Curator’s statement
St. Barths stands out as a destination that truly embodies effortless luxury. It’s a place where glitz and glamour meet total relaxation, creating an atmosphere that makes it easy to unplug from everyday life. Between its beautiful beaches, high-end dining scene, and the island’s naturally joyful energy, it offers an experience that feels both indulgent and uplifting. It’s a destination that consistently reminds me of why people fall in love with travel in the first place.
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Things to do on St. Barths
Tequila, turquoise water, and Nikki Beach energy
Drive around the island in a moke.
Nikki Beach on the weekends.
Go to the right restaurants on the right nights. (Pro tip: all of the popular restaurants have their popular days!)
Lunch at Sand Bar at Eden Rock.
Spend the day at St. Jean Beach—it’s lively, beautiful, and perfect for people-watching.
Sunset cocktails at Shellona or Gyp Sea.
Explore the boutiques in Gustavia for chic island shopping.
Book a private boat day to swim, snorkel, and see the island from the water.
Hike to Colombier Beach for a quieter, postcard-perfect moment.
End the night dancing at Bagatelle or enjoying a low-key drink at a favorite hotel bar.
Places to eat & drink on St. Barths
Chic cocktails, ocean breeze, pure St Barths
Le Tamarin: A tropical garden oasis with lantern-lit pathways and a magical, laid-back vibe.
Bagatelle: The place to be for a lively, party-forward dinner. Expect Champagne, dancing on chairs, and a guaranteed fun night.
Sand Bar: Eden Rock’s iconic beachfront restaurant offering chic, elevated lunch with stunning views of St-Jean Bay. Stylish, delicious, and always a scene.
Bonito: A romantic, airy hilltop restaurant overlooking Gustavia. Known for its beautiful interiors, refined French-Latin cuisine, and perfectly atmospheric dinners. I still have their wooden straw!
Nikki Beach: The ultimate weekend beach party. Think upbeat music, rosé magnums, celebrity energy, and long lunches that turn into dancing.
Shellona: A relaxed yet stylish beach club on Shell Beach with great music, beautiful water views, and a boho-chic vibe perfect for long lunches.
Kinugawa: A sleek Japanese restaurant with a high-end, Paris-meets-St Barths feel. Expect top-notch sushi, dim lighting, and buzzy energy.
L’Isola: Elegant Italian dining with a glamorous, white-tablecloth ambiance. Perfect for a sophisticated, special night out.
Le Petite Plage: A beachfront restaurant with rattan decor, sandy floors, great music, and a lively dinner atmosphere that always turns into a fun night.
Need to know
Travelers should always opt for the puddle jumper from St. Maarten or Tradewind from Puerto Rico because it is far more reliable and enjoyable than taking the ferry, which I strongly advise against.
Each of the island’s most popular restaurants has its designated “night,” so plan dinner reservations strategically and aim for an 8:30 to 9 pm seating when the atmosphere is at its best.
Taxis are limited and expensive, so renting a car or moke is the easiest and most flexible way to get around.
St. Barths is known as a millionaire’s paradise, so it is a destination where you will want to dress up a bit more than you might on other islands.
The hotels are spread out around the island, which makes it especially helpful to work with a travel advisor familiar with the different areas and property styles.
Beaches are public and easy to explore, so feel free to wander.
Above all, slow down and soak in the island’s effortless luxury because St. Barths is meant to be enjoyed at a relaxed, elevated pace.
Travel Advisor
Emma Hunt-Bauman
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our St. Barths page.