Whether you call it St. Barts, St. Barths, Saint Barthélemy, this island’s pristine turquoise water and sugar-white sand beaches are the epitome of Caribbean paradise. With a coastline of 20 miles, 11 remarkable public beaches, and countless private resorts, it’s not hard to find a place for sand and sun.
Overall, St. Barts has it all: a hub of luxury boutiques, chic restaurants, and stylish bars in the island’s capital, Gustavia. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere or a secluded oasis, the island’s collection of beaches has something for everyone. And a visit to the French West Indies during the dry season (December – May) is a sure way to capture consistently perfect weather. While this perfect weather draws more crowds (especially during the winter high season from November to February), St. Barts remains a favorite island retreat with plenty of space for everyone.
For those seeking a secluded excursion, the tiny island of Île Fourchue (Fourche) is just a short boat ride away. For an even more private experience, hire a charter to find tranquility on the island’s edges. However you get to one of these gems, you’ll be greeted with stunning views and warm Caribbean waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking in the sun.
From the quiet coves of Colombier and Gouverneur to the lively stretches at St. Jean and Shell Beach, here are the best beaches on St. Barts.
Saline Beach
The spectacular Saline Beach St Barts’ is one of the island’s most prized possessions. It has earned its place among the top-ranked beaches, and it’s easy to see why. Unlike many other St. Barths beaches, it remains untouched by man-made structures. Although there are no hotels in sight, you can stay close by at the luxurious Villa La Roche dans l’Eau. The beach is so pristine that many visitors opt to enjoy it “au naturel,” making the far right side of the beach a popular spot for nudists. The beach is accessible from a small parking lot behind the dunes.
Colombier Beach
Colombier Beach is a hidden gem that’s worth the effort to get to. Accessible only by yacht or a 30-minute hike that starts on Flamands beach, this secluded St Barts beach offers stunning sea views, lush green vegetation, stretches of white sand, and afternoon sunsets. The beach has no hotels or villas, making it private and peaceful, although you can stay at the nearby Christopher St Barths or Hotel Villa Marie Saint Barth. The land used to be owned by the billionaire David Rockefeller, and you can still view the ruins of his mansion on the west of the beach.
Grand Cul De Sac Beach
Grand Cul de Sac Beach is the perfect beach for those who love luxury waterfront dining and the thrill of water sports. With the longest stretch of beach on the island, there’s plenty of room for small children to explore the vast expanse of shallow water in the bay while you relax on the beach. If you’re looking for adventure, the beach is a sporting hotspot that offers the perfect conditions for good snorkeling, kite surfing, and windsurfing. A couple of large resorts are dotted on the island, including the casually luxurious Rosewood Le Guanahani and 5-star Le Sereno Hotel.
Saint-Jean (St. Jean) Beach
St. Jean is the most popular of Saint Barts beaches due to its beauty and convenient location. With its stunning white sand beaches and clear waters, this idyllic location is split into two separate beaches on either side of the world-renowned Eden Rock Hotel. St. Jean Beach has become known as the ultimate destination for beachfront luxury, offering a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and activities. With its toes-in-the-sand bars and bistros, this is undoubtedly the island’s most happening spot. Remember to join the crowds on Sundays at La Plage and take in the wonderful views of planes flying by.
Gouverneur Beach
Escape to Gouverneur Beach, just an 8-minute drive from the Grand Cul de Sac, for white sand beaches, lush vegetation, and incredible snorkeling opportunities. This pristine spot is the perfect alternative to bustling beaches, offering untouched natural beauty that’s off the beaten track. Gouverneur Beach lacks amenities, so plan ahead and bring what you need for a few hours of tranquility. Island lore has it that Captain Monbars, “The Exterminator,” buried his stolen treasure in a hidden cave on Gouverneur Beach, adding to its enduring allure. Although there are no hotels, you can stay at the incredible Gouverneur View Villa.
Flamands Beach (Plage des Flamands)
With a white sand beach and waves, Plage de Flamands is a haven for surfers and bodyboarders when the wind picks up. Families with small children might find the waves a little choppy, but two restaurants with restroom facilities make a visit here perfect for lunches. The beach has become known as “Billionaire’s Beach” because of the number of villas owned by the world’s jet setters. Stay at Cheval Blanc to ensure you’re in fine company.
Shell Beach
Nestled minutes from the center of Gustavia, Shell Beach St Barts’ shore gets its name from the vibrant shells making up the beach. While it may not have the traditional white sand, its waters provide a calm oasis for swimming. Just remember to bring swimming shoes. Enjoy the ultimate in luxury at the Shellona restaurant and stay at the Hôtel Le Village Saint Barth. In addition to being a prime destination, it’s also a nesting sight for endangered sea turtles.
Nikki Beach
Located on the pristine sands of Saint-Jean Beach, Nikki Beach St Barts is the epitome of sophistication and glamor. Since opening in 2002, this luxe location has become renowned for its exclusive sunbeds, dreamy drapery, and being the playground of choice for celebrities. In short, it’s the place to see and be seen. Dress to impress for their Sunday afternoon parties spent sipping cocktails and dancing to EDM tunes from some of the world’s top DJs.
Lorient Beach
This stunning north coast beach has something for the whole family. Turquoise waters lap against a reef-protected beach that’s perfect for swimming and good snorkeling. With plenty of space for picnics and suntanning, it’s unbeatable for a beautiful family day out. Getting there is easy because it’s located just a mile from St. Jean and has adequate parking. Stay close by at the glamorous Infiniti Villa for the best ocean view in St. Barths.
Category: Destination
