The enchanted island of St Barths is the Caribbean’s most sophisticated destination. This swanky French West Indies getaway offers 22 picturesque beaches, a dozen five-star hotels, and 800 luxurious villas — enough to attract celebrities like Jay-Z and Beyonce, Leo DiCaprio, Cindy Crawford, and Dua Lipa. But despite the high-end amenities, this luxurious getaway still has a laidback, inclusive, and renegade spirit that is woven into its culture.
The most important part of any vacation is the food, and when it comes to dining in St Barths, there are many top-tier restaurants that serve the best local cuisine on the island. Le Case is a perfect example of the way that St Barths brings together the best of both worlds, offering a laidback island atmosphere with a refined gourmet experience. The restaurant is set right next to the beach, offering an open-air design with cane furniture and plenty of brightly colored cushions. The menu is equally impressive, featuring a variety of fresh seafood and authentic Creole dishes.
Another great restaurant in St Barths is Black Ginger, a stylish and elegant venue that serves up Thai cuisine in Gustavia. With open-air architecture, sleek furnishings, and a stunning view, this is one of the most elegant dining experiences in St Barths. The menu offers a variety of traditional favorites, including lamb shank and chicken kebab, plus raw fish and grilled fish platters. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, there are also many vegetarian and vegan options to choose from.
For those who love to shop while on holiday, St Barths is an ideal destination. The streets of the capital city, Gustavia, feature an assortment of fashionable European boutiques, including Louis Vuitton, Hermes, and Cartier. In addition, the city’s many independent stores offer a unique selection of locally made fashion and jewelry. The result is a union of runway style and bohemian chic, perfect for the discerning traveler.
There are a variety of different entertainment options in St Barths, from world-class restaurants to luxurious lounges and clubs. Some of the most famous places to party on the island include Nikki Beach, where you can dance the night away in your bikini without worrying about who’s watching.
You can also take a stroll along the cliffs overlooking the yacht-filled harbor for some of the best views on the island, or spend a day exploring the pristine nature preserves dotted with densely forested hillsides, flowering bougainvillea and frangipani, and fine white sand beaches. In the evening, a trip to Shellona is a must to enjoy an Ibiza or Mykonos-style atmosphere on one of St Barths’ most mythical beaches. The sunsets here are simply incredible. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a celebrity!