Gustavia
#3 in Best Things To Do in St. Barts
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- 5.0Value
- 3.0Food Scene
- 3.0Atmosphere
During the day, St. Barts' capital city is abuzz. The harbor town is shaped like a horseshoe, and traditional sightseeing is limited to Fort Gustav (which dates back to the Swedish period) and the small but charming Wall House Museum. Lack of sites doesn't bother most visitors since many come here to mainly shop and dine. For a serious dose of retail therapy, stroll along Quai de la République. There you'll find everything from real-life Gaultier to knockoff Gucci to locally made goods can be found inside the hallowed stores of Gustavia.
At night, the island's "nightlife" takes over. Don't be surprised if you bump into vacationing celebrities – anyone from Puff Diddy to the Kardashian family to Jimmy Buffet are known to frequent the island. Longtime popular spots include Le Select (a laid-back bar good for burgers and beer) and Yacht Club (a slightly more formal hangout for cocktails and dancing).
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2 of 5#1 Baie de St-Jean
Perhaps it’s the brilliant aquamarine water or the glamorous sunbathers, but the Baie de St-Jean (or the Bay of St. Jean) could make you swear that you were basking on the French Riviera. This idyllic stretch is also a preferred spot for windsurfing or snorkeling (the reef-protected waters here are generally calm), and you'll find a few cute boutiques and bistros nearby for when you need a break from the water.
Some reviewers noted that it's also the most visited beach on the island, but grabbing a spot on the sand early will ensure you a prime people-watching position. It's also located right in front of St. Barts' small airport so you'll get an up-close view of the flights taking off and landing. Best of all, St-Jean is fairly easy to find. If St. Barts is shaped like an elbow, then imagine this beautiful beach located in the crook. Those looking for a more peaceful spot should look on the south side of Eden Rock, which separates the beach into two parts.
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