7 days in St Barts : what to do?

St Barts, also known as Saint Barthélemy, is a small island in the Caribbean known for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. With its French influence and laid-back atmosphere, it's the perfect destination for a week-long vacation. In this article, we'll explore the best things to do during your 7 days in St Barts.

Day 1: Explore Gustavia

Start your trip by exploring the capital of St Barts, Gustavia. This charming town is filled with colorful buildings, quaint cafes, and designer boutiques. Take a stroll along the harbor and admire the yachts and sailboats, or visit the Wall House Museum to learn about the island's history. Don't forget to stop by the iconic red mailbox, a popular spot for photos.

Where to stay in Gustavia

For a luxurious stay in Gustavia, consider booking at places like the Carl Gustaf Hotel or a private villa rental. If you're on a budget, opt for a vacation rental or a smaller hotel like the Sunset Hotel or Hotel Les Ondines Sur La Plage.

Day 2: St Barts beaches

St Barts is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Spend your second day relaxing on the white sand and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Some must-visit beaches include:

• Shell Beach: Located just a short walk from Gustavia, this beach is known for its unique shell-covered shore.
• St Jean Beach: This popular beach is lined with restaurants and beach bars, making it the perfect spot for a day of sunbathing and people-watching.
• Colombier Beach: Only accessible by boat or a 30-minute hike, this secluded beach is worth the effort for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views.

Beach essentials

Don't forget to pack sunscreen, a beach towel, and a good book to enjoy while lounging on the beach. You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas at most beaches for a small fee.

Day 3: Island tour

On your third day, take a tour of the island to see all of its beauty. You can rent a car or hire a private driver to take you around. Some must-see spots include:

• Lighthouse at Pointe de Gustavia: This iconic lighthouse offers stunning views of the island and the surrounding ocean.
• Anse de Grande Saline: This beach is known for its natural beauty and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
• Fort Gustav: This historic fort offers panoramic views of Gustavia and is a great spot for photos.

Where to eat

For lunch, stop by Le Select, a popular burger joint in Gustavia. For dinner, head to Bonito, a trendy restaurant with a rooftop terrace and delicious French cuisine.

Day 4: Watersports

St Barts is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. Spend your fourth day trying out different activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, or paddleboarding. You can also rent a jet ski or go on a boat tour to explore the island from a different perspective.

Where to book watersports

You can book watersports activities through your hotel or at one of the many watersports companies on the island. Some popular options include Jet Ski St Barth and St Barth Jet Ski.

Day 5: Hike to the natural pools

For a unique experience, hike to the natural pools located on the eastern side of the island. These natural pools are formed by volcanic rocks and offer a peaceful spot for swimming and sunbathing. The hike takes about an hour and offers stunning views of the island along the way.

What to bring

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water for the hike. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy at the natural pools.

Day 6: Sunset cruise

End your trip with a romantic sunset cruise around the island. You'll have the opportunity to see the island from a different perspective and enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Caribbean Sea. Many sunset cruises also offer drinks and snacks on board.

Where to book

You can book a sunset cruise through your hotel or at one of the many tour companies on the island. One popular option is available at Barnes St. Barth.

Day 7: St Barts nightlife

St Barts is known for its vibrant nightlife, so make sure to save your last night for a night out on the town. Start with dinner at one of the many restaurants in Gustavia, then head to one of the popular bars or clubs for drinks and dancing. Some must-visit spots include:

• Le Ti St Barth: This lively bar and restaurant is known for its themed nights and live music.
• Le Yacht Club: This upscale club is a popular spot for celebrities and offers a luxurious atmosphere and great music.

Dress code

Most bars and clubs in St Barts have a dress code, so make sure to dress up for a night out. Men should wear collared shirts and dress shoes, while women can opt for a dress or nice top and pants.

With its stunning beaches, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant nightlife, St Barts is the perfect destination for a week-long vacation. Make sure to follow the St Barts itinerary to make the most out of your 7 days in St Barts. Bon voyage!