Gouverneur and Saline Beaches

For all its chic beach clubs, the most beautiful shores of Saint Barthélemy are its wild and unspoiled southern beaches, Gouverneur and Saline. Reached by winding roads and short walks over the hills, these secluded arcs of soft, pale sand curve along brilliantly turquoise water, blissfully free of any development, hotels or clubs, with only green hills, sea grapes and the odd goat for company. Sheltered and scenic, they offer superb swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing in a pristine natural setting, and a sense of getting away from it all that contrasts beautifully with the island's glamour. Framed by rocky headlands and lapped by crystal water, Gouverneur and Saline are paradise beaches at their purest.

What you actually see

• The pristine sands - the secluded, undeveloped white beaches.
• The turquoise water - the brilliant, clear sea for swimming.
• The green hills - the natural backdrop free of development.
• The seclusion - the blissful escape from the crowds.

When to go

December to April, the dry season, brings the sunniest, calmest weather ideal for the beaches, though the tropical climate is warm and inviting year-round; the shoulder months are quieter. Calm, clear days are best for swimming and snorkelling in these sheltered bays.

Honest expectations

Gouverneur and Saline are undeveloped, with no facilities, shade or services, reached by winding roads and short walks, so visitors should bring their own water, shade and supplies. As the most beautiful, wild and unspoiled beaches of St Barths, pristine arcs of white sand and turquoise sea free of any development, though, they are a genuine paradise well worth the effort.

Nearby

Gustavia and the beach of St Jean lie a short drive away.