If you have heard whispers about St. Barts, you already know the vibe. Sun-soaked beaches, chic seaside restaurants, and a level of privacy that has made this tiny island a magnet for anyone chasing a calm, luxurious Caribbean escape. Before you dream too far ahead, let’s start with the basics.
Where is St. Barts located, and how do you actually get there? Think of this as your thoughtfully curated guide to finding paradise.
Where is St. Barts in the Caribbean?
St. Barts is located in the Eastern Caribbean, tucked between St. Martin and Antigua. It sits east of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands on that stretch of sea known for its clear water and calm trade winds.
Officially, the island is called Saint Barthélemy and it is a French Overseas Collectivity. This explains the island’s unmistakable French spirit, from the language to the food to the currency. While English is widely spoken, the Euro is the official currency, and the island feels more like a slice of the Riviera set in turquoise water.
St. Barts on the Map: Its Closest Neighbours
Below is a map of the Eastern Caribbean showing exactly where St. Barts sits in relation to Puerto Rico, St. Martin, and Anguilla
St. Bart's closest and most important neighbour is St. Martin and its Dutch counterpart, Sint Maarten. This island is the primary gateway to St. Barts for most travellers. Its international airport connects with major cities around the world and makes the final hop to St. Barts easy.
Anguilla sits northwest of St. Barts at roughly 27 miles (45km) away. Saba rests southwest at about 30 miles (50km). St. Kitts is further south at close to 50 miles (80km). These distances are short, but each island has its own flavour, which makes St. Barts feel even more special. It is small, refined, and wonderfully set apart.
How To Get to St. Barts
There are no direct international flights from the United States, Canada, or Europe to St. Barts but from a luxury-retreat perspective, that’s part of its allure. The seclusion is part of what makes the island feel like a true Caribbean paradise.
Option 1: Flying to St. Barts
The most popular way to reach St. Barts is to fly into Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten. From there, travellers take a quick 10 to 15 minute flight with local carriers such as Winair or St Barth Commuter. This short hop is famous for its approach. The plane glides over a hillside and drops onto one of the Caribbean’s shortest runways. It is a little thrilling, completely safe, and undeniably memorable.
Another smooth route is through San Juan, Puerto Rico. From San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport (SJU), travellers can fly Tradewind Aviation to St. Barts. The flight takes about an hour and feels halfway between a scheduled flight and a private charter. Spacious seats, attentive service, and no crowds make this a favourite for those arriving from the US mainland.
Connections are also available from Antigua and Guadeloupe. These can be practical for travellers coming from the UK or Europe who want a secondary option.
If you are wondering how to fly to St. Barts in the easiest way, most travellers prefer the St. Maarten route for its frequency and convenience. Those looking to avoid airport crowds often lean toward the San Juan to St. Barts connection.
Option 2: Taking the Ferry to St. Barts
If flying is not your thing or if you enjoy the idea of arriving by sea, ferries run daily from St. Martin. The high speed crossing takes between 45 and 75 minutes depending on the departure point and sea conditions.
One helpful tip: the waves can get choppy on windy days. If you are prone to seasickness, the shorter flight may be the more comfortable choice. When the water is calm though, the ferry is a scenic entry to the island.
A Map of St. Barts: Key Areas to Know
Here is a map of the island that highlights its main areas, beaches, and sights.
St. Barts is small and easy to navigate. Each part of the island has its own charm, especially if you are planning a villa vacation.
Gustavia
This is the capital, home to the harbour, the best shopping, and some of the island’s most iconic restaurants. It’s lively but never hectic.
St. Jean
This central area includes the island’s runway, the famous beach in front of Eden Rock, and a collection of popular beach clubs and boutiques. Many travellers spend a large share of their days here.
Flamands
A favourite for villa stays. Flamands has a wide beach and a quiet feel. The hills above the beach are lined with luxury villas tucked into the greenery.
Lorient
A relaxed, family friendly area with a beautiful beach, local shops, and great surf.
Gouverneur
A postcard beach framed by high cliffs. Gouverneur feels untouched and exclusive, and the surrounding villas are some of the most private on the island.
Pointe Milou
Known for its dramatic ocean views and sunset vantage points. Many luxury villas here feel like private retreats.
One Step Closer to St. Barts
So where is St. Barts located? It rests in the Eastern Caribbean close to St. Martin, surrounded by some of the region’s most beautiful islands. It is easy to reach once you know the routes, whether you are getting to St. Barts from the US through St. Maarten, flying from San Juan, or taking the ferry.
Once you arrive though, the geography melts into the background. What stands out are the beaches, the food, the warm sea, and the sense of style that makes this island feel unlike anywhere else. If you want the best experience, stay in one of the luxury villas dotted across the hills. They offer privacy, space, and the chance to live the island the way it is meant to be enjoyed.
Let the adventure begin. St. Barts is waiting.
Ready to enjoy your vacation in St. Barts? The Corcoran St Barth team is here to help you find the perfect villa, blending comfort, elegance, and unspoiled nature.
