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.

Everglades National Park, a subtropical wilderness, offers a variety of engaging activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore the park's unique ecosystems through boat tours, where they might spot wildlife such as alligators, crocodiles, and manatees in their natural habitat. For those who prefer land-based exploration, guided walking tours through mangroves, prairies, and wetlands provide a deeper understanding of the park’s biodiversity.

Tucked away in a serene 31-acre maritime forest, the Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail is a hidden gem for nature lovers on the North Carolina coast. Protected by the NC Coastal Federation, this sanctuary is home to a rich variety of wildlife, fish, and native plant ecosystems. The easy, half-mile trail is perfect for a peaceful stroll, winding through lush greenery and offering glimpses of the vibrant habitats unique to the area. Open to the public during daylight hours, the trail even provides free guides at the entrance, so you can spot and learn about the local flora and fauna as you go.

St Jean Beach stretches nearly a mile along St Barts' northern coast. It is both the island's longest and most popular beach. Its crescent shape splits naturally at the Eden Rock peninsula, creating two distinct zones. The eastern side is favoured by families and snorkellers, who take advantage of the calm waters of the eponymous bay. The western stretch attracts windsurfers, zooming around carried by the open swells. It’s also where you’ll find Nikki Beach — St Barts’ hottest party spot. St Jean is located right next to the island’s airport, where small planes fly low overhead, adding a dynamic element to the scenery without disrupting the beach’s appeal. Luxury hotels, including the iconic Eden Rock, line the shore, providing upscale amenities just steps from the sand.