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Saint Barth

Explore the island’s unique character — from its natural beauty and vibrant culture to its history and heritage.

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A glimpse into the island’s soul

Saint Barthélemy is more than just a destination; it is a blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and a welcoming community. This section invites you to learn more about the island’s identity, its people, and the values that make it truly unique in the Caribbean.

Discover what makes Saint Barth timeless and unforgettable.

About

Who we are and what we stand for

The Saint Barthélemy Tourism Committee promotes the island as a unique destination in the Caribbean, while preserving its natural environment, culture, and authentic lifestyle. Our mission is to guide visitors, support sustainable tourism, and share the spirit of hospitality that defines Saint Barth.

Saint Barthélemy: the art of being an island

Saint Barthélemy — pure charm, pure nature.

Saint-Barthélemy, affectionately known as Saint-Barth and nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, captivates travelers with its warm hospitality, enchanting atmosphere, and unique character.

In this paradisiacal setting, life flows to the rhythm of the waves along pristine white-sand beaches framed by sparkling turquoise waters.

Beyond its postcard-perfect landscapes, the island offers refined gastronomy and elegant boutiques, providing an unforgettable culinary and shopping experience. Nature lovers will also find their paradise here: Saint-Barthélemy invites you to explore scenic hiking trails, discover its protected reserves such as the lagoon and enjoy a wide range of land and water activities. And of course, the island also celebrates life through lively, convivial events that reflect the warmth and joy of its Caribbean spirit.

The heart of tourism: Saint Barthélemy territorial tourism committee

The Saint-Barthélemy Tourism Board is at the forefront of promoting tourism on the island. Every day, it welcomes visitors, guides them in discovering Saint-Barth, and works closely with local stakeholders to foster more responsible and meaningful tourism. Committed to preserving the island’s soul, the CTTSB also organizes and supports iconic events, while ensuring that every visitor enjoys an authentic, memorable, and high-quality experience.

More than just a committee, the CTTSB is committed to defending the island’s environmental values while collaborating with local professionals to enrich the visitor experience. They welcome tourists throughout the week, operating five days a week, and provide a varied range of brochures to help travelers discover and immerse themselves in the best of St Barth.

In order to further enhance the island’s rich heritage, the CTTSB offers a wide range of informative materials covering hotels, restaurants, museums, exhibitions, shows and other attractions, thus ensuring that each visitor captures the essence of the island.

Tourism Observatory

Measuring and understanding tourism

The Tourism Observatory of Saint Barthélemy collects and analyzes data on visitor arrivals, economic impact, and travel trends. This monitoring helps guide sustainable development, supports local businesses, and ensures that tourism remains balanced with the island’s environment and community.

Download the tourism observatory

Understanding and guiding tourism in Saint Barthélemy through data and sustainability.

Geography & Weather

A PARADISE ISLAND WITH A TROPICAL AND MARITIME WEATHER

Covering an area of 24 km², Saint-Barthélemy is a former volcanic island with rocky terrain and arid soils. Its rolling landscape combines pristine beaches, rocky formations, tropical vegetation, natural reserves, and picturesque neighborhoods worthy of postcards. Despite its dry terrain, the island is home to a rich and diverse wildlife, including turtles, iguanas, and hummingbirds. Saint-Barthélemy’s flora stands out for its variety and vibrant colors, which contribute to the island’s unique identity. It blends harmoniously with the turquoise waters and abundant sunshine, creating a strikingly beautiful Caribbean scenery.
Saint-Barthélemy enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, with warm and sunny temperatures. Winter averages around 27 °C, while summer reaches 30 to 32 °C. The sea can rise to 29 °C, providing ideal conditions for swimming and water activities.

The island has two main seasons:

The dry and mild season (December to May)
The hot and humid season (June to November)

The most favorable weather generally occurs from December to August, making it the perfect time to fully enjoy the gentle lifestyle and radiant landscapes of Saint-Barthélemy.

St Barts Environment: the natural reserve

The ATE, Territorial Environmental Agency is responsible for enforcing the local Environmental Code and managing the island’s Marine Nature Reserve. Its main missions are the conservation and management of natural heritage and spaces, as well as the protection of animal and plant species. These missions are carried out through various activities, including scientific studies, enforcement tasks, communication and awareness campaigns, and the preparation of technical reports.

