I’m excited to share a concise, practical St. Barths travel guide from a recent trip to this beautiful island. Below you’ll find clear advice on how to get there, where to eat, what to do, and where to stay—everything I learned so you can plan a smooth, memorable visit.
How to get there
Getting to St. Barths requires a little planning, since there are no large commercial flights directly into the island. From many U.S. gateways you’ll connect through a nearby hub and then take a short commuter flight or a ferry. From Dallas/Fort Worth, for example, our route was DFW → Miami → St. Maarten → a 15-minute commuter flight into St. Barths.
Two popular entry options:
- Fly into St. Maarten (the most common and convenient route for short commuter flights).
- Fly into San Juan, Puerto Rico, which sometimes offers better direct connections from the U.S., then take a small plane to St. Barths (this flight can be longer than the St. Maarten hop).
Once you reach St. Maarten or San Juan, you’ll choose between a small commuter plane or a ferry to St. Barths. The ferry takes about an hour in often choppy water; many travelers report seasickness, so it’s generally not recommended if you prefer comfort. The commuter planes are short, skilled flights into a small runway; pilots are experienced and the trip is quick—many travelers find this the better option.
Common commuter services include St. Barths Commuter and Winair. St. Barths Commuter operates frequent short hops from St. Maarten. Winair is another well-regarded carrier; some travelers prefer it because certain flights use slightly larger aircraft and, in some cases, two pilots on board.
A useful optional service to consider: VIP fast-track assistance through customs in St. Maarten. This concierge-style service helped us move through busy lines quickly. To inquire, you can contact the local VIP arrival service by phone: +590 690 69 5079. It’s not required, but it can save time during peak travel periods.
Where to eat
St. Barths is known for stylish beach clubs, lively dinners, and relaxed local spots. Highlights from our visit and trusted recommendations include:
- Nao Beach Club: A favorite for a sun-soaked brunch with rosé, great food, and beautiful beach views.
- Nikki Beach: Fun beachfront brunch or lunch with lively atmosphere.
- Shellona Beach: Located on Shell Beach, ideal for a scenic lunch right on the sand.
- Gyp Sea Beach: A popular beachside option for brunch or lunch.
- Le Petite Plage: Vibrant dinner spot that often shifts into a nightclub atmosphere late on weekends—great for a lively evening.
- Bagatelle: Known for its party vibe; food can be uneven, but it’s a top pick if you want dinner with music and dancing.
- Le Select: A casual, iconic spot—perfect for a burger or an uncomplicated meal away from the more scene-focused venues.
- L’isoletta: A relaxed option for pizza, wine, and chill vibes after a busy day.
- Black Ginger: Highly recommended Thai restaurant (we didn’t make it but it came up often in recommendations).
- Le Tamarin: A jungle-set restaurant praised for its atmosphere—recommended by friends.
- La Guerite: A beachside lunch favorite among visitors we know (we didn’t get there, but many recommend it).
- Bonito: Frequently suggested as an excellent dinner spot.
- Bar de L’Oubli: Good for drinks and a burger in Gustavia.
Things to do
- Rent a Moke and explore the island: These small, roofless cars are great for cruising coastal roads and discovering beaches. If you prefer more power or comfort for steep hills, consider a Mini Cooper or a larger rental car. Taxis are available but limited, so a rental gives you flexibility.
- Swim with turtles at Anse du Grand Cul-de-Sac Lagoon: The lagoon’s shallow waters are ideal for spotting marine life. The nearby resort beach facilities welcome day visitors for chair rental and lunch even if you’re not a hotel guest.
- Hike to Colombier Beach: A rewarding walk that leads to a quieter, rugged beach—perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
- Shop and stroll in Gustavia: The island’s main town offers boutiques, jewelry, and local shops. Note that many stores close for a long break in the afternoon, so plan shopping for the morning or early evening.
Where to stay
- Tropical St. Barths: A boutique hotel with a chic, tropical feel and a central location. Rooms are comfortable and it’s an easy base to walk to nearby beach restaurants and a short drive to Gustavia.
- Eden Rock: A waterfront luxury hotel with an elegant bar and restaurant—beautiful setting and service.
- Rosewood Le Guanahani: Located on a quieter side of the island, ideal if you want a more resort-style, tranquil stay.
- Private villas: Many visitors choose villas for extra space, privacy, and the convenience of self-catered options. Villas suit families or groups wanting a home-like base.
That covers the essentials of this St. Barths travel guide. I likely missed a few great restaurants and hidden gems—please share your favorites if you’ve visited. Enjoy planning your trip and savor the island’s beaches, food, and relaxed luxury.