The Most Beautiful Beaches
The guide to the most beautiful beaches in St Barts: Saline, Gouverneur, Colombier, Saint-Jean, Shell Beach. Access, atmosphere and local tips.
- Plage de St. Jean : St. Barth's liveliest beach, split into two coves by a rocky outcrop. Calm water, beach clubs, and the airport as a backdrop for spectacular
- Plage de Gouverneur : One of the island's most beautiful beaches, long, wild and pristine. Reached via a winding road, it sits in a natural cove of immaculate whi
- Plage de Saline : A traditionally naturist beach far from everything, reached on foot across the old salt ponds. The most iconic choice for free spirits and l
- Anse des Flamands : A wide northern beach of fine sand and turquoise water. The broadest on St. Barth, lined by a few hotels and offering a magnificent view ove
- Plage de Colombier : The most secret and pristine beach on St. Barth. Reachable only on foot (about 30-45 min from Flamands) or by boat. Total seclusion in a wil
- Grand Cul-de-Sac : A natural lagoon sheltered by a coral reef. Perfect for kitesurfing, windsurfing and swimming in calm, shallow water. Lined with restaurants
- Plage de Lorient : The village beach of Lorient — accessible and authentic. A local favorite, with good surf on the eastern side and a peaceful, family-friendl
- Petit Cul-de-Sac : A small, quiet cove of turquoise water with few visitors. Ideal for snorkeling, with a coral reef nearby and sheltered natural pools.
- Shell Beach : A unique shell beach in Gustavia, steps from the shops and restaurants. The harbor's only beach: little sand but thousands of seashells, per
- Anse de Toiny : A wild Atlantic-coast beach with powerful waves, nicknamed the 'wild coast'. Not for swimming, but stunning for its scenery and the setting
Frequently asked questions
- Are there nudist beaches in St. Barth?
- Yes: Saline beach is traditionally a naturist beach, off the beaten path and reached on foot across the old salt ponds. It is the only naturist beach listed here.
- Which beach is best for families?
- Saint-Jean beach: easy access, calm water, beach clubs and restaurants nearby. It is the island's liveliest and best-equipped beach.
- Do you have to pay to access the beaches?
- No, beach access is free and open to everyone — as everywhere in France, beaches are public maritime domain. Some beach clubs (in Saint-Jean, for example) offer optional sunbed and parasol rental.
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