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Top Things To Do
It’s well-known that St Barts is an island of revelry, and everything here is set to make sure you have the best time, whether you’re looking for an active or relaxing holiday. Those looking for the ultimate holiday treat will enjoy the island’s highly reputed culinary scene, duty-free luxury shopping experience, and state-of-the-art spas and wellness centres designed to make you feel your best self.
When it’s time to embrace the local surroundings, wander the history-filled streets of Lorient and Gustavia, or take a hike across the island’s most scenic paths, to the heart of St Barts’ colourful wildlife. And if it’s a touch of adventure and adrenaline you’re after, take a snorkeling or diving trip into St Barts’ vibrant marine life, or go experience the thrill of the various watersports on offer around the island.
GUSTAVIA
An important symbol of the island’s Swedish heritage, St Barts’ capital city was formerly known as Carénage before being renamed by the Swedes in 1785, in honour of their king Gustav III.
HIKING
Whilst all the land on St Barts is private, there are a few paths for hikers to explore and enjoy the various scenic points across the island, such as the popular walk to Colombier Bay, or the hike up Mount Vitet, St Barts’ highest point at an altitude of 286 meters. Should you decide to hike around the island, visit the Tourist Bureau first, where you’ll be able to get a map of the various trails.
FORT GUSTAVE
Follow the cactus path leading up a steep hill to the ruins of this old fort, which was built by the Swedes in 1787. Wander around and take in the views of the harbour below, picturing what was once a thriving haven for buccaneers.
WILDLIFE
Despite its volcanic soil and fairly dry climate, St Barts boasts a wide variety of flora that counts no less than a hundred species - an impressive number considering the size of the island.
ST-JEAN
Home to the island’s very first hotel, the Eden Rock, St-Jean is a popular neighbourhood with luxurious villas, renowned restaurants and St Barts’ second largest shopping centre. Located near the Gustavia III airport, the bay was once heavily guarded by the local buccaneers who had surrounded the area with batteries of canons.
ECO-CONSCIOUSNESS
A pioneer of all thing environmentally focused in the Caribbean, St Barts has a decades-worth track record of setting the bar high when it comes to protecting its environment.
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SPORTS
DIVING & SNORKELLING
With its reef-bordered coastline, St Barts is an absolute delight for keen scuba-divers and snorkelers. The healthy corals here provide a great habitat for countless species of colourful tropical fish, and St Bart’s topography offers exciting cave and wall diving opportunities all around the island and islets.
KAYAKING
To take your exploration of the picturesque St Barts surroundings beyond the land, rent a kayak and paddle your way through its many hidden coastal gems, in the shape of secluded coves, mysterious caves, impressive cliffs and, of course, colourful marine life.
WINDSURFING
Whilst St Barts’ strong winds are sometimes the promise of an adrenaline-fuelled windsurfing experience, the island also has some novice-friendly spots with onsite rental and lessons in places such as St-Jean and Grand Cul de Sac.
WATERSKIING & JETSKIING
To add a touch of adrenaline to your trip, why not book a waterskiing or jetskiing lesson or trip - an activity enjoyable year-round thanks to St Barts’ ideal weather conditions.
KITESURFING
Benefiting from consistent wind averaging around 18 knots during the winter, an average temperature of 24oC in the water and 26oC in the air, St Barts is a great place for kitesurfing. Head to the eastern coast for the best conditions for all levels of experience, with strong winds and reef-protected shallow waters. If you’re after a little more thrill, head to Toiny.
TENNIS
Whilst several resorts have their own onsite tennis facilities, there are also private clubs that allow visitors to book their court, should you wish to practice your skills during your stay.
DEEP-SEA FISHING
Owning aboat in St Barts is a pretty common thing, and so is fishing. However, in an attempt to tackle the consequences of overfishing, rules now apply to fishing activities around the island.
SURFING
Whilst surfing can be enjoyed in many bays around the island, keen surfers will enjoy St-Jean, Toiny, Lorient, and Anse des Cayes, where the local surfing crowds usually gather to catch the island’s best waves.
VOLLEYBALL
Occupying an important place in St Barts’ sport scene, it is not uncommon for a volleyball tournament to be taking place on the island. Go watch a match or try your skills against the locals at the beach!
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