Nestled in the Caribbean, St. Barts is a posh, upscale French island known for its stunning beaches, high-end boutiques, luxurious resorts and famous beach clubs. This island paradise seamlessly blends French elegance with a laid-back Caribbean lifestyle, making it a top destination for luxury travelers.
The official language is French, although English is widely spoken too. The official currency is Euro (€), but US dollars ($) are also accepted. With a small population of approximately 10,000 residents, St. Barts offers a charming and intimate atmosphere. The vibe here is a perfect mix of French sophistication and relaxed Caribbean charm, making it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind in style.
When To Visit St. Barts
The best time to experience St. Barts is from December to April, during the dry season. May to June also typically have good weather, and you’ll see lower price points on hotels.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, visiting during the off-peak months can offer a more tranquil atmosphere — but you run the risk of poor weather!
How To Get There
Most travelers from the US fly into St. Maarten (SXM) and take a short connecting flight to St. Barts (SBH). Direct flights to St. Barts are available from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and select Caribbean islands. Private plane and boat charters are also a popular option, and provide a seamless and luxurious arrival experience.
Luxury Hotels In St. Barts
As luxury travel advisors, we have preferred partnerships with all of the luxury hotels in St. Bart’s (and worldwide). We can book your room reservation for the same price as listed on the hotel’s website, but thanks to our strong relationships with the hotel’s managers, your booking will also receive additional VIP perks and amenities.
This typically includes free breakfast daily, hotel and/or spa credits, top of the list for a room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, and a personalized stay.
If you’re looking to book any of these luxury hotels, reach out to Unfolded Travels here. All we need to know is your travel dates and desired room to send you room rates. We don’t charge for hotel bookings, so all of these perks come to you absolutely for free!
Hotel Le Toiny
Le Toiny features 22 private villa suites, each with its own private pool and terrace offering breathtaking ocean views. Designed with a chic, contemporary style, the villas seamlessly blend with the island’s natural surroundings. Le Toiny is particularly noted for its privacy. The layout of the villas ensures that guests can enjoy their own secluded slice of paradise.
Toiny Beach, known for its wild, rugged beauty, is not ideal for swimming due to strong currents, but it’s perfect for beach combing and enjoying the natural scenery. The hotel offers a range of wellness services, including yoga classes and in-room spa treatments. There are several trails around the property and the island that offer spectacular views and a chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
The hotel offers two dining options: Le Toiny Restaurant and Beach Club. Le Toiny is the main dining venue, offering gourmet cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The setting is elegant yet relaxed, with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. The Beach Club is located on the secluded Toiny Beach. It serves casual, Mediterranean-inspired fare. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch with your toes in the sand.
Cheval Blanc
Cheval Blanc St. Barts, on Flamands Beach, is one of the island’s most beautiful spots. Guests can relax on the pristine white sand or take a dip in the turquoise waters. There’s also a stunning infinity pool overlooking the ocean. The resort exudes an understated elegance, with a focus on comfort and luxury. The décor is chic and sophisticated, with a touch of island charm.
The resort offers a range of accommodations, with 61 charming rooms, spacious suites, and private villas. Each features plush bedding, modern amenities, and often, private terraces or balconies with ocean views. Cheval Blanc offers a high level of privacy and exclusivity, making it a favorite among celebrities and discerning travelers.
Cheval Blanc is known for its exceptional service, referred to as the “Art de Recevoir”. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure every guest has a personalized and memorable stay. The Cheval Blanc Spa offers a range of treatments inspired by Guerlain’s beauty rituals. There’s a well-equipped fitness center, as well as yoga and Pilates classes available.
Dining options include La Case and La Cabane. La Case is the main restaurant, by celebrated chef Jean Imbert. It offers refined French cuisine with a Caribbean twist, using fresh, local ingredients. The setting is elegant and airy, perfect for a romantic dinner. Located right on the beach, La Cabane is a casual eatery. It is perfect for a relaxed lunch or a sunset cocktail.
Rosewood Le Guanahani
Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth is a luxurious resort nestled on an 18-acre private peninsula in Grand Cul-de-Sac. Its location ensures a high level of privacy and exclusivity, with stunning views and direct access to the beaches. It features 66 accommodations, including rooms, suites, and villas. Each offers a unique design that combines contemporary style with Caribbean influences, and many have private terraces or pools with stunning ocean or garden views.
Set on two beaches, the hotel offers a variety of watersports, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. The calm waters of Grand Cul-de-Sac are ideal for these activities. It boasts two swimming pools – one for families and one for adults only. Additionally, Rosewood Explorers offers a range of activities for children, ensuring that younger guests have an enjoyable stay too.