The ATE oversees a wide range of areas, including fishing and water activities within the Nature Reserve, the management of invasive exotic species and stray domestic animals, the promotion of native plants, land clearing, and providing guidance on the protection of the island’s biodiversity. The Saint-Barthélemy Nature Reserve, established in 1996, covers 1,200 hectares of marine territory. Divided into several zones around the main island, it includes the perimeter of Fourchue Island, Colombier Bay, Petite Anse Bay, Marigot Bay, Grand Cul-de-Sac and Petit Cul-de-Sac bays extending to the Grenadines islets, as well as the areas surrounding Gros Ilet, Pain de Sucre, Frégate, and Toc Vers islets. For more information, visit our website: agencelenvironnement.fr

Drinking water production

Saint-Barthélemy remains a dry island, as it has no natural sources of drinking water. To address this issue, a seawater desalination system has been implemented, making it possible to remove salt through evaporation and retain only fresh water.

In order to be safe for consumption, this water, initially stripped of all its minerals, is remineralized before being stored in a large elevated reservoir. This allows the water to be distributed to the population by gravity.

The island’s first desalination plant was built in 1972 and was able to produce up to 50 liters per day.

Drinking water is produced by two systems:

Production by vacuum evaporation by “thermo compression”

For several years, it has been carried out at 40%, thanks to the vaporization of the combustion energy produced by the household waste incineration plant.

Production by “reverse osmosis”

A more recent and economical technique allows seawater to be transformed into fresh water through high-pressure filtration, ensuring efficient production with lower energy consumption.

Culture & Traditions

The people of Saint-Barthélemy take great pride in their roots and traditions, which continue to mark life’s important moments on the island: births, baptisms, first communions, engagements, weddings, and even farewells. Each occasion becomes an opportunity to celebrate and share a vibrant culture, passed down from generation to generation.

Today, these traditions blend seamlessly with modern life, without ever losing their warm and authentic spirit. Festivities come alive with music and dance: accordion, tambourine, and maracas set the rhythm for joyful gatherings, where local specialties such as Saint-Barth pancakes and sugared candies are savored. Traditional costumes, proudly worn during patron saint festivals, preserve a unique heritage that reflects the richness and singular identity of Saint-Barthélemy. The longstanding tradition of braiding, still celebrated today, also demonstrates the island’s deep connection to its ancestral crafts and cultural heritage.

Heritage that connects past, present, and future.

From the carriage-style headdress and straw hats worn in Corossol and Colombier, to the Panama hat adopted in Cul-de-Sac, Marigot, and Vitet, these headpieces are true symbols of local identity. The carriage headdress, also known as the Quichenotte, a large iconic white headpiece, came in two styles: the platinum carriage, made from braided strands sewn together, and the stick carriage, crafted with fine wooden sticks inserted into designated slots. Over time, the carriage headdress gradually gave way to the more practical and lightweight straw hat.

There was also the cape now mostly disappeared except in the Gustavia museum which was worn in blue fabric for work and black for outings. These headpieces primarily served a practical purpose: protecting from the sun and scratches. Yet they also had a more unexpected function: keeping the overly forward English and Swedish visitors at a distance. This is how the headdress came to be called Quichenotte, literally meaning “do not kiss me.”

Religions

Anglicans, Evangelists, or Catholics, the population of Saint Barthélemy is very attached to its religion. The Catholic faith, transmitted from father to son, is the most widespread on the island, with its two churches and two schools:

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption of Gustavia
The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Lorient
Sainte Marie de Colombier School
Saint Joseph School in Lorient

Let us also mention the small chapel of Colombier, a community work by R. Père de Bruyn, supported by the faithful from distant districts. The island also has an Anglican church and an Evangelical temple. While each community meets individually according to the expression of its faith, it sometimes happens that certain family ceremonies or events become the occasion for a true ecumenical gathering.

Beliefs

Saint-Barthélemy has its own myths and popular beliefs, passed down from generation to generation and deeply connected to nature and daily life. These stories reflect the island’s unique cultural heritage.

Among the legends are the soukougnans, mysterious figures from Caribbean tradition, representing imagination more than fear. Nature also plays a central role: the call of the gligli (kestrel) is believed to herald life or death, and even to signal a pregnancy. Other beliefs are drawn from everyday signs: the presence of a snake near a house may announce a birth, while a hen crowing like a rooster is considered a bad omen. Shaped by observation and oral storytelling, these traditions enrich the cultural identity of Saint-Barthélemy.

