St Barts in August offers a slower, more relaxed version of the island. In this version, luxury remains, but the pace gently shifts. It’s the time of year when locals exhale after a busy winter season, and the island slips into a quieter rhythm that discerning travellers tend to cherish.
Of course, travelling to St Barts in the height of summer comes with its quirks — a warmer, more humid climate and the occasional tropical shower — but what you gain in return is serenity, availability, and often, a whisper of exclusivity. For those in the know, August in St Barts is a well-kept secret: fewer crowds, more personal service, and plenty of space to truly relax.
Read on for insight into the weather in St Barts in August, what to do, and why it’s worth timing your stay around one of the island’s most spirited national holidays, Fête de Saint-Barthélemy.
The Weather in St Barts in August
Let’s not sugar-coat it, St Barts weather in August is warm, humid, and occasionally dramatic. Expect daytime highs in the mid-80s to 90s (around 30–32°C), with balmy evenings perfect for al fresco dining and late-night swims. There’s a rich, lush quality to the island this time of year, thanks to intermittent rain showers that typically arrive like an enthusiastic guest — full of flair, but never overstaying their welcome.
If you’ve read our blog about St Barts hurricane season, you will know that technically August falls within it. But the reality is far less ominous than the term suggests.
While the Caribbean does experience storm activity in late summer, St Barts is rarely in the direct path, and local infrastructure is built with care and foresight.
Plus, you’ll be travelling at a time when accommodation availability is wider, and often more competitively priced.
So, is it too hot? Too rainy? Too risky? Hardly. It’s tropical, but that’s precisely the appeal of St Barts in August.
What to Do in St Barts in August
First up: the beaches. This is the season for discovering the island’s more secluded stretches of sand, such as Colombier Beach or Anse de Grand Fond, where you might not see another soul all afternoon. For more atmosphere, St Jean and Shell Beach still have a touch of summer buzz, though far less frenetic than in peak months. And yes, the beach clubs are still mixing cocktails with enviable flair.
If you’re a water lover, the warmer ocean temperatures and relaxed pace make this the perfect time for snorkeling in St Barts. Toiny and Colombier are two of the best beaches to snorkel in St Barts, offering calm waters and a surprising amount of marine life, even just metres from shore. You can read more in our dedicated guide to the best beaches in St Barts.
Land-based adventures also benefit from the lighter foot traffic. Gustavia’s boutiques are blissfully quiet, and the walking trails from Flamands or Grand Fond feel particularly special under the August sun. You might break a sweat, but isn’t that what post-hike massages and chilled rosé were invented for?
Restaurants remain open too, particularly the island’s more established names. You’ll find that August means you’re not competing for tables and your waiter just might take the time to talk you through their favourite catch of the day. For inspiration, browse our St Barts restaurants guide.
In short: St Barts in August is ideal for those who travel well, appreciate peace and privacy, and enjoy a slower pace of luxury.
St. Barthélemy Day: The Island's Grandest Summer Celebration
If you time your visit well, you’ll find St. Barthélemy Day — or, as the locals call it, the Fête de Saint-Barthélemy — is the crowning event of St Barts in August. Celebrated annually on August 24, this national holiday marks the anniversary of the island’s patron saint and, more broadly, pays tribute to the heritage and community spirit that make St Barts so distinctive.
Expect a full day of parades, traditional music, sailing regattas, and beach games, all culminating in a spectacular drone display over Gustavia harbour. The celebrations begin in the morning with an official ceremony and a wreath-laying in remembrance of the island’s history, followed by a more relaxed afternoon of picnicking and mingling.
It’s a rare chance to witness the island let its hair down. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited to join in a game of pétanque or handed a plate of grilled lobster by someone who, in February, might’ve been managing your villa’s check-in.
And while you’ll find the best of the action in and around Gustavia, quieter villages like Corossol and Lorient also host local gatherings.
If you’re planning to travel in the second half of August, we’d highly recommend coordinating your stay to include Fête de Saint-Barthélemy. It’s a cultural snapshot and one of those rare experiences that reminds you you’re not just holidaying on an island, but part of its story for a while.
Plan Your August Escape to St Barts
There’s something quietly compelling about St Barts in August. Yes, it’s warm — gloriously so — and yes, the island takes on a slower, more languid pace. But that’s precisely the appeal. August is when St Barts hands over its most relaxed version of luxury: long, sun-drenched afternoons, quiet tables at your favourite restaurants, and the kind of privacy that’s hard to come by in peak season.
And of course, there’s St. Barthélemy Day to look forward to; a joyful celebration of the island’s heritage that lights up Gustavia with music, dancing, and drone displays.
If you’re considering an August escape, allow us to help you settle in with ease. Bucket List Villa offers a handpicked portfolio of private villas, ranging from romantic one-bedroom hideaways to expansive multi-suite estates with infinity pools and sweeping Caribbean views. Each property is chosen for its quality, character, and location, whether you’re seeking solitude above the sea or a stylish base within walking distance of town.
Contact our reservations team to secure the perfect base for your summer in St Barts, and let us make your August visit one you’ll never forget.