Written by Mony Figueroa

If you're dreaming of a Caribbean escape that feels more Saint-Tropez than Tulum, St. Barts is your island.

This French gem in the Caribbean, technically called Saint-Barthélemy, has earned its place as a playground for the rich, the famous, and the effortlessly stylish. Think designer shopping, and pristine beaches where you might just share the view with a superyacht.

But don't let the glam fool you, St. Barts is still delightfully low-key. No cruise crowds, no mega-resorts, and no pressure to do anything but soak it all in. So whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning a return trip, this guide will walk you through how to get there, when to go, and everything you’ll want to do in between.

Let’s get into it.

When to Visit St. Barts

Let’s start with timing. Because while St. Barts is gorgeous year-round, the experience can feel very different depending on the season.

High Season (December to February)
This is when St. Barts shines. Picture sun-filled days at 27°C (81°F), parties that stretch into the night, and a lineup of events that attract everyone from Hollywood celebs to European royals. It’s also the most expensive time to go, so book early, especially around Christmas and New Year’s.
Low Season (June to August)
The island slows down a bit, and you’ll likely have entire beaches to yourself. It’s hotter, yes, and it’s technically hurricane season, but if you don’t mind a little unpredictability, you’ll enjoy better rates, quieter restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe.
Hurricane Season (September to November)
This is the only time we’d say “maybe wait.” Many restaurants and shops close for a seasonal break, and storms can make travel tricky. That said, November ends with a bang thanks to the St. Barts Gourmet Festival, a must for food lovers.

How to Get to St. Barts

By Air
There are no direct flights from the U.S. or Europe, which means your trip will likely involve a connection through St. Maarten (SXM). From there, hop on a tiny 15-minute flight to Gustaf III Airport.
Fun fact: This airport has a dramatic hillside landing, so if you are feeling adventurous, sit by the window. The descent is iconic.
By Ferry or Private Charter
If small planes aren’t your thing, you can take a ferry from St. Maarten. It’s about a 45-minute ride and offers some pretty epic views along the way. For a smoother ride, private boat charters are also available and worth every cent.

What to Do in St. Barts

St. Barts is one of those rare places where you never feel like you should be doing more, but if you want to, everything is right there. Here’s how to make the most of your days in paradise:

Beach-hop like it’s your job

With more than a dozen beaches to choose from, you could spend your entire trip just chasing the perfect stretch of sand. Some are wild and remote, others have beach clubs and cocktails waiting for you. All are public, beautifully preserved, and blissfully uncrowded.

Shell Beach – Just steps from Gustavia, this tiny cove is sprinkled with millions of shells instead of sand. It’s great for swimming and even better for a long lunch at Shellona, with rosé in hand and yachts drifting in the background.
Flamands – Wide, peaceful, and backed by palm trees, Flamands is the kind of beach you settle into for the whole afternoon. Bring a book…or don’t.
Anse de Colombier – Reachable only by boat or a hike, Colombier is the castaway fantasy. Crystal-clear water, total quiet, and maybe a sea turtle or two. Perfect if you just want to unwind.
Gouverneur & Saline – These two untamed beauties are ideal when you want total escape. No bars, no chairs, no distractions. Just you, the sea, and that warm Caribbean breeze.
Nikki Beach – If you’re in the mood to turn up the volume, head here. DJs, champagne, dancing…Nikki is the most iconic beach party on the island for a reason, so if you're looking for a good time, head there.

Options Beyond the Beach

You’re in St. Barts, of course you’re going to beach-hop. But in between lounging and long lunches, here’s how to mix things up and explore the island:

Spend a day on the water
There’s nothing quite like seeing St. Barts from the sea. Rent a private boat or catamaran and cruise the coast, stopping to swim, snorkel, and sip rosé as you go. It’s part adventure, part floating lounge, and it might just be the highlight of your trip.
Wander through Gustavia
You don’t have to be a shopper to love Gustavia. With its pastel facades, designer stores, and open-air cafés, the capital feels like a slice of the French Riviera set in the tropics. Stroll the marina, stop for an espresso, and browse everything from Chanel to handmade crafts.
Make a splash
The island isn’t just pretty, it’s active. Try surfing at Lorient, paddleboarding in Saint-Jean, or snorkeling in the calm turquoise waters of Grand Cul-de-Sac. Want more adrenaline? A jet ski tour around the island combines speed, views, and swim breaks in secret spots.
Hike to earn your rosé
Yes, there are hikes in St. Barts. The trail to Morne du Vitet (the island’s highest point) offers sweeping views, while the walk to the natural pools of Grand Fond leads to a hidden swim spot surrounded by volcanic rock. Go early, take water, and thank us later.

Ready to go?

Now that you’ve got a feel for the island, it’s time to think about the essentials: where you’ll be staying and, of course, where you’ll be eating. We’ve put together guides on both to help you make the most of your days (and nights) in St. Barts.

Give them a read, and when you’re ready, our curators are here to help you start planning.

We’ll see you soon in St. Barts.