Perhaps the Caribbean’s most sophisticated island, trendy St-Barthélemy is simply ’St. Barts’ to most English speakers, and ‘St-Barth’ to the French. Famed for its natural beauty as well as its glamorous restaurants, boutiques and hotels, this French West Indies gem has long attracted a fashionable and affluent international crowd. That said, there’s a whole array of accommodation to choose from — including laid-back cottages, expansive family-friendly resorts and exquisite couples’ hideaways. Many of the best places to stay in St Barts are set near the brilliant beaches of St Jean Bay or Grand Cul-de-Sac Bay, but some of our favourites are hidden on hillsides with panoramic ocean views.

Originally home to Arawak Indians, the island was later settled by the Caribs and eventually named by Christopher Columbus, in honour of his brother. A heavily French-influenced identity — with almost a century of Swedish colonisation thrown in — has left a fascinating blend of European architectural styles, particularly in Gustavia, the pretty capital. Culture aficionados should explore the Wall House Museum, Le P’tit Collectionneur Museum, and St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church whilst in town. The ruins of Swedish-built Fort Gustave are also intriguing, and Gustavia boasts a top-notch selection of excellent eateries, bars, shops and marinas.

St Barts is fringed by powder-white beaches, rocky cliffs suitable for fabulous hikes, and sparkling waters for sailing, scuba diving and snorkelling. Toiny Bay is a particularly good surf spot, although you’ll find the waters too rough for swimming. Secluded Colombier Beach, on the other hand, is tranquil and perfect for family snorkelling excursions. Head inland for cycling tours, horse riding, hiking and lively rum distillery tours.

This little island has a well-established reputation for exclusivity, and the best places to stay in St Barts fill up fast over the Christmas and New Year season. Do book your trip well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in St Barts

For a Boutique Hideaway

• Pearl Beach is a 14-room boutique pad on the white sands of St. Jean. This small hotel prides itself on its sociable atmosphere, with live music evenings, exceptional cuisine, watersports and a refreshing swimming pool. A great choice for couples or friends on holiday together.
• Hotel Villa Marie features 18 delightful rooms and suites in a leafy setting overlooking Flamands Beach. There's a lovely beach club, splendid French cuisine and a laid-back intimate feel, with bohemian prints and plenty of natural materials. Some suites have space for families, but most are best for kicking back as a couple or with friends.

For Couples

• Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France oozes glamour, with a fabulous French feel in a beautiful location on Flamands Beach. Jacques Grange-designed spaces are superb, and the hotel attracts a well-heeled crowd eager to feast on fantastic Creole-infused fare with a glass or two of rosé. A luxurious choice for design-minded couples.
• Le Carl Gustaf has just 23 rooms and suites, set above charming Gustavia. Pick this place for an exquisite hideaway, complete with a decadent spa and delectable fare. A chic 5 star spot for couples or groups of friends. The harbour views are magnificent.
• Le Barthélemy prides itself on being one of the best resorts in the world, and makes for a dream honeymoon destination. Nestled on a crescent bay, this is an elegant property with a stylish Parisian vibe, gourmet fare and a world-class spa. Absolute bliss.
• Le Toiny has 22 villa suites, with one or two bedrooms, private pools, large terraces and panoramic views over Toiny Bay. If it's an exclusive romantic hideway that you're after, this ultra-luxurious hotel and beach club is the perfect choice.
• Hotel Christopher has 42 swish rooms and suites, with a focus on natural materials and clean, crisp lines. The three villas are great for families, but the feel is generally quite grown-up. Expect soothing spa days, long beach walks and sunset cocktails before savouring marvellous Mediterranean fare inspired by the French Riviera. A couples' favourite.

For Families

• Guanahani promises a colourful beachfront stay, with elegant rooms featuring mosaic bathrooms and cool, contemporary furniture. Set on a spit of land between two superb beaches, the resort has kids clubs for both younger and older children, as well as an enormous sea-facing swimming pool, two tennis courts and heaps of watersports. A small yet indulgent family-friendly resort.
• Le Sereno is a sleek beach hotel overlooking spectacular Grand Cul de Sac. Interiors are cool and contemporary, and multi-bedroom villas are well-suited to families or groups. The shallow waters of the bay are ideal for young families with little ones looking to splash around, or older children who can kayak, sail or paddle board. There's a dedicated kids' menu in the restaurant, and babysitting services for when you'd like an afternoon at the spa or a candlelit dinner.
• Eden Rock is a St Barts legend, with 37 gorgeous rooms, suites and villas for couples, families or groups of friends on a craggy promontory at Baie de Saint Jean. An ultraluxe choice for all ages, with a wonderful spread of child-friendly activities on land and sea, as well as gourmet cuisine and plenty of space for the whole family. The Eden Spa is a real treat for parents, too!

For an Eco Escape

• Manapany is a beautiful 5 star beach resort with an award-winning eco-focus. Think solar panels, electric vehicles, an organic vegetable garden and abundant orchard, nautral spa products and bamboo towels for guests. For couples, friends or families eager to experience an environmentally-conscious version of paradise.

For a Self-Catering Stay

• Salines Garden Cottages sit within lovely gardens, close to a great surfing beach. The five cottages have a traditional feel, with white-washed interiors and artefacts gathered on the owners' travels. Some have kitchenettes and a generous breakfast is served onsite. Charming, low-key and private.
• Les Ondines sur la Plage offers one- and two-bedroom suites complete with kitchenettes and private balconies, many of which face the ocean in Grand Cul-de-Sac. For couples, friends or families eager to stay somewhere small, with the potential independence of self-catering facilities. Very swish and modern.
• Les Ilets de la Plage has a tranquil, understated vibe, with 12 beachfront villas in St Jean. Pick this place for a laid-back trip as a family, couple or with friends — villas have up to three bedrooms, as well as shady terraces, hammocks and well-equipped kitchens. A very relaxed boutique base.
• Villa Lodge Quatre Epices fuses modern touches with a fun, Caribbean feel. Created by interior designer and owner Marie-Aimée Perrier, the rooms and suites are set just above Grand Cul de Sac Lagoon. A self-catering spot with striking views and plenty to do in the area.
• For further self catering options, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly into St Barts Airport (SBH) in the village of St Jean. Most international arrivals will need to transit in Guadeloupe, Antigua or St Martin. Once in St Barts, travel to your destination by bus or taxi, or speak to your hotel to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• You'll find lots to explore by road on the island! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Balmy temperatures average between 25 - 28°C throughout the year, with the peak season lasting from November to mid-April. Be prepared for showers if you visit during the hurricane season (June to November). Hurricanes are most likely in September. To beat the crowds and make the most of great deals, time your trip for May or June.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in St Martin.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Caribbean.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in St Barts