khanh Welcome to the enchanting world of St. Barts, where sun, sea, and stunning sights await. In this guide, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of the most popular St. Barts attractions this Caribbean gem offers.
From pristine beaches and charming villages to breathtaking viewpoints and cultural landmarks, you’ll discover the must-see destinations that make St. Barts unforgettable.
1. Gustavia
Journey through the captivating St. Barts and its quaint harbor town of Gustavia. This picturesque destination is brimming with activity with its chic boutiques, duty-free shops, and art galleries.
Shop until you drop at the many stores, then take a break to feast on the delectable French-inspired cuisine offered at the local restaurants. Don’t miss out on the cultural St. Barts attractions include the Wall House Museum and Vieux Clocher, the oldest building in Gustavia.
If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the ruins of Fort Gustave, climb to the top of the 29-meter hill for breathtaking views of Shell Beach, or take a leisurely stroll to Shell Beach itself. Sun loungers and umbrellas line the sand, and you can order snacks and refreshments at one of the restaurants fringing the beach.
As the sun sets, the nightlife of St. Barts comes alive in Gustavia. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, sip on a cocktail, and dance the night away at one of the buzzing clubs. Whether visiting for the day or an extended stay, St. Barts is sure to be one unforgettable experience.
Related:
Your Ultimate Gustavia Travel Guide,
Indulge and Savor: Unveiling 11 of the Best Restaurants in Gustavia
2. Fort Gustave
St. Barts is home to the remarkable Fort Gustave, a fortification that dates back to the 18th century. It is most easily identified by the iconic red and white lighthouse that was built in 1961. It is considered one of the best places to view the harbor.
Visitors can explore the fort’s remains, including the stone ramparts and sentry box, the old brick-floored bakery, as well as cannons and a powder house. It is a must-see for anyone who is touring Gustavia and will surely be an unforgettable experience.
There are also several other St. Barts attractions in the area, such as beautiful beaches, a number of cultural and historical sites, and plenty of shopping and dining options. St. Barts is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore and experience the beauty of the Caribbean.
3. Fort Karl
Fort Karl is one of the many attractions of the island of St. Barts. Located near Shell Beach, it is the perfect place for visitors and locals to take in the stunning views and capture incredible photos.
The ruins of the fort date back to the late 18th century when the island was under Swedish rule. Though the ruins are sparse, the site has been maintained and is still a popular destination.
The fort can be reached by a short five-minute hike with stone steps that lead up from the town below. At the top, visitors can find cannons and an observation platform that gives them an excellent vantage point.
4. St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Episcopal Church
St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Episcopal Church is a popular St. Barts attraction in the city. Built from 1853 to 1855, the small church is made of local stone, except for its limestone facade.
The church roof was originally covered with wood shingles but has since been replaced with corrugated iron. The bell tower, however, still retains its traditional wood shingle roof, adding a unique charm to the building.
Visitors flock to the church for a glimpse of its beautiful architecture and to admire its unique blend of traditional and modern elements. The church has a long and fascinating history and provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage.
5. Shell Beach
Located in Gustavia, just a five-minute walk away from the city center, Shell Beach is undoubtedly one of the most iconic sights to see on St. Barts. Here, visitors will be enchanted by the unique beauty of the cove.
The glistening white sand is made up of millions of crushed shells, and although larger shells may not be as common as they once were, there are plenty of shells and treasures to be found by those who take the time to look.
The beach is a great destination for budding photographers, families, shellers, and those looking for a romantic spot to watch the sunset. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat, as there is a restaurant on-site. It is a popular destination, but you will never have to worry about it getting too crowded.
6. Saint-Jean
St. Barts is a Caribbean paradise with stunning beaches and tranquil waters. One of the most popular St. Barts attraction is the picturesque crescent of white sand at Saint-Jean Beach.
Here, visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters, snorkeling in the coral reefs, and trying out various water sports. While parents with children can relax under the sun, the more adventurous can rent surfboards, windsurfers, and other beach toys to make the most out of their vacation.
