5 BEST THINGS TO DO ST BARTHS
Shell Beach is one of the best things to do in St Barths and this image describes is beautifully. The coves, glistening ocean and soft sands / Image: @simonardo
The gorgeously hard-to-get-to island of St Barths is a French speaking island that is located in the midst of the Caribbean. It is widely known to be an island for the jet set and super rich, that is expensive to visit as well as ambitious to get to.
The minute you step foot in St Barths, you feel the air of affluence and luxurious living where everyone seems to know each other. You won’t see many tourists here because of its expensive price tag and its faraway location. Many a famous face will be spotted here and the island is a favorite among the rich and famous because of its air of mystery and remoteness.
There are no direct flights from the USA making getting to this island a multi-step journey, however if you know what's awaiting you at the end of your expedition - it's worth every minute.
This wonderful piece of paradise boasts 22 incredibly spectacular beaches, chic boutiques and designer stores, superyachts and jet-skis for water fun, Michelin starred restaurants and views to take your breath away from here to eternity. Step inside this luxurious world and read our 5 best things to do St Barths…
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A view of Colombier Beach from above. Yachts float along the blue ocean, swimmers in the sea and a nearly private beach to enjoy by yourself. Bliss!
VISIT COLOMBIER BEACH
Colombier Beach, in our recommendations, is one of the best beaches St Barths has to offer. This secluded oasis that is only accessible by 25 minute hike or by boat is the most beautiful beach you will experience on this island. The quiet waters, sea turtles, white soft sands and hardly anyone in sight is priceless in today's world, However, the hike to Colombier Beach isn't for the faint of heart. If you can't bear heights then we recommend hiring a boat to the beach itself. The hike for the most part is naturally wonderful. The hiking trail is quite wide and shaded with lush greenery that hugs the mountainous region of the coastline. You will be in store for some incredible views whilst you walk and there are many opportunities to spot Iguana’s, mountain goats as well as the Caribbeans famous exotic birds. Remember to bring good walking boots or trekking sandals for the hike.
There is one very challenging spot during the hike where you will face taking a few steps across the side of the cliff where there is a sheer drop down which can be particularly nerve racking. If only a few seconds, make sure you have another hiker to help you if nerves get the better of you. The hike is worth it once you get to this sensational beach.
What to pack for St Barths Colombier Beach? Be sure to bring with you some towels, sun shade and snacks as once you are here, you won't want to leave. The underwater sea life is amazing and what you get to see with a snorkeling kit is really quite remarkable. Sea turtles are abundant in this area as well as underwater, so persevere while snorkeling in order to catch a glimpse of them as they gracefully swim through the seas.
Colombier Beach stands out as one of the best beaches on St. Barths island. A visit here is guaranteed to be a decision you'll be glad you made.
The Red-Footed Tortoise is friendly and calm and a wonderful addition to the island. One of the best things to do in St Barths by far / Image: @john_cameron
2. MAKE SURE TO STOP FOR THE RED-FOOTED TORTOISES
The red-footed tortoise is a common sight in St Barths Island and a very welcomed one too. These friendly reptiles reside happily with the locals on the island. You tend to find them along forested trails but you can also find them walking along the roadside and occasionally crossing the road, where it's an unspoken rule to stop your car and carry them across to the other side safely.
They eat a healthy diet of fruit, vegetables and the occasional weed and their history is really fascinating. These calm easy-going reptiles are no foreigners to the island, it is believed that the red-footed tortoise has been residing in the Caribbean islands for hundreds of years when they first arrived to the island as a food source to the Pre-Colombian Indians.
Another interesting fact about the red-footed tortoise is that it can't really hear, instead their senses go on vibrations, smell and sight. However, sadly these wonderful little creatures are considered vulnerable to extinction due to many factors, two being the pet trade and habitat loss. So whilst you are visiting, remember to help and respect them as much as possible - the tortoises here are an absolute highlight and treasure of St Barths.
Underwater sealife. You can snorkel at most beaches St Barths has to offer / Image: @jeremybishop
3. SNORKEL TO SEE THE AMAZING UNDERWATER SEALIFE
Snorkeling has to be one of the best things to do in St Barths. It’s not the first thing that pops to mind when visiting this chic island but snorkeling around the corals and big rocks is a fantastic opportunity to see amazing underwater species that are vibrant in color and mesmerizing to watch. Most beaches in St Barths have the option to see the varied types of exotic fish, however, we recommend heading to the beaches that are less populated as you’ll have a better chance of seeing them in quiet waters.
Our favorite beaches in St Barths to snorkel is Shell beach and Colombier Beach (which is a natural marine reserve). Shell Beach is located in the town of Gustavia and is only a short walk away from the village center. It's a small beach but ideal for snorkeling.
Because St Barths has crystal clear waters - it makes for prime snorkeling viewing and there is no need to swim far from the beach either. You can easily spot fish and turtles in shallow waters which makes it ideal for children to do too.
The array of tropical fish you'll get to see is a treat, from angelfish to butterflyfish to parrotfish as well as many other species including sea turtles. Like the red-footed tortoises, these sea turtles are peaceful and aren’t a threat to humans in any way. In fact the majority of turtles are used to being in our company, although it's recommended not to pick them up or interact with them. Enjoy viewing them from afar as well as all the other breeds of fish St Barths has to offer. You will relish in a magical new world under the sea.
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A glimpse down the cobbled streets of Gustavia. Lined with palm trees and small designer boutiques.
4. HANG OUT IN GUSTAVIA
Gustavia is the charming little capital of St Barths. It's small in size but has an air of luxuriance that hugs the island. The small cobbled streets are lined with designer stores, and favored eateries where the locals sit and while away the days.
Gustavia is relaxed, unassuming and very french to its newcomers but if you dig a little deeper, you will find hidden gourmet restaurants, upscale boutiques and a harbor filled with an array of superyachts.
Wander off the main streets and you'll uncover hidden gems that embellish St Barths, such as Shell Beach, Fort Karl, the Gustavia lighthouse, Church of our Lady and the Pati Guyot Art Gallery. If you still have energy after you have shopped, eaten and explored then there are plenty of delightful activities to try, including jet-skiing around the harbor and island as well as sampling the tasty french bakes at the many boulangeries that dot Gustavia.
If you happen to be here in March, the St Barths Bucket Regatta promises an unforgettable experience. The Bucket Regatta is held yearly and transforms the island into a thrilling hub of festivity.
SiBarths has a lovely outdoor area at a stunning villa in Gustavia. It features small palm trees, stylish outdoor furniture with candles, and rich green plants, making it a peaceful oasis for relaxing.
5. STAY IN A COOL VILLA
St Barths boasts the most gorgeous villas you will ever experience so it's only right that when you come to the island - you treat yourself to one of the many deluxe villas St Barths has to offer.
The villas here are wonderful because not only are they one of the best things to do in St Barths, they are almost always perched on hillside locations which provide incredible views of the vistas and infinite ocean that you will see before you.
If you are going to spend the cash on journeying to St Barths, why not consider splashing out on a beautiful villa and basking like royalty during your stay.
These villas create a unique experience for its visitors and you can tailor your experience to match your desires. Choose from private chefs, chauffeurs and amenities to match your requests. All surrounded by uninterrupted views and privacy without the presence of other guests.
We recommend getting in touch with SiBarth - the leading destination for securing a villa in St Barths. Find your piece of paradise amongst the many luxurious villa options available.
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