Ahh, St. Barths—the white sand, blue water, French-speaking little paradise…
The charm starts from the moment of your arrival. Book a 15-minute Winair flight from neighboring St. Martin, or the slightly longer (but more luxurious) connection from San Juan, Puerto Rico, on one of Tradewind’s sleek eight-seaters. The 15-minute flight brings you to one of the shortest landing strips, the 2,100-foot runway bookended by a hill on one side and the bay on the other. Turboprop planes are the only way in.
Where to Stay: Le Barthelemy
While I’m sure there is no shortage of fantastic hotels on St. Barths, Le Barthelemy truly exceeded my expectations. Exceptional! Peaceful serenity with outstanding service. I really enjoyed breakfast each morning, and the beach area was also quite nice, with amazing views of the water.
The hotel offers unlimited access to a free sauna, steam room, and cold/hot plunges during the stay.
The spa is a La Mer spa, so of course, I indulged in a La Mer Genaissance Facial. Discover the ultimate anti-aging treatment from the sea. Pure and powerful, the Crystal Miracle Broth™ instantly infuses the skin with intense energy. The skin’s natural renewal is accelerated, and La Mer’s signature massage techniques help visibly rejuvenate the skin. An exclusive massage phase using Crystal Miracle Broth™ massage stones stimulates the skin to enhance the benefits of the treatment. My skin was glowing the whole trip after that.
I cannot say enough about the personal service and interest the staff provided. Great location, on the beach, minutes from St. Jean and Gustavia, and only 12-15 minutes to the airport.
Le Barthelemy boasts the longest beach with the most beach chairs and tables set up. The food was wonderful at the beach club and Amis restaurant. I had excellent pastries every morning at the breakfast buffet and delicious iced coffee by the pool while I did my meditation breathwork.
Where to Eat:
One of my favorite characteristics of the island is the French approach to long, delicious, and fun lunches! Many times, lunches and dinners end with dancing on top of the tables.
For lunch, perched over the sheltered cove with one of the best swimmable beaches on the island, the Greek-influenced Shellona is a favorite for long lunches that linger through sunset. The vibey restaurant shows off the best views. I had a delicious Mediterranean lunch from my sun chair, watching the waves crash and beautiful yachts.
Another great option for a fun beach lunch is Gypsea. The fresh whole fish is delicious, even better if paired with truffle fries and cold rosé. Bring your best beach chic look and enjoy some table dancing at the end of the day when everyone shares laughs and dances on top of their chairs.
A party hotspot, Nikki Beach is the place to see and be seen in St. Barths, especially during weekend brunches. Located on Saint-Jean Beach, this luxury beach club is perfect for partying with your toes in the sand. Expect a festive atmosphere and French-Caribbean flavors.
Eden Rock is another “see and be seen” kind of place, with gorgeous and playful interior design. Enjoy a drink at the bar with stunning beach views.
For dinner, Bonito St. Barths is a must. Set above Gustavia harbor with an all-white decor and candlelight, it’s perfect for sunset drinks and a delicious dinner. The drinks are different and fun—don’t forget to try the “Sex-on-the-Bath,” a light and fruity vodka-based cocktail. The food is memorable, but the atmosphere is unforgettable. Enjoy a beautiful view of the port as you dine on fresh, chef-created dishes that rival your picture-perfect surroundings.
La Guérite is another fantastic choice. Eat and play! Lounge-like La Guérite is already a popular pick on the port for its Mediterranean-style plates and music that follows the mood of the crowd throughout the evening. The atmosphere heats up as dinner comes to a close and diners start dancing around (and on) tables.
Things to Do:
The island has a lot to love, but the beaches are its main attraction. Pick your favorite: Saline is gorgeous, secluded, and simple, with no bars or restaurants to disturb the quiet vibe. St. Jean Beach provides the total opposite experience, as it’s home to Eden Rock and Nikki Beach, so there’s lots of action and great people-watching. Shell Beach, my favorite, is so named because it’s covered in crushed shells (it’s also home to the popular beach bar/restaurant Shellona). Gouverneur is an unspoiled cove that’s great for picnics and privacy. Visit one or all of them, and you’re guaranteed the beach day of your dreams.
Rafaela Sa.
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