I’ve been to St. Barth four times over the last decade, and each visit only leaves me wanting more. If you know me, you know I’m not one to revisit destinations, there’s just too much of the world to see. But a week in St. Barth is never enough, no matter how many times I go. My first trip was four days, then five, then five again, and finally, seven. And guess what? That still wasn’t long enough. Next time, I’m aiming for ten. If you're planning your first St. Barth itinerary on the island, you might be wondering: what could you possibly do for an entire week on this tiny island? Believe it or not, relaxing in St. Barth is an art form, and there are endless ways to unwind, indulge, and explore. The last time I visited, I discovered a whole new side of the island—experiencing it with my 3-month-old baby, Sibilla aka Sibby. Sprinkled throughout this St. Barth itinerary,, I note which beaches and restaurants are also baby-friendly. So if you're looking for the perfect 7day St. Barth itinerary, I've got you covered with the best beaches, restaurants, activities, and hidden gems to make every moment count.
Fun Facts About St. Barth
- The island was originally called "Ouanalao" by the Arawak people.
- Christopher Columbus named the island after his brother, Bartolomeo.
- St. Barth is home to a subspecies of iguana that’s found nowhere else on Earth. The Lesser Antillean Iguana is native to the island and is considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and introduced predators.
- St. Barth’s airport—Gustaf III—has been making hearts race (and not just from excitement) since it opened in 1984. It has one of the shortest runways in the world, just over 2,100 feet long. It’s so short that only small prop planes can make the landing—even the tiniest jets don’t stand a chance.
- There is no public transportation system, which adds to the luxury of the island because the only way to get around is via personal car, chauffeur, or taxi.
- The island has a strict no-flyover rule for aircraft.
Plan Your Week Like A Regular
St. Barth is a puzzle of narrow dirt roads, unmarked trailheads, and "gatekept" beach access. To make this St. Barth itinerary actually work, I’ve plotted every single location mentioned in this guide, plus 85+ hidden pins for local eats, secret parking, and baby-friendly logistics, onto my private Svadore St. Barth Google Map.
Let's start off by answering some commonly asked questions...
What is so special about St. Barth?
St. Barth is where French sophistication meets laid-back Caribbean charm, and that’s what makes it so special. No high-rises, no cruise ship chaos—just boutique hotels, chic villas, and beach clubs where rosé flows as freely as the ocean breeze. The French influence is everywhere, from the perfectly flaky croissants at the local boulangeries to the world-class dining scene that rivals Paris. This St. Barth itinerary balances the world-class dining scene with the island’s effortlessly cool vibe, where flip-flops are just as acceptable as designer sandals. Adventure seekers can hike to secluded Colombier Beach, surf the waves at Toiny, or snorkel in crystal-clear waters, while relaxation pros can master the art of doing absolutely nothing on one of the island’s pristine beaches. And let’s not forget the legendary landing at Gustaf III Airport—because arriving in St. Barth should be just as thrilling as being there.
How to get to St. Barth?
Getting to St. Barth isn’t your typical airport experience—access is limited to small commuter planes, ferries, or private jet charters. Most people starting their St. Barth itinerary fly into St. Maarten first, then hop on a small propeller plane, ferry, or private jet to St. Barth. The commuter plane is the best option, offering the fastest and most scenic journey—though it can be a little nerve-wracking, as the plane glides over mountains and lands on one of the world’s shortest runways, just 2,100 feet long. If you're traveling with a group of six or more, private jet charters may be a more convenient choice, as they offer flexibility and comfort without dealing with shared schedules or customs. While ferries are an option, they can be uncomfortable, especially during rough seas—so skip the seasickness drama and book your seat on a commuter plane instead. More on my experience getting to the island using all three transportation modes below.
What is the best time to visit St. Barth?
The best time to visit St. Barth? For me, it’s November—right after the rainy season, when the island is vibrantly green and lively but not yet overrun with the holiday crowd. Mid to late-January and February are also fantastic, offering the perfect escape from those endless gray New England winters once the New Year’s chaos dies down. What to avoid? December and early January, when prices skyrocket, reservations are nearly impossible, and the island feels like too much. By March and April, the heat and lack of rain leave everything dry and sun-scorched, stripping St. Barth of that lush, tropical magic.
