last edited Dec 11, 2019
Overview of Saint Barthélemy
Quick Overview
Saint Barthélemy is a French island in the Lesser Antilles and an overseas collectivity. It is commonly called Saint Barth.
Key Facts
- Location: in the Caribbean, southeast of Saint Martin.
- Latitude/longitude: 17.90' N, 62.85' W.
- Local time:
- Capital: Gustavia.
- Nature of the state: French overseas collectivity.
- Official language: French.
- Currency: euro.
- Population: 9,417 inhabitants (2015).
- Area: 24 km².
- Density: 392 inhabitants/km².
- Highest point: Morne du Vitet (286 m).
- Lowest point: sea level.
- Coastline: 32 km.
- Driving: on the right.
- Flag: [drapeau: Saint-Barthélemy]
Tourism
The small island is the epitome of a "luxury destination" in the Caribbean, attracting a predominantly North American clientele. Beautiful beaches and a charming "capital," Gustavia, require a certain budget to explore—unless you consider Saint Barth as a day trip from the nearby island of Saint Martin. Officially, Saint Barthélemy welcomes around 300,000 visitors annually, arriving almost equally by air and sea.
Travel Essentials
- Destination: for beginner travelers.
- By air: mainland to Gustavia.
- Entry requirements: ID card or passport.
- Currency to bring: euro.
- Exchange rate:
- Backpacker daily budget: 150 to 200 € per person.
- Best for accommodation: hotel on-site or day trip from St. Martin.
- Best way to get around: scooter or, alternatively, on foot.
- Risks: very low health risks and almost nonexistent security risks.
- Best period for climate/crowds/prices: April to early May or early December.
- Interests (out of ): Nature ; Adventure ; Culture ; Relaxation/Holidays
Addresses in Mainland France
Tourist Board: online only.