btn toggle menu
lebarthelemy logo lebarthelemy logo
  • Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa Hotel St Barts

All you need to know about St. Barts

16-Mar-2021

On many occasions, we’ve talked about the island, about how beautiful it is and how revitalizing a St. Barts vacation can be. You can find more practical facts about your next St Barts trip just right here.

What currency will you need? Which set of clothing is better? When should you visit? What’s St. Barts weather like? All these questions are normal when preparing for a trip, and honestly, who better to answer than the locals? That’s why here you’ll find everything you need to know about the island.

blog images no set

St. Barts: a brief History

Originally, the island was frequented by the Arawak and the Taíno, two groups of indigenous peoples that historically lived in the Greater Antilles and northern Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean –the region where St. Barts is located. “Frequented” because historians think that it was highly unlikely for them to inhabit it, since the island’s soil is not particularly good for agriculture.

However, in 1943, when Christopher Columbus discovered the island, he didn’t encounter the Arawak or the Taíno, but the Caribs. Historical records show that, after that, the island was continuously visited by the Europeans, before formal colonization took place. The island as it is, was named after Christopher Columbus brother, Bartolomeo. 

By the 17th century, the island was settled by the French and tested for certain businesses and trades, but proven to be financially unsuccessful. That’s why, later on, under a British administration in the 18th century, it was subjected to piracy. For the first half of the century, approximately, until its administration was traded to Sweden and later, in the 19th century, back to France. These many influences can be seen in the island architecture, in its commercial buildings, the church and many of the St. Barts hotels.

Nowadays, the island is a well-known, breathtaking touristic destination, preferred by many to visit when in need of a revitalizing escapade, a holiday close to nature: a true St. Barts vacation.

blog image no set blog image no set

Things to know about St. Barts

As you already know, St. Barts is an overseas collectivity of France, situated in the West Indies arc. As such, its official currency is Euros. So, if you’re visiting from any European country that also uses Euros, you’re by default in the clear. If not, don’t worry! There are plenty of money exchange points on the island, where you’ll be able to change your money into local currency.

Its location in the Caribbean means “tropical”, and as such, St. Barts weather is warm. Its temperature is around 30ºC through the year, and since it’s surrounded by water, it is pretty humid. Light clothes are a good choice, when preparing your luggage. Shorts, tank tops, light dresses and of course, hats and caps to protect yourself from the sun. These climate conditions tend to remain around the same, even during winter or the rainy seasons.

During the hurricane season, however, tropical storms and typhoons are likely to make an appearance –that’s why Le Barth reopens after it has passed, by the end of October every year. Undoubtedly, the best time to enjoy a St. Barts vacation would be around Easter, when it’s not summer yet, but we still can enjoy the weather and spend every day at the beach.

As an extra detail, the island also has some of the best resorts worldwide. St. Barts hotels are considered amongst the best places to stay. Just here, at Le Barth, we’ve been recognized as the best hotel in the Caribbean by Condé Nast Traveler and the best hotel in St. Barts by Travel + Leisure, amongst many other awards –not that we like to brag.

Things to do in St. Barts

You probably already guessed it, but with St. Barts weather being tropical, and with its blessed location, the island has vibrant, colorful nature all around. There are breathtaking landscapes wherever you look, and marine fauna is abundant through the year.

Amongst the things to do in St. Barts, you can find something for everyone. Whether you’re more of an explorer and want to discover the island, or your goal is to sit back and enjoy a relaxing escapade to paradise, you’ll find something for you.

For one, the island has many beautiful beaches, with clean, sparkling blue water and soft, warm sand for you to walk for miles, to indulge in the sound of the soft waves crashing on the shore. Either plan your day ahead, or trust our Haute Couture Concierge at Le Barth to deliver 5 wonderful days in paradise.