Quick Navigation
Day 4
Day 5
- Morning: Flamands Beach
- Lunch: Nao
- Afternoon: Gustaf III Viewpoint
- Afternoon: Colombier Beach
- Party at Le Ti
Day 6
- Breakfast: La Petite Colombe
- Morning: Walk Toiny to Grand Fond
- Lunch: Le Toiny (Optional hike)
- Afternoon: Grand Cul de Sac paddle board
- Dinner: La Langouste
Day 7 & Departure
7 Day St. Barth Itinerary Map
Where and What to Eat in St. Barth
How To Get Around St. Barth
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Arrival & Day 1 -
Pick up car rental
There’s no public transportation in St. Barth, which only adds to its exclusive, ultra-luxurious vibe. The only way to get around? Your own set of wheels, a private chauffeur, or a taxi. Renting a car is hands down the best option, and luckily, the rental desks are right there the moment you step off the plane. If you're traveling with a baby, bring your own car seat—don’t rely on the rental companies to provide one, no matter what their website says. They specifically say that "special requests" are never a guarantee, so better bring your own. We travelled with our own just to be safe, and honestly? It was way easier than expected. Once we figured out how to secure our Nuna car seat with the seatbelt, it was smooth driving. Pictured above is all the stuff we were traveling with, more for our daughter Sibby than for us!
Grocery stop
If you're staying in a villa, the first thing you'll want to do is head across the street from the airport and grab yourself some groceries for breakfast, any lunches at home, or dinners. This is where you’ll find the main grocery store, Super U. The island is arid and therefore relies on imports for everything. Don't be surprised to find the entire egg aisle or cheese aisle empty for a day or two as they restock on items. Grocery store prices vary. Some things are absolutely ridiculous. For instance, I kid you not, I came across baby tomatoes that were 18 euro...!!! But then at another grocery store called U Express, I found baby tomatoes for 5-6 euro. Everything else is pretty on par with prices I have found in my hometown of Greenwich, CT or NY so nothing was too much of a sticker shock for me personally.
Check into hotel or villa
There are 2 options for doing St. Barth the right way 1) A boutique hotel that pampers you to no end or 2) a private and secluded villa. I’ve done both and it really is a question of preference, no one option is better than the other. A stay at Gyp Sea Hotel gets you access to the ultimate in French experiences. Spa, gym, incredible food and service, boutique hotel vibes, impeccable décor, pool, cigars…and much, much more. Here are 15 reasons why I recommend Gyp Sea Hotel St. Barth as your must stay luxury boutique hotel in St. Barth (and yes, I list breakfast as a reason–twice).
With only about 30 mini-hotels on the island, a true St. Barth experience involves renting one of the 2,500 lux villas available on the island. The pros of staying in a villa are obvious – private, secluded, kitchen, laundry, and not being around other people. You can always order a spa service or caterer to your villa – so why leave?
Evening: Sunset at Shellona on Shell Beach with a Hike Fort Karl
Kick off your week in St. Barth with a golden-hour moment you won’t forget. Head to Shellona, the vibey beachfront restaurant on Shell Beach, where you can sink your toes into the sand, sip on a crisp glass of rosé or a refreshing cocktail, and watch the sun melt into the horizon. The clear water here is filled with jet skis, white sailboats and yachts. The air smells of exotic perfume and the sky looks like a sheet of Tiffany blue wrapping paper. The laid-back yet lively atmosphere, paired with Mediterranean-inspired bites, makes it the perfect way to ease into island time.
Fun Fact
Shell Beach in St. Barth is one of the 4 rarest beaches in the world to have shells naturally wash up on its shore at this magnitude. This alone makes it one of the best beaches in St. Barth.