Dining options include Beach House and Bar Mélangé. The main restaurant, Beach House St. Barth, offers a delightful menu inspired by Mediterranean and Caribbean flavors. With a beachfront setting, guests can enjoy gourmet meals while taking in panoramic views of the turquoise waters. Bar Mélangé is the perfect spot for enjoying creative cocktails, fine wines, and light bites.
Sense, A Rosewood Spa, offers a range of treatments inspired by the island’s natural beauty and healing traditions. The spa features serene treatment rooms, a relaxation area, and a fitness center. The property offers a range of cultural experiences, including culinary classes, art workshops, and guided island tours, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture.
Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa
Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa is located on the tranquil shores of Grand Cul-de-Sac. The hotel offers 44 elegantly designed rooms and suites, each featuring chic, modern décor. Many accommodations boast private terraces or balconies with breathtaking views of the ocean or lush gardens. Some suites also come with private plunge pools.
There is no shortage of dining options on-site! Amis St. Barth is the hotel’s main restaurant, offering a blend of French and Mediterranean cuisine with a Caribbean influence. The setting is both elegant and relaxed, perfect for enjoying a gourmet meal while overlooking the ocean. Le Bar at Amis St. Barth serves creative cocktails in fun glassware with fresh herbs.
The hotel is set on a beautiful stretch of beach with calm, shallow waters. The clear, turquoise waters are filled with marine life, making it a great spot for underwater exploration. The stunning infinity pool offers a place to relax and soak up the sun, with spectacular views of the ocean. Le Spa at Le Barthélemy offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate and relax. The spa features serene treatment rooms, a hammam, and a fitness center. The hotel offers yoga and Pilates classes, as well as personal training sessions.
Le Barthélemy is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, including the use of solar panels, water conservation measures, and support for local conservation efforts. The hotel welcomes pets, making it a great choice for travelers who want to bring their furry friends along!
The Best Beach Clubs and Restaurants In St. Barts
La Guérite Plage
La Guérite Plage in Saint Barthélemy is a chic beach club and restaurant located on the beautiful Shell Beach in Gustavia. It boasts a stunning beachfront location with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. La Guérite Plage is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It often features live music and DJ sets, creating a festive and energetic vibe.
The restaurant offers a menu inspired by Mediterranean flavors, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Dishes often include fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a variety of salads and appetizers. The bar serves a range of creative cocktails, fine wines, and refreshing beverages, perfect for enjoying while lounging by the beach.
Guests can relax on comfortable beach loungers and take in the stunning views. The beach club provides a full-service experience.
Kinugawa
Kinugawa is a Japanese restaurant that brings the essence of Tokyo’s vibrant dining scene to the Caribbean. Located in Gustavia, this restaurant offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese cuisine with a contemporary twist. Kinugawa boasts a sleek and modern design with a touch of Japanese minimalism. The restaurant offers spectacular views of Gustavia harbor.
The menu at Kinugawa features a wide range of traditional Japanese dishes with a modern twist. Expect expertly crafted sushi, sashimi, and tempura, as well as innovative dishes that incorporate local Caribbean ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the Kinugawa Black Cod, Wagyu Beef Tataki, and a variety of creative sushi rolls that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. For a truly unique dining experience, opt for the Omakase menu, where the chef curates a personalized meal based on the freshest ingredients available.
Kinugawa also offers an impressive selection of sake, ranging from traditional to premium varieties. The chefs at Kinugawa skillfully blend traditional Japanese techniques with Caribbean flavors, creating dishes that are both familiar and innovative.
Tamarin St. Barth
Tamarin offers a unique dining experience set in a lush tropical garden. Located in Saline, it is set amidst a beautiful, expansive garden filled with palm trees, tamarind trees, and vibrant flowers. The outdoor seating area is surrounded by nature, creating a serene and magical dining environment.
The menu is a fusion of French, Asian, and Caribbean influences. Some standout dishes include the Tuna Tataki, Lobster Risotto, and the Tamarin Cheesecake. The menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest ingredients available. Tamarin also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The wine list features a carefully curated selection of wines from around the world, with options to complement every dish on the menu.
La Petite Plage
La Petite Plage in St. Barts is a charming beachside restaurant that brings a touch of French Riviera elegance to the Caribbean. Located in Gustavia and nestled right by the water, La Petite Plage offers breathtaking views of the harbor and the turquoise Caribbean Sea.
