Once home to the Arawak and Carib peoples, and later named by Columbus for his brother, St Barts wears its layered history in style. French flair meets Swedish touches in the charming capital of Gustavia, where cobbled streets lead past museums, an Anglican church, and the weathered remains of Fort Gustave. Between the boutiques, cafes, and marinas, you can soak up as much culture as sea breeze.

Beyond town, the island is all about natural beauty and adventure. You’ll find soft white sands, cliffside trails with jaw-dropping views, and turquoise waters perfect for sailing, scuba, or snorkelling. Toiny Bay tempts surfers with its rolling waves, while Colombier Beach offers a serene, family-friendly snorkel spot. And inland? Think cycling, horse riding, hiking, and the warm buzz of a rum distillery tour — because every island day should end with a toast.

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's 18 chic rooms and suites sit amid lush gardens with sweeping Flamands Beach views, paired with a stylish beach club, refined French cuisine, and a relaxed, bohemian vibe. Most suit couples or friends, though some offer space for families.
   
• Le Tropical- French Riviera flair meets Caribbean soul in lush tropical gardens by St. Jean Beach. Retro-chic style, a sleek pool, indulgent spa, and vibrant dining create an effortlessly glamorous island escape.

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.
• Rosewood Le Guanahani is a blissful St. Barts hideaway where colourful cottages, lush gardens, and two private beaches set the scene for romance. Indulge in spa rituals, dip into turquoise pools, and savour exquisite French-Caribbean dining with your loved one.

For Families

• Guanahani delivers a vibrant beachfront escape, with elegant rooms featuring mosaic bathrooms and sleek contemporary furniture. Perched between two stunning beaches, it boasts kids’ clubs, a vast sea-facing pool, tennis courts, and abundant watersports—an indulgent yet relaxed retreat for families of all ages.
• Le Sereno is a chic beachfront haven on Grand Cul de Sac, with airy contemporary interiors and spacious villas for families or groups. The calm bay suits toddlers paddling or older kids kayaking and sailing, while babysitting, a kids’ menu, and a serene spa keep parents happy.
• Eden Rock, a St Barts icon, offers 37 lavish rooms, suites, and villas for couples, families, or friends on a dramatic Baie de Saint Jean promontory. Expect luxe family-friendly activities, gourmet dining, abundant space, and a spoiling Eden Spa for well-deserved parental downtime.

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.

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 include all our recommendations for the best places to stay in the Caribbean.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.