St Barthélemy

A little known treasure of the Caribbean is St Barthélemy.  Often referred to as St Barts in the US and St Barth in France.  This island paradise’s what you dream about when you think Caribbean get-away.  That is if you are affluent and like your Caribbean island to feel more like the French Riviera.    Nestled among the Leeward Islands of the West Indies, St. Barts allures travelers with a taste for the finer things in life to indulge in a world of opulence, tranquility, and natural splendor.

St. Barts is a favorite destination among the rich and famous, attracting celebrities, jet-setters, and affluent travelers from around the world. Rub elbows with A-listers at exclusive beach clubs, chic cocktail bars, and glamorous events, or simply enjoy the star-studded ambiance that permeates the island.

What to Expect

The island is relatively small but incredibly hilly.  Pick your favorite vista and make that your home base.  If you are looking for more of a quiet holiday, stick to the southern part of the island.  Places likes Gouverneur and Grand Fond offer more of an off-the-beaten-path and tranquil stay for those looking to escape the crowds.   If you want more action, try Gustavia or St Jean.  Gustavia is centered around the vibrant waterfront promenade lined with upscale shops, gourmet restaurants, and chic cafes.  St Jean is home to the island’s iconic Eden Rock hotel, as well as trendy beach clubs, boutiques, and nightlife venues.

Exquisite Accommodations

St. Barts boasts some of the most lavish and opulent accommodations in the Caribbean. From private villas perched on scenic hilltops with breathtaking ocean views to luxurious beachfront resorts offering unparalleled amenities and personalized service, the island caters to the most discerning tastes.  Leverage local concierge type services to find the most appropriate accommodations to fit your needs.  I found private villas to be a joy if you are comfortable with a more independent style of vacationing.  But note, that some hotels like the Christoper and Le Toiny offer villa accommodations with the convenience of a hotel.  

Exclusive Dining Experiences

St. Barts is a culinary haven, boasting a diverse array of world-class restaurants helmed by renowned chefs. Indulge in exquisite French cuisine, fresh seafood delicacies, and innovative fusion dishes served in elegant waterfront settings or chic alfresco dining venues.  Some of my favorites included BeefBar, Joel Robuchon and Ocean Club.  Read my blog on the Best Restaurants in St Barts to learn why these should be on your list as well.  

Fabulous Beach Clubs

St. Barts is known for its exclusive beach clubs.  Here you will find some world renowned clubs like Nikki Beach and Eden Rock.  But you will also find some more local brands like GypSea and Le Toiny.  These beach clubs provide the best environment for indulging in  local libations while lounging near the beach getting your fill of vitamin D.  

When to Go

St Barts is pretty fabulous anytime of the year.  However, there are a few times when it’s livelier than others.   Like many Caribbean destinations, high season here coincides with winter when northerners are in need of a sunny escape.  

 

December and January are particularly busy due to the holiday season, while February and March are popular months for luxury events and festivals. May and June are considered shoulder months with fewer visitors and pleasant weather.  July officially kicks off hurricane season in the Caribbean.  While this typically means more rainy days it also means smaller crowds.  If you’re looking for a quieter, more affordable experience, the low season offers its own charm.