St Barths Yacht Charter Guide: Best Bays, Beach Clubs & More

At just under 10 square miles, what St Barth’s lacks in size it makes up for with an oversized reputation as one of the most sought-after island escapes – and for good reason. Thanks to its unique combination of laid-back Caribbean atmosphere coupled with European chic, this hideaway has long been a favorite for yacht charters. 

Once a sleepy fishing village, the French Caribbean island was initially put on the luxury vacation map by American billionaire David Rockefeller back in the 1950s, transforming it into the iconic island it is today. Over the decades, St. Barts has continued to attract a loyal following of luxury travelers. 

St Barth’s is a yacht charter destination where you can dive into gin-clear waters fringed by white sands while also heading ashore to reservations at fine dining restaurants, exploring avenues full of luxury boutiques, and getting involved in a fully packed social calendar of exclusive events. A destination that delivers both barefoot relaxation and an array of indulgent experiences, both day and night.  

When To Visit: Seasons & Celebrations

The island truly comes alive during the Caribbean yachting season, from December through April, when the weather is typically warm and dry. But it’s the island’s end-of-year parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations that truly cement St Barth’s status. Superyachts flock to the harbour ready to party, and waterfront restaurants and beach clubs host parties ashore that stretch into the early hours. 

While closing the season in March is the celebrated St Barths Bucket Regatta, which is an exciting spectacle of some of the world’s finest sailing yachts racing along the coastline. Visiting during these high-profile events requires advanced planning, including marina reservations, as popular restaurants fill up quickly; however, the atmosphere is worth it. 

Where To Anchor: Best Bays & Beaches 

Naturally, a yacht charter itinerary to St Barths begins in Gustavia, where you will find the island’s only marina and a lively hub of activities. The sheltered harbour framed by green hills and low red-roofed buildings provides a picture-perfect backdrop to the social hub. Along the waterfront, you will find a mix of luxury boutiques and upscale restaurants, making for the ideal welcome. 

Cruising north takes you to Colombier Bay, accessible only by boat or on foot. It’s a favourite for calm, clear waters and excellent snorkelling. Turtles, rays, and tropical fish reside here, and the surrounding hills offer great activity ashore. Nearby lies Île Fourche, a tiny uninhabited islet, aside from its abundant marine life, which makes it ideal for watersports and exploring ashore. 

On the island’s northern leeward side is St Jean Bay, home to some of the island’s most famous beach clubs. Anchoring here places you within reach of iconic spots, such as Nikki Beach. For those seeking a more rugged experience, the Atlantic-facing side of St. Barts offers some great spots. The Cul de Sac Marine Reserve is ideal for underwater activity, while nearby Toiny Bay is perfect for surfers, set against one of the island’s most undeveloped landscapes. 

Further south, Saline Bay offers more remote cruising, with Gouverneur Beach nearby. Before returning to Gustavia, don’t miss anchoring off Shell Beach, named for the countless tiny shells that line its shore. This west-facing cove offers numerous diving opportunities.

Where To Go: Best Beach Clubs & Party Spots 

While anchored in one of many amazing bays, be sure to visit the beaches of St Barths, each with its own character and atmosphere. The collection of powdery sands and turquoise waters, combined with either wild beauty and peacefulness or iconic beach clubs, is perfect to enjoy. 

Typically described as the most beautiful beach on the island, and some argue the entire Caribbean is Saline Beach. With no development in sight, its wide stretch of white sand and clear waters is the perfect setting to disconnect and relax in peace. Similarly pristine is Governor’s Beach, located along the southern coast. 

Over on the northwestern tip, Colombier beach, often nicknamed Rockefeller’s Beach after the Rockefeller family, who once owned land here, is another incredible spot accessed only via boat or hike. One of the island’s most idyllic and protected beaches is only accessible via boat or on foot.

For the famous partying atmosphere, head to Nikki Beach or the nearby Nao Beach at St Jean Bay, regularly featuring international DJs. Across the island, near Gustavia, is the original Shellona Beach Club, named after the nearby shell beach. Following its success, you will now find an outpost in St. Tropez. Enjoy the boho-chic beachfront dining here and its transformation at sunset with live music into the night. 

During the festive period, Gustavia Harbour comes alive with energy, featuring endless parties both on board superyachts and ashore, complemented by an impressive fireworks display that is perfect to admire from the deck or from the beach. 

What To Do: Activities Ashore 

Though St Barths is well known for being the place to be seen hanging out in Gustavia or at one of the many great beach clubs, there is also plenty to see ashore, throughout the island.

Outdoor Adventures

For outdoor enthusiasts, St. Barth’s is a very active island with many locals regularly training for the next triathlon. While this might not be appealing on vacation, why not head up one of the many hiking trails, especially those at Colombier Bay and Il Fourchue? Hikes here reward you with panoramic sea views and the chance to cool down with a dip in the sea afterwards. 

Swapping out two feet for four, there is a horse ranch near Gouverneur Beach offering guided horseback riding tours. Trot along coastal trails, enjoy the views, and wade into the shallows – it’s a unique way to embrace St. Barth’s natural beauty, aside from the yacht’s deck. 

Luxe Spas

To soothe tired muscles, and if lying horizontal on a beach or deck isn’t quite ticking the relaxation boxes, then there are plenty of top-tier spas to visit throughout the island. One of the favourites is La Spa by La Mer at Le Barthelemy Hotel in Gustavia, one of the few establishments in the Caribbean to offer La Mer products. Another is Eden Rock, which, after the devastation of Hurricane Irma in 2017, underwent a renovation that included a new spa; today, all treatments are carried out using natural ingredients. 

Upscale Shopping

Named after a Swedish king during the country’s brief rule of the island, Gustavia isn’t just the island’s social and yachting hub; it’s also a luxury shopping haven. Among the architecture that retains touches from its layered past, Sweden, England, and France offer a wealth of shopping experiences. 

As a duty-free port, it’s one of the best places in the Caribbean to browse exclusive boutiques, concept stores, and established designer brands, as well as renowned art galleries showcasing both local and international works. During the festive period, a Christmas market is also held in Gustavia’s port, featuring a local artisan market. 

Where To Eat: Flavors of St Barths 

For a small island, St boasts an incredible dining scene. It’s not just the beach clubs where menus and cuisine are innovative, but also the endless restaurant options, for everything from casual to more formal bookings. 

In Gustavia, Bonito is a long-standing favourite known for its fresh Caribbean ingredients and South American flavours. The atmosphere is lively and also has an inventive cocktail menu. L’Isola in Gustavia offers Italian classics in an elegant atmosphere. 

Inland from Saline Bay, L’Espirit, by Chef Jean-Claude Dufour, offers a daily-changing menu featuring market-fresh ingredients in a tropical garden setting. With a similar alfresco setting among the palm trees, and just a short walk away, is Le Tamarin, a restaurant featuring a vast wine cellar full of mainly French varieties. For those who prefer cocktails, try the signature ‘Bacon Manhattan’. 

For a more authentic dining experience, head to the family-friendly food shack, Ti Corail on Grande Cul de Sac for a toes-in-sand lunch of the freshest local grilled fish. Combining dining with entertainment is the unique island experience found at Le Ti, located near Lorient Bay, part cabaret, part supper club. Here, performances accompany the dishes, and diners can dance on tables into the early hours.