For a more secluded and panoramic experience, grab a bottle of wine and hike up to Fort Karl, one of St. Barth’s historic forts. From here, you’ll have a stunning bird’s-eye view of Les Petits Saints, the tiny rock islands scattered just off Gustavia’s coast, as the sky ignites in shades of pink and gold. It’s the kind of moment that sets the tone for an unforgettable week in St. Barth.
Dinner: Eddy's Ghetto
You'll want your first dinner of the week in St. Barth to be laidback yet elevated. You don't want anything to posh after being tuckered from that long trip in. Tucked between L’Isola and Bagatelle in Gustavia, behind a small wooden door marked by a glowing lizard, lies Eddy’s Ghetto—a hidden gem serving up bold Asian-Caribbean fusion in a lush garden setting. The ambiance is pure island magic, with twinkling lights, rustic wooden tables, and the soothing rustle of palm trees. Known for its hearty, flavorful, and reasonably priced dishes, Eddy’s stands out from the usual French-inspired fare. The foie gras is an absolute must—one of the best Pat and I have ever had, impossibly smooth and melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Whether you're after a romantic dinner or a laid-back yet elevated meal, Eddy’s is the kind of spot that makes you feel like you're in on a local secret.
- Day 2 -
Morning: Relax at villa or hotel
No matter where you are, you wake up to the sound of palm trees brushing against one another. I slide open our bedroom door and run to take a look outside. The first morning is all about relax. You are in St. Barth after all. The first day is perfect for lounging around, reading a book, drinking some Caribes and doing absolutely nothing. When I think of a relaxing itinerary, seclusion by the sea or pool sounds ideal. What could be better than the billowy white clouds against the bright blue sky, a freshening breeze, a dip in the pool and an ice cold beer to quench your thirst? In our super connected and globalized world, I think the 2 things that are actually most valuable and unattainable are seclusion and leisure time.
Lunch: Le Grain de Sel
Where to Eat in St. Barth: Le Grain de Sel
You'll have plenty of opportunities to eat vibey lunches all week in St. Barth, so I prefer to start the week off with an understated and down-to-earth spot on the way to Saline beach called Grain de Sel. Here they serve Guadeloupean cuisine and the place is baby-friendly. At the end of every meal, it is tradition in St. Barth that the restaurant offer you their homemade or "house" rum. What makes Grain de Sel more special than other locales is the fact that they sell their homemade Ginger and Vanilla Rum in small and large bottles for only 15 to 30 euros. They are definitely worth taking home as a souvenir.
The Insider Parent Hack
I’ve categorized my map pins so you can instantly see which restaurants have paved stroller access and which beaches have the natural shade necessary for a 3-month-old. Look for the (Baby-Approved) headers on the map!
Afternoon: Saline Beach
Best Beach in St. Barth: Anse de Grande Saline
If there’s one beach that will steal your heart in St. Barth—aside from Colombier—it’s Saline Beach. This beach is always my first go-to when on St. Barth. Tucked between Gouverneur and Grand Fond, this untouched stretch of sand is pure, raw beauty. There are no bars, no beach clubs, no shade—just powdery white sand, turquoise waves, and total tranquility. To get there, you’ll walk past Saline’s historic salt pond, once used for salt harvesting until tourism took over in the 1970s. After a short hike over a sand dune, the view opens up to one of the most breathtaking beaches on the island. Bring a cooler, sunscreen, and a hat, because once you settle in, you won’t want to leave. And don’t be surprised if you spot a few nudists—rules in St. Barth are more of a suggestion.
Dinner: L'Esprit
For dinner, L'Esprit is a must. The menu here is constantly evolving, making every visit a new experience. One night, you might find duck breast wrapped in pastry with melted foie gras, another time it could be shallot tartare, duck spring rolls, or chestnut-artichoke tortellini—each dish more inventive than the last. While desserts aren’t the highlight, the main courses steal the show and keep us coming back. If you’re dining with a baby or kids, arriving around 7:30 PM is ideal—plenty of families opt for an early dinner, so you won’t feel out of place.
- Day 3 -
Morning: Hike Grand Fond Natural Pool
How to Get to the Grand Fond Natural Pool in St. Barth
Start your morning with a quick 20–30 minute hike to the Grand Fond natural pools, one of St. Barth’s most breathtaking hidden gems. These coral bio-built pools form naturally as seawater collects between the rocks, creating a secluded, crystal-clear oasis. The journey adds to the magic—since they’re not easily accessible, they remain untouched and peaceful. While there are two well-known natural pools on the island—Grand Fond and Petite Cul de Sac—the latter is now off-limits due to safety concerns after a recent accident. Locals emphasize the need for caution when exploring these spots, so tread carefully and avoid visiting during rough seas. Once you arrive, you’ll be met with a striking contrast between the fiery orange cliffs and the brilliant blue water, making the trek completely worth it.
Morning: Gustavia
13 Things to do in Gustavia, St. Barth
After working up an appetite with a hike, head on over to Gustavia for some bites, shopping, admiring the mega-yachts tied up on the harbor, and people watching. Just make sure to avoid Sundays (everything is closed and the place is deserted). Beware, most of the items stores are for the ultra-wealthy (think Hermes, Patek etc...), but there are a few quaint stores that sell moderately priced goods. My personal favorite store is a local store, not big brand, called Tawa B'Art...
Lunch: Le Select, Shellona or Le Repaire
After your morning adventure, refuel in Gustavia before heading to your next activity. Whether you're in the mood for something casual or a bit more refined, there’s a perfect lunch spot for you. Le Select, a local institution, is famous for inspiring Jimmy Buffett’s Cheeseburger in Paradise—expect no-frills burgers and cold beers. For a more beachy, upscale vibe, head to Shellona, where fresh Mediterranean flavors meet ocean views on Shell Beach. Or, if you prefer a laid-back, streetside café, Le Repaire serves French-Caribbean fare right by the harbor. Each are baby-friendly. Wherever you land, grab an outdoor table and soak in the scene—linen-clad couples strolling along Quai de la République, the hum of scooters zipping by, and the easygoing rhythm of island life. By the time you finish your meal, you'll feel like you've been in St. Barth forever (in a good way).
Afternoon: Jet Ski Tour
We Took A St. Barth Jet Ski Tour. Here's What Happened.
After having lunch with the President of St. Barth Tourism, Nils Dufau, we took his recommendation and decided to see the island from the sea. Pat and I booked a 1 hour 30 minute St. Barth jet ski tour that started in Gustavia harbor. I had only jet skied one other time and it was on a lake, so I honestly thought the ride would be very similar in nature. I obviously hadn’t thought it through. The ocean is not still like the lake, it’s wavy and rough, even on a calm day. The experience was very bumpy for my standards, although very fun. I later on found out, this was one of the calmest days they’ve had in months. Thank god or I would have been traumatized!
Drinks & Music at Arawak
Head back home, get dressed in your casual yet upscale clothes, and headback to Gustavia. Start the night off with drinks at a local favorite: Arawak. During the day it's more of a laidback oasis. Think of it as a spot for fresh juices or smoothies with the grand yachts in the background. But at night, it turns into cocktails, tapas, and live music every Thursday and Saturday. They offer mezcal tastings twice a month among other fun events.
Dinner: Bagatelle
Dinner at Bagatelle is a true St. Barth splurge, but one that’s well worth it. As one of the island’s most renowned (and priciest) restaurants, it comes with plenty of hype—but trust me, the pasta dishes live up to it. Snag a waterfront table in the marina, order the truffle ravioli, and prepare to be amazed. If you're in the mood for a late-night party scene, certain nights see the restaurant turn into a full-blown fête, so book well in advance if you want in on the action. And yes, there is a casual €150,000 bottle of wine on the menu—but don’t worry, dinner itself won’t set you back that much. If you’re looking to keep the night going, Bagatelle’s bar stays lively long after dinner, making it the perfect spot for a glamorous, party-ready evening in St. Barth.
- Day 4 -
Breakfast: Boulangerie Choisy
Breakfast in St. Barth comes with a friendly rivalry: La Petite Colombe or Boulangerie Choisy—which has the best pastries and coffee? While I’ve always loved La Petite Colombe, I have to admit, Choisy has officially won me over. A St. Barth institution since 1912, it’s a must-visit for flaky croissants, strong coffee, and a relaxed morning vibe. The L’Orient location is my favorite, with its breezy outdoor seating that feels like a cozy coffee lounge—perfect for sipping an espresso, opening a book, or even getting some work done under the shade of a large canopy. The canopy also makes it perfect for babies to be shielded from the sun. There’s also a Gustavia outpost, but if you’re looking for a tranquil breakfast escape, L’Orient is the move.
Spa Day
The Day Pass: The Best-Kept Secret for Experiencing St. Barth Luxury, Without the Price Tag
By midweek, it’s time to slow things down and soak up the island’s signature barefoot luxury—without the steep hotel price tag. What most people don’t realize is that some of St. Barth’s most exclusive resorts offer Day Passes to non-guests, giving you access to infinity pools, beachfront dining, and world-class spas. Each hotel has its own version—some include a three-course lunch with poolside lounging, while others offer Nordic baths, saunas, or even a massage. On my last visit, I scored a pass that included pool access, a two-course beachfront lunch, and a choice between a massage or facial—all for a fraction of the cost of staying overnight. It’s hands down one of the best hidden deals on the island. Just call the hotel directly to ask what they offer—this little secret isn’t always advertised.
Experience the "Parisian-Grit" of St. Jean
The Svadore Guide to St. Jean: Beyond the Sparklers & Into the Soul of St. Barth
If Gustavia is the island’s polished front parlor, St. Jean is its beating heart, a mix of "Parisian-cool" grit and high-octane energy. Most visitors never make it past the beach club valet, but after five trips in the last decade, I’ve learned the real magic happens in the backstreets. It’s where you’ll find the "Island Uniform" at shops like Kasa (my go-to for label-less linen) or Manon ComCiComCa, and experience the plane-watching "Money Shot" from a lookout most people drive right past.
St. Jean is a logistical maze of "Full" parking signs and hidden wine bars with no wine lists. To truly navigate it like an insider, from the wooden weights at Zion Gym to the "Coconut" cult tee that’s a total rite of passage to find, you need a deeper playbook.
I’ve distilled ten years of secrets into my Deep-Dive Guide to St. Jean, which covers every corner of this neighborhood. But there are 25+ other tiny boutiques and local artisans hidden in the backstreets of St. Jean and Gustavia that I simply can’t list here without writing a novel. I’ve pinned every single one of these "Svadore-vetted" shops on my map, it’s the directory I use to find pieces that feel personal.
Dinner: Nyama
Why we chose it: The best food I've had in St. Barth in years; incredibly baby-friendly and authentic "OG" vibe.
Location: Corossol (Site of the former Au Regal)
Must-order: Tuna & Foie Gras, Chilean Sea Bass, Pain Perdu
Price: €38 - 50 per main (Excellent value for the quality)
Forget the glitz of Gustavia. I’ve been to St. Barth 5 times, and Nyama in Corossol is the most authentic meal I’ve had in years. Located in the quiet fishing village of Corossol at the site of the legendary Au Regal, this spot captures the "Old St. Barth" soul that many think doesn't exist anymore.
Run by the incredible trio of Juju, Tuti, and Chef Clément, the name translates to "Mom's House," and the vibe matches perfectly. It is intimate, bohemian, and shockingly baby-friendly (think custom skewers for the little ones and a staff that treats you like family). As for the food? The Tuna and Foie Gras pairing is a revelation, and the Signature Chilean Sea Bass might just change your life. From the glowing Asian lanterns and mismatched bohemian decor to the interactive "Grill for Two" and a secret-recipe passion fruit rum that just took home a Silver Medal in Paris, this is the most authentic meal you can find and every detail feels like a warm hug
Read my full deep-dive review of Nyama in Corossol here >>
- Day 5 -
Morning: Flamands Beach
Beaches of St. Barth: Flamands Beach
Spend your morning at Flamands Beach, one of St. Barth’s longest and most stunning stretches of sand. The waves can be unpredictable, but the ultra-soft, powdery sand makes it worth the visit. The left side is quiet and untouched—perfect for laying out under a palm tree—while the right side is pure luxury, home to Cheval Blanc, the island’s only LVMH hotel, where you can lounge in style or indulge in a beachfront meal. Whether you go rustic or refined, Flamands is one of the best beaches on the island.
