Grand Cul de Sac, St. Barts Guide

Know Before You Go...®

St. Barths is the epitome of Caribbean luxury, known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and sophisticated charm. Located in the French West Indies, this exclusive island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From the serene sands of Gouverneur Beach to the vibrant scene at St. Jean, St. Barths caters to every traveler. Luxury villas provide privacy and elegance, often featuring breathtaking ocean views, infinity pools, and world-class amenities. With its gourmet dining, high-end shopping, and vibrant culture, St. Barths promises an unforgettable escape where natural beauty meets refined indulgence.

Why Grand Cul de Sac, St. Barts?

  • Grand Cul de Sac is the largest lagoon in St. Barts.
  • The lagoon is 6 miles long and is surrounded by stunning beaches and nature reserves.
  • Grand Cul de Sac is home to the St. Barts Marine Reserve, a protected marine area where snorkeling and diving are popular activities.
  • Grand Cul de Sac is a popular spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding due to its strong winds.
  • The lagoon is also a popular spot for bird-watching due to its wide variety of birds.

Grand Cul de Sac, St. Barts Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
82.9° F
° F
February
72.8° F
° F
March
83.2° F
° F
April
84.3° F
° F
May
85.4° F
° F
June
86.4° F
° F
July
86.6° F
° F
August
87.1° F
° F
September
87.6° F
° F
October
87.2° F
° F
November
85.8° F
° F
December
83.7° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.28 inches
February
1.83 inches
March
1.99 inches
April
2.29 inches
May
3.60 inches
June
2.15 inches
July
3.13 inches
August
4.00 inches
September
4.38 inches
October
4.95 inches
November
4.26 inches
December
3.87 inches

History

Saint Barthélemy, or St. Barts, a small island in the Caribbean, has a fascinating history shaped by European colonization and its strategic location in the West Indies. The island was originally inhabited by the Arawaks and later the Caribs before being discovered by Europeans in the 15th century. In 1493, Christopher Columbus gave the island its name in honor of his brother Bartolomeo. Initially, St. Barts was uncolonized, with the French eventually settling it in the 17th century. The French established it as a profitable trading post, and the island became part of the French Caribbean possessions.

In the 18th century, St. Barts changed hands between the French and the Swedish. The Swedes controlled the island from 1784 to 1878, during which time they developed the port of Gustavia, the island’s capital, into a thriving trading hub. This period of Swedish rule left a lasting impact on the island, especially in terms of architecture, with many of the buildings in Gustavia still reflecting Swedish colonial style. After the Swedish period, St. Barts returned to French control, and it has remained part of France ever since.

Today, St. Barts is known for its exclusivity, attracting travelers and celebrities from around the world. Its picturesque beaches, luxury yachts, and sophisticated ambiance have made it a sought-after destination. Despite its modern appeal, the island maintains its French Caribbean charm, with colorful colonial buildings, fine dining, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.

Transportation on Grand Cul de Sac, St. Barts

Getting to Grand Cul de Sac, St. Barts and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa: Not required for UK citizens and most other nationalities for stays of up to 90 days.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from St. Barts is required.
  • Travel Authorization: No special pre-arrival authorization is required for most visitors, but travelers may need to complete a health declaration or entry form, depending on the current regulations.

Airlines Flying Here

  • St. Barts airport can only accommodate smaller planes, with flights connecting from St. Maarten, San Juan or St. Thomas.
  • Commercial jets require a longer runway and cannot land on St. Barts.

Departure Tax

There is no departure tax on St. Barts.

Driving

  • License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 3 months.
  • Permit: A temporary driving permit is required, obtainable at the airport or local police stations.
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Generally good, with well-maintained roads, though some areas may be narrow and winding.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 25-35 mph (40-56 km/h) in urban areas and higher on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be mindful of local traffic regulations, pedestrians, and other road users. Always exercise caution when driving on narrow, hilly roads, especially in more remote areas.

Local Transportation

St. Barts offers a range of transport options to explore its stunning beaches, luxury shops, and charming villages. With its small size, the island is perfect for getting around by rental car or scooter, which allows you to easily navigate the narrow, winding roads at your own pace. Taxis are also available, though they are often best booked in advance, as they can be in high demand, especially during peak seasons. For a unique experience, you can also explore the island by boat, with water taxis offering a scenic way to reach various beaches and nearby islands.

Know Before You Go...® - Grand Cul de Sac, St. Barts Travel Tips

Before making their way to Grand Cul de Sac, St. Barts , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Grand Cul de Sac, St. Barts even more relaxing.

Capital: St. BarthsThere is no one-word answer for the ca
Population: 2019Unknown
Size: 2approximately 1.5 square miles
Electric Current: 220
Time: Timezone: AST, 2025-04-17 09:53:57
(GMT Offset: -4 hours, DST: No)
Official Language: The official language spoken in Grand Cul de Sac is French. However, English is also widely spoken as a secondary language due to the island's tourism industry and its close proximity to English-speaking countries such as the United States and Canada. Oth
Currency: Grand Cul de Sac is a small village located in the Caribbean island of St. Barthélemy. As a popular tourist destination, it offers a range of currency and payment options for visitors. The official currency of St. Barthélemy is the Euro (EUR). Many businesses in Grand Cul de Sac accept major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, making it convenient for travelers to make purchases. However, it is always advisable to carry some cash in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in some hotels and banks in Grand Cul de Sac. However, it is important to note that the exchange rates may not be as favorable compared to other destinations, so it is recommended to exchange currency before arriving on the island. ATMs are also available in Grand Cul de Sac, allowing visitors to withdraw cash in the local currency. However, it is important to check with your bank beforehand to see if they have any partnerships
Tipping and Taxes: Grand Cul de Sac is a popular tourist destination located in the Caribbean island of St. Barth. As with most tourist destinations, tipping and taxes play a significant role in the overall cost of a trip to Grand Cul de Sac. Tipping in Grand Cul de Sac is generally expected, but not mandatory. It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, but some establishments may include a service charge in the bill. It is also common to tip hotel staff, such as housekeeping and bellhops, with a few dollars per day. Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but rounding up the fare is appreciated. Taxes in Grand Cul de Sac are also an important factor to consider when budgeting for a trip. The value-added tax (VAT) in St. Barth is 5.5%, which is added to the cost of goods and services. This tax applies to most purchases, including food, drinks, and accommodations. Additionally, there is a 5% occupancy tax on hotel rooms, which is included in the room rate. It is essential to keep in mind
Dress Code: The dress code in Grand Cul de Sac is likely to be casual and relaxed, with an emphasis on beachwear and comfortable clothing.
Topography: Grand Cul de Sac is a shallow, long lagoon on the northeastern coast of the island of St. Barthélemy, surrounded by hills and beaches.
Telephone: The telephone country code for Grand Cul de Sac is +590 and the area code is 590.

Grand Cul de Sac, St. Barts Weddings and Honeymoons

In St. Barts, the process of getting married is straightforward. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local town hall (Mairie de Gustavia). Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in St. Barts (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs approximately €100. For weddings outside of the registry office, additional fees for the officiant apply, ranging from €200 to €500 depending on the ceremony. It is recommended to apply for the license at least 3 business days before the intended wedding date.