The Ultimate St Barts Travel Guide for 2026: How to Plan the Perfect Trip
Essential St. Barts Travel Resources
St. Barts Tourism Board
Government of Saint Barthélemy
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM)
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport – San Juan (SJU)
Gustaf III Airport – St. Barts (SBH)
Winair
Tradewind Aviation
St Barth Commuter
Great Bay Express Ferry
Voyager High-Speed Ferry
NOAA Weather & Hurricane Center
National Hurricane Center
U.S. Travel Advisory
IATA Travel Regulations Map
Port of Gustavia
Published 10 Feb 2026
Written by Seb Martinon
Planning a trip to St Barts? This complete St Barts travel guide gives you the essentials — how to travel smart, the best time to visit, where to stay, what to do, and how to book the island the right way. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another Caribbean escape, use this page as your planning hub: clear guidance, local logic, and curated recommendations.
Start here, then explore our best resources for luxury villa rentals in St Barts, top restaurants in St Barts, where to shop in Gustavia, the most popular things to do in St Barts, and trusted St Barts concierge services to make everything seamless.
How do you get from St Maarten to St Barts?
Most travelers connect through St Maarten (SXM) and continue to St Barts by a short regional flight or by private boat. Flights are the fastest option, while boats can be a good alternative depending on sea conditions and schedules.
Do you need cash in St Barts?
Not necessarily. Credit cards are widely accepted across St Barts, including restaurants, boutiques, and many services. It’s still helpful to carry some cash (euros or US dollars) for small purchases, tips, or local vendors.
Is there Uber in St Barts?
No. Uber and ride-share apps do not operate in St Barts. If you don’t rent a car, you’ll rely on taxis and private drivers, especially in high season when availability can be limited.
What is the best area to stay in St Barts?
It depends on your travel style. Gustavia is ideal for shopping and dining access, St Jean is popular for beaches and beach clubs, and hillside villa areas are best for privacy and a quieter luxury vibe.
Do you need a driver’s license to rent a car in St Barts?
Yes. You’ll need a valid driver’s license to rent a car in St Barts. Most rental agencies accept US and EU licenses for short stays, and a car is the easiest way to explore the island.
Do you need reservations for restaurants in St Barts?
Yes — in high season, reservations are strongly recommended (and often necessary) for the most popular restaurants. Booking ahead is especially important around holidays and event weeks.
How to Travel to St Barts
Because St Barts has a short runway, most travelers connect via nearby hubs and arrive on a short regional flight or by sea. Once you land, planning your stay becomes the real advantage: where you base yourself, how you move around, and what you book ahead.
To build your itinerary fast, use Explore for experiences and beaches, then Services for support (drivers, car rentals, chefs, wellness, and more).
Best Time to Visit St Barts
High season (December to April)
Peak weather and peak demand. Expect the most energy — and the highest prices — especially around holidays.
Shoulder season (May to June)
Great balance: fewer crowds, strong weather, and often better availability for villas and reservations.
Quiet season (September to October)
Calmer island vibe and attractive pricing, but some places may be closed or operating with reduced schedules.
Where to Stay in St Barts
Luxury villas
The signature St Barts experience: privacy, space, pools, and a lifestyle that feels effortless when paired with the right local help. Browse our curated St Barts luxury rentals.
Boutique hotels
Ideal if you want a resort-style rhythm with service and a social atmosphere. Many are concentrated near iconic areas like Gustavia and St Jean.
Best Beaches in St Barts
St Barts beaches range from lively to completely secluded. A few favorites to plan around:
- St Jean – popular, energetic, close to dining and beach clubs
- Saline – raw beauty, natural feel, less built-up
- Gouverneur – classic “postcard” water and sand
- Colombier – secluded, hike-in or boat access
For more beach ideas and island spots, go to Explore St Barts.
Best Restaurants in St Barts
Dining is a major reason people fall in love with the island: French influence, fresh ingredients, and a strong seasonal scene.
Use our curated Eat & Drink guide to choose the right style for your trip — beachfront lunches, Gustavia dinners, and the island’s most requested reservations.
Things to Do in St Barts
- Private boat days and yacht charters
- Snorkeling, diving, and calm-water swimming
- Sunset spots and scenic viewpoints
- Luxury shopping in Gustavia
- Local art, island culture, and seasonal events
See our curated recommendations here: Things to do in St Barts.
Shopping in Gustavia
Gustavia is where St Barts turns into its most refined version: designer boutiques, curated lifestyle stores, jewelry, art, and gourmet stops. Discover our picks in Shop St Barts.
Getting Around St Barts
Renting a car is strongly recommended. The island is small but hilly, parking is part of the routine, and taxis can be limited (especially in peak season). If you want everything handled, browse Services for private drivers and trusted car rentals.
Essential St Barts Travel Tips
- Book restaurants early in high season (and very early around holidays).
- Reserve villas well in advance for Christmas / New Year’s weeks.
- Pack resort-casual outfits — St Barts style is polished but relaxed.
- US dollars are widely accepted (as well as cards); French is official, English is common.
- Use trusted local support for transport, provisioning, and experiences: St Barts services.
FAQ: St Barts Travel Questions
Is St Barts expensive?
Yes — St Barts is a luxury destination. Costs depend heavily on season, villa size, and dining choices. Booking early and traveling outside peak weeks can reduce totals significantly.
Do US citizens need a passport for St Barts?
Yes. St Barts is a French territory, so a valid passport is required for US travelers.
How many days do you need in St Barts?
Most visitors stay 5 to 7 nights to enjoy beaches, dining, and a few curated experiences without rushing.
Is St Barts safe?
St Barts is widely considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. Standard travel awareness still applies, as anywhere.
Should I rent a car in St Barts?
Yes. Renting a car is the easiest way to explore beaches, Gustavia, and dining spots — especially if you’re staying in a villa.
What currency is used in St Barts?
The official currency of St Barts is the Euro (€), as it is a French overseas territory. However, US dollars are widely accepted across the island, especially in villas, restaurants, and boutiques. Credit cards are commonly used, and most major establishments accept Visa and Mastercard.
When is hurricane season in St Barts?
Hurricane season in St Barts runs from June through November, with peak activity typically between August and October. Many travelers still visit during this period due to lower villa rates and fewer crowds, but it’s recommended to purchase travel insurance for added flexibility.
Is St Barts good for families?
Yes. While St Barts is known for luxury and romance, it is also a great destination for families. Many beaches have calm waters, private villas offer space and privacy, and activities like boat days, snorkeling, and beach outings are ideal for children and teens.
Plan Your St Barts Trip
This St Barts travel guide is your central planning page. Next, use our curated sections to plan faster: