Renting a car from Dollar SBH means choosing the freedom to explore every corner of Saint Barthélemy at your own pace. But with the freedom to drive comes the need to park easily — and that can quickly become a hassle if you’re unfamiliar with local rules. Fortunately, the island offers several free and well-planned parking solutions, both in town and near the beaches.
In this article, we’ll give you the best places to park in Saint Barth, based on neighborhoods, beaches, and times of day. Whether you’re visiting Gustavia, St-Jean, or Colombier, you’ll find local tips to enjoy your rental car without stress.
Parking in Saint Barthélemy: What You Need to Know
Before diving into specific zones, here are a few important reminders:
- Parking is free everywhere on the island
- Time-limited (disk) zones exist in Gustavia, limited to 90 minutes
- Illegal or obstructive parking may result in fines, especially during high season
- Most beaches have parking nearby or within walking distance
- Some spaces are reserved for scooters
Dollar SBH provides a parking disk on request, to be used in limited-time areas. Be sure to display it clearly on your dashboard.
Parking in Gustavia: Tips for the Capital Area
Gustavia is the island’s lively downtown, filled with boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and the main harbor. Parking here can be tight, so plan ahead.
Time-limited (blue) zones
Most streets in Gustavia are in blue zones with a 90-minute limit, including:
- Rue de la République
- Rue du Bord de Mer
- Rue Jeanne d’Arc
- In front of the Harbour Office
Use the parking disk provided by Dollar SBH and don’t forget to set your arrival time.
Long-term parking options in Gustavia
For longer stays like dining or shopping, consider these spots:
- The Collectivity parking (in front of the post office): large, with space in the morning
- Hospital parking: about 5 minutes’ walk from the harbor, convenient and discreet
- Parking behind the stadium: ideal for evening outings
Local tip:
The parking lot behind the Wall House Museum is less known among visitors and offers calm, close parking to the center.
Parking in St-Jean: Beach and Shopping Access
St-Jean is another hotspot, home to famous beaches, luxury hotels, and shopping near Eden Rock and Nikki Beach.
St-Jean beach parking
- Main parking lot between Eden Rock and the beach: usually full by midday in high season
- Small roadside spots along Saline Road: available early in the morning
Local tip:
In the early morning or late afternoon, parking close to the beach is easier. Otherwise, try parking near the sports field or pharmacy — it’s just a short walk away.
Best Parking for Beach Access
Some beaches are easier to access by car than others. Here’s our selection:
Flamands
- Parking just before Cheval Blanc hotel
- Free roadside parking
- Easy access, even in peak season
Colombier
- No direct beach parking — access only on foot
- Park at the cul-de-sac on Voie 22 (start of the trail)
- Wear sneakers and bring water for the walk
Gouverneur
- Small parking lot right at the beach entrance
- Arrive early (before 10 a.m.) to get a spot
- Drive cautiously on the narrow road
Saline
- Dirt parking area five minutes’ walk from the beach
- Very busy at noon — mornings are better
Lorient
- Easy roadside parking or near the bakery
- Several quick access points to the beach
Parking for Shopping or Dining
Depending on your plans, here are some convenient options:
Shopping
- Rue de la République in Gustavia: quick stops with a disk
- St-Jean shopping center: private and easily accessible
- Super U in Lorient: large lot, great for groceries
Dining in the evening
- L’Esprit (Saline): private parking available
- Tamarin (Saline): large, well-lit parking
- Bonito or Orega (Gustavia): use the Collectivity or stadium parking areas
Parking Near the Airport or Port
Rémy de Haenen Airport (St-Jean)
- Small visitor parking lot opposite the terminal
- Mainly used for arrivals and departures
- If you’re picking up your rental with Dollar SBH at the airport, it will be waiting just outside
Gustavia Port
- Parking near the Harbour Office (disk zone)
- Long-term parking within walking distance
- Dollar SBH can deliver or collect the vehicle directly at the ferry dock or your yacht
Parking for Scenic Views
Saint Barth offers spectacular views at every turn. Here are a few picturesque spots with easy parking:
- Col de la Tourmente: view of the airport runway, parking just across the road
- Pointe Milou: parking near Hotel Christopher
- Lurin overlook to Shell Beach: a few roadside spaces
- Morne du Vitet: roadside shoulder used informally — drive with care
Areas to Avoid for Parking
Avoid these areas, as they are frequently monitored or unsuitable:
- In front of fire stations, clinics, or delivery zones
- Double parking in Gustavia, even for a short time
- On private villa roads
- Too close to uphill turns or areas with limited visibility
Why Choose Dollar SBH: Making Your Life Easier
At Dollar SBH, we support you beyond just handing over the keys:
- Flexible pickup and drop-off hours
- Delivery anywhere on the island: airport, port, villa, or hotel
- Tailored advice on where to park based on your itinerary
- Free parking disk available upon request
- 7-day-a-week assistance via WhatsApp or phone for any parking questions
Bonus Tips for Stress-Free Parking
- During high season, allow an extra 5 to 10 minutes to find a spot
- Use Google Maps or Waze to locate parking before arrival
- Don’t hesitate to walk a few minutes — it’s safer and less stressful
- Always keep your car clean and locked, even though the island is safe
- Respect time-limited zones — municipal officers are strict
In Summary: Parking in Saint Barth is Easy with the Right Tips
With your Dollar SBH rental car, you’re free to explore the island — as long as you know where to park. Thanks to this guide, you now have the best tips to park easily in Saint Barth, whether you’re heading to the beach, strolling through Gustavia, or enjoying a sunset dinner.