Is Saint-Barth without a car possible?

The idea keeps coming back: enjoying Saint-Barth without worrying about driving, impossible parking, or the stress of being behind the wheel. But is it really doable on this 25 km² island with winding roads? Spoiler alert: yes, it’s possible—with a bit of planning!

Taxis: your best ally

Let’s start with the most obvious solution: taxis. Good news—they’re available 24/7, mostly in Gustavia and at the airport. The Coco app even lets you order a taxi from €13, which is super convenient.

But be mindful of your budget! Prices can add up quickly. For example, a ride from the airport to Saint-Jean costs around €25–30, and about €35–40 from Gustavia to Saline.

Bonus tip: most taxi drivers are like living guidebooks. They know all the island’s best spots, top sunset viewpoints, and the restaurants locals actually go to. It’s almost like having a personal guide!

One downside: availability can vary depending on the time and season, so always keep a few numbers handy.

Related : First time in Saint-Barth: tips to plan your stay

Scooters, quads & e-bikes: freedom on a budget

If you’re okay with two wheels, a scooter is an excellent choice. Expect to pay €26–60 per day depending on engine size and season. Much cheaper than a car—and you skip parking hassles.

Quads are also available to rent and can feel safer on hilly roads.

Electric bikes are growing in popularity. At around €30 per day, they’re eco-friendly and honestly quite fun—you’ll climb hills without breaking a sweat! Just be mindful of the weather. In scorching sun or rain, it’s less enjoyable.

Note: classic bikes aren’t ideal due to the terrain, but e-bikes really simplify getting around.

Pro tip: even if you’re using a scooter, keep a taxi number saved. After a boozy night out, it’s much safer to call a cab!

On foot—but not everywhere

So, can you explore Saint-Barth on foot? That totally depends on your accommodation and expectations. If you’re staying in Saint-Jean, you can easily walk to the beach, shops, and a few restaurants. Same for Gustavia, where everything revolves around the harbor.

Let’s be honest, though: distances may be short, but on foot, they feel longer. Walking from Flamands to Saline? That’s a 45-minute hike under the sun, with plenty of hills. Doable—but not exactly fun.

Smart approach: combine walking with other transport. Take a taxi to Gouverneur, then explore the beach and surroundings on foot. Or rent a scooter for the day and stroll around once you arrive at your destination.

Hitchhiking: a surprising option

Hitchhiking works surprisingly well in Saint-Barth. Locals are friendly, and many tourists are too. It’s more random than a taxi, of course, but it’s free—and you might have some great encounters.

Some unspoken rules: don’t hitchhike in your swimsuit, offer to chip in for gas if suggested, and be patient—it might take 5 minutes or 30.

Modern apps & local services

Things are evolving! Some local apps make it easier to book taxis or private drivers. However, there’s no Uber on the island.

Don’t rely on apps alone. In Saint-Barth, the phone still reigns supreme. Always keep a few taxi numbers in your wallet—just in case.

How to plan your days without a car

The secret to a successful car-free stay? Planning! Group your activities by area. One day on the west coast (Flamands, Corossol), another on the east (Grand Cul-de-Sac, Toiny), and so on.

Pay attention to timing too. Taxis are easier to find in late morning and early evening. Try to avoid peak hours (yes, even Saint-Barth has them!).

Practical tips for different traveler types

Honeymooners

Choose a villa with concierge service—they can arrange your transport. Otherwise, a mix of taxis and scooter rentals works great for day trips.

Families with kids

It’s trickier without a car—but doable. Focus on 2–3 main beaches and use taxis for longer distances. Kids usually love scooter rides (with helmets, of course!). It can still be a fun adventure.

Groups of friends

Share your rides! A taxi split between four is much cheaper per person. Plus, it’s way more fun than each riding alone on scooters.

Budget breakdown

For a one-week stay without a car, plan on:

• €200–300 in taxi fares if you’re active
• €150–200 if you rent a scooter for 3–4 days
• €100–150 if you smartly mix taxi, scooter, and walking

That’s often cheaper than a rental car—especially if you avoid parking tickets!

The verdict

So—can you visit Saint-Barth without a car? Absolutely. But it takes a bit more planning and flexibility. You might lose a little spontaneity, but you’ll gain peace of mind. No driving stress, no parking hassles, and some great moments with friendly drivers.

Our advice? Try it! Start with a day or two without a car and see how it goes. You can always rent a vehicle later if needed. In the end, Saint-Barth is a state of mind. With or without a car, the island still shines.