Two years after Hurricane Irma wreaked havoc on the Caribbean island, St Barths has bounced back with a luxurious vengeance. Many of its hotels rebuilt, reimagined and relaunched with newfound flair, and yearly events like the West Indies Regatta and the St Barth Gourmet Festival have returned to their sparkling glory. And with a slew of restaurants that rival any in Paris and a cache of ultra-luxe villas, the destination still feels as alluring as ever.
Guests of the five-star Eden Rock savor the renowned cuisine of Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, while those staying at the LVMH-owned Le Sereno are treated to a nourishing spa experience that’s as restorative as it is indulgent. But there’s plenty more to do on this sunny oasis, from shopping for skimpy bikinis and colorful kaftans at the chic boutiques in Gustavia to lounging poolside at the trendy Nikki Beach.
St Barths is also home to a vibrant marine life. The coral reefs are bursting with color, and they offer the perfect opportunity for a snorkel or scuba diving trip. The best time to see the underwater world is from December to May, when the weather is most temperate.
The beaches of St Barths are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean, but if you’re looking for peace and quiet, head to Shell Beach, which is named for its glistening sand that’s completely covered by shells (just be sure to wear your flip-flops). If you want to mingle with the social scene, go to the popular St Jean Beach or Gouverneur Beach.
After a long day in the sun, treat yourself to some much-needed relaxation at the Pure Altitude Spa, which offers an array of bespoke beauty and wellness treatments. The toxin-draining Perfect Body treatment is a great pick for post-sun recovery, as is the revitalizing Pure Coconut Ritual.
If you’re seeking a more relaxing stay, the Christopher hotel in St Barths is the ideal spot for a calming retreat. The rooms, dotted with pops of turquoise and globally sourced art, exude French insouciance with a soothing Caribbean vibe. The Ocean Jacuzzi Suite, with its private patio and open-air living space, is particularly striking.
After a few days on the island, you might start to feel a little sluggish. That’s why the Christopher is home to a new, incredibly inventive spa. The Pure Altitude Spa offers a variety of detoxification treatments, including a seaweed wrap and the anti-aging Pure Coco Massage. It’s the best way to restore your energy, while boosting skin radiance and restoring elasticity. The spa is also wheelchair-accessible, which makes it a convenient option for people with mobility issues. And after all that pampering, don’t forget to replenish your electrolytes with a smoothie or juice at the poolside bar. You deserve it!