Île Saint-Barthélemy Things to Do

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As the only beach within reasonable walking distance of Gustavia, Shell Beach is one of St. Barts’ most popular. The aptly named beach isn’t very big and isn’t particularly memorable, although there is good shell searching to be done for those interested. Tennis fans might want to visit this beach if for no other reason than Yannick Noah co-owns Do Brazil, a restaurant fronting the beach.

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Anse de Grande Saline, or Grand Saline Beach, is another of St. Barts’ most popular beaches. Even though there is a law forbidding nudity on St. Barts, many sunbathers at Grande Saline quickly strip down to their birthday suits upon arrival. The surf is usually calm and the beach is nice enough, making this a popular family spot as well. There are no restaurants or facilities on the beach, but there are two restaurants within walking distance.

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Baie de St. Jean is perhaps St. Barts’ most popular beach. It is a hip strip of sand which those in the know say recalls the French Riviera. Unlike some of the other beaches, there are restaurants galore along St. Jean, which actually has two beaches that are divided by Eden Rock. The smaller beach is more sheltered and more popular with families with young children.

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Like the island as a whole, Gustavia is a pretty town from afar and, in some ways, even up close. Yachts rock gently on the harbors blue waters. The red-roofed buildings look natural hemmed in against the green hills. The streets are clean and relatively free of traffic. The cafes are full of people, and there is both a tranquility and buzz to everything. Unfortunately, the shops generally sell overpriced, high-end jewelry and name brand apparel and accessories (and are closed a good portion of the afternoon for lunch), and most of the people are elitist snobs. So, unless you enjoy that type of shopping and being surrounded by those type of people, Gustavia’s charms quickly wear thin.

St. Bart's is paradise for the global elite and one of their upcoming members is my dear friend. I am here by invitation.

It is breathtaking. The serene waters, jutting green cliffs, and soft tan sands are gifts to those privileged. The sailboats are as aloof as their inhabitants and in the clean luxurious town, one can see every form of material wealth in movement or stillness.

Oh, if only all that yearn for a moment of peace could, too, have this opportunity.