Ultimate 5-Day Travel Guide to St. Barths

Morning:

Arrival at Gustaf III Airport: Your arrival at Gustaf III Airport will be an unforgettable experience. The airport, located near the picturesque town of Gustavia, offers a scenic landing as your plane descends over the turquoise waters of St. Barths. The airport is renowned for its short runway and dramatic approach, which often surprises and delights passengers.

Transfer to hotel: Pre-arrange a private transfer to your hotel to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey. During the drive, you’ll get a first glimpse of the island’s beauty, passing by stunning beaches, quaint villages and luxurious villas.

Depending on your choice of accommodation, you might stay at the iconic Eden Rock, perched on a rocky promontory with breathtaking views; Le Sereno, a serene and elegant beachfront property; Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France, known for its refined luxury and exceptional service or Rosewood Le Guanahani (my personal favorite on the island). Check all options with your Fora Advisor.

Afternoon:

Hotel check-in and lunch: After checking in, take some time to explore the property and familiarize yourself with the amenities.

Beach time at St. Jean Beach: Spend the afternoon at St. Jean Beach, one of St. Barths' most famous beaches. The beach is divided into two sections by Eden Rock, and both sides offer soft, white sand and clear, turquoise waters. The calm, shallow waters there are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life. If you’re feeling adventurous, try windsurfing or paddleboarding, both popular activities at this beach.

Evening:

Dinner at Sand Bar: As the sun sets, prepare for a memorable dining experience at Sand Bar located at Eden Rock Hotel.

The hotel's cliffside location offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, creating a magical ambiance for your first night on the island. Reserve a table on the open-air terrace, where you can watch the sunset while enjoying your first meal in St. Barths. The menu features a blend of French and international cuisine, with dishes prepared using the freshest local ingredients.

Our tip: Try the lobster raviolis and you may want to come back every night.

Morning:

Explore Gustavia: after breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through Gustavia, the island’s capital. This picturesque town, with its red-roofed buildings and bustling harbor, is a delight to explore. Start at the Swedish Clock Tower, a historic landmark that offers panoramic views of the town and the harbor.

Visit the Wall House Museum to learn about the island’s Swedish colonial history and its evolution into a luxury destination. The museum’s exhibits include historical artifacts, photographs and interactive displays. Continue your walk through the town’s narrow streets, lined with high-end boutiques, jewelry stores and art galleries.

Our tip: don’t miss the chance to browse local shops for unique souvenirs, such as handmade jewelry, artisanal soaps and locally produced rum.

Afternoon:

Lunch at Le Select: for lunch, head to Le Select, a historic bar and restaurant that has been a favorite among locals and visitors since 1949. This casual eatery, with its laid-back vibe and outdoor seating, is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal. Le Select is famous for its burgers, but the menu also includes a variety of sandwiches, salads and local dishes. The bar’s walls are adorned with memorabilia and photographs, offering a glimpse into the island’s history and its many famous visitors.

Shell Beach: after lunch, take a short walk to Shell Beach, located just a few minutes from Gustavia. This unique beach is covered with millions of tiny seashells, creating a picturesque and serene setting. The calm, clear waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. If you’re feeling adventurous, try cliff jumping from the rocks at the end of the beach.

Evening:

Dinner at Bonito St. Barth: End your day with a delightful dinner at Bonito, a chic restaurant overlooking Gustavia’s harbor. The restaurant’s stylish decor, with its nautical theme and elegant furnishings, creates a sophisticated and relaxed ambiance.

The menu here features a fusion of Latin American and French cuisine, with dishes that are both innovative and flavorful. Start with appetizers such as ceviche or tuna tartare, followed by main courses like grilled octopus or roasted duck. The restaurant’s mixologists create some of the best cocktails on the island!

Morning:

Beach hopping: rent a car or hire a driver for the day to explore some of St. Barths’ most beautiful beaches. Start with Gouverneur Beach, a secluded and pristine stretch of sand surrounded by lush hills. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Next, head to Saline Beach, one of the island’s most unspoiled and natural beaches. The beach is accessible via a short hike through sand dunes, adding to its sense of seclusion. Finally, visit Colombier Beach, accessible only by boat or a scenic hike.

Our tip: pack a picnic and spend the morning exploring these stunning beaches.

Afternoon:

Lunch picnic: enjoy your picnic lunch on one of the beaches. Many hotels and local delis offer gourmet picnic baskets, complete with sandwiches, salads, fresh fruits and beverages.

