The Caribbean Escape: 3 Islands for a Refined Spring & Summer Getaway

Saint Barthélemy: Effortless glamour with French-Caribbean flair

St. Barths is all about that see-and-be-seen energy, with great restaurants, beach clubs, and a polished crowd. But when you want to slow it down, places like Saline Beach are perfect for a quieter reset.

Which reminds me...rent a car. You’ll need it, and it’s surprisingly inexpensive; it might be the cheapest part of the trip.

I wrote a lot about this destination on my previous post, so take a look at it if you want a perfect 4-day itinerary in Saint Barths.

• Best for: Couples, stylish friend groups, milestone birthdays, and travelers who want both beach and scene.

Anguilla: Understated luxury and world-class beaches

Anguilla has a different rhythm. It’s calm, open, and quietly sophisticated. The beaches are expansive, the dining scene is exceptional, and the service feels genuinely warm.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed beach stay, leave the party scene in SBH and look no further than Anguilla.

• Best for: Couples or families or travelers who value space, privacy, and exceptional dining without a heavy party scene.

Canouan: Private, polished & quietly exclusive

If you’re looking for somewhere truly off the radar, Canouan delivers. Tucked away in the Grenadines and just five square miles in size, it feels remote in the best way. This is for those looking to escape to something that feels like a private island—remote, yet with some of the best service in the Caribbean.

There are only two primary resorts, both sharing pristine beaches and a crystal-clear lagoon.

• Best for: Honeymoons, discreet luxury travelers, and anyone who wants a Caribbean escape that feels undiscovered.

St. Barths

• Tamarin: Dinner under palm trees in a lush tropical garden. Romantic, atmospheric, and consistently excellent. Try the ceviche—it really hits the spot here.

• La Guérite Beach: Not to be confused with the one in Gustavia. The food might be similar, but for a beach setting in the afternoon, there’s no comparison.

• Rémy Bar & Salon: Located at Eden Rock, this is the perfect pre-dinner cocktail spot—refined but relaxed. Do yourself a favor and ask for a Negroni Sbagliato, my go-to.

• Nikki Beach Saint Barth: Reserve for Sunday and well in advance. Long lunches evolve into dancing barefoot by the sea, a quintessential island experience.

Anguilla

• Jacala: Refined French-Caribbean cuisine right on the sand. The steak tartare here is supposed to be one of the best on the island.

• Straw Hat: Relaxed beachfront dining with consistently great seafood. Best for lunch and a cocktail, right on the beach.