What to Do in St. Barts: Playground of the Rich & Famous
St. Barts (Saint Barthélemy) is the kind of place that makes you question all your life choices—why don’t I own a yacht? Why was I born in the wrong tax bracket? This tiny island in the Caribbean blends French sophistication with tropical island charm, making it one of the most beautiful and exclusive destinations in the world. But don’t worry, even if you’re not a billionaire, there are plenty of ways to soak up the magic. Continue reading for what to do in St. Barts to make the most of your trip!
Whether you’re looking for jaw-dropping beaches, incredible food, or a little adventure, St. Barts has it all. Strolling through Gustavia feels like a mix of Parisian chic and Caribbean cool, while renting a car lets you explore hidden gems at your own pace. The island’s natural beauty is just as impressive as its luxury side—think snorkeling at coral reefs, hiking to secluded beaches, and taking in epic sunset views. Here are the best things to do in St. Barts that will make your trip unforgettable.
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1. Relax on Gouverneur Beach
If you’re wondering what to do in St. Barts for a perfect beach day, head to Gouverneur Beach. This stunning stretch of white sand, backed by lush green hills, feels like a hidden paradise. The water is crystal-clear and calm, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. With no beach bars or restaurants, it’s a bring-your-own-everything kind of spot—so pack a picnic, soak up the sun, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of one of St. Barts’ most pristine beaches.
When I arrived, the beach was completely deserted—like, zero other human beings in sight. I settled in, cracked open my book, and enjoyed the rare experience of having an entire Caribbean beach to myself. That solitude lasted until a group of senior ladies arrived, stripped down to their birthday suits, and proceeded to frolic in the waves without a care in the world. If this happens to you, I recommend taking a sip of whatever drink you packed, going back to your novel, and embracing the unexpected—because, honestly, what is the proper etiquette in this situation?
2. Watch the Planes at St. Jean Beach
St. Jean Beach is easily one of the most iconic spots in St. Barts, offering the perfect mix of natural beauty and lively beachside fun. One of the coolest things about this beach is its proximity to the island’s tiny airport. But beyond the aviation thrill, St. Jean Beach is just a great place to grab a cocktail, float in the calm waters, or enjoy a fresh seafood lunch with your toes in the sand. If you’re making a list of what to do in St. Barts, St. Jean Beach should absolutely be on it!
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3. Rent a Car and Explore the Island
The best way to experience St. Barts is to rent a car and explore the island at your own pace. The island is small—just eight square miles—but packed with stunning viewpoints and hidden beaches. I loved exploring Grand Fond, which is a strip of rugged coastline with natural tide pools. Just remember, parking in Gustavia can be a bit of a challenge, so plan to arrive early or park a little outside the center and walk in.
4. Explore Gustavia’s Sights
Gustavia, the capital of St. Barts, is where French elegance meets island charm. The streets are lined with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and stylish cafés. Beyond the shopping, Gustavia is also home to historic sites like Fort Karl, where you can climb up for a panoramic view of the red-roofed town and sparkling harbor.
After exploring the town, take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the mega-yachts docked in the marina. Just outside of town, visit the Cimetière de Saint-Barthélemy, also known as the Sand Cemetery, where you can admire the white tombstones in the soft coral sand.
5. Take a Boat Trip Around the Island
Seeing St. Barts from the water is an entirely different experience, and a boat trip around the island is a must. Whether you book a private charter or join a group excursion, you’ll get to explore hidden coves, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and take in the island’s rugged coastline from a whole new perspective.
One of my favorite things about St. Barts is the pure glitz and glam image it projects. Billionaires and celebrities flock to this little island, oftentimes in yachts. I loved checking out all of the beautiful yachts anchored around St. Barts and trying to guess who may be aboard!
6. Partake in a Boat Happy Hour
If you’re looking for what to do in St. Barts that combines breathtaking views and a little luxury, a boat happy hour is the way to go. It’s a well-known fact that drinks taste better on a boat, so your best bet is to befriend one of the rich yachties docked in Gustavia (networking, but make it tropical). If that’s not in the cards, booking a sunset cruise is the next best thing. Either way, you’ll be treated to St. Barts’ legendary sunsets while sipping something cold and delicious.
7. Day Trip to Ile Fourche
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure when planning what to do in St. Barts, take a boat ride to Île Fourchue, a tiny uninhabited island just a short trip from St. Barts. Wikipedia told me that its only inhabitants are goats…so obviously I had to check it out.
On land, the island offers hiking trails with panoramic views over the Caribbean. The dry, rocky terrain contrasts beautifully with the bright blue waters surrounding it, making for some stunning photo ops. Since there are no facilities on Île Fourchue, bring your own snacks, drinks, and plenty of sunscreen.
8. Indulge in French-Caribbean Cuisine
If you’re wondering what to do in St. Barts that involves incredible food (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), then indulging in the island’s French-Caribbean cuisine is an absolute must. Be sure to try local favorites like accras de morue (crispy cod fritters), fresh-caught fish, and, of course, a classic Ti’ Punch cocktail.
For an unforgettable dining experience, take your meal to new heights—literally—at Le Tamarin, where we found ourselves dining in what felt like a treehouse hidden in a lush tropical garden. Between the dreamy lantern-lit ambiance and the mouthwatering dishes, it felt like something straight out of a movie.
