Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Gustavia gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from SBH to the city takes roughly 20 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at SBH:
First, verify that you can enter France — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 20 minutes into Gustavia, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from SBH to Gustavia
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~20 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~40 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Gustavia, we’d suggest Explore Gustavia Harbor and Visit Shell Beach (Plage des Coquillages). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Gustavia. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
If you’d rather stay inside SBH — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Plane Spotting at St. Jean Beach
- Duty-Free Shopping
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Gustavia: Le Tamarin St Barth and Bagatelle St Barth. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Hangout or Nikki Beach St Barth. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Gustavia:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at SBH may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Gustavia’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SBH is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Gustavia and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at SBH.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Gustavia exploring the streets or relaxing at SBH, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.