Water activities: after lunch, take advantage of the island’s many water activities. Colombier Beach, with its calm and clear waters, is an excellent spot for snorkeling.

If you prefer a more relaxed activity, join a sailing excursion or a catamaran cruise. These guided tours offer the chance to explore the island from the water, with stops at secluded beaches and snorkeling spots.

Evening:

Dinner at L'Esprit Saline: For dinner, head to L'Esprit, a charming restaurant located near Saline Beach. The restaurant’s open-air setting, surrounded by tropical gardens, creates a romantic and intimate atmosphere. Start with appetizers such as foie gras or tuna tartare, followed by main courses like grilled lobster or rack of lamb.

Our tip: try the passion fruit soufflé.

Morning:

Breakfast at Le Toiny: indulge in a gourmet breakfast at Le Toiny, one of the island’s most luxurious hotels. The restaurant, located on a hillside with stunning ocean views, offers a peaceful and elegant setting for breakfast, overlooking a "wilder" area of St. Barths.

Afternoon:

Lunch at Nikki Beach: for a lively and fun lunch experience, you can head to Nikki Beach, one of the island’s most famous beach clubs. Located on St. Jean Beach, Nikki Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere, with music, dancing and a festive crowd.

Luxury yacht excursion: after lunch, you cna embark on a private yacht excursion around the island. Your luxury yacht will come with a professional crew, ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Cruise past secluded coves, pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs. Some yacht charters also offer gourmet catering, so you can enjoy snacks and meals on board.

OR

Kayaking and paddleboarding: enjoy a more affordable, yet exhilarating, activity by renting kayaks or paddleboards. This way you can explore the beautiful coastline of St. Barths at your own pace, paddling through the clear turquoise waters. This activity allows you to get up close to the island’s natural beauty, discovering hidden coves and pristine beaches that are only accessible by water — a perfect way to spend your afternoon without breaking the bank.

Shopping in Gustavia: Spend the late afternoon in Gustavia for the last time, that's where you’ll find a mix of high-end boutiques, jewelry stores and local artisan shops. You can explore luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Cartier and Hermès, or browse local boutiques for unique and stylish clothing.

Evening:

Dinner at L'Isola: End your day with a dinner at L'isola, an italin restaurant close to Gustavia. The restaurant’s setting has a stylish and chic decor (but no views). You may start with appetizers such as carpaccio or burrata, followed by main courses like the branzino al forno.

Morning:

Hiking to natural pools: after breakfast, embark on a hiking adventure to the natural pools at Grand Fond. The light hike, which takes about 30 minutes, offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding hills. The natural pools, formed by volcanic rocks, are a refreshing treat after the hike. The pools are also a great spot for snorkeling, with a variety of marine life to discover.

Afternoon:

Lunch at Ti'Corail: Enjoy a beachfront lunch at Ti'Corail, located on Lagon de Grand Cul de Sac. The restaurant’s casual setting and delicious food make it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal. The restaurant (in a chic food truck style) also offers a selection of tropical cocktails and the best fresh juices on the island.

After lunch, you may choose to spend some time relaxing on Lorient Beach. The beach is quieter than some of the other beaches on the island — a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon.

Evening:

Dinner at Le Tamarin: For your final dinner, consider dining at Le Tamarin, one of St. Barths' most enchanting restaurants (that's my favorite on the island). Set in a lush tropical garden, Le Tamarin offers a magical dining experience with its serene atmosphere and exquisite cuisine. The ambiance is enhanced by the soft glow of lanterns and the gentle rustling of palm trees.

Farewell Drink at Le Ti St. Barth: After dinner, if you have the energy, head to Le Ti St. Barth for a final drink. This cabaret restaurant is known for its lively atmosphere, themed parties and entertaining shows. Enjoy a nightcap while soaking in the vibrant ambiance and celebrating your last night on the island.

Tips and Recommendations

Transportation: renting a car is highly recommended to explore the island at your own pace. The island’s narrow, winding roads can be challenging, but the freedom to visit different beaches and attractions is well worth it. Many hotels offer car rental services, or you can rent a car directly from the airport.

Currency: the official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases and tips. ATMs are available in Gustavia and other major towns.

Language: French is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Tipping: tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. A service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and hotels.

Sun protection: the Caribbean sun can be intense, so it’s important to protect yourself from sunburn. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat and sunglasses. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.