The Gustavia region enjoys the Saint Barth tropical climate — windier and sunnier than the Caribbean average thanks to Gustavia's western orientation (facing the sunset) and position at the heart of the trade winds.
Carême (December to April) is the peak of the international jet-set. Temperatures 24-29 °C, sea at 26-27 °C, maximum sunshine (8-9 h/day), refreshing trade winds. Gustavia overflows with animation: megayachts at quay, festive evenings, full restaurants, beaches busy mid-day. Rates are astronomical: hotels €1,500-4,000/night, villas €2,000-8,000, gastronomic restaurants €150-300/person. The week between Christmas and New Year is the absolute peak — the island is saturated with celebrities, prices may double. The Saint Barth Bucket Regatta (March) and the Saint Barth Music Festival (mid-January) are highlights.
May makes an excellent shoulder season: weather still favourable, smaller crowds, sharply lower rates (-30 to -40 %). The Saint Barth Film Festival (May) attracts a more cultural clientele.
Hivernage (June to November) is the rainy and hurricane season. Many establishments close 2-3 months (August-October) for renovations and precaution against hurricane risk. Rates are at their lowest (up to -60 %) but the risk is real (Irma 2017).
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.