Petit 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 Petit Cul de Sac, St. Barts?

  • Petit Cul de Sac is the largest natural harbor in St. Barts.
  • It is home to the world famous Eden Rock Hotel.
  • The harbor is surrounded by white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical vegetation.
  • Petit Cul de Sac is a popular spot for yachting and snorkeling.
  • The harbor is also home to a variety of marine life, including turtles and dolphins.

Petit 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 Petit Cul de Sac, St. Barts

Getting to Petit 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...® - Petit Cul de Sac, St. Barts Travel Tips

Before making their way to Petit 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 Petit Cul de Sac, St. Barts even more relaxing.

Capital: St. BartsGustavia
Population: 2021Unknown
Size: 10
Electric Current: 220
Time: Timezone: AST, 2025-03-13 22:21:55
(GMT Offset: -4 hours, DST: No)
Official Language: The official language spoken in Petit Cul de Sac is French, as it is a part of the French overseas collectivity of Saint Barthélemy. The secondary language spoken is English, due to the influence of tourism and the large number of English-speaking visitor
Currency: Petit Cul de Sac, a charming and secluded area located on the island of St. Barths in the Caribbean, offers a variety of currency and payment options for visitors and residents alike. The official currency of St. Barths is the Euro, and it is widely accepted throughout the island, including in Petit Cul de Sac. Most establishments in Petit Cul de Sac, such as restaurants, hotels, and shops, accept major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. However, it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or in case of any issues with your credit card. In addition to credit cards, many establishments in Petit Cul de Sac also accept traveler's checks as a form of payment. These checks can be exchanged for cash at most banks on the island. If you prefer to use cash, there are several ATMs located in Petit Cul de Sac and throughout the island where you can withdraw Euros. However, be aware that these ATMs may charge a fee for international t
Tipping and Taxes: Petit Cul de Sac is a small town located on the island of St. Barthelemy in the Caribbean. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts. As with many tourist destinations, tipping and taxes are an important part of the local economy. Here is a summary of tipping and taxes in Petit Cul de Sac: 1. Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Petit Cul de Sac, but it is expected in most places. The standard tip is around 10-15% of the total bill, and it is usually given to waiters, bellhops, and housekeeping staff. Some restaurants and hotels may include a service charge in the bill, in which case, tipping is not necessary. 2. Taxes: The main tax in Petit Cul de Sac is the value-added tax (VAT) which is currently at 5%. This tax is added to the price of goods and services, including meals, drinks, and accommodations. Some restaurants and hotels may also add a service charge on top of the VAT. 3. Tourist tax: In addition to the VAT, there is al
Dress Code: The dress code in Petit Cul de Sac is likely to be casual and relaxed, with a focus on comfortable and practical clothing for outdoor activities.
Topography: Petit Cul de Sac is a small bay located on the eastern coast of St. Barts, characterized by a sheltered cove framed by cliffs and surrounded by lush green hills.
Telephone: Tel: +590 590 Saint-Barthélemy, Caribbean

Petit 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.