St. Barts is the perfect mix of luxury and laid-back island vibes. Whether you’re lounging on a pristine beach, sipping cocktails at a beach club, or snorkeling in turquoise waters, every moment here feels straight out of a postcard. Check it out for a winter getaway and soak in that sunshine!
If you’re not planning to visit St. Barts directly and are staying on the nearby island of St. Martin, you could also join a day trip to St. Barts. It’s a quick ferry ride from St. Martin and makes for a beautiful day in paradise!
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St Barts looks magnificent, you have very nice photos! Although not sure if it’s a place for me to visit – sounds posh and crowded. :/
Haha there are definitely crowded spots, but I stayed away. My favorite was the totally empty beach 🙂
This looks like such a fun trip! I’m glad I read it. Maybe I will visit one day.
I only did a day trip to St. Barts but I loved it. It is so beautiful. We really like Saline Beach. I want to go back and check out these other beaches and also that desserted island!
Yeah definitely more than a day trip next time! It’s an awesome island to explore
Looks awesome and the deserted beach sounds amazing!! Not the nude grannies though! 😀
Haha I have to admit, I’ll probably have trouble forgetting that image anytime soon
I use to live in St.Barths in the70S and early80S.Still have friends there who are in their 60S and 70S. We went top less or nude to the beach way before you were born. Why stop now. It is a French island by the way.
I bet it was a lot of fun back in those days. I probably would have partaken in the beach activities, except I was with family, so would have been a bit awkward for me haha 🙂 Such a beautiful island though!
Hehe, you are correct – Drinks do taste better on boats! I definitely need to explore of few of these beaches at St Barts.
I hope you get to! There are some beautiful ones there
OMG St Barths is just so pretty! I need to go!!
Yes you do!! Hope you get to visit one day soon
Not gonna lie, St Barts looks absolutely stunning! And it’s totally a place I never even considered visiting as I associate with fancy rich folk. but hey, I guess anything is possible!
Haha I usually wouldn’t either, but it was kind of fun to pretend for a few days
Even if this gorgeous spot is not a budget option, I love that you’ve included activities that don’t cost anything but perhaps a drive to it such as the stunning beaches and cliffs!
Thanks! I try, since sadly I don’t have heaps of money to spend on travel haha
Those beach views <3 <3 This definitely looks like a place that would be worth the splurge!
Yes 100%!
Wow! everything is just so picturesque! The colour of that water is beautiful! Reminds me of here in Maldives! Thanks for sharing some epic suggestions.
Kristie (you.theworld.wandering)
Thanks Kristie! And I might just have to check out Maldives, I’d love to go there!
The deserted island sounds more my speed. I wonder if you’re allowed to pitch a tent there and stay for a few days because I’d be keen on that. Plus goats are adorable!
I bet nobody would have any idea if you did! There was literally nobody out there except the friendly goats haha 🙂
First time I heard about this place, but it looks amazing!
Omg I’ve been seeing your pin and thinking I needed to read this article – so glad i did. That looks pretty awesome, and you’re right – sometimes it is really quite nice to splurge and jet off to the sunshine. Sigh, another one on the list but great post.
Thanks! I know the feeling, the more I read, the more places to add to the list!
Thanks! And definitely know the feeling. The more I read, the more places I have to add to my list 🙂
St. Bart looks absolute fabulous and I’m ready to book my quick getaway. What lovely beaches and restaurants to choose from. I will pin this for later use. Stunning photos and thanks for sharing 🙂 #feetdotravel
Thanks Stephanie! It was pretty awesome there, not gonna lie 🙂
Gorgeous photos, and great tips for a visit to St. Barts! I cannot believe you had that beach to yourself when you arrived – that seems like such an impossible feat in a beautiful island location like that!
I know, right?! I was totally shocked
St Barts is gorgeous isn’t it, typical stunning caribbean beaches – don’t mind if I do! I love your idea to make friends with billionaire yacht owners, I would definitely prefer to sip my cocktails in a decadent manner and this would be the way to do it! #feetdotravel
Haha I mean if you’re there, might as well try? I just loved looking at the sailing yachts, they were so gorgeous!
An island we have yet to visit! One day we will get there – it looks amazing! Pinned for later!
Thanks! Definitely hope you make it to visit 🙂
Wow, St Barts looks absolutely stunning and there is plenty to do other than just lying on the beach! Sounds like I would enjoy it as I am not much of a beach person – however I could do with some beach time as I definitely have SAD right now as it’s pouring with rain in London! Thanks for sharing
Oh I bet, I cannot imagine dealing with a rainy London winter
This place looks amazing – heaven on Earth for me, especially now that weather in London is so bad. I agree with you, drinks do taste better on a cruise. Thank you for sharing, will pin this for future reference.
This looks like paradise, would love to visit! Thanks for sharing! #feetdotravel
Wow! It really is as beautiful as I’ve heard. Wonderful photos!
Thanks Shona! You’re so sweet 🙂
It is a little piece of paradise, very pretty. Not sure why I never considered it other than price. Your photos are great really captured the beauty there. Thanks for sharing might just get there yet!
Thanks, I really hope you do!
Ile Fourche sounds like a such great place to clear your head, love the solitude. Great post!
I need to be able to afford to go somewhere like this at least once! haha. beautiful place!!
One day I’m sure you’ll get there!
It’s the plan for my honeymoon! haha. Gives me some time to save!