North & Saint-Jean

The north and Saint-Jean region occupies the northern two-thirds of Saint Barthélemy — the most dynamic area of the island, concentrating the airfield (gateway), several of the most beautiful beaches, and a record concentration of legendary hotels. It's the island's lively seaside, more animated and more accessible than the Gustavia area.

Saint-Jean is the seaside heart of Saint Barth — at the centre of this region are the SBH airfield (famous for its approach over the Tourmente, its landings 10 m from the beach), Saint-Jean beach (white sand, turquoise lagoon), and the legendary Eden Rock (iconic hotel since 1953, perched on a rocky outcrop separating the beach into two bays). Saint-Jean also concentrates several iconic restaurants (Nikki Beach, La Plage, La Cantina), the luxury boutiques of La Villa Créole (chic shopping centre) and Pelican Beach, and most of the upscale 4-5 star hotels.

Anse des Cayes, 5 minutes west of Saint-Jean, is a small protected bay with a golden sand beach and a shallow lagoon. It's the surfing spot of Saint Barth, frequented by locals and enthusiasts (winter waves from November to April). A few seaside restaurants (notably the excellent O'Corail).

To the north-west, Anse de Colombier is one of the secret jewels of Saint Barth — a paradise beach accessible only on foot (30 min walk from the Petite Anse car park) or by boat. White sand, crystalline water, totally preserved, ideal for snorkelling. The walk along the Petite Anse trail offers spectacular panoramic views.

Anse des Flamands (5 min from Saint-Jean) is the longest beach in the north — 800 m of golden sand, turquoise water, framed by the Cheval Blanc Isle de France (LVMH, 5*) and Tom Beach hotels. It's one of the most frequented beaches by upscale hotels but access remains public.

To the east, Lorient is a picturesque hamlet with its coconut palm-lined beach (one of the most authentic on the island, popular with local families) and its evocative seaside cemetery. Further on, Pointe Milou hosts the legendary Le Ti St Barth (the island's iconic restaurant-show) and Toiny (the wildest and most natural area, Hôtel Le Toiny 5*).