Architecture of Saint Barthélemy

In Saint Barthélemy, traditional architecture reflects a gradual adaptation to the island environment. Homes were designed with solid, functional structures, intended to endure over time and blend naturally into the landscape. Some lime kilns, still visible in areas such as Marigot or Essents near Corossol, recall the ingenuity and simplicity of these early constructions.

Traditional houses in Saint-Barthélemy always come in pairs: the main house, containing bedrooms and a living area, and a nearby outbuilding used as a kitchen or water storage. Water is extremely scarce on the island, and every drop of rain is carefully collected. It flows from the gutters into the cisterns of lime-washed houses and modern homes, or into jars for smaller cabins.

In Gustavia, many buildings dating back to the Swedish era, such as the old town hall, the Brigantine, and the bell tower were built on stone foundations with wooden floors. The Wall House has also been renovated to house the territorial library and the heritage museum.

Traditional architecture remains prominent on the island, with its paired houses and outbuildings reflecting the lifestyle and ingenuity of its inhabitants in response to scarce water resources and challenging climatic conditions.

History

Origins & Evolution

The history of St Barts is complex. The Saint Barthelemy island was a commune in Guadeloupe. It became an Overseas Collectivity on July 15, 2007, following the promulgation of Organic Law 2007-223 from January 21, 2007, to the OJ of January 22.

Administered by a Territorial Council of 19 members and an Executive Council of 7 members, the Collectivity is headed by the President of the Territorial Council, Mr. Xavier LÉDÉE. It is represented in the Senate by a Senator, Ms. Micheline JACQUES. Here is the official website of the Collectivity: http://www.comstbarth.fr/

History of St Barts: from columbus to the present day

Discovery by Christophe Colomb

Saint-Barthélemy, called Ouanalao by the Arawak Indians, was discovered by Christophe Colomb in 1493 and claimed for Spain.

Colonization and Resistance

In 1648, the Order of Malta settled French colonists on the island to develop agriculture, salt production, and fishing, despite conflicts with the local population.

The Swedish Era and Return to France

The island became Swedish in 1784, and Gustavia, a prosperous free port, was built with forts and landmark buildings. Saint-Barthélemy was returned to France in 1878 after natural disasters and economic difficulties.

Modernization and Opening to the World

Under French administration, the island developed schools, roads, and cisterns while maintaining agriculture, fishing, and livestock. Gradually, Saint-Barthélemy opened to international trade and emigration to neighboring islands.

In 1977, at the request of the French Archives Directorate, every municipality and department was required to adopt a “symbolic urban emblem.” To this end, the municipality, following the advice of the French Archives Directorate, contacted a heraldic artist who incorporated several symbols of the island’s history into its coat of arms:

Ouanalao, the name given to Saint Barthélemy by the Caribbean Indians

The Maltese Cross, which recalls that the island once belonged to the Order of Malta

The fleurs-de-lis of the Kings of France, symbolizing its attachment to France

The mural crown, an emblem of towns and fortified places

The three crowns of the Kings of Sweden, recalling the Swedish period of the island

The pelicans, whose presence on the island has made them one of its symbols

Heritage & Monuments

Saint Barthélemy,island with a rich pastmarked by Christopher Columbus and located in the heart of the Caribbean, offers a unique insight into its history through itsmonuments. Visitancient forts, churches with colonial charme, and wanderpicturesque neighborhoodsfor an immersion in the captivating culture of the island.

Exploring these landmarks reveals the island’s soul and enduring traditions.

Dinzey House

Dinzey House, known as Le Brigantin, is located in Gustavia on the island of Saint-Barthélemy. Built around 1820 and a survivor of the great fire of 1852, it has been listed as a historic monument since April 17, 1990Protected along with its gardens, terraces, and outbuildings, it was carefully restored by its owner, a former Honorary Consul of Sweden. Today, owned by the local community, it houses the territorial museum, safeguarding the island’s archives and historical objects.

Hôtel de la Collectivité

Inaugurated in January 2002, the Town Hall became the Community Hall in July 2007. Saint Barthélemy was transformed into an Overseas Collectivity (COM) by the Organic Law of February 21, 2007, under the name “Collectivity of Saint Barthélemy.”

The Governors’ House

The Governors’ House, built around 1780 in Gustavia, has served successively as a private residence, the governors’ residence during the Swedish period (1785–1877), and the Town Hall from 1878 to 2001. Listed as a historic monument since August 1, 1995. The building combined a stone and local lava base bonded with volcanic mortar, a wooden upper floor, and a rear room intended for outbuildings

Swedish Battery of Fort Gustav III

A reconstruction of a Swedish battery from Fort Gustave III dating back to 1787. It is located in Gustavia, on the island.

