Traveling to St Barts: A Guide

Traveling to St Barts: A Guide

If you’re looking for a breathtaking French Caribbean destination to add to your travel bucket list, St. Barts is definitely worth considering. This French-speaking island is renowned for its gorgeous beaches, luxurious resorts, and chic boutiques and restaurants. With a little advance planning using our travel advice, you can have an unforgettable trip to St Barts, an idyllic Caribbean island paradise.

When is the best time to go to St Barts?

The weather is warm year-round, so it is no major factor for an excursion—and other seasons must also be considered. Peak tourist season runs from November to January and some hotels require a minimum stay of at least two weeks during the holidays. High season runs from January through February, but the prices are not as high as during the holiday season. There may be a spike in rates in April and March rates because of Easter Break and various regattas, including St Barts Bucket.

If you are looking to save money as you visit St Barts, consider going during the shoulder season, i.e. late May and June. While June to November is categorized as hurricane season, the highest risk months are August to mid-October.

Which airlines fly to St Barts?

The most common way to fly into St Barth is through Princess Juliana Airport on the Dutch side of St Martin, with incoming direct flights from the United States, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta fly direct international routes into St Barth from Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, New York, Washington and more, while Air Canada and Westjet fly in from Montreal and Toronto.

In Europe, Air Caraibes, Air France, Alitalia, and KLM fly into St Martin from Amsterdam and Paris.

Tradewind Aviation operates a schedule from San Jose Airport to St Barth Gustaf III Airport (SBH). Win-Air and St Barth Commuter provide regular flights to St. Martin and St Barth.

Private jet charter to St Barts

If you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury travel, consider chartering a private jet to St. Barts. Sint Barthélemy paradise is a popular destination for celebrities and other wealthy travelers. By chartering a private jet to St Barth, you can skip the hassle of flying commercial and enjoy a VIP experience from start to finish. Of course, this option comes at a cost. But, if you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury travel, it’s definitely worth considering.

The most common option is a private charter from Princess Juliana International Airport in St Maarten to St Barth (SBH). St Barth Commuter also offers private charter flights from Grand Case l’Esperance Airport (SFG) in St Maarten and Guadeloupe (PTP) to and from St Barth.

Pre-Registration requirement when flying to St Barts via St Martin

Visitors to St Barts traveling via St Martin, through Princess Juliana airport or otherwise, are required to register for the EHAS – Electronic Health Authorized Service – 72 hours in advance. This is a requirement whether or not you spend a night in St Martin. You must then wait to receive a confirmation message, which will allow you to travel to St Maarten, and then beyond to St Barth via flight or boat.

Travelers are also required to purchase a $30 medical insurance, however, those not spending a night in St Martin are exempt.

No Pre-Registration required when flying to St Barts via San Juan

If flying to St Barth via San Juan (SJU), you do not need to pre-register as in the case of St Maarten. Same when you return via San Juan. However, if you plan to spend a night in Puerto Rico, you may need permission to enter which will, in turn, require proof of vaccination or PCR testing.

Ferry St Maarten to Saint Barthélemy

The most popular way to get from St. Maarten to Saint Barthélemy is by ferry. There are two different companies that offer this service, Great Bay Express and Voyager, and the ride only takes about 45 minutes to one hour depending on which route you choose. The ferries run frequently, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a schedule that works for you. Tickets can be purchased at the port or in advance online. Learn more about taking the ferry from St Martin to Saint Barthélemy here.

Where to Stay in Saint Barthélemy

There are a variety of accommodation options available in Saint Barthélemy. If you’re looking for a luxurious and relaxing experience, you might want to consider staying at one of the island’s many resorts and luxurious hotels. For something truly unique, consider renting a villa. This option is perfect if you’re traveling with a group or if you want the privacy of your own home. No matter where you stay, you’re sure to have an incredible trip to St. Barts.

How can I get around in St Barts?

There are several ways to get around St. Barts. The most popular method of transportation is renting a scooter or car. This is a great option if you want to explore the island at your own pace. St Barts has no real public transportation. Taxis are more expensive than other transportation options in St Barts, but they’re also the most convenient if you do not wish to drive in an unfamiliar area.

St. Barts is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands, with gorgeous beaches, luxury resorts, and stylish boutiques and restaurants to boot. You can have an incredible and unforgettable experience in this island paradise if you plan things well.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to St. Barts today!

GET YOUR FREEINSIDER'S GUIDE TO ST BARTHS.

The best of tips on how to get to St Barths, where to dine, the beaches we prefer,  when to pick a luxury hotel or a private villa, and more tips to enjoy the island at its best.