The north and Saint-Jean region can be crossed by car in 15-20 minutes west to east. A car is essential — no public transport, moderate distances but significant relief.
The rental agencies are at Saint-Jean airfield (at the very heart of the region): Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Smart Rent A Car, Top Loc. Count €60-100/day for a Mini Moke or small SUV. 2-3 months advance booking imperative in high season. Roads to French standards (right side). The network is narrow and uneven.
Travel times from SBH airfield: Saint-Jean (centre) 2 min, Eden Rock 2 min, Anse des Cayes 5 min, Anse des Flamands 7 min, Petite Anse (Colombier car park) 12 min + 30 min walk, Lorient 10 min, Pointe Milou 15 min, Toiny 18 min. Distance to Gustavia: 5-7 min.
At Saint-Jean, parking is very limited in high season. Free parkings around the airfield and La Villa Créole. The centre is walkable (compact). At Anse des Cayes, free parking at the beach entrance. At Anse des Flamands, free seaside parking (saturated in high season). For Anse de Colombier, free parking at Petite Anse (D210 north).
The taxis are available in Saint-Jean (in front of La Villa Créole, in front of Eden Rock) and at the airfield. Count €30-50 for a local trip. No public transport.
Read also
- Saint-Jean, beach and Eden Rock — Saint Barth's iconic beach: Eden Rock, white sand, spectacular plane landings.
- Gustavia and south-west: capital and Shell Beach — The other side of the island: jet-set Gustavia, wild Gouverneur and Saline beaches.
- Saint Barthélemy — Complete guide to the ultra-luxury island of the French Antilles.