Saint Barthélemy

Saint Barthélemy, commonly known as St. Barts, is often perceived solely as a playground for celebrities, but this French Caribbean island offers a remarkably safe and accessible environment for families. The island combines the comforts of France-excellent infrastructure, high-quality food, and reliable healthcare-with a relaxed tropical setting. The landscape is characterized by steep volcanic hills and a jagged coastline, creating a series of protected bays where the water is calm enough for toddlers and young swimmers.

For beach-loving families, the island provides diverse experiences without the need for long drives. St. Jean Beach is a perennial favorite; the water is shallow and protected by a reef, making it ideal for swimming. The real draw for older children here is the proximity to the airport runway, where they can safely watch small propeller planes make thrilling landings just over the sand dunes. Shell Beach, located within walking distance of the capital Gustavia, offers a unique geological lesson where sand is replaced by millions of tiny, smooth sea shells, keeping children occupied with treasure hunting for hours.

Active families can explore the marine life without getting wet aboard the Yellow Submarine, a semi-submersible vessel departing from Gustavia harbour. It provides views of the local reefs, tropical fish, and shipwrecks. For those willing to hike, the trail to Colombier Beach is a moderate 20-minute descent past wild goats and tortoises. The reward is a secluded bay known for its population of sea turtles that often graze in the seagrass near the shore, visible even to beginner snorkelers staying near the surface.

Dining on St. Barts is a cultural highlight. While high-end restaurants exist, the island culture revolves around the boulangerie (bakery). Families can start the day with fresh croissants and pains au chocolat from local bakeries like La Petite Colombe. For lunch, beachside "snack" bars offer grilled fish and burgers, while supermarkets are stocked with French cheeses and yogurts, making beach picnics easy and affordable. The vibe in the evenings is sophisticated but generally welcoming to children, with many restaurants offering kid-friendly options alongside fresh seafood.

Traveling to St. Barts requires some logistical planning. Most families arrive via a short shuttle flight from St. Maarten (SXM). The landing is steep and adventurous, often a highlight for aviation-loving kids, though ferries are available for those who prefer sea travel (note that crossings can be choppy). Once on the island, renting a car is essential. The roads are narrow, steep, and winding, so confident driving is required, but distances are very short. The official currency is the Euro, and English is widely spoken, easing the barrier for international visitors. With its low crime rate and high safety standards, parents can relax and enjoy the calm rhythm of island life.