The Caribbean Travel Guide: Things to do in Saint Barth

Good to know. 

The first inhabitants of Saint Barth were the Arawak and Taino people. The French eventually colonised the island and in seventeen eighty four they traded it with Sweden. The capital of the island was named Gustavia after the king, Gustavia the third. The island was eventually sold back to the French.

Temperatures consistently sit between twenty one and thirty five degrees all year. The weather is always nice, but it’s the crowds and prices that create the seasons here. The month of April until June are the best times to visit. The island is less crowded since it is outside of the tourist season. That makes it easier to book restaurants and day trips or guided activities.

Meanwhile December to March is the height of the tourist season. Best to avoid going during this time lest ye be elbow to elbow on the beach.

It’s worth mentioning that July to November is hurricane season, and no matter the great prices on airfare or that boat tour, it could all be cancelled if a storm rolls in. 

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Stay in a villa?

Saint Barth villas are one of the best options to stay on the island. Private luxury with all the comforts of home. This is your home anyway from home, not a hotel. Outstanding amenities such as a private pool, media room, BBQ area and fantastic kitchen make this stay truly a luxury experience. Anything you could need is just a call away to the villa manager, whether it be a car to the airport or a private chef, it can be arranged for you. Bring the whole family, every member gets their own room and plenty of space to stretch out.

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Try it out?

Anse de Grand Cul de Sac is the best place to find surfing, snorkelling, kite surfing or any other water activity to do. Calm shallow waters make it a perfect spot to enjoy a bit of fun safely. 

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Shopping anyone?

Gustavia or St. Jean are some of the best places to shop on the island because all items are tax free. With top designer stores, beautiful small boutiques and over two hundred shops will guarantee you will find some great souvenirs and items to enjoy. The main shopping area has three major shopping streets: Quai Le Republic, Rue de General Charles de Gaule, and Rue de Roi Oscar.

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Up for a challenge?

If you’re a more active soul while on holiday then there are many spots to hike and be rewarded by the views of the impeccable coast line and volcanic rocks. Colombier Beach is a hidden gem of a beach that can be reached by two hiking trails. One trail is more advanced with steep mountainsides and a difficult stairway. The other trail is less intense and begins at Flamands Beach. Both trails terminate at the hidden beach for amazing sunset pics of the Caribbean Sea. The best hiking trail starts at Grand Fond Beach and follows the coast leading to natural pools. 

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When are the Festivals?

Almost every month visitors can find some type of celebration going on. The Saint. Barth’s Festival of Caribbean Cinema is an event for regional filmmakers that offers a unique insight into the arts and culture world of the Caribbean.

The Bucket Regatta happens in March and lasts for three days. It shows off the best sailing yachts from around the world. 

In April, the island hosts a five day sailing event, Les Voiles Richard Mille.

For foodies, the St. Barts Gourmet Festival in November is a must eat…er…see. Some of the best French Michelin starred chefs are here serving up their hottest creations.

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