Saint Barth Guide
The best part about visiting this island is embracing the true meaning of il dolce far niente, the sweetness of doing nothing. Saint Barthélemy or St. Barths is a small island in the Caribbean known as a playground for the rich and famous and it’s home to some of the most exclusive hotels, restaurants and beach clubs in the world. It’s an anomaly in the Caribbean because it’s the only island people visit specifically for shopping, nightlife and incredible dining. Even though St. Barths is in the Caribbean, it’s a French island and feels more like you’re in the South of France, most of the seasonal staff are even from France and rotate hotels between seasons. It was a pleasure getting to visit for the first time with the Embark team for a photoshoot with Tale A Guest showcasing the beautiful Cheval Blanc hotel.
Getting There
Not flying private? Not a problem, there are several ways to arrive in St. Barths my favorite being a semi-private flight via Tradewinds from San Juan, Puerto Rico, this is bookable by a travel advisor so check for special rates and info first. This is the most luxurious way to go and they make the 1-hour flight so comfortable with a private lounge in San Juan and plenty of snacks and alcohol on the flight. You’ll need the alcohol, flying into St. Barths is one of the hardest places to land because of the short runway and quick descent, the pilots have to be specially trained to fly this route! If that connection doesn’t make sense for your itinerary, you can also fly into St. Martin (SXM) and take a 15-minute scheduled hopper flight on the St. Barth Commuter for about $250 roundtrip. You will have to pass through customs in St. Martin so allow plenty of extra time, this airport is notoriously chaotic. Fair warning, getting to St. Barths isn’t easy or cheap, but it’s worth it!
Peak travel season in St. Barths is November through early January. Expect to pay a premium for flights and hotels and many require a 7-14 night minimum during the holidays. If you’re dreaming of spending the holidays in St. Barths begin the planning process 9-12 months in advance. May and early June are great months to visit because the island is still buzzing, but crowds are smaller and the rates aren't so inflated. Be aware that many properties close for hurricane season and maintenance in September and October.
Hotels
Contact me to book any of these hotels to receive exclusive Embark amenities like complimentary upgrades, hotel credits, etc.
Eden Rock | The crème de la crème of St Barths known for their unique personal touch and brand, from the personalized makeup bags to the beach boys serving complimentary frosé. Most central spot on the island in the middle of St. Jean and adjacent to Nikki Beach Club. They also offer a robust villa program great for group trips.
Cheval Blanc | Equally as luxurious as Eden Rock, but a bit more pretentious and formal in the best way. Stunning views and access of Flamandes Beach with 61 rooms, where celebrities go to see and not be seen.
Villa Marie | A boutique hideaway with private mountainside cottages overlooking the sea with a contemporary and colorful style. No beach access, but guests receive complimentary daybeds at their beach club, Gypsea Beach in St. Jean, about a 10-minute drive.
Le Barthelemy | Contemporary and tucked away on the windier side of St. Barths with an amazing spa.
Rosewood Hotel Guanahani | The largest and newest resort located next to Le Barthelemy and a great choice for families.
Restaurants
In typical French fashion, dinner starts around 9 PM and can last well past midnight. Many restaurants like La Petit Plage transform into clubs after a certain hour so you can enjoy dinner and party all in one place. Dining is notoriously expensive in St. Barths, cocktails at most restaurants start at $25 and there aren’t many fast casual spots on the island. We tried Le Select for an easy burger and fries night.
Sand Bar at Eden Rock
Bonito
La Petit Plage
Bagatelle
Le Select
Activities
The allure of St. Barths is to enjoy the art of “doing nothing.” The beaches are beautiful, the water is warm and St. Barths is the perfect place for true R&R. If you’d like to incorporate one or two activities into your itinerary, I highly recommend renting a catamaran or boat for a day to see the island from a different point of view. There are plenty of world-class spas on the island so spend a day pampering yourself followed by shopping in town. You’ll find all the best designer and local stores in Gustavia. Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous you can make the 20-minute flat hike to Colombier Beach, it’s only accessible by boat or foot.