Combine an array of stunning beaches and unparalleled French cuisine with sophisticated relaxation and the result is a getaway that lives up to your every expectation. Laid-back luxury is intrinsically woven into the island, as if the white sands were meant to feel like powdered sugar and the lush covered islets were shaped for your seclusion.
Spend a vacances immersed in St. Barts’ rich history and undeniable Caribbean charm offering unique experiences on and off shore.
Below, discover what lures us to St. Barts year after year.
Location
Situated in the French West Indies, St. Barts is a part of the Leeward Islands in the northeastern corner of the Caribbean Sea. Only eight square miles of hills form this prestigious rock, tropical climates give 360 days of sunshine a year and temperatures ranging from 72°F to 86°F, including incredibly warm waters year-round. From the lighthouse hill, panoramic views of the neighboring islands Statia, Saba, and St. Martin are seen in the distance.
Beaches
More than a dozen beaches line the coast of the island beckoning beach-goers to soak in the azure waters. White powdery sands welcome total relaxation, whether you choose a lively beach like St. Jean (near Eden Rock) and popular beach-front hotspots Nikki Beach and Pearl Beach La Plage, or a more secluded stretch, like Saline Beach capped with rocky hillsides that offer spectacular unobstructed views.
History
The Island gained its name in 1493 after Christopher Columbus’s brother, Bartoloméo. After the arrival of the Italian explorer, St. Barts passed from rule under the French and Swedish, layering European history over hundreds of years. Today, the charm lies in the architecture found in the island’s capital of Gustavia where red-roofed Colonial style houses painted in bright colors rise no higher than a palm tree.
Cuisine
The renowned culinary culture of the island is predominantly French. A multitude of restaurants prepare local seafood, imported delicacies, and exotic flavors at some of the most sought-out gourmet establishments in the Caribbean including L’Esprit, Bonito, and Tamarin. Notable chefs from around the world frequently visit to get a taste of St. Bart’s world-class dining.
Activities
The island’s laissez-fare Caribbean lifestyle offers a substantial amount of inspiring experiences. Shallow reefs encompassing the island have some of the world’s best snorkeling and diving, while yachting and sailing are ideal to explore the surrounding waters. Spas here are considered some of the best in the Caribbean, including Le Guanahani and Cheval Blanc Spa. In Gustavia and St-Jean, travelers can shop from chic concept stores to designer brands, and after the sun goes down, the growing nightlife makes the island even more legendary.