If you’re more of an animal lover kind of person, you’re in for a treat. You’ll definitely love going for a swim, either snorkeling or with sea bobs. You may also like our glass bottom kayaks, ready for you to explore while navigating around on the beach. All these options are available at Le Barth, one of the best St. Barts hotels.

There’s also the capital city: Gustavia. A must-visit for those who love to shop in style and delight themselves with the vibrant lifestyle of the island. There are gastronomic options all around and, of course, a wide offer when it comes to nightlife.

So now you know! Not only about all the things to do in St. Barts, but also the things you need to know in order to visit. And now that you know, we hope to see you soon!

More blogs.

  • All
  • Our Island
  • Our Hotel
  • Our Collection
  • Events
See More
load more blogs
next slide next slide
  • blog image

    Thank you for another wonderful season together

    30-Aug-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Dive Into a Green Vacation at Le Barth

    15-Aug-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barth’s Caribbean Charm Takes Polo Hamptons by Storm

    27-Jul-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    A rose-tinted honeymoon on the best island in the Caribbean for couples

    24-Jul-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Bask in the Beauty of a Caribbean Summer Getaway, Le Barth style

    28-Jun-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barth Welcomes Acclaimed Brazilian Chef Manu Buffara

    06-Jun-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Meet us once again at the Monaco Grand Prix

    17-May-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Meet Barth The Turtle and Join The Adventure

    30-Apr-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Summer Kids Club is Just Around the Corner

    30-Apr-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Enjoy a Wonderful Caribbean Easter Week 2024 in St. Barts

    22-Mar-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Amis St. Barth Welcomes Christophe Michalak: The Best Pastry Chef in the World

    29-Feb-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barthelemy Hotel & Spa: A Sustainable Hotel in St. Barts

    15-Jan-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    24 Reasons to Visit Le Barthélemy in 2024

    03-Jan-2024

    Read more
  • blog image

    Embrace the Essence of the French Week at Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa

    22-Nov-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Culinary Excellence in the Caribbean: 10th Edition of Saint Barth Gourmet Festival

    23-Oct-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Merci Beaucoup! 7 Consecutive Years in the Condé Nast Traveler's Caribbean Top 5

    03-Oct-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    An Invitation to a New Culinary Journey at Amis St. Barth

    19-Sep-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Distinguished Soirée at the Polo Hamptons 2023: Le Barthélemy Present

    22-Aug-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    The 2022-2023 season has come and gone

    02-Aug-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Atma Janzu, deep delight by the water

    27-Jul-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    St. Barts, the best spot for a chic summer in the Caribbean

    11-Jul-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Restoring the Jewel of the Caribbean Together with Coral Restoration

    03-Jul-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Discover five ways to experience Le Barth

    06-Jun-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barth is getting greener by the minute!

    06-Jun-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Carioca NoMundo visits Le Barth

    22-May-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    How to spend 7 days in St. Barts, by our Haute Couture Concierge

    12-May-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barth visits the Monaco Grand Prix

    03-May-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barth celebrates Earth Day with Coral Restoration

    22-Apr-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Revel in exquisite beach dining experiences in St. Barts

    13-Apr-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Celebrate the St. Barths Bucket Regatta 2023 with us on March 16-19

    03-Mar-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Discover our brand-new deeply Harmonizing Treatments at Le Spa

    23-Feb-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Revel in a wonderful Valentine’s Day beach escapade

    14-Feb-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    5 reasons to visit St. Barth in 2023

    31-Jan-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    Read all about the LuisaViaRoma for UNICEF gala in St. Barts

    19-Jan-2023

    Read more
  • blog image

    All the Essentials are at Le Barth Villa Rental

    29-Dec-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Treat yourself to our hotel Christmas dinner!

    20-Dec-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barth is back and cooler than ever!

    31-Oct-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barth is once again a Condé Nast Traveler favorite!

    01-Oct-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Spa de La Mer at Le Barthélemy Hotel St Barts

    05-Sep-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Join our zero-waste cooking classes

    02-Sep-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Let’s bid farewell to the 2021-2022 season!

