6 Iconic Beaches in St Barths

By Banita Virdee on 14th March, 2023

The French Caribbean Island of St Barths is home to 5-star hotels, gourmet restaurants, and world-class beaches. Encompassing less than 10 square miles, St Barts has 11 beaches that can be publicly accessed, each with its own charm and activities to delight. From secluded stretches of sand to family-friendly beaches, here are the best beaches in St Barths.

Saint-Jean Beach

Saint-Jean Beach is the most popular beach on the island, it has a calm atmosphere and powdery white sand. The beach is divided into two by the Eden Rock hotel, with the first stretch of the beach close to the airport. The runway ends in the sand, offering spectacular shows every day of the small planes landing. The second part of the bay is a quieter beach and is a great spot for swimming or snorkeling.

All sorts of water activities are available nearby, letting adventure lovers take to the waves. Another amazing attraction of this beautiful beach is the chance to see sea turtles emerging from the clear blue waters. You can lay on the beach with towels or rent chairs and umbrellas to truly relax.

Colombier Beach

Located on the western end of the island, Colombier Beach is accessible by foot via two different paths. One starts from Colombier, the other from Flamands, from where the hike is pleasant and offers a chance to see the island from up above on the hills. 

Watch out for green large lizards on your hiking trails and become an adventurer for the day. If you’re not wanting to hike down the lava rock cliffs, you can take a boat out to reach this beautiful majestic beach. 

The ban on fishing in the area allows for fantastic snorkeling, and the opportunity to see tropical fish, sea turtles, and starfish is almost a sure thing. It’s the perfect secluded spot for a picnic lunch and to relax until the sun sets.

Saline Beach

Located in the southeastern part of Saint Barth, Saline Beach is a hidden treasure with its beautiful pinkish sand. Get ready to roam around this remote and untouched island, letting you become one with mother nature. The beach is accessible by a forest trail that leads over sand dunes. You will have a chance to see the chirping birds among the tall green trees as you approach the seafront. Make sure to walk carefully, as from the car park it is a 10-minute walk down the rocks and stones path. Don’t forget to pack a little lunch too and enjoy a beach picnic with the sound of the waves in the background.

Gouverneur Beach

Gouverneur Beach is one of the most stunning beaches on the island. Skirted by dense vegetation, it’s the ultimate tropical paradise.  This beautiful beach holds its title for having a peaceful setting, with vibrant blue waters and pale white sands. The white sand is protected by two rocky formations which creates an isolated and private setting for tourists to unwind. There are no bars and restaurants available nearby, so make sure to pack yourself a light lunch and enjoy a picnic on the beach. With limited shade, you will need sunscreen and hats here. The calm, shallow waters of Anse du Gouverneur are pleasant for swimming and are ideal for young families. The rocks along the beach’s northeastern edge provide a good spot for snorkeling.

Shell Beach

Shell Beach is just a five-minute walk from the center of Gustavia. This secluded location is peaceful and never crowded, letting you listen to the sounds of the waves. The sheltered cove offers beautiful views of the islands of Statia and Saba.

There is also a bar and restaurant on the beach, so you can enjoy sipping on a cocktail whilst topping up your tan. The beach is called Shell Beach for a reason, the whole landscape is covered in shells and rocks. The kids can make amazing memories by collecting their favorite sea shells whilst you relax with a cocktail.

Lorient Beach

Lorient Beach is a family-friendly beach and is ideal for families wanting to enjoy the water. The northern end of the beach has a series of small natural pools, perfect for little ones to swim in the shallow end. The warm water is great for fun activities like surfing, snorkeling, and paddle boarding. A surf school is also located on the beach, so get ready to get your surfs up!

Lorient Beach is a two-minute walk from JoJo Burgers. The whole family can dive into delicious burgers and milkshakes after having a long day at the beach. Just a walk away there is also a supermarket available for cold drinks and snacks to munch on at the beach.

Saint Barthélemy’s beaches really are some of the best in the world, with beautifully soft stretches of sand set beside marine life-filled turquoise waters, against a verdant mountainous backdrop. If you’re visiting St Barths make sure to visit any one of these St Barth’s beaches! You will be amazed by the beauty and tranquility of the island.