Gouverneur Beach unfolds like a pirate’s treasure map come to life — a broad U-shaped bay framed by high cliffs, where the only footprints in the white sand might be your own. Reach it via a steep, turtle-crossed road (watch your step!) that spills onto one of St Barts’ most undisturbed shores. The southwest-facing cove offers great snorkelling, while the eastern end sees naturists embracing the solitude. The lack of amenities means you have to pack some essentials, but reward comes in spades: picnic-perfect sands, cliffside views from nearby Santa Fe restaurant (try their grilled lobster), and whispers of buried pirate gold beneath your beach towel.

Shell Beach offers St Barts' most unusual shoreline — a sun-drenched crescent where countless tiny shells crunch underfoot instead of sand. Just five minutes from Gustavia's boutiques, this "in-town" escape delivers calm waters that deepen quickly, perfect for swimmers and snorkellers (gear not provided). For a taste of yacht-spotting glamour, watch sailboats anchor offshore while local musicians strum at Shellona restaurant during golden hour. Adventurers can test their nerve diving off the nearby cliffs, while tender feet might prefer water shoes for the shell-covered shore.

Grand Cul-de-Sac offers a shallow, protected lagoon with crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for families and watersports enthusiasts. The bay's knee-deep waters extend nearly to the reef, creating a safe environment for swimming and snorkelling, with frequent sea turtle sightings near Le Sereno Hotel. Three luxury hotels — Rosewood Le Guanahani, Le Sereno, and Le Barthélemy — line the shore, with waterfront dining and chaise lounge rentals. Two watersports operators offer equipment for windsurfing, kiteboarding and jet skiing.