St. Barths Travel Guide

Travel

St. Barths Travel Guide

January 27th, 2023

Known for a luxurious feel and flawless beaches, St. Barths is a popular destination in the French West Indies for a warm weather getaway. From delicious restaurants to high-fashion stores and sweeping ocean views, read on to discover our roundup of recommendations, and learn about the Caribbean island’s coveted allure.

St. Barths Bucket List

Have a Leisurely Lunch and Sunset Dinner

We recommend going to Hotel Le Toiny or Eden Rock for a leisurely lunch. Our top choice for dinner is Le Tamarin.

Go Hiking

Rent a car and park at Grand Fond beach and walk to the Natural Pools/"Washing Machine" - so cool!

Have a Beach Day

Choose one of the gorgeous beaches to relax all day.

Swim with Turtles

Swim near Le Guanahani, then grab a drink at a small shack by the hotel.

Where to Stay

Hotel Le Toiny

This is the perfect hotel for a romantic getaway, since it’s more secluded and private.

Eden Rock

Almost entirely surrounded by crystal blue water, Eden Rock is elegant yet easy, and everything truly feels top-notch, from the rooms to the service.

Cheval Blanc

This luxury hotel is French refinement at its best, and has a glamorous ambience.

Hotel Christopher

Whether a villa or suite, every room here has a water view, and the hotel in general has an intimate feel and a minimalist, modern design.

Where to Eat Lunch

Nikki Beach

It’s a scene here, but also iconic. A must for lunch and drinks!

Shellona

This beach restaurant and club has a relaxed but chic vibe, with delicious Greek food and cocktails. Order the lobster pasta.

Hotel Le Toiny Beach Club

A more remote and less scene-y option, the hotel will drive you down to the beach in a defender. Enjoy a meal and rent a daybed!

Eden Rock

Venture here for a long and leisurely lunch, especially if you are not staying at the hotel. It’s also a great option for pre-dinner cocktails.

Where to Eat Dinner

Le Tamarin

This is near Saline Beach and is a favorite. Get the fresh tuna dish!

Bonito

Located in Gustavia, Bonito is known for its great, welcoming atmosphere.

La Petite Plage

This is a hot new spot with a cool atmosphere. Located on the water, the entire floor is sand and the space is decorated with wicker lanterns and bohemian throw pillows.

L I’sola

The most excellent and authentic Italian on the island!

La Guerité

Located at the top of Gustavia’s Harbor, La Guerité has an idyllic atmosphere and authentic Mediterranean food.

Black Ginger

While Thai food may seem like a random option, this is a delicious option for something different in Gustavia.

L’ Atelier de Joel Robuchon

Sit downstairs here and enjoy delicious French food and a large selection of wines.

Bagatelle

While known for its lively drink scene, Bagatelle is an equally good and fun dinner option, especially when traveling with a big group. Go for a late reservation!

Where to Get Drinks

François Plantation

The decor here is so cool; think Caribbean meets African safari. It’s near Colombier Beach.

Le Guanahani

This is a beautiful Rosewood resort and has a great beach bar for pre-dinner drinks.

Le Ti

There’s a wild late night and show scene here, but you can go on the early side as well.

Hotel Christopher

Go here for drinks at sunset for the most beautiful views.

What to Do

Go Hiking

Besides the Natural Pools/"Washing Machine,” great options for hiking are either of the routes in and out of Colombier beach, or the loop near Hotel Le Toiny.

Rent Jet Skis

Go through Jicky Marine Rentals.

Indulge in a Day on the Beach

Some favorites are Saline, Gouvrener, and Colombier beach.

Treat Yourself to Shopping

Gustavia and St. Jean both have great boutiques. Popie’s has all Liberty of London fabrics in a small, quaint space. Delfina is another for high-end clothing with a tropical, nautical feel.

Vacation Inspired Movies

Just Go With It

Forgetting Sarah Marshall

Couples Retreat 

The Heartbreak Kid

Mamma Mia 

Fool’s Gold

South Pacific 

50 First Dates

Beach Reads

Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry

Beach Read by Emily Henry

The Vacationers by Emma Straub

28 Summers by Elin Hilderbrand 

Tender is the Night by F. Scott Fitzgerald

One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle

The Paradise Trilogy by Elin Hilderbrand

Our team #Tuckernucking in St. Barths