Discover Saint-Barthélemy

On Saint-Barthélemy, the marine reserve, lagoon, coastal views and Gustavia represent different sides of the destination. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, you might first consider whether wildlife viewing, scenery or history will shape your travel plans. The places and topics provide some concrete points of reference.

Marine Reserve and Coastal Views

The Saint-Barthélemy marine reserve covers the waters around Île de Fourchue as well as the bays of Colombier and Petite Anse. It also includes the bays of Marigot, Grand Cul-de-Sac and Petit Cul-de-Sac, extending to the Îlets Grenadins. In addition, it covers the waters around the islets of Gros Ilet, Pain de Sucre, Frégate and Toc Vers. Its named features therefore include both bays and waters around small islands.

There are two different vantage points for panoramic views: Colombier Beach offers a view across the island. The viewpoints at Fort Gustav and Fort Karl offer panoramic views over Gustavia Bay. When comparing scenic views, you can therefore distinguish between an island panorama and a view of the bay.

Lagoon and Water Activities

Marine animals, especially turtles and fish, can be observed in the lagoon at Grand Cul-de-Sac. Such sightings depend on natural conditions. The lagoon can also be explored by transparent kayak; availability of this activity may vary. Wildlife viewing and kayaking offer different ways to experience the lagoon: one focuses on discovering marine animals, while the other involves exploring by kayak.

You can swim at Lorient Beach; surfing is possible there, depending on conditions. The water activities mentioned therefore differ: at Grand Cul-de-Sac, the focus is on wildlife viewing and kayaking, while Lorient offers swimming and surfing when conditions allow. If you are weighing up activities for your trip, these differences are a useful starting point. If you are interested in kayaking, check availability in advance.

History and Getting Your Bearings in Gustavia

Dinzey House, also known as Le Brigantin, is located in Gustavia. The house was built around 1820 and survived the great fire of 1852. It has been listed as a historic monument since April 17, 1990. Its construction, the fire and its subsequent monument listing mark different stages in its history. The Brigantin Museum offers insights into Gustavia’s local heritage. The cultural perspective therefore ranges from the history of a single house to insights into Gustavia’s local heritage.

Place names also provide useful orientation. Public is a waterfront neighborhood on the edge of Gustavia; its character is shaped by port activity. Saint-Barthélemy Airport is located in Saint-Jean Bay. Public is therefore a neighborhood, while Saint-Jean is the bay where the airport is located.

Discover more destinations: Gustavia, Toiny, Anguilla, Netherlands Antilles, Argentina, Martinique, Equatorial Guinea, Haiti.

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