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The thing about the beaches in St. Barts is that each one seems better than the last. How can anything be more inviting than lapping through crystal clear waters out to Eden Rock’s floating dock off of St. Jean Beach? Oh wait, it must be Colombier Beach—only accessible by hike or boat. On an island so small, it’s surprising how many beaches, from populated to off-the-beaten paths, are worthy of ranking. Don’t pass up the following six opportunities to go to “la plage.”
Saline Beach
Located on the southern coast of the island, this is one of the most stunning beaches in St. Barts. Saline is known for its pristine beauty and unspoiled natural surroundings. Quite long, it stretches for about a mile, and is covered in soft, powdery sand. The water is a brilliant shade of turquoise and is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. One of the reasons Saline Beach is so popular is that it is one of the few beaches on the island that is undeveloped. There are no hotels, restaurants, or other facilities on the beach, which means visitors can enjoy a peaceful and secluded experience. Getting to Saline Beach requires a short hike through a nature reserve, which adds to the sense of adventure and seclusion.
St. Jean Beach
St. Jean Beach is known for its calm, bright turquoise waters that beckon water sports like swimming and snorkeling. The beach is named after the nearby village of St. Jean, which is one of the oldest settlements on the island. The western part of the beach, Nikki Beach, is named after the famous beach club chain, and is a popular spot for celebrity sightings. St. Jean Beach is also a nesting ground for green sea turtles, which can be seen swimming in the shallow waters near the shore.
Shell Beach
This glittering slice of seashell haven is located in the capital city of Gustavia. Shell Beach is a relatively small beach, but it has a lot of character. The sand is light-colored and composed of tiny shells, giving it a unique texture that is perfect for walking barefoot. The water is clear and calm, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. Superyachts sway in the near distance offshore, while Shellona Beach Club is idyllically positioned on the beach for live beats, refined Mediterranean cuisine, and lounge chairs.
Gouverneur Beach
First timers to the island might easily miss the southwestern coast of St. Barts in favor of the more populatred areas, but that would be a mistake. Gouverneur Beach is located on this lesser-known side of the island, and is an absolute must-visit on your trip. This slice of paradise is surrounded by lush green hills and rocky cliffs. Its secluded location makes it a peaceful and quiet spot, perfect for those seeking solitude and relaxation. Despite its secluded location, Gouverneur Beach is easily accessible by car, with a short drive down a winding road leading to a small parking lot near the beach.
Flamands Beach
This beautiful crescent-shaped beach located on the western side of the island is one of the best beaches in St. Barts, and also one of the largest—measuring about 0.6 miles in length. This makes it a great spot for walking, jogging, and sunbathing. The beach boasts stunning natural beauty, with turquoise blue waters, soft white sand, and palm trees lining the shore. The surrounding hills also provide a beautiful backdrop for the beach. Surfers flock to Flamands Beach in the winter months when the waves pick up.
Colombier Beach
This hidden gem is a secluded and stunning beach located on the northwestern coast of St. Barts. Colombier is only accessible by boat or a steep hike, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet spot with relatively few visitors. The beach boasts stunning natural beauty, with clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and rocky cliffs framing the beach. The surrounding hills are also covered in lush green vegetation, adding to the natural beauty of the area.
by travelers, for travelers.
