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!
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St Barts
A charming hotel comprising individually styled cottages set amid a tranquil garden, close to the beach. Cottages have a traditional feel and are white washed throughout with solid four poster beds and bright artefacts from the owner's travels. A little haven made for completely unwinding.
St Barts (Grand Cul de Sa)
Colourful villas on a hillside above Grand Cul de Sac beach. The villas are themed on Caribbean spices, and decor is modern with polished concrete, kitsch furnishings and full kitchens. Outdoor pool and sun terrace. Chic, cool and great value.
St Barts (St Jean)
Quaint beachfront resort with a laid-back old-world feel. Individual villas with rustic red roofs and sleek interiors are set amongst gardens or along the beach. Kitchens, homely living areas and tropical indoor-outdoor layouts are fab for those after private low-key stays. Quiet slice of paradise.
St Barts (Gustavia )
The luxurious Hotel Villa Marie, Gustavia, St Barth offers boutique, independent villas and suites featuring bright colours and gorgeous views. Treat yourself to elegant French cuisine at the restaurant before retiring with a rum and cigar from the bar! An utterly spoiling coastal spot.
St Barts
Intimate all-suite hotel with a prime beachfront location. Contemporary open-air rooms have a homely feel and each overlooks the bay renowned for its crystalline waters. Enjoy on-site breakfast and full kitchens with dining options nearby. A laid-back spot for tranquil and grown-up beach breaks.
St Barts (St Barthelemy)
Hotel Christopher enjoys a superb location on the beach in Saint Barth, just a few miles from the airport. This 5* resort offers luxurious accommodation furnished in light hues and boasting plenty of natural light. Enjoy divine meals at their on site restaurants! A simply stunning coastal retreat.
St Barts
Eco beach resort with deluxe Robinson Crusoe feel. Chic sea-facing rooms, suites and villas made with natural materials and boho decor offer idyllic private terraces. Two pools, a relaxed restaurant and complimentary yoga fill lazy sun-filled days. Green beach paradise for couples and families.
St Barts
This boutique hotel is located on St. Jean Beach on St Barts. Tiled floors and a neutral palette make the guestrooms feel bright and airy; book a luxury suite to wake up to ocean views from your terrace. With a romantic restaurant and lush tropical gardens, this intimate hotel is ideal for couples.
St Barts
Stunning hotel on the beach at Grand Cul de Sac. Designer rooms have white-washed walls, polished wood furnishings and contemporary furniture. Outdoor pool, gardens, spa and direct beach access. Excellent restaurant and cool bar. Slick, exclusive and secluded.
St Barts (Anse de Toiny)
Colonial style villas overlooking the ocean. Contemporary rooms have dark wood floors, four poster beds, patio hammock and private pool. Gardens, gym and spa. Sublime French cuisine and romantic bar. Secluded, chic and boutique.
St Barts
Colourful beachfront hotel. The elegant rooms have creamy mosaic bathrooms, contemporary furniture and colonial style architecture. Enormous outdoor pool, beach access, spa and gym. Excellent seafood cuisine and breezy bar. Luxurious whilst remaining friendly and relaxed.
St Barts (Saint-Barthélemy)
A chic resort set on a stunning crescent-shaped beach, refined yet fresh, with a timeless elegance. Bright rooms have an air of understated luxury with plenty of light, natural materials and thoughtfully added technology. Feast on French inspired cuisine and spend days unwinding in the spa.
St Barts (Baie des Flamands )
A chic 5* oasis in the heart of the French West Indies. Elegant rooms are styled in white & blues with modern artworks & opulent bathrooms. From paddleboarding to luxury dining & exclusive bars. Nestled amongst banana plants, bougainvillea & white sands, it's where dreams of paradise are reality
St Barts
Five-star resort overlooking coral reefs. Contemporary rooms and villas have mahogany furniture, opulent bathrooms and silk extras. Some with hot tub terraces or private pools. Outdoor pools, gardens, gym, spa. Superb continental menu, bar with a view. Luxurious, spoiling and very chic.
St Barts
This five-star boutique hotel is nestled a stone's throw from Shell Beach in Gustavia. Guest suites are inspired by the natural landscape, featuring exotic prints and bamboo accents, plus sea view terraces. With a choice of three restaurants, there's hardly a need to leave this luxury base!
