St. Barts beaches are world-famous for a reason. Despite the island of St. Barts being only 10 square miles, the beaches are plentiful and to die for. St. Barts is a French Caribbean island full of some of the finest resorts, hotels, restaurants, and more. But most tourists come and stay for the beach life. Not only will you be impressed with the wide expanses of perfect sand and warm water, but you’ll also have many options for your beach time.
From secluded, out-of-the-way spots to areas to see and be seen, each St. Barts beach has its own character and scene. Read on to find out more about the best St Barts beaches to try first as you explore this wonderful Caribbean paradise.
The Top 7 Beaches at St. Barts
These top 7 beaches at St. Barths are just the beginning, you’ll undoubtedly find more and make your own list when you visit this paradise.
Saline Beach St. Barts
For nature lovers, Saline Beach is probably the best beach in St. Barts. In addition to the turquoise waters and soft sand, the dunes behind the beach are a natural habitat for a wide range of sea birds and local species. It’s also a great place to get away from the crowds, even during high tourist seasons. It’s constantly changing and massive, with swells forming just off the coast, shifting the sands and creating brand-new land. There’s only one beautiful path in and out of this beach, and you’re sure to find a quiet stretch to watch the water ebb and flow.
Shell Beach St. Barts
Take a quick five-minute walk from the center of the town of Gustavia to Shell Beach, which is snuggled up next to a rocky cove that provides excellent relaxation opportunities. The name of the beach comes from the tiny crushed shells that are constantly being deposited there, resembling soft, white sand. Directly above the beach is the laid-back and delicious Shellona restaurant, the perfect place to grab a bite and watch the tide come in or out.
Gouverneur Beach St. Barts
Also near Gustavia, Gouverneur Beach is one of the more underrated St. Barts beaches. Yes, it’s popular, but it’s popular for a reason! Gouverneur Beach is very long and relatively undeveloped. It has beautiful shallow swimming areas and the opportunity to really let loose in its clothing-optional section. Because there are no services on the beach, it’s best to rent a car and transport yourself there and be sure to pack accordingly.
Flamands Beach St. Barths
Flamands Beach is one of the longest beaches on the island, an island known for its vast beaches. It’s on the northwestern side of the island and features stunningly white sand and beautiful views of Ile Chevreau and Ile Frégate just off the coast. The scenery here is gorgeous, with native succulent plants fringing the borders of the sand and views of the high hills in the distance. Body boarders and skim borders love this St. Barts beach for its fun but not dangerous waves.
St. Jean Beach
St. Jean Beach in St. Barts is a true Caribbean gem, renowned for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This picturesque stretch of shoreline not only offers sun-soaked relaxation but also boasts some of the island’s most iconic establishments. The Nikki Beach restaurant, known for its chic beachfront setting and vibrant atmosphere, provides visitors with a taste of luxury and a front-row seat to the island’s glamorous scene. Adjacent to the beach, the world-famous Eden Rock hotel from the Oetker Collection adds a touch of elegance to the landscape. With its stunning cliff top location and luxurious amenities, it’s a favored destination for travelers seeking a lavish Caribbean getaway. St. Jean Beach truly epitomizes the essence of St. Barts, where natural beauty meets sophistication in a perfect harmony.
Grand Cul-de-Sac
Grand Cul-de-Sac, situated on the northeastern coast of St. Barts, stands out among the enchanting array of St. Barts beaches. This unique and shallow lagoon is celebrated for its calm, crystal-clear waters, creating a serene haven for various water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkelling. The surrounding coral reefs add to the allure, making it a hotspot for marine enthusiasts. Nestled on the southern end of Grand Cul-de-Sac, Petit Cul-de-Sac complements this coastal gem. Tucked away and embraced by lush vegetation, Petit Cul-de-Sac offers a quieter retreat within the spectrum of St. Barts beaches. Together, Grand Cul-de-Sac and Petit Cul-de-Sac provide a diverse coastal experience, showcasing the natural beauty and tranquility that define the exquisite beaches of St. Barts.
Anse des Cayes
Anse des Cayes, nestled on the northern coast of St. Barts, offers a unique and serene escape for beachgoers seeking a more laid-back experience. Unlike some of the bustling beaches of St. Barts, Anse des Cayes retains a sense of tranquility, making it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind amidst nature’s beauty. The beach is framed by rocky outcrops, adding an element of rugged charm to its landscape. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Anse des Cayes is favoured by surfers who are drawn to its consistent waves, providing an exciting opportunity for water enthusiasts to ride the Caribbean surf. Whether you’re a surfer or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Anse des Cayes promises a delightful and picturesque escape on the enchanting island of St. Barts.
Visit These Truly Exquisite and Pristine Beaches in St. Barts for the Full Caribbean experience
On St. Barts, you can’t go wrong in your choice of beach, but the 7 above are a great place to start. Of course, all of these beaches feature warm, swimmable water, as long as a storm isn’t coming your way. On that front, St. Barts enjoys relatively mild storm seasons, and even if you do run into one, there’s plenty to do at any of the wonderful accommodations on the island.
People flock from all over the world to relax on St. Barths beaches because of their large sizes, making for extra room to lounge, beautiful sandy shores and views, wildlife, and world-class services. Make your reservation today to get your spot on the beach next to the beautiful blue water.
