I can only speak to St. Barts but I agree with the other response about stopping at Columbier at the northern tip. Very peaceful (at least in the summer when we go).

Clearing in at Gustavia is a bit of a pain. Each time we've called in, they told us to anchor out and dinghy in. I suspect if you are not a mega yacht, you are not worth the dock space. The anchor spots are somewhat crowded and semi deep so it's just a little more effort and time to go through the process. I might try anchoring at Shell Beach next time, which is a little cove just south of the harbor, and walking over.

The actual clearing in process is very easy. You just fill out your info on a computer and pay your money. Takes about 10 minutes.

Have fun!