St Barths is a paradise of luxury, glamour and relaxation that has mastered the art of blending celebrity with everyday life. Amid a backdrop of unspoiled natural beauty, the Caribbean island beckons visitors from all corners of the globe seeking an authentic slice of heaven.
There is nothing like the pristine beaches, glistening seas and crystal-clear waters that greet visitors from all over the world. But whereas most Caribbean islands rely on mass-market tourism, Saint Barths embraces its natural charm with a delicate balance of development and conservation.
It’s this rare sense of harmony that has turned this island into a mecca for affluent travelers from around the world. The result is a world-class resort landscape with hotels and villas that straddle the edge of the cliffs and look out over untouched nature.
The posh hotels of St Barths, from Eden Rock to Rosewood Le Guanahani and the boutique-style Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France, are all designed to take their place in the island’s pristine landscape rather than dominate it. Chamberlain says that this approach to hotel design creates a rare, photogenic cohesion across the island.
Even the most luxurious hotel on the island, such as the Eden Rock – St Barths, has an intimate feel that feels more like a private villa than a full-blown resort. The hotel’s restaurant and bar are both open to the public, but the property’s true focus is on private dining for a select group of guests, including celebrities.
At the end of a day, you can relax with a delicious cocktail on the beach or in the pool. Or you can head out and explore this beautiful island, with its secluded coves, craggy shorelines and hidden beaches that aren’t accessible by foot or car.
For an in-depth exploration of the island’s landscape, a hike is the way to go. The Petit Cul-de-Sac is a challenging trail that leads to some of the most stunning pools in the Caribbean.
The hike also takes you through an old sugar plantation. The scenery is breathtaking, and the views are even better after sunset.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic, candlelit dinner or a casual picnic lunch, you’ll find plenty of places to eat on St Barths. The French bakeries and markets make for a delightful shopping experience, too.
You can also enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that sit right on the sand and are popular with locals and tourists alike. Some of the most delicious seafood can be found at Chez Rolande and Fish Corner in Flamands Beach, while Le Select burgers have inspired Jimmy Buffett to write “Cheeseburger in Paradise.”
If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, you can try Amis Plage, where the cuisine takes on a light, fresh, carefree Caribbean twist. The menu is led by master French Chef Vincent Gomis, and his culinary team infuses the flavors of South France and Mediterranean with the best local ingredients. The setting is spectacular, with a spectacular bay view from the beachfront location on Grand Cul-de-Sac.