Wall House

Wall House, one of the largest stone buildings in Gustavia, has an uncertain history. Formerly known as “Steinmetz House,” it is said to have served at different times as a theater, hotel, conference hall, or shop during the Swedish period. Its current name refers to its stone walls, the only parts that have remained intact over time. Today, the ground floor houses an exhibition hall, while the upper floor contains the municipal library.

Beaches

Saint Barthélemy, the volcanic jewel of the Lesser Antilles, is famous for its idyllic white sand beaches framed by lush tropical nature, such as Corossol, Salines, Shell Beach and St Jean. These coastal paradises, populated by exotic wildlife like iguanas, turtles and hummingbirds, are perfect for water activities and relaxation.

The Saint-Barth nature reserve ensures the conservation of this unique environment and we invite you to contribute to its protection by respecting its exceptional fauna and flora.

Saint-Barthélemy, a volcanic gem of the Lesser Antilles, captivates visitors with the beauty and variety of its white-sand beaches. Each beach has its own unique character.

The Saint-Barth nature reserve ensures the conservation of this unique environment and we invite you to contribute to its protection by respecting its exceptional fauna and flora.

Anse des Cayes Beach

The beach of the Cayes cove is, as its name suggests, largely covered by corals. It is also one of the favorite beaches for surfers.

Beach of Grand Fond

Grand Fond Beach enchants visitors with its natural, unspoiled setting. Open to the ocean and framed by rocky formations, it offers spectacular scenery and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reflection and a true sense of escape.

Colombier beach

Accessible only by boat or by the hiking trails of Petite Anse or Colombier, Colombier beach offers you one of the most beautiful panoramas of the island.

Corossol beach

The brown sand of Corossol beach is so special that this is what gives it its charm. This bay is home to the traditional "dories" that cannot be found anywhere.

Flamands beach

Flamands Beach, the largest beach in Saint-Barthélemy, captivates with its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters, offering an elegant and peaceful setting, perfect for swimming, playing on the sand, and relaxing.

Gouverneur beach

Gouverneur Beach stands out for its natural and elegant setting. Surrounded by lush green hills and bathed in clear waters, it offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Grand Cul de Sac Beach

Grand Cul-de-Sac Bay is a small lagoon with shallow, crystal-clear turquoise waters, home to colorful little fish. It’s an ideal spot for water activities.

Lorient beach

Lorient Beach is a favorite spot for families, prized for the calm and clear waters. It provides an ideal setting for relaxation, beach games, and swimming, making every visit memorable for guests of all ages. In addition to its family-friendly atmosphere, the beach is also popular with surfers, thanks to its waves that are perfect for the sport.

Marigot beach

Surrounded by coconut palms and sheltered from the wind, Marigot Beach is a marine nature reserve. It features crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and exploring the underwater world with or without a snorkel.

Petit Cul de Sac beach

Petit Cul de Sac beach is the place where we meet for a family picnic.

Petite Anse Beach

Ideal for families, Petite Anse Beach invites relaxation in its shallow, crystal-clear waters or on its postcard-perfect white sand.

Public beach

Public Beach is known for its calm waters and the presence of a sailing school, making it perfect for introducing young visitors to the joys of sailing.

Saline beach

You have certainly heard of Saline beach? It is, after Flamands beach, the largest on the island. Far from the hustle and bustle, this beach ensures perfect tranquility thanks to the surrounding nature.

Shell beach

Grand Galets (Shell Beach) gets its name from the thousands of shells scattered across its sand, creating a unique and colorful setting.

St Jean beach

Saint-Jean Beach captivates with its soft sand and calm waters. Ideal for swimming, water sports, and relaxation, it also offers a lively setting with nearby restaurants and shops.

Toiny beach

Toiny Beach is known for its wild and unspoiled atmosphere. Its powerful waves attract surfers, while the golden sand and natural surroundings provide a stunning setting to admire the scenery and enjoy the tranquility of the ocean.

Anse des Lezards

Press Area

The Press Area provides journalists and media professionals with the latest news, press releases, and high-resolution images of Saint Barthélemy. It ensures accurate storytelling and promotes the island’s events, lifestyle, and tourism initiatives to a global audience.

Stay informed and share the authentic spirit of Saint Barth with your readers.

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