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We have already spoken of the beaches of Saint
Jean and Grand Cul de Sac that are among the
most famous on the island, thanks to their
beauty as well as to the hotel facilities they offer.
However, the rugged terrain of Saint Barthélemy,
full of hills and valleys, creates a coastline
punctuated by natural bays where a stretch of
pristine sand often nestles at the foot of a steep
slope. According to your mood and to what
you want to do, you will always find one that
suits your plans for the day.
At the south end of the island, the beaches
of Gouverneur and of Grande Saline are
quiet and secluded. Slightly off the beaten
track they offer a distinct sense of wellbeing
and tranquility to all who make the effort
to seek them out. Far from the bustle of life
and almost deserted, they provide the perfect
setting for a romantic day with a special person.
The beach of Grande Saline is hidden behind
a sand dune partly covered in vegetation.
Its beauty can’t be seen until this natural
obstacle has been overcome. For this reason,
it is a popular place for nudists.
The beaches of Lorient, Marigot, Petite Anse
and Petit Cul de Sac are more family oriented.
Their shallow waters, protected from the ocean
currents, are very safe and ideally suited
to swimming and snorkeling. The beach of
Marigot, with the unspoiled beauty of its grey
sand and its famous palm trees always makes
a big impression on visitors.
Thrill-seekers will prefer the beaches on the “wild”
side of the island in the southwest. The beaches of
Anse Toiny and of Grand Fond, with their strong
currents and spectacular waves will delight the more
adventurous among you. The same is true for the beach
at the opposite end of the island at Anse des Cayes.
There, the regularity of the long waves and of the ocean
winds never fails to attract surfers and other wind-riders.
Finally, one of the most famous beaches, for its
inaccessibility as much as for its legendary beauty,
is Colombier, at the far northwest of the island.
This is a beach that still has to be “discovered” as there
are only two ways to get to it.
Either you are fortunate enough to have a boat and
so you can sail into the bay and quietly drop anchor,
or else you must find the rocky but picturesque trail
(one of the most beautiful hikes on the island actually)
and set out for a 25 minute hike.
When you get there you will be rewarded by the
breathtaking panorama of an unspoiled paradise
lapped by crystal clear waters and a feeling that
is absolutely priceless... freedom!
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T H E B E A CH E S
SAINT
BARTHÉLEMY