St. Barthelemy, commonly referred to as St. Barts, is a hidden gem nestled in the Caribbean Sea. This French-speaking island is famed for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, luxury resorts, and tranquil ambience. However, since there are no direct international flights to the island, figuring out how to get to St Barthelemy requires a bit of planning.
Where Is St. Barthelemy Located?
St. Barthelemy is part of the French West Indies, located southeast of St. Martin and north of St. Kitts. Despite its remote charm, it’s surprisingly accessible via several regional hubs. You can read more about other scenic destinations in our Travel section.
Flying to St. Barthelemy: Your Primary Options
While the island has its own airport, Gustaf III Airport (SBH) in Gustavia, it’s only suitable for small aircraft. Therefore, the most common approach is to fly to a nearby island with an international airport, then take a short flight or ferry to St. Barts.
Main Transit Hubs to Reach St. Barthelemy
Most visitors arrive via one of these major airports:
- Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), St. Maarten: The closest major hub, just 15 minutes away by air or 45-60 minutes by ferry.
- San Juan (SJU), Puerto Rico: Offers connecting flights to St. Barts via regional airlines like Tradewind Aviation.
- St. Thomas (STT), U.S. Virgin Islands: A good option with ferry services and occasional charter flights.
For those looking to explore other U.S. locations during layovers, consider some of the best diving spots in the US.
Connecting Flights to St. Barthelemy
Once you’ve arrived in St. Maarten or San Juan, you’ll need a connecting flight. These are typically operated by:
- Winair: Offers multiple daily flights from St. Maarten to SBH.
- Tradewind Aviation: Offers luxury charter flights from San Juan.
- St. Barth Commuter: Provides service from several nearby islands.
Many travellers recommend booking through St. Maarten due to the high frequency and short duration of the flight—just about 15 minutes. You can compare routes using tools like KAYAK or Skyscanner.
Arriving by Ferry
If flying on a small plane isn’t your thing, ferries are a viable alternative. The most popular ferry routes include:
- St. Maarten to St. Barts: Ferries operate from both Philipsburg and Marigot Bay. Travel time ranges from 45 to 75 minutes depending on the sea conditions.
Companies like Great Bay Express and Voyager Ferry provide frequent services. Be sure to book in advance during peak travel seasons.
Private Charters and Yachts
For those seeking exclusivity, private charters offer direct access to St. Barts. Luxury travellers often arrive via yacht or private jet. The island’s port in Gustavia can accommodate vessels of various sizes, making it a premier destination for the rich and famous.
If you fancy romantic escapes similar to the atmosphere of St. Barts, explore these romantic things to do in Bradenton, FL.
Entry Requirements for St. Barthelemy
St. Barts is a French overseas territory. For U.S., Canadian, and EU citizens, a valid passport is sufficient for a stay of up to 90 days. No visa is required for tourist visits. Always confirm current requirements via your country’s travel advisory or the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Best Time to Travel
The best time to visit St. Barthelemy is during the dry season, from December to April. This is the high season, so expect higher prices and more tourists. The shoulder seasons—May to June and November—offer a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
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Where to Stay in St. Barts
Accommodation options range from lavish villas to boutique hotels. Booking in advance is essential, particularly during the peak months. For a unique experience, stay near Gustavia or St. Jean Beach for easy access to the island’s top attractions.
And if you’re also planning a stay stateside, you might enjoy reading about hotels near Glass House Pomona, which offer cosy stays with modern amenities.
Essential Travel Tips
- Currency: Euro (EUR), though USD is widely accepted.
- Language: French, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
- Transport: Renting a car or scooter is recommended for getting around the island.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes.
Before heading out, read our insights on things to do around Mt. Shasta for an adventurous contrast to your tropical holiday.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get to St Barthelemy opens the doors to an unforgettable Caribbean escape. Whether you’re flying via St. Maarten, sailing by ferry, or indulging in a private charter, reaching this idyllic destination is more accessible than ever. With a bit of planning and the right connections, your journey to St. Barts can be as enchanting as the island itself.
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