The ultra-wealthy flock to St. Barths during its bustling high season, which runs from mid-December to mid-April. Activity peaks over the festive holidays, from Christmas through New Year’s, when the island transforms into a glamorous playground for jet-setters. The yacht-filled harbor of the capital city of Gustavia sparkles with some of the world’s most luxurious vessels, adding to the island’s lively, celebratory atmosphere.
For multigenerational families or couples seeking a more tranquil getaway, St. Barths offers a serene retreat during the shoulder seasons in late April and early November. During these quieter times, the island’s natural beauty takes center stage, unspoiled by the buzz of peak-season crowds.
Beyond its reputation for luxury, St. Barths boasts a fascinating history and vibrant culture. Originally settled by the French, the island was named after Christopher Columbus’ brother, Bartolomeo. It is also the only Caribbean island to have been a Swedish colony, leaving behind charming Scandinavian influences including blue-and-yellow accents visible throughout Gustavia.
Whether you visit during the high season or the quieter months, St. Barths enchants with world-class dining, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and luxury shopping that rivals the best in the world. We’ve rounded up the top places to stay, eat and play to help you make the most of your visit.
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Where to stay
Le Carl Gustaf
Overlooking the stunning, yacht-filled harbor of Gustavia, this boutique property blends city sophistication with beachside tranquility. It features 21 suites, each with private terraces and pools, alongside signature suites. The standalone Villa Diane offers a private entrance, car park, swimming pool and a host of exclusive amenities. The hotel is also home to the vibrant Shellona Beach Bar and the newly opened Beef Bar, perfect for those with discerning culinary tastes. Don’t miss the Spa Diane Barrière, a haven of wellness offering treatments like state-of-the-art facials, massages and multisensory therapies.
Cheval Blanc
Ideal for family-friendly getaways in St. Barths, Cheval Blanc provides a serene setting, with 61 rooms, suites and villas scattered across the property, along with two swimming pools. Families will particularly appreciate the five-bedroom Villa de France, which offers direct access to Flamands Beach. This villa features two infinity-edge pools, a spa treatment room, a fitness space and a dedicated Cheval Blanc Majordome to cater to every need. Combining French West Indies charm with contemporary design, the villa reflects traditional Creole architecture, making it a luxurious retreat for multigenerational stays.
Le Barth Villa Rental
Le Barth Villa Rental offers over 100 family-friendly villas across St. Barths, ranging from two to 10 bedrooms. Guests enjoy access to the facilities and beach of the award-winning Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa. The Family Retreat collection is tailored for St. Barths vacations, with 24/7 concierge services, private round-trip transfers, daily breakfast delivery and luxury welcome amenities. Children receive personalized slippers, petit-prince toiletries and plush turtles as special gifts. One standout option is Villa Jable, a six-bedroom retreat in Saline. This villa features breathtaking sunset views, serene privacy and ample indoor and outdoor spaces for extended families.
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Where to eat
Beef Bar
Carnivores, rejoice! Riccardo Giraudi’s renowned Beef Bar has found a home at Le Carl Gustaf in Gustavia. The eclectic menu includes street-food-inspired bites such as beef bao buns, Kobe wagyu sliders and rock corn — tempura-dipped popcorn topped with spicy mayonnaise. Must-try main dishes include the beefy cordon bleu — a veal filet stuffed with beef rib-eye jam and melted cheese, coated in panko and topped with black truffle cream. Seafood lovers can savor options like glazed salmon and trofie pasta with zefferino pesto.
Tamarin St. Barths
Nestled among palm trees and tropical gardens, Tamarin transports diners to an enchanting setting. Run by brothers Jérôme and Frédéric Lebeau, the restaurant serves gourmet, authentic cuisine. Highlights include fresh local tiradito, scallop carpaccio, smoked veal chop with morel crust, foie gras mi cuit, lobster and tender octopus.
Shellona
This Mediterranean beachside club offers a menu to satisfy every palate. Greek head chef Yiannis Kioroglou serves shareable dishes such as feta cheese wrapped in filo pastry with honey, grilled calamari and a mezze trio. Pair your meal with a creative cocktail or a crisp, chilled glass of rosé for the ultimate experience.
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Where to play
Nikki Beach St. Barths
The recently renovated Nikki Beach boasts a refreshed, sophisticated look, complete with a redesigned bar area that’s perfect for enjoying handcrafted cocktails. Culinary highlights include hamachi crudo with pickled onions and passion-fruit-coriander sauce, lobster linguini with a bisque sauce and the exotic rum baba — a rum sponge biscuit topped with white chocolate cream and fresh fruit. Guests can also enjoy a more immersive sound experience from the updated DJ booth.
Eden Rock
Perched on a rocky promontory overlooking St. Jean Bay, Eden Rock is celebrated for its glamorous history and celebrity allure. Guests can indulge in world-class dining at the Sand Bar, helmed by acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, or enjoy cocktails at the beachside Rémy Bar. Whether soaking up the sun or reveling in the nightlife, Eden Rock offers an unforgettable experience.
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