Transportation in St. Barts: Complete Guide to Getting Around the Island (No Uber)
Planning a trip to St. Barts and wondering how to get around once you arrive? Unlike many destinations, Uber doesn’t operate on this Caribbean gem. Discover in this practical guide all available transportation options and insider tips to explore the island with complete peace of mind.
Why Uber Doesn’t Exist in St. Barts
St. Barts operates by its own rules, quite different from major metropolitan areas. This French overseas collectivity has maintained a traditional transportation system that’s part of its authentic charm.
An Island with Human Dimensions
- Size: Only 10 square miles (smaller than Manhattan’s Central Park)
- Population: Less than 10,000 permanent residents
- Maximum travel time: 20 minutes from one end of the island to the other
This small size simply doesn’t justify an economic rideshare model like Uber or Lyft.
A Protected Regulatory System
Taxi licenses are strictly limited and mostly owned by local families for several generations. This regulation protects the island economy and maintains quality service based on perfect knowledge of the territory.
Best Transportation Solutions in St. Barts
Private Drivers: The Premium Choice
Our top recommendation for a stress-free stay. Private drivers offer much more than simple transportation: they become your personal island guides.
Advantages
- Perfect knowledge of all roads
- Local tips and insider recommendations
- Complete schedule flexibility
- Air-conditioned, comfortable vehicles
- Personalized service
How to Book
- Through your hotel or villa
- Concierge services
- Local recommendations
- Advance booking recommended
Insider tip: Book your private driver upon arrival and keep their contact information for your entire stay. Many travelers use the same driver year after year.
Car Rental: Complete Independence
Perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace. With short distances and well-maintained roads, driving in St. Barts is a pleasure.
Our Practical Recommendations
- Vehicle type: Choose compact cars or convertibles
- Booking: Essential during high season (December-April)
- Parking: Free but limited spaces in Gustavia
- Fuel: Gas stations available on the island
Good to know: Your US driver’s license is valid. Watch out for steep roads and numerous roundabouts.
Official Taxis: The Traditional Solution
Taxis remain available but operate differently than in major cities. Key word: anticipation.
| Features | Details |
| Reservation | Required (via hotel or WhatsApp) |
| Pricing | Fixed rates by route |
| Availability | Limited same-day service |
| Payment | Cash or cards (depends on driver) |
Two-Wheelers: For the Adventurous
Scooters and ATVs appeal to travelers seeking authenticity, but be aware of local specifics.
Positive points:
- Easy parking
- Sense of freedom
- Access to small roads
- Accessible rental rates
Precautions:
- Steep and winding roads
- Sometimes heavy traffic
- Changing weather
- Experience required
Apps and Online Reservations
Contrary to popular belief, there are some digital solutions in St. Barts, but they remain marginal.
- Local taxi app: Launched in 2024 but still unusable
- WhatsApp: The real social network of the island for reservations
- Hotel concierges: Your best ally for organizing transportation
Our Practical Tips for Getting Around
Before Your Departure
- Book your transportation in advance, especially for airport transfers
- Download WhatsApp if you haven’t already
- Bring cash (US dollars or euros), some providers only accept cash
- Check with your accommodation: some hotels offer shuttle services
Once on the Island
- Keep the contact information of drivers you appreciate
- Plan your outings: nighttime returns are more complicated to arrange
- Be flexible: Caribbean time sometimes applies to transportation
- Don’t hesitate to negotiate for frequent trips or full-day service
Transportation by Traveler Profile
| Profile | Recommended Solution | Advantages |
| Luxury villa stay | Dedicated private driver | Premium service, maximum flexibility |
| Honeymoon couple | Convertible rental | Romance, total freedom |
| Family with children | SUV rental + occasional taxi | Safety, practicality |
| Group of friends | Mix of rental/driver | Cost/comfort balance |
| Budget-conscious | Scooter + walking | Economical, authentic |
Frequently Asked Questions About Transportation in St. Barts
Is there public transportation?
No, there are no buses or regular public transportation in St. Barts. The island operates exclusively with private transportation.
Can you get around on foot?
Possible in Gustavia and some nearby beaches, but distances and terrain make walking difficult between different areas of the island.
Do taxis operate at night?
Yes, but with surcharges and mandatory reservations. Plan your return in advance.
Do you need an international driver’s license to rent a car?
No, your US driver’s license is sufficient. Some agencies simply require having held a license for more than one year.
How do you book a private driver?
The easiest way is through your accommodation or a concierge service. You can also ask for recommendations upon arrival on the island.
Our Verdict: How to Choose Wisely
The absence of Uber in St. Barts is ultimately not a disadvantage but an invitation to discover island authenticity. The secret to a successful stay? Anticipation and openness to local encounters.
Whether you choose the comfort of a private driver, the independence of a rental, or the adventure of two-wheelers, each solution has its advantages. The important thing is to choose according to your priorities: budget, comfort, flexibility, or discovery.
This article was updated in September 2025. Information may vary depending on season and service providers.
