to the festival in 1988 and 1989, respectively. Carnival celebrations begin in February with parades in Gustavia.