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San Bartolomé.
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Travelling to San Bartolomé: what to know before you go

Saint Barthélemy, usually called St Barts or St Barth, is a small, hilly French island in the north-eastern Caribbean, known for white-sand coves, a polished harbour town and French food and style. It is an overseas collectivity of France with a Swedish chapter in its history. It is a quiet, upmarket destination best suited to beach holidays, sailing and eating well.

Where to go

• Gustavia. The capital wraps around a deep harbour full of yachts, with red-roofed houses, boutiques and restaurants.
• Shell Beach (Anse de Grand Galet). A short walk from the centre of Gustavia, this beach is covered in small shells rather than sand and is a good spot for swimming and watching the sunset.
• Saline and Gouverneur beaches. Two undeveloped beaches on the south coast reached by short walks or rough tracks, with no buildings in sight.
• Colombier. A secluded bay at the north-west tip of the island, reached only by boat or a walking trail of around half an hour over the headland.

Best time to visit

December to April is the dry, sunny peak season, with the island at its busiest over Christmas and New Year, when yachts fill the harbour. May and June are quieter and still pleasant.

Staying online in San Bartolomé

Mobile coverage is generally good across the island, with 4G in most areas, though some beaches and coves below hills may have weaker signal. Wi-Fi is offered by most villas, hotels and cafés. St Barth is not covered by EU roaming rules, so even EU plans may charge extra; check with your provider. Install an eSIM before you fly and switch it on when you land, so you can find your villa and call a taxi.