Lunch: Nao
For a prime spot to soak in the action on legendary St. Jean Beach, head to Nao (formerly Lil Rock Beach), where you can catch the jet set taking a dip by Eden Rock and watch planes take off just next door. This toes-in-the-sand setting is perfect for a leisurely lunch and cocktail, even with a baby. The menu leans Japanese, with a focus on sushi and fresh raw fish. Early in the day, it’s all about relaxation—sunbathers lounging in a chill atmosphere. But as the afternoon progresses, the energy picks up, with DJs bringing the beats and the beach club vibe shifting into high gear.
Afternoon: Gustaf III Viewpoint
From the Gustaf III airport, make your way up the hill towards the main roundabout. To the left of the roundabout is an overlook built purposefully so you can watch the airplanes fly in and out and see the gigantic yachts residing over Gustavia.
Afternoon: Colombier Beach
How to Get to Colombier Beach, St. Barth
Getting to Colombier Beach isn’t easy—it requires a bit of effort, whether you're hiking from the viewpoint or Petite Anse. Afterall, the beach is only accessible via hike or via boat. But once you arrive, it’s worth every step. The afternoon offers the perfect time to unwind on this pristine, secluded stretch of sand, with no roads, bars, or hotels to disturb the tranquility. The only sounds are the waves and the occasional chatter of fellow explorers as you relax, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and take in the beauty of St. Barth.
Party at Le Ti
If you're in the mood for a party, Le Ti is the place to be at night. This cabaret club, restaurant, and bar offers an over-the-top show for those craving lively entertainment. While I haven’t experienced it myself yet—maybe this time will be different—it’s known for transforming from a dinner and cabaret show into a full-on nightclub. Open Tuesday to Saturday, from 8 PM to 4 AM, it’s a high-energy spot to enjoy dinner, watch the spectacle, and dance the night away. There’s even a dress-up corner where you can grab a wig, mask, or outfit to fully immerse yourself in the fun and become part of the show.
- Day 6 -
Breakfast: La Petite Colombe
La Petite Colombe: St. Barth's Local Secret
Start your day in St. Barth with a visit to La Petite Colombe, the island’s most beloved bakery, known for its incredible pastries like pain au chocolat, buttery croissants, and freshly baked baguettes. With 3 locations—Gustavia, L’Orient, and Colombier—the Colombier spot is ideal for a quick pick-up, while the L’Orient location offers an outdoor seating area for a leisurely breakfast. I wouldn't say the seating is as charming as Boulangerie Choisy's - it's purely functional and on the main street with very little parking. Be sure to arrive early, as the bakery closes at 1 PM and their sandwiches, like ham and cheese or curried chicken salad, sell out by noon. While La Petite Colombe has long been a favorite, you’ll have to see for yourself whether it lives up to the hype or if its rival, Boulangerie Choisy, might just take the top spot for best bakery on the island. Either way, it’s a must-try stop to start your day off right and an easy spot to take a baby!
Morning: Walk Toiny to Grand Fond
Expel the energy from your morning coffee and pain aux raisins, by heading to Toiny, which isn’t your typical lazy beach day spot. With powerful waves and strong currents, swimming is off-limits—this is strictly surfer territory. What Toiny is great for, though, is a scenic walk along one of St. Barth's few dedicated coastal paths. In the early morning, you’ll find both locals and visitors jogging or strolling from Toiny Beach to Grand Fond Beach, taking in the fresh air and rugged coastline. You'll also find mom's like me, pushing their baby stroller for a quick morning walk!
