Saint Barthélemy Transportation Guide
Saint Barthélemy Transportation Guide: Limited public bus service; rent a car for flexibility. Explore volcanic landscapes, historic ruins, and serene beaches at ease.
Saint Barthélemy Transportation Guide – International Airports
Saint Barthélemy, commonly known as St. Barts, does not have an international airport that accommodates large commercial flights. The island’s small size and challenging topography make it unsuitable for large aircraft.
Instead, visitors to St. Barts typically fly into neighboring islands with international airports and then take a connecting flight or ferry to St. Barts. The two nearby international airports that serve as gateways to St. Barts are:
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on the neighboring island of St. Martin: This is the main international airport in the region, located on the Dutch side of the island of St. Martin. It receives flights from various international destinations, including Europe, North America, and the Caribbean. After arriving at Princess Juliana International Airport, travelers can take a connecting flight or a short ferry ride to St. Barts.
Guadeloupe Pôle Caraïbes Airport (PTP) on the island of Grande-Terre, Guadeloupe: Guadeloupe is another neighboring island that has international flight connections. Guadeloupe Pôle Caraïbes Airport serves as a hub for regional and international flights. From Guadeloupe, visitors can take a connecting flight or ferry to St. Barts.
National Airports
Saint Barthélemy, often referred to as St. Barts, has a small airport called Gustaf III Airport (SBH). It is the only airport on the island and serves as the primary gateway for visitors arriving by air. Gustaf III Airport is located in the southwestern part of St. Barts, near the capital town of Gustavia.
Gustaf III Airport is known for its unique and challenging runway, which is relatively short and surrounded by hills on both ends. As a result, only small aircraft with specific certification and experienced pilots are able to operate flights to and from St. Barts.
Several regional airlines provide scheduled flights to St. Barts from neighboring islands such as St. Martin (SXM), Guadeloupe (PTP), and Antigua (ANU). Popular airlines that operate flights to St. Barts include Winair, Tradewind Aviation, and St. Barth Commuter. These flights typically take around 10-15 minutes, offering a scenic and convenient option to reach St. Barts.
Saint Barthélemy Transportation Guide – Trains
Saint Barthélemy, commonly known as St. Barts, does not have a train system. The island is relatively small, covering an area of just 25 square kilometers (9.7 square miles), and does not have the infrastructure or terrain suitable for train travel.
Instead, visitors to St. Barts rely on other modes of transportation such as taxis, rental cars, or walking to get around the island. Taxis are readily available and can transport you to various destinations on the island. Rental cars provide flexibility for independent exploration. Walking is also a popular option, particularly in areas with pedestrian-friendly streets and attractions.
While St. Barts does not offer train travel, there are plenty of other ways to navigate the island and enjoy its natural beauty and attractions.
Saint Barthélemy Transportation Guide – Buses
Saint Barthélemy, commonly known as St. Barts, does not have a public bus system. The island is small and does not have the infrastructure or population density to support a bus network. As a result, visitors to St. Barts rely on other modes of transportation to get around the island.
Taxis are a popular option for transportation on the island. Taxis can be found at various locations, including the airport, ferry terminal, and main towns. They offer a convenient and reliable way to travel between destinations on the island. Taxis can be hired for short trips or for longer periods if desired.
Rental cars are another popular choice for getting around St. Barts. Several car rental agencies operate on the island, and renting a car allows for more flexibility and independence in exploring the island at your own pace. However, it’s worth noting that roads in St. Barts can be narrow and hilly, so it’s important to drive with caution and be mindful of local traffic regulations.
Walking is also a viable option for getting around certain areas of St. Barts, particularly in the main towns such as Gustavia. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other, and exploring on foot can allow you to fully appreciate the island’s charm and beauty.
We recommend
Saint Barthélemy travel tips
Our guide offers essential Saint Barthélemy travel tips and insights for an unforgettable journey. Plan your trip with us!
Saint Barthélemy Transportation Guide – SIM Cards
When traveling to Saint Barthélemy, obtaining a local SIM card can enhance your connectivity. Here’s a guide to getting a SIM card for travelers:
Check Phone Compatibility:
Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the GSM network used in Saint Barthélemy.
Choose a Provider:
Digicel and Dauphin Telecom are major telecom providers in Saint Barthélemy. Compare their coverage, plans, and prices to choose the one that suits your needs.
Purchase a SIM Card:
SIM cards are available at provider stores, kiosks, and sometimes at the airport. Bring identification like a passport.
Register the SIM Card:
Complete any necessary registration steps, providing personal information as required by local regulations.
Top-Up Credit:
Purchase credit for calls, texts, and data. Top-up cards are available at convenience stores, supermarkets, and provider outlets.
Data Plans:
Choose a data plan based on your usage needs. Providers offer various options, including daily, weekly, and monthly plans.
Configure Your Phone:
Some phones may require manual configuration for internet settings. Contact the provider’s customer service or check their website for assistance.
Emergency Numbers:
Save local emergency numbers and contact information for your provider in case you need assistance.
Dual SIM Phones:
If your phone supports dual SIMs, you can keep your home SIM for incoming calls and messages while using a local SIM for data.
Returning the SIM Card:
If you’ve purchased a temporary or tourist SIM, be aware of any return procedures, especially if you’ve acquired a device along with the SIM.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consider checking with local providers, visiting their official websites, or contacting their customer service. This ensures you have the latest details on available plans and services during your stay in Saint Barthélemy.
Currency Converter
Currency Converter EUR/USD: Sun, 1 Jun.
Unit Converter
Saint Barthélemy Transportation Guide – Maps
What map do you need?
Choose your destination
