The Gustavia region can be crossed by car in 5-15 minutes depending on destination. A car is essential — no public transport, moderate distances but significant slopes.
The rental agencies are at Saint-Jean airfield (5 min from Gustavia): Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Smart Rent A Car, Top Loc. Count €60-100/day for a Mini Moke (Saint Barth's iconic vehicle, convertible) or small SUV. 2-3 months advance booking imperative in high season. Roads to French standards (right side). The network is narrow and hilly — Mini Mokes and SUVs are better suited than sedans.
Travel times from SBH airfield: Gustavia 5 min, Shell Beach 7 min, Gouverneur beach 15 min, Saline beach 18 min, Grand Cul-de-Sac 12 min, Anse des Flamands 10 min, Anse de Colombier (car park) 12 min + 30 min walk. Between sites in the region: Gustavia-Shell Beach 5 min (walking: 7 min), Gustavia-Gouverneur 10 min, Gustavia-Saline 15 min.
In Gustavia, parking is very limited in high season. Free parkings behind the marina (5 min walk from centre) and Place de la République. Avoid the centre mid-day. The centre is easily covered on foot (500 m long).
The taxis are available in Gustavia (Place de la République, in front of Bonito) and at the airfield. Count €30-50 from SBH to Gustavia, €40-70 to remote beaches. The Saint-Barth Taxi company is reachable at +590 590 27 75 81.
Read also
- Gustavia, jet-set capital — Dead-end harbour, megayachts, luxury boutiques and gastronomic restaurants.
- Gouverneur Beach, wild and preserved — One of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean: white sand, turquoise sea, pirate legends.
- Nord-Saint-Jean: Eden Rock and preserved coves — The other side of the island: Saint-Jean, Anse des Cayes, Anse de Colombier.
- Saint Barthélemy — Complete guide to the ultra-luxury island of the French Antilles.