The beach is lined up with white sun beds, and the chic Nikki Beach Saint Barth restaurant is located nearby. The luxurious Eden Rock St. Barts hotel overlooks the sea from a nearby promontory, and the nearby hills are dotted with luxury villas.
The only airport servicing the island is located close by, but only small aircraft are allowed to take off and land during daylight hours. Most visitors arrive in St. Barts from St. Martin, and the island offers a unique blend of relaxation and fun for both locals and day-trippers.
7. Colombier Beach
One of the most sought-after attractions in St. Barts is Colombier Beach. This stunning beach boasts soft white sand and crystal-clear water that will leave you in awe. To get to the beach, you can take a boat or take a half-hour hike down a goat path.
As you take the hike, you may even spot some goats, iguanas, or tortoises along the way. This beach is often referred to as “Rockefeller’s Beach” as it was formerly owned by David Rockefeller and still remains a popular picnic spot for the locals.
As there are no facilities at the beach, it is recommended to bring your own food and drinks. Moreover, wear proper shoes if you are taking the hike. Boat lovers can take advantage of the free moorings here as well. In conclusion, Colombier Beach is definitely a must-visit spot in St. Barts and should not be missed.
8. Grand Saline
St. Barts is home to an incredible variety of beaches, each offering its own unique appeal. Grand Saline is no exception. Nestled in the heart of the island, Grand Saline Beach is a stunning sight. Reached by a winding path through lush foliage, Grand Saline is a perfect bow of coral sand, unspoiled by the trappings of modern life.
With no shade, no beach bar, and no amenities, visitors to this beach are encouraged to simply enjoy the sun on their skin, the warmth of the sand beneath their feet, and the tranquil beauty of the Caribbean Sea.
This beach is perfect for sun-seekers, beach lovers, and anyone looking to escape the stresses of everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax or a thrilling adventure, Grand Saline Beach is sure to be a highlight of your trip to St. Barts.
9. St. Bart’s Yellow Submarine
St. Barts Yellow Submarine offers a unique experience like no other. Embark on an underwater journey and explore the mysterious depths of the sea with a first-hand look at the vibrant marine life of St. Barts. From the comfort of a submarine, watch as the fish play among the ruins of sunken ships and hide in the crevices of the rocks.
Feel your heart swell with joy as you take in the beauty of the ocean and its inhabitants. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the sea turtles, who will be your loyal escorts as you make your way back to shore.
With the Yellow Submarine, St. Barts offers a truly unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages. Hop aboard and get ready to discover a magical world you’ll never forget.
10. Inter Oceans Museum
If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience in St. Barts, visit the Inter Oceans Museum.
Located in the charming fishing village of Corossol, this remarkable St. Barts’ attraction is a private collection of thousands of stunning seashells, stuffed tropical fish, and corals from around the world. The enthusiastic owner will graciously give you a museum tour and provide entertaining stories about the fascinating items on display.
With rave reviews from travelers, the Inter Oceans Museum is the perfect place to explore and learn about the diverse oceanic wildlife. It’s an experience that’s sure to stay with you long after your vacation has ended. Be sure to add it to your list of must-see places to visit in St. Barts.
11. Lorient
Lorient Beach is one of the most popular attractions in St. Barts. It is a long beach that stretches from the quaint village of Lorient to the stunning coastline. The beach is known for its fantastic surfing waters at the far end.
It is also the site of the island’s first French settlement and is home to a charming 19th-century Catholic church. Visitors to the beach can take a stroll along the shoreline, dip in the warm waters, or simply relax and take in the picturesque views of the Caribbean Sea.
The church is a sight to behold, with its local stone construction and conch shells used as holy water basins. Visitors can explore the quaint shops and eateries nearby or simply lose themselves in the beauty and tranquility of this magnificent beach.
There is something for everyone on St. Barts, whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, culture or cuisine. The list of attractions provided here merely scratches the surface of the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that make it a must-visit destination.