Lunch: Le Toiny (Optional Hike)
Anse de Toiny & The Toiny Point Hike: Exploring the Wild Side of St. Barth
While most tourists never leave the calm waters of St. Jean, a true regular knows when to head to the windward coast for a dose of raw Atlantic power. The experience starts with a bumpy, cinematic descent in a Land Rover Defender, the only motorized way down the cliff, to reach the Le Toiny Beach Club. This is barefoot luxury at its peak: toes in the sand, an "insane" bread service, and front-row seats to surfers navigating the "Toiny Break" while a DJ sets the rhythm. You can show up in a bikini or a sundress; it’s effortlessly chic and perfectly shaded.
Beyond the lunch, Toiny is home to the island's most dramatic scenery. You can hike the 45-minute loop around the Point to spot local goats and Turk’s Cap cacti, take a shot on the famous Instagrammable swing, or pop into the boutique hidden inside a historic 18th-century stone Case. It’s the unpolished soul of St. Barth that most people miss.
Afternoon: Grand Cul de Sac Paddle Board
At Grand Cul de Sac, you have the opportunity to rent canoes, paddle boards and much more. I recommend you take a paddle board out on a calm and non-windy day and enjoy some casual exercise with sea turtles right below you. The beach itself is very baby-friendly. The water is super shallow for over 100 feet and the waves are close to minimal. The other beach I would recommend if you have a baby is the super small and quiet Marigot beach right next door.
Dinner: La Langouste
For dinner, head to La Langouste, a hidden gem tucked away on the picturesque Flamands Beach. While the menu offers a bit of everything, the real highlight is, of course, the langouste (lobster). The best part? You get to choose your own fresh lobster from the tank, and the staff will bring it over, chat with you about it, and then grill it to perfection. If you're in the mood for something extra indulgent, try it served as a pasta with their signature sauce. And, in true St. Barth fashion, the prices are surprisingly reasonable, making it a must-visit spot.
- Day 7 & Departure -
Breakfast: Gyp Sea
Where to Eat Breakfast & Brunch in St. Barth
For your final morning on St. Barth, enjoy breakfast or brunch at Gyp Sea Hotel, a tropical oasis perfect for starting your day. Set under the palms with a view of Flamands Beach, it’s a beautiful spot to indulge in French waffles, pain perdu (French toast with a twist), avocado toast, and refreshing acai bowls. Don’t miss the fresh pastries—croissants, pain au chocolat, and pain aux raisins—that pair perfectly with café au lait or espresso. As a guest, you’re guaranteed a table, but for non-guests, reservations are a must, especially on weekends. Whether you’re enjoying a sweet or savory dish, you’ll be treated to a memorable meal in a stunning setting, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself savoring every bite, as we did with the irresistible pain perdu. You can bring your baby here as well!
Depart
Whether you are landing or departing, there is no need to get to the airport 1 hour and a half before departure time. 45 minutes is more than enough. In fact, “check-in” closes 30 minutes before take-off. The island is so secure that security checks are not a thing. The only process that gets done on the island is the customs and boarding pass check. On the top floor is an open aired air-conditioned lounge area with a coffee bar, small boutique store and St. Barth souvenir shop. Below you’ll find all the islands latest magazines (which are also scattered throughout the island) and the car rental shop.
If you've got some time to spare before hoping aboard your commuter plane, stop across the street from the airport at a place like Eden To Go for a quick lunch. Don't be surprised if you see some kookiness. Last time I was there, a woman walked behind Sibby with a parrot in her hand. She proceeded to go to her convertible mini-cooper, perch the parrot on the roof, and drive off with the parrot clenching it's claws onto the roof. Funniest thing ever.
- 7 Day St. Barth Itinerary Map -
- What & Where to Eat in St. Barth -
My Reviews of Restaurants in St. Barth
Discover my personal reviews of 13 restaurants in St. Barth, from French elegance to Caribbean flavors, beachfront gems, and baby-friendly spots.
