Underrated Beaches & Coves in St. Barths – 7 Hidden Gems Await
Discover the most underrated beaches and secret coves in St. Barts. Uncrowded, scenic, and unforgettable—explore the island’s best-kept coastal secrets.
Anse du Gouverneur – Serenity Meets Scenic Grandeur
Tucked away from the hustle of Gustavia, Anse du Gouverneur is a secluded sanctuary beloved by locals. With its fine white sands, turquoise water, and dramatic cliffside backdrop, this beach offers the perfect escape. The path to the beach is unpaved, adding to its untouched allure. It’s ideal for couples, photographers, and serenity seekers looking for postcard-perfect views without the crowd.
- Ideal for swimming and sunbathing
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Great for drone shots and sunset views
Anse de Colombier – The Boat-Only Treasure
Accessible only by hiking trail or by boat, Anse de Colombier is one of the island’s most peaceful coves. Surrounded by green hills and marine life, it’s a popular spot for snorkeling and yacht lounging. The beach is part of a marine reserve, making it pristine and full of aquatic wonders.
- Great for snorkeling and marine life
- Amazing viewpoint along the hiking path
- Zero development = pure paradise
Shell Beach – Sunset’s Secret Stage
Just minutes from downtown Gustavia, Shell Beach is famous for its unique shoreline covered in millions of tiny seashells. It offers great swimming, casual cliff-jumping, and one of the best sunset views on the island. Plus, there’s a beach restaurant nearby for cocktails and tapas.
- Covered in natural seashells
- Excellent sunset location
- Cliff diving for thrill-seekers
Petit Cul-de-Sac – Private & Peaceful Lagoon
Located on the island’s quiet eastern coast, Petit Cul-de-Sac is more of a lagoon than a beach, protected by coral reefs that make the waters calm and safe for wading. Rarely busy, this beach is perfect for families or travelers looking to escape the windier west coast.
- Calm waters, great for kids
- Excellent snorkeling in shallow areas
- One of the most tranquil beaches on the island
Public Beach – Local Vibes & Fishing Boats
Situated between Gustavia and Corossol, Public Beach is a low-key spot used mostly by locals. It’s a great place to see colorful fishing boats, experience authentic island life, and enjoy a peaceful swim.
- Real St. Barths experience
- Watch local fishermen at work
- Calm, shaded by coconut palms
Marigot Bay – The Hidden Swimmer’s Cove
Marigot Bay is often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, but this protected marine reserve is perfect for a low-key beach day. Calm waves, rich marine biodiversity, and a peaceful ambiance make it ideal for a relaxed swim or picnic.
Grand Fond – Dramatic Coastline & Natural Pools
For a more adventurous beach visit, head to Grand Fond on the southeast coast. It’s not ideal for swimming due to the rough surf, but the natural rock pools at the eastern edge are a local favorite. The hike along the coastline rewards you with panoramic ocean views and wild, photogenic beauty.
- Natural rock pools
- Photogenic coastal cliffs
- Great hiking trail to Washing Machine (natural jacuzzi)
Final Thoughts
St. Barths is best known for its glamorous beaches like St. Jean and Flamands, but its true magic lies in the less-traveled paths. Whether you crave privacy, adventure, or a deeper connection to nature, these underrated beaches and secret coves offer unforgettable experiences away from the crowds. Bookmark this guide, grab your towel, and discover the hidden heart of St. Barts.
Final Thoughts: Find Your Cove in St. Barts
Gouverneur’s cinematic curves, boat-only Colombier, shell-sprinkled sunsets at Shell Beach, the still lagoon of Petit Cul-de-Sac, local life at Public Beach, Marigot’s calm marine reserve, and Grand Fond’s wild rock pools prove that St. Barts’ magic isn’t only where the crowds go—it’s where the island exhales. Pick one hidden cove for a slow morning swim, another for sunset, and you’ll see a softer, more soulful side of the island.
Plan your next move:
- Use our Map to chart an easy loop (Gouverneur → Saline → Grand Fond) and keep taxi time low.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen, water, and light snacks; many of these spots are blissfully undeveloped.
- If you’re up for it, hike to Colombier for a quiet beach day and postcard views.
- After dark, circle back to Shell Beach for golden-hour photos and dinner nearby.
Ready to discover your own “secret spot”? Save this guide, share it with your travel crew, and start building an itinerary that blends one or two headline beaches with these quieter gems. When you’re done exploring, tell us your favorite cove—we’ll keep the best tips (and fresh finds) coming.