Get ready all you sun-fanatics, for St. Barthelemy is waiting for you.
St. Barthelemyis indeed a haven for beach buffs. With its total of 14 hardly crowded white-sand beaches, St. Barthelemy is nothing short of beach paradise. The beaches here are all public and free. And mind you, topless sunbathing is quite common around here.    

 St-Jean Beach, the most popular among the beaches, offers water sports, restaurants, some good old shady areas, and a few hotels. If you observe closely you will notice that it is actually two beaches just divided by the Eden Rock outcrop. To the west is Flamands Beach. This particular beach has a wide, long stretch of sand with lantana palms as shades. Its waves, most especially in the winter season, can be a bit rough although it is rarely hazardous. Only a few small hotels however abound here.

 By the north shore, the Lorient Beach is being flocked by surfers and swimmers for its rolling waves. It is quiet and calm, with shady areas – perfect for the individual seeking a much needed respite.

 Marigot Beach, also on the north shore, is narrow but offers a good swimming and snorkeling experience. 

 Similarly, the Grand Cul-de-Sac Beach on the northeast shore is a narrow one protected by a reef. This beach boasts of a number of hotels, restaurants, and water sports.

  At Gustavia, just north of the commercial port, lies a rather unromantic Public Beach. Though unromantic it may be to some, this beach is the island’s only beautiful place to watch the boats at sunset (FYI: it is the location of the St. Barthelemy Sailing School). It is a combination of sand and pebbles hence it is more popular with boaters than swimmers.

 At Corossol Beach located near a small fishing village, you can get a glimpse of French life (St. Barthelemy style!). This beach is a calm, protected beach and it has a charming little seashell museum for the individual that is fond of the novelty.

 If seashells is your thing, then head to the south of Gustavia, to Shell Beach (or Grand Galet). This beach is full with seashells. You can just pick them up by the shore. It is a so-called protected beach because rocky outcroppings protect it from strong waves. Weekend parties are usually held here.

  Gouverneur Beach, on the southern coast, is gorgeous and completely uncrowded, but you can hardly find a shade.

 Grande Saline Beach to the east of Gouverneur Beach, similarly, offers some waves but no shade. This beach is full of beautiful sunbathers, all in the nude!

  If you like challenge, then head to Colombier Beach. You will need to ride a boat, or take a 30 minute walk on a rugged goat path from Petite Anse past Flamands Beach to reach the beach. It is difficult to get to but well worth the challenge. Shade and snorkeling are found here. You can even bring your packed lunch and spend the whole day here. (FYI: Locals call it Rockefeller's Beach because for many years David Rockefeller owned the property surrounding it.)