- How to Get Around St. Barth -
When you arrive at St. Barth—whether at the “airport” or the tiny harbor—you’ll want to head straight to a rental car agency to pick up your wheels. The airport is as charmingly low-key as the island itself: an open-air building with one terminal, one waiting room, and about six small car rental booths lined up. A car is an absolute must here. The island is tiny and easy to navigate, but trust me, the smaller the car, the better—St. Barth’s narrow, hilly, bumpy, rustic and winding roads demand it!
At first, driving around St. Barth might feel a little intense, but give it a couple of drives, and you’ll get the hang of it. The island is seriously hilly—so steep that spotting oncoming traffic can be a challenge. Drive carefully, because odds are, your villa is perched on a hill, which means you’ll either be tackling a steep climb or navigating a bumpy dirt road. And let’s just say, there will be moments when you’re praying there’s no car coming in the opposite direction—because if there is, get ready for a slow, careful reverse up that crazy incline. My video doesn't do it justice, but I tried to capture the topography of the island for reference.
The No-Street-Name Struggle
There are no street names on the island outside of Gustavia. Navigation relies on landmarks and local knowledge. With the island’s small size and low population, street names were never much of a priority, everyone just knows where things are. Following a written St. Barth itinerary is nearly impossible once you're behind the wheel of a wobbly rental car on a 45-degree incline. My Google Map solves this by giving you exact GPS coordinates for every villa entrance, grocery store, and trailhead mentioned below and beyond.
And just to keep things interesting, St. Barth’s has a lot of turtles. Think of them as the island’s version of the Northeast’s squirrels. They love to hang out on the roads, so always keep an eye out while driving. And before pulling out of a parking spot? Always, always check under your car for turtles. Goats are around too, but they tend to stay on the side of the road, keeping their chaos to a minimum.
Pro Tip
Use the airport roundabouts as your home base—they connect to pretty much every part of the island, so no matter which way you go, you’ll end up somewhere incredible.
- Important Things to Keep In Mind for Your St. Barth Itinerary -
- Tipping isn’t really a thing in St. Barth. That said, some places—especially if they know you’re American rather than French—might ask if you’d like to leave a tip. But don’t be fooled; this practice is actually frowned upon on the island. Service is already included in the bill at 15%, just like in most of Europe, so there’s no need to add anything extra. If a place pressures you for more, they’re just trying to take advantage of you. If your receipt says TTC - it means tax and service has already been included.
- The presence of turtles on the island is what I would consider the equivalent of squirrels in the North East. They are everywhere so be careful when driving!
- Roosters, chickens, and goats are also very common - almost as much as turtles - so again, be careful when driving!
- The island is very hilly and driving is a but spooky. Narrow roads, the cars are a bit wobbly, and there is a lot of uphill and dramatic downhills. The cars struggle to get up hills a lot of the time. It takes a bit of getting used to, but you'll feel like a local in no time.
- If your St. Barth itinerary includes staying in a villa, you'll likely have a very tough dirt road or hill you need to get up - so be forewarned.
- At the end of a lot of dinners, almost all restaurants will offer you complimentary rum, sometimes made in house. It's an island custom and staple.
- Keep an eye out for the local jam at the supermarché. It comes in a beautifully packaged jar that reads St. Barth jam. My personal favorite is banana!
- Aluminum cans are hung from hooks at the beach as ashtrays to protect the beaches.
- There are interesting laws in place...including that no building in St. Barth is allowed to be more than 2 stories high (that’s about the height of a palm tree if not less!).
- Avoid Sunday's as everything in Gustavia is closed and the place is deserted, so plan your St. Barth itinerary!
- All roofs in Gustavia need to be red or green, per mandate.
- 65% of the island is a “free-zone,” which means it is a nature reserve or environmental protectorate so no construction can be done in those areas.
- There are no huge resorts on the beaches, no casinos, and no means to accommodate mass tourism.
- There are no street names on the island outside of Gustavia. Navigation relies on landmarks and local knowledge. With the island’s small size and low population, street names were never much of a priority—everyone just knows where things are.
>> Next: How to Get to St. Barth—Propeller Plane, Ferry or Private Jet Charter?