    29-Aug-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barth is one of the best Caribbean resorts! Hooray!

    01-Aug-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Voilà l'été: enjoy a chic gastronomic summer!

    21-Jul-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Meet us in Montauk! Le Barthélemy pops up in Gurney’s Montauk

    14-Jun-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Chill and feel in our exclusive Wellness retreat

    10-Jun-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Tailor-made experiences at Le Barthelemy, our unique pet friendly hotel!

    27-May-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Vote for Le Barth in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards!

    12-May-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    LE BARTHÉLEMY HOTEL & SPA CELEBRATES EARTH MONTH

    22-Apr-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Meet the French West Indies: St. Barts local soccer team, sponsored by Le Barth!

    22-Apr-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Les Voiles de St. Barth is here!

    18-Apr-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    A sustainable hotel with Low-Impact Architecture: discover Le Barth!

    25-Mar-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    New exciting hotel parties at Amis St. Barth

    14-Mar-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barthélemy visits Aspen!

    24-Feb-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Our Valentine's Day Restaurant Dinner, Super Bowl, and More: February at Le Barth!

    10-Feb-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Support Le Barth win Travel + Leisure’s World Best Awards 2022!

    01-Jan-2022

    Read more
  • blog image

    Enjoy a unique New Year’s Eve at Le Barthélemy!

    27-Dec-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Enjoy a Caribbean Christmas in St. Barth

    13-Dec-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Amis St. Barth is ready for the Thanksgiving Celebration

    24-Nov-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    St. Barth’s Art Week 2021 is coming to Le Barth

    15-Nov-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa awaits you with wide open arms

    28-Oct-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    We did it again! Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa, #1 resort in St Barts

    13-Oct-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa debuts St. Barths' hottest new restaurant

    30-Sep-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Champagne Hospitality: beyond the extraordinary

    20-Sep-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Romantic dinner at a St. Barts Restaurant

    31-Aug-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    3 reasons to help Le Barth win the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2021

    13-Aug-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    The Sport of Kings, Le Barth style

    20-Jul-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Your Wedding in St. Barts!

    01-Jul-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Tales of Excellence

    15-Jun-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    How to be a green hotel? According to Le Barth

    31-May-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Support Le Barth! Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2021 are here

    14-Apr-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    St. Barts diving: discover the underwater world

    07-Apr-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    All you need to know about St. Barts

    16-Mar-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Aux Amis Restaurant, an unparalleled concept for a St Barts Wine Bar

    18-Feb-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    St. Barth: the perfect island destination in the Caribbean

    28-Jan-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Show Le Barth Love. World’s Best Awards 2021 are open!

    18-Jan-2021

    Read more
  • blog image

    Exclusive Luxury Yoga Retreat at Le Barth

    09-Dec-2020

    Read more
  • blog image

    Burgundy vineyards, Couture Harvest’s traditions and savoir faire

    30-Nov-2020

    Read more
  • blog image

    Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa has reopened for you

    28-Oct-2020

    Read more
  • blog image

    Experience a safe holiday in one of our private luxury villas - Le Barth Villa Rental

    15-Oct-2020

    Read more
  • blog image

    Great news, St Barts has reopened

    20-Jul-2020

    Read more
  • blog image

    Get a full dive in the best beaches in St. Barts

    01-Jun-2020

    Read more
  • blog image

    Couture Hospitality: a promise of the extraordinary

    01-May-2020

    Read more
  • blog image

    Relish in this outstanding Caribbean Spa by La Mer in St Barts

    28-Apr-2020

    Read more
  • blog image

    Aux Amis restaurant, a Caribbean restaurant that lifts the senses

    01-Apr-2020

    Read more
  • blog image

    Brighter days are ahead

    20-Mar-2020

    Read more
  • blog image

    Grand Cul-de-Sac, one of the most appealing beaches in St Barts

    19-Mar-2020

    Read more