St. Barths, or also called St. Barts or St. Barthelemy, is an exclusive island, among one of the very few. Surrounded by a European sophistication, St. Barths is the hideaway for celebrity elite. St Barths is a relatively small island of about eight square miles, and French is the native tongue. St. Barths is called the place to be, not see, and for very good reasons.
Besides the breathtaking beaches and waterfronts, St. Barths is the home of some amazing historical sites. Gustavia, the capital of St. Barths, is mecca of culture and luxury. Fort Gustav is the remains of an eighteenth century fortification, including ramparts, sentry box, cannons and powder house. This is a location denoted by the lighthouse, and the best harbor viewing area. The Wall House Museum is nearby, a recently restored building that houses some of the history of St. Barthelemy.
Unfortunately a majority of things and antiquities have been destroyed or lost, but the museum boast wonderful re-creations to open the doorway to what the past would have been. Be sure to visit the Corossol, a fishing village and the InterOceans Museum, which houses a massive seashell collection. Corossol is full of the rich Norman culture, and must be seen.
The holiday seasons are a time to be had in this Caribbean destination. A majority of holidays are French, and a scattering of Swedish are celebrated. St. Barths is home of an annual music festival, held in January and August, the Caribbean Film Festival in April. St. Barths Volleyball Cup tournament in July, draws major crowds, the residents here have an amazing passion for volleyball.
Of course no vacation would be complete without a trip to the beach. This Caribbean destination has no shortage either. With over twenty beaches you are sure to find that perfect spot to relax in the sun. The most popular of St. Barths beaches would have to be St. Jean and Grand Cul de Sac, these are the busiest as well.
If you are searching for something a tad more private or secluded, you may want to visit Grand Saline, Flamands or Gouvernier beaches.
If you are truly in search of privacy, a half an hour hike down a goat trail, will take you to Anse Colombier, where you will find true seclusion. In St. Barths sunbathing topless in normal, even at Shell Beach and Marechal, which are family friendly beaches. However, public nudity is not legal in St. Barths.
At any beach choice in this Caribbean destination, you will find no shortage of water activities. You will find avenues for just about any water activity including: Snorkeling, body and boogie boarding, and swimming. If you are in need of more adventurous water sports, Grand Cul de Sac is rich with windsurfing, kite boarding and sailboating.
If choosing the more popular beaches, you will have a variety of restaurants and bistros, as well as, water sports outfitters. You will always have something to eat, drink and do here.