The site of Fort Karl is located in southwest Gustavia, on small hill approximately 34 meters (111 ft) high.

[1] The site overlooks Gustavia and its port (to the northeast) and Shell Beach (to the southeast).

[2] Fort Karl was built in 1789 during the era of Swedish rule of Saint Barthélemy.

[2] In 2007, the Conservatoire du Littoral took possession of the Fort Karl site.

[2] The Fort Karl site is a popular location for hiking and whale watching.