If you really want to feel the pulse of St Barts, rent a scooter. It’s the island version of freedom. With winding coastal roads, hidden coves, and scenic hilltops, there’s no better way to soak it all in than from the seat of a scooter, hair in the wind, sun on your skin, and beach bag strapped to the back.
Why choose a scooter in St Barts?
Let’s start with the basics. St Barts is a small island – just 25 square kilometers. A car will get you around, sure, but a scooter? A scooter lets you live the island like a local. You skip traffic. You park anywhere (almost). And you can stop whenever you spot a view that begs for a photo or a swim. It’s flexible, fast, and fun.
Plus, driving a scooter here isn’t intimidating. The roads are in great condition, speed limits are low, and distances are short. Just watch out for a few steep hills and the occasional goat crossing.
Where to rent a scooter
You’ll find several reliable scooter rental shops near the airport in St Jean and in Gustavia. The most trusted option on the island is:
- Barthloc – Located in Gustavia, they offer scooters, quads, and small cars with flexible delivery options.
- Top Loc – They often include a free helmet and a beach map with your rental, and they offer delivery to your villa, the airport, or the port.
- EZ Loc St Barth – Based in Saline, they provide daily or long-term rentals with delivery included.
- Béranger Rental – One of the island’s oldest rental companies, with a solid fleet of scooters and quad bikes.
- Rid’In St Barth – Offers stylish Italian scooters with insurance, helmets, and gloves included, plus free delivery.
Prices generally range from €25 to €45 per day, depending on the model and the season. Advance booking is highly recommended during high season (December to April).
Related : The Best Time to Rent a Villa in St Barts
Best routes to ride
Here are some iconic scooter-friendly routes that showcase the best of the island:
- Gustavia to Colombier: Start with a coffee in the harbor, then ride to the Colombier trailhead. Park your scooter and hike down to one of the island’s most pristine beaches.
- St Jean to Saline Beach: Pass by Eden Rock and Nikki Beach, then head inland. The last stretch to Saline is winding and gorgeous. Park and take the sandy path down to turquoise bliss.
- Lorient to Toiny: This road hugs the Atlantic coast with some wild, dramatic views. Less touristy, more raw.
- The Loop: Do a full circle of the island—Gustavia, Public, Colombier, Flamands, Corossol, St Jean, Lorient, Saline, Grand Fond, Toiny, Vitet, and back. It sounds like a lot, but you can do it in an afternoon.
Pro tips for riding in St Barts
- Wear sunscreen: You’ll be exposed all day. A cap under your helmet helps too.
- Pack light: Most scooters come with a small under-seat storage. Think towel, water, sunscreen, wallet.
- Fuel up: There’s only one gas station in St Barts, near the airport. Fill up before heading far.
- Check the weather: Avoid riding during tropical downpours. Roads get slippery fast.
Is it safe?
Yes—as long as you drive responsibly. Locals are used to scooters on the road, and speed limits are low. If you’ve never driven one before, ask for a quick tutorial at the rental shop. Wear your helmet, don’t text and ride, and avoid alcohol.
Final word
Exploring St Barts by scooter turns every trip into an adventure. You don’t just visit beaches—you discover them. You don’t just drive to dinner—you cruise through a golden-hour sunset. It’s not just transportation; it’s part of the island experience.
So next time you land in paradise, trade four wheels for two. Trust us—you won’t regret it.