The menu at La Petite Plage is inspired by the flavors of the French Riviera, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Expect a mix of classic French dishes and Mediterranean delights. Some highlights include the Tuna Carpaccio, Bouillabaisse, and the Grilled Octopus. The menu also features a variety of fresh salads, pastas, and seafood dishes. Don’t miss out on their dessert selection, which includes classics like Tarte Tatin and Crème Brûlée.
During the day, guests can relax on comfortable beach loungers and enjoy the full-service experience, with food and drinks delivered right to their spot on the sand.
Le Ti
Le Ti St. Barth is known for its wild parties, vibrant atmosphere, and eclectic entertainment. Located in Pointe Milou, it offers a unique blend of dining, cabaret, and late-night revelry. Here’s what makes Le Ti St. Barth a must-visit:
The interior is a mix of vintage glamour and bohemian chic, with plush furnishings, exotic artifacts, and dim lighting that creates a sultry and intimate atmosphere. The vibe at Le Ti is always lively and energetic, with a seamless blend of dining and entertainment. It’s a place where you can expect the unexpected, with surprises and performances throughout the night. Unlike many other restaurants, Le Ti serves food late into the night, making it a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy a leisurely dinner before hitting the dance floor.
Bonito
Perched on a hillside in Gustavia, Bonito offers breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor and the Caribbean Sea. The menu at Bonito is a unique fusion of French and Latin American flavors, offering a diverse range of dishes. Some standout dishes include the Ceviche Bonito, Lobster Risotto, and the Beef Tenderloin. The menu also features a variety of fresh seafood, meats, and vegetarian options.
Bonito is well-known for its raw bar, which offers an impressive selection of ceviches, tiraditos, and sushi, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. Bonito features an open kitchen design, allowing guests to watch the chefs in action as they prepare their meals.
Bagatelle
Situated right on the waterfront in Gustavia, Bagatelle offers breathtaking views of the harbor and the surrounding area. The setting is perfect for enjoying a meal while watching the yachts and sailboats go by.
The menu at Bagatelle is inspired by the flavors of the French Riviera and the Mediterranean, offering a range of dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The cuisine is both refined and flavorful, with an emphasis on seafood and seasonal produce. Some standout dishes include the Truffle Pizza, Lobster Linguine, and the Grilled Sea Bass. The menu also features a variety of appetizers, salads, and gourmet desserts.
Bagatelle is famous for its lively brunches and special event menus, offering an array of delicious options that cater to all tastes. Bagatelle seamlessly transitions from a relaxed daytime restaurant to a vibrant nightlife destination. During the day, guests can enjoy leisurely meals and cocktails by the water. As the sun sets, the energy ramps up with music, dancing, and festivities.
Nikki Beach
Nikki Beach in St. Barts is one of the most iconic and glamorous beach clubs in the Caribbean. It is situated right on the beautiful St. Jean Beach, providing guests with breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and white sandy shores.
The menu at Nikki Beach offers a diverse range of dishes inspired by flavors from around the world. The focus is on fresh, high-quality ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. Some of the standout dishes include the Nikki Beach Sushi Boat, Truffle Pizza, and the Famous Chicken Satay. The menu also features a variety of fresh salads, seafood, and gourmet burgers.
The beach club often features fashion shows, art exhibitions, and other special events, adding an extra layer of excitement and glamour to the experience.
Best Beaches In St. Barts
1. Gouverneur
Its crystalline waters make this the perfect place to relax for sunbathers and snorkelers alike. The beach’s secluded location and stunning views make it a favorite for those seeking a peaceful escape.
2. Saline
Beautiful long beach renowned for its expansive stretch of white sand and natural, undeveloped landscape — perfect for those seeking a more secluded and tranquil beach experience. The beach is a bit of a walk from the parking area, but the pristine beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it well worth the effort.
3. Colombier
Often described as the island’s best-kept secret, this secluded undeveloped beach is accessible only by hiking or boat, making it perfect for a private escape. The clear waters and serene environment make it ideal for snorkeling and picnicking.
4. St. Jean Beach
One of the most popular beaches on the island, perfect for families. Its close proximity to lively beach clubs and restaurants makes it a hub of activity. The beach is divided into two parts by the Eden Rock Hotel offering both a vibrant and a more tranquil side.
We Can Book Your Luxury Stay In St. Barts
At Unfolded Travels, we’re dedicated to turning your travel dreams into a reality. We can help you plan every detail of your St. Barts getaway, including the booking of airfare, hotels, transportation, and activities. Alternatively, if you’d like to handle the planning and simply want the VIP perks at our partner hotels, we can book your hotel stay at no extra cost to you! Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable trip to this Caribbean paradise.
