Columbier

Columbier is one of the greatest beaches I've ever been to. Why? Well, first it's beautiful, it's calm, and it's hard to get to so it's not overcrowded. It faces the open ocean and has great sunsets. There are only two ways to get there: by boat or by foot. There are many moorings in the bay for you to moor at free of charge. The hike to Columbier is worth the trip, not just for the reward at the end, but for the beautiful views and intriguing rock formations along the way.

Getting there

To get to the trailhead, follow signs toward Flamands, and continue all the way until the road ends. The hike takes between 15 - 30 minutes depending on your speed, and is medium difficulty, meaning it's not a straight flat path. There are rocks to climb up and over, but I've haven't met anyone who thought it was challenging.

Corossol

Tired of the crowds and want some local flavor? The beach at Corossol is a blessing. Gentle waves, beautiful views, and off the beaten path. A quiet, peaceful, and relaxed place to sunbath and take dip.

From the rotary, head down the hill towards Gustavia. After the windy turns, and before you reach Public, turn right. Pass the road to Mayas, and follow that road until it ends. Please drive slowly through Corossol, the road is only one lane wide, and there are children playing.

Flamands

The beach at Flamands is a wonderful stretch of sand with northerly views. There are a few restaurants in Flamands you can enjoy a lunch break at. Sometimes the surf can be rough at Flamands, depending on the direction of the swell.

Getting There

From the rotary, coming up the hill from the airport, turn right and climb the hill. At the fork, continue left. Cilmb the hill (look for great views to your left), and be careful when you come down the other side of the hill, the road narrows and there's a school there. Turn right just after the Bananiere restaurant. Follow the road all the way down to the bottom of the hill. After the sharp left, the road straightens and there's a small area to park on the right.

Gouverneur

OK, if I had to pick my favorite beach on St. Barths, it's this one. With a nice parking area and a short walk to the beach, Gouverneur boasts gentle breezes, a great stretch of beach to find your own spot on, and views out to the neighboring islands.

Getting there

Go into Gustavia, past Select, turn right at the end. Follow the road past the church and giant anchor. Turn left just before you reach the post office and go up the hill. Turn left, continuing up. Bear right and go up the hairpin turn past the Carl Gustaf hotel. Follow that road all the way to the top until you reach the Santa Fe restaurant where you'll turn right. Follow that road all the way to the bottom. Drive carefully, the road is narrow and bumpy.

Grand Cul de Sac

Badly translated, le Grande Cul de Sac is the Bottom of the Big Bag. Protected by a giant reef, you can wade far out into the water. The beachfront is narrow, but wonderful. Stop for lunch at Cocoloba or La Gloriette. There are windsurfing and kite surfing rentals, as well as scuba diving facilities right at the beach. The beach to watch a full moon rise or sunrise from!

Getting There

Public

The beach at Public is quiet, relaxed, and has gentle surf. The sailing school leaves from this beach and you can often see the children practicing sailing around in the boats. Unfortunately, this beach is right across from the recycling center, next to the port, and trash-to-energy plant, so it's a little industrial over there, but it's still a really nice beach to visit.

Getting There

From the rotary head down the hill towards Gustavia. Pass the turn to Corossol on your right, and follow the main road straight through Public. Right before you reach the port and turn the corner to Gustavia, turn right. Follow this down and park on the left.

Grande Saline

I think the beach at Saline is the largest (longest) beach on the island. A short hike leads you to a stunning view of the ocean. When you come down onto the beach you have choice of left, or right. How many times have I had to make this troubling decision. The only downside Saline has is that it can be windy sometimes, but rivals any beach on the island.

Getting There

I think the easiest way to get there is to leave from the airport towards Lorient. In Lorient, turn right before JoJo Burger. Follow that road along until and turn right, crossing a tiny bridge. Floow that along until you reach an intersection. Turn left and go all the way to the end.

Shell Beach

Shell beach is located right in Gustavia and is the home of Dõ Brasil restaurant and bar. It is also true to its name, with many small shells to look through and fine your favorite. With great snorkeling, it's easy to get to and makes for a relaxing afternoon.

Getting There

Go through Gustavia and turn right. Turn left before you reach the Post Office, directly across from (formerly) La Vela restaurant. Make your second right and follow this road around. Once again, drive slowly, there is a school nearby. You'll end up right at shell beach. An easy walk from anywhere in Gustavia.

St. Jean Beach

Located in St. Jean, down the road from the airport, the waters are gentle, there are restaurants and shopping close by. An easy walk from many of the nearby hotels. This is a great beach for children because of the tranquil water conditions.

Getting There

St. Jean beach is at the end of the airstrip in St. Jean. Park along the right side of the road. There is a narrow accessway along the fence by the airport. You can also access the far end of St. Jean beach by the Eden Rock Hotel, or by Nikki Beach.