Saline Beach

Saline is the beach that serious St. Barts visitors consider the island's best, and for good reason. It's a long, gently curving stretch of fine white sand backed by low dunes and salt ponds rather than buildings or hotels. There's no development of any kind: no sun loungers for rent, no beach bar, no music. Just sand, sea, and sky.

The walk in takes about five minutes from the car park, through a scrubby landscape that feels more Mediterranean than Caribbean. Bring everything you need: water, sunscreen, a hat, and something to eat. The absence of shade is Saline's one drawback — by midday the sun is ferocious.

The far southern end is clothing-optional, a tradition that's been in place for decades. The northern end is where most families and couples set up. The sea here is usually calm with a gentle shore break. Saline draws a well-heeled crowd without the self-consciousness of St. Jean — the anti-scene scene.