Shell Beach St Barts: Where Is It and What to Do There?

About Shell Beach in St Barthlemy

Nestled on the glamorous island of St. Barth, Shell Beach is a hidden oasis that’s as charming as it gets. This beach isn’t your typical sandy stretch; it’s uniquely covered in tiny, picturesque shells (hence its name). 

Where is Shell Beach in St Barts?

Shell Beach is located on the southwestern coast of Saint Barthélemy (St Barts), very close to Gustavia, the island’s capital. The beach is just a 10-minute walk from the city center, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals. Due to its proximity to the harbor, many visitors choose it after a day of shopping or sightseeing in Gustavia.

How to get to Shell Beach?

Shell Beach can be reached by car or on foot. Unlike most walks in St Barth, there are no hills between Gustavia and Shell Beach, so it’s an easy 10-minute walk.

As you can see, the walk from the Port of Gustavia to Shell beach is flat and an easy streetwalk.

What makes Shell Beach famous?

Shell Beach is special due to the abundance of small shells that cover its shore, creating a unique landscape compared to other sandy beaches in St Barts. The beach offers clear, calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It is also famous for its incredible sunset views and its proximity to Shellona, a popular beachfront restaurant.

Many people also enjoy visiting this beach with luxury boat charter to enjoy this beach from another perspective. 

Are St Barts beaches public?

Yes, all beaches in St Barts are public, including Shell Beach. Although the island is famous for its exclusive resorts and villas, both tourists and locals can freely access the beaches. However, some beaches may feel more private due to their remote locations.

What to do in Shell Beach, Saint Barthélemy?

At Shell Beach, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. For example: 

Snorkeling

The calm, clear waters provide exceptional visibility, ideal for discovering the marine life surrounding this beautiful beach. Near the reefs, swimmers can find a variety of tropical fish, corals, and other marine species. The beach’s easy access from Gustavia also makes it a convenient option for those seeking a snorkeling activity without straying too far from the city.

Is it safe to swim in St Barts?

Yes, it is safe to swim at Shell Beach. The waters are generally calm, making the beach an excellent option for families and swimmers of all levels.

Kayaking

From the sea, you can enjoy a unique view of the coast of St Barts, with Gustavia in the background and the rocky landscape surrounding the beach. Kayaking at Shell Beach is a popular choice for those looking for a calm yet active way to explore the coastline. Due to the beach’s protected location and stable water conditions, even beginners can enjoy this activity.

At Pyratz there’s always a 2-person capacity kayak onboard on each of our boat charters. As well, kayak rental services are commonly found in Gustavia, making it easy for visitors to access this experience.

Paddling along the coast gives you the chance to discover small coves and less accessible snorkeling areas, enriching the kayaking experience at Shell Beach.

Sunsets at Shell Beach

One of the best things about Shell Beach is its location on the west side of the island and its southwest-facing orientation, which allows for picturesque sunset skies.

Restaurants in Shell Beach (Saint Barthélemy)

The most famous restaurant at Shell Beach is Shellona, which offers a mix of Mediterranean and Caribbean cuisine. It’s an elegant yet relaxed beachfront venue where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, cocktails, and stunning ocean views. Other dining options in Gustavia are within walking distance from the beach.

Shellona serves excellent food between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM. The price range is moderate to high according to St Barts price standards.

The restaurant is conveniently located on the beach.

Does St Barts have nightlife?

Yes, St Barts has a vibrant nightlife, especially in Gustavia. There are elegant bars, beach clubs, and exclusive lounges where you can enjoy cocktails and live music. The aforementioned Shellona, for example, often features live DJ sets and events, making it a lively spot for a night out.

What is the dress code in St Barts?

The dress code in St Barts is generally casual yet chic. On the beach, it’s common to wear swimsuits and light cover-ups, but in restaurants and shops, visitors tend to adopt a more refined style, especially in the evenings. At upscale venues like Shellona, a smart casual dress code is expected.

What celebrities visit St Barts?

St Barts is a popular destination for celebrities, especially during the winter holidays. Celebrities like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Leonardo DiCaprio, and members of the Kardashian family have been spotted enjoying the island’s luxurious beaches, restaurants, and exclusive villas. Although Shell Beach is a quieter place, it’s not uncommon to see famous figures enjoying the discreet elegance of the area.

Are there any accommodations nearby Shell Beach?

There are accommodations near Shell Beach in St Barts, particularly in the capital, Gustavia, which is only a short walk from the beach. Some nearby options include:

• Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf: A luxury hotel located in Gustavia, offering stunning views and close proximity to Shell Beach. This hotel is located in Gustavia, just a 5-10 minute walk from Shell Beach.
  
  
• Villa Marie Saint-Barth: A boutique hotel nestled in the hills, providing easy access to both Shell Beach and Gustavia. Although it’s situated in the hills, it’s a short 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk to Shell Beach.
  
  
• Eden Rock – St Barths: Known for its stunning location on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea, Eden Rock offers world-class service, beautiful views, and easy access to the restaurants and attractions of Gustavia, including Shell Beach. This iconic luxury hotel is located about a 5-minute drive from Shell Beach. 

Is Shell Beach worth a visit?

Absolutely. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, engage in water sports, or enjoy a gourmet meal at Shellona, this beach offers something for everyone. Its proximity to Gustavia also makes it a convenient stop for visitors who want to experience both the natural beauty and the vibrant culture of St Barts.

Discover all the spots in St Barts in style with a luxury boat charter

At Pyratz, you will find luxury charter services at several beaches in St Barthélemy, including Shell Beach.

If your main question is what to do near Shell Beach… taking a luxury boat charter might be the perfect answer for you!

Contact Pyratz Gourmet Sailing right now to plan your day on a boat charter in Saint Barths.