Gustavia is the historic capital of Saint Barth and the island's only real town.
The harbor takes the superyachts, the cobbled streets hold the great fashion and jewellery houses, and Le Select has been serving burgers since 1949 without changing a thing.
Villas sit on the hills above the bay, with the island's best tables within walking distance, which matters more than it sounds where the roads are narrow and poorly lit after dark.
Shell Beach, the town beach, is sheltered and swims well, with a restaurant on the sand; it is made of shells rather than fine sand, so bring water shoes.
Saint Jean is ten minutes away, Gouverneur and Saline five.
A villa rental in Gustavia suits anyone who wants to go out in the evening without getting back in the car, as a couple or as a group.
