Picture this: you’ve spent several days soaking up the glamorous atmosphere of St. Barthélemy, sipping champagne at Nikki Beach and browsing designer boutiques in Gustavia. But what if we told you that some of the Caribbean’s most captivating destinations lie just a short boat ride away? The surrounding waters hold treasures that even seasoned St. Barts veterans often overlook.
When you’re staying on an island that measures just eight square miles, the urge to explore beyond its shores becomes irresistible. Fortunately, St. Barts sits perfectly positioned among a constellation of remarkable islands, each offering something completely different from your luxury base.
Why venture beyond St. Barts?
While St. Barts delivers unparalleled sophistication, neighboring islands present authentic Caribbean experiences you simply can’t find elsewhere. Think pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life off Saba’s shores, or Anguilla’s powder-soft beaches stretching endlessly into turquoise horizons.
The beauty lies in the contrast. After days of fine dining and designer shopping, you might crave the raw volcanic landscapes of Saba or the laid-back beach culture of Anguilla. These day trips don’t just add variety to your vacation – they create those unexpected moments that transform a good trip into an unforgettable adventure.
St. Martin: your gateway to island hopping
Distance: 45 minutes by ferry
Best for: Shopping, dining, and cultural immersion
St. Martin serves as the perfect starting point for day adventures, though it’s absolutely worth exploring in its own right. The ferry journey takes about 45 minutes on average and offers the most economical way to travel between islands. The Great Bay Express operates regular services, making spontaneous trips entirely feasible.
What makes St. Martin fascinating is its unique dual nationality. The French side (Saint-Martin) exudes European elegance with charming bistros and boutique shopping in Marigot, while the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) pulses with casino energy and duty-free bargains.
Related : How to Explore St Barts by Scooter
Don’t miss these St. Martin highlights:
- Maho Beach – Watch commercial jets literally skim overhead as they land at Princess Juliana Airport
- Orient Bay – Miles of golden sand perfect for beach clubs and water sports
- Marigot Market – Authentic Creole spices, local crafts, and fresh tropical fruits
- Grand Case – The culinary capital where French chefs create magic with Caribbean ingredients
The ferry connections make St. Martin your hub for reaching other destinations, but spend at least half a day exploring its diverse offerings.
Anguilla: pristine beaches and culinary surprises
Distance: 30 minutes from St. Martin
Best for: Beach lovers and food enthusiasts
Anguilla is easily accessible with a 30-minute ferry from the port in Marigot, and you don’t need advance booking – a refreshing change from St. Barts’ careful planning requirements.
What strikes you first about Anguilla is the beaches. We’re talking about some of the Caribbean’s most spectacular stretches of sand, where the water shifts through impossible shades of blue and green. Shoal Bay East consistently ranks among the world’s best beaches, and once you sink your toes into its impossibly soft sand, you’ll understand why.
But here’s what surprises most visitors: Anguilla punches well above its weight culinarily. The island has cultivated a dining scene that rivals much larger destinations. Local chefs blend traditional Caribbean techniques with international influences, creating dishes that perfectly complement the laid-back beach atmosphere.
Top Anguilla experiences:
- Shoal Bay East – Crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling
- The Dune Preserve – Bankie Banx’s legendary beach bar with live music
- Meads Bay – Luxury beach clubs and fine dining overlooking the sea
- Heritage Collection Museum – Learn about Anguilla’s salt-producing history
The relaxed pace here provides the perfect counterpoint to St. Barts’ high-energy scene. You’ll find yourself naturally slowing down, perhaps staying longer than planned.
Saba: the unspoiled gem
Distance: 20 minutes by air, 1-2 hours by ferry
Best for: Divers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts
Saba presents a completely different Caribbean experience – a lush volcanic island that’s quiet, with great hiking, quaint villages, no beaches, but exceptional diving. This tiny island challenges every Caribbean stereotype you might have.
You can reach Saba with a quick 20-minute flight via Winair or take a 1-2 hour ferry from Pelican Marina in Simpson Bay, with ferry costs around $50 USD one-way or $75 USD for a day trip.
Saba’s dramatic landscape rises steeply from the sea, creating some of the Caribbean’s most pristine diving and snorkeling conditions. The island’s underwater saba Marine Park protects vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life that thrives in the nutrient-rich volcanic waters.
What makes Saba special:
- The Bottom – The charming capital village with traditional Caribbean architecture
- Mount Scenery – The highest point in the Dutch Kingdom at 2,877 feet
- The Ladder – Historic hiking trail with breathtaking ocean views
- Saba Marine Park – World-class diving sites including pristine coral walls
The island’s commitment to sustainable tourism means you’ll encounter unspoiled nature at every turn. It’s the Caribbean as it existed decades ago – authentic, peaceful, and refreshingly uncommercialized.
Planning your island-hopping adventure
Ferry schedules vary by season, so check current times before setting out. The Edge ferry offers at least 3 departures a week from Simpson Bay, perfect for day trippers, while Dawn II makes the crossing 3 times a week for those with heavy luggage or dive equipment.
Consider these practical tips:
- Passport required – All island crossings require valid travel documents
- Weather dependent – Sea conditions can affect ferry schedules
- Book diving in advance – Saba’s dive operators fill up quickly during peak season
- Bring cash – Many smaller establishments prefer local currency
Each island offers something unique that complements your St. Barts experience. Whether you’re drawn to Anguilla’s pristine beaches, St. Martin’s cultural diversity, or Saba’s untouched natural beauty, these day trips add richness and variety to your Caribbean adventure.
The short ferry rides become part of the experience – watching different islands emerge from azure waters, each with its own character and charm. Some travelers find these spontaneous island discoveries become the highlights of their entire vacation.
adminislandchic
2025-07-08 18:46:00