St Barts is a Caribbean haven known for its casual chic vibe, pristine beaches, and delicious French culinary Scene. It’s the perfect destination whether you need a romantic getaway that will make your heart leap or an action-packed vacation full of adventure and thrill.
From its vibrant nightlife to the many cultural attractions, here are a few ideas on what to do while in St Barts.
Visit Gustavia Harbor
Located in the capital of Saint Barthélemy, Gustavia Harbor is a hub of activity, with boats coming and going and restaurants and shops lining the marina’s perimeter. The beauty of the harbor and the surrounding turquoise waters will captivate your senses.
One of the top activities we recommend at the harbor is taking a boat cruise. You can hop on one of the many tour boats for a leisurely trip around the island and appreciate its beauty from another perspective.
Relax At St Jean Beach
If you’re looking for downtime, head to St Jean Beach, located in an enchanting bay with the island’s best amenities. With its soft white sand, crystal clear waters, and stunning views of the nearby islands, rest assured this paradise will put your mind and body at ease.
Take a dip in the water, soak up the sun, or stroll along the shoreline for some peaceful sightseeing.
We advise visiting this beach in the morning or late afternoon to miss out on the crowds and bask in its serene atmosphere.
Explore Grand Cul De Sac Beach
We can't recommend Grand Cul de Sac Beach enough! Whether you're in a honeymoon mood or looking for a spot to relax with your family, this beach has it all.
With its shallow waters and calm waves, the cove is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You can also play beach volleyball with your friends or just lounge under the sun on one of the many beach chairs.
One of the activities we really enjoyed during our visit was paddleboarding. There are several rental shops on the beach where you can rent a board, so don't forget to check it out!
Go Sailing
You can't leave St Barts without sailing. Charter a catamaran and explore the nearby islands, go fishing for the catch of your life, or take a leisurely cruise under the stars.
During your sailing trip, don't forget to enjoy the stunning views, take photos of the breathtaking landscape, and soak up some sun.
We highly recommend sailing to Anse de Colombier beach to experience the tranquility of this secluded paradise.
Shop 'Til You Drop
A trip to St Barts isn't complete without a shopping spree in towns such as Gustavia, St Jean, and Grand Cul de Sac. With upscale boutiques featuring designer labels to quaint souvenir stores, you'll find something that suits your taste.
Make sure to visit the outdoor market in Gustavia's capital for unique finds, from handmade jewelry and clothes to home decor pieces with a distinctly Caribbean flair.
Top tip: Try to bargain for a better deal where possible, as prices can be steep at some stores.
Visit Fort Gustav
Fort Gustav, located on the eastern tip of Gustavia, is a landmark steeped in history. The fort was built by the French Navy in 1867 as a defense tower against pirates and enemy ships. Today, it offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Saint Barthélemy’s tumultuous past.
You can explore the fort and its grounds, or you can climb up the tower for a sweeping view of the harbor and surrounding islands.
Sample The Local Cuisine
From savory creole dishes to freshly caught seafood, St Barts has some of the best foods in the Caribbean. Seafood is prevalent, as it's abundant on the island. Be sure to sample dishes such as mahi-mahi, swordfish, and tuna.
The local restaurants offer an array of culinary options as well. Go for grilled lobster and bouillabaisse or try Creole favorites like Accras de Morue or Colombo de Poulet. We also recommend you visit the weekend market in Gustavia for traditional snacks and goodies.
Take A Hike
No list of things to do in St Barts is complete without mentioning the island's many trails. Take a leisurely stroll along one of the many hiking paths, or go on an adventure and explore the rugged terrain.
If you're up for a challenge, we recommend tackling Fort Karl Trail. This trail provides stunning views of the island, with its lush vegetation and breathtaking vistas. Don't forget to bring a camera!
Visit St Barts And Explore The Beauty Of The Caribbean
If you're looking for a tropical getaway, St Barts is the perfect destination. Whether it's soaking up some sun at one of the many beaches or exploring Fort Gustav and other historical sites, there's no shortage of things to do in St Barts.
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