Catamaran, villa, great food, and of course, Nikki Beach on Sundays.
St. Barts may be known for celebrity sightings, pristine beaches and late night parties. Although, you might be surprised to discover this French-speaking Caribbean island’s laidback vibes despite being a favorite getaway of the rich and famous. St. Barts, St. Barth, St. Barthelemy – or whatever you call it – boasts delightful restaurants, happenin’ nightclubs, and boats…lots and lots of boats. It’s a luscious taste of Côte d’Azur closer to the U.S., the question is: are you ready to indulge?
STAY
Rent a Villa – with a view
There are tons of options on Airbnb and numerous websites, but staying at a villa with a view AND a pool is the ultimate St. Barts experience. During low season from September through November, you can find great deals from 300 euros a night for a private villa for two people with a pool and ocean view.
DO
Rent a Catamaran – the ultimate
Renting a catamaran or even just getting on a boat is a must in St. Barts. Prices may vary depending on the season, sometimes it can cost anywhere from $1000 per person (for a group of 4 or more), or $1800 per person for a couple. This might just be the best way to watch the sunset.
Rent a Car – mini coopers
Taxis average around $30 per ride, meanwhile renting a car costs about $30 a day. As long as you have a designated driver in the group, it’s a great way to get around. In St. Barts, you’ll see that mini coopers take over luxury cars. The roads are twisty and hilly, so don’t be distracted by the beautiful surroundings and keep your eyes on the road. Note: there are only two gas stations on the island, and they’re both closed on Sundays. So make sure you always have at least more than half a tank of gas left.
Saline Beach – hidden gem
For some fun in the sun, hit up Saline Beach. It’s such a hidden gem that you can even nude sunbathe. Beware, nudism is technically forbidden in St. Barts but you’ll find that folks on Saline don’t care. It’s a bit rocky and tricky to reach this gorgeous beach, but it’s well worth the hike for a nice glow on your skin afterwards.
EAT
Bonito – best all around
Rue Lubin Brin, Gustavia, St. Barthélemy
Bonito is, by far, the most delectable meal you’ll have in St. Barts. Not to mention, it’s also one of the island’s hottest IT places to be, often welcoming celebrities like Pippa Middleton. Guided by French and South American cuisines (and a bit of an Asian flair), the menu assembles tasty dishes including Sautéed Chilean Sea Bass and Spiny Lobster Risotto. There’s a DJ spinning every night, so even sitting down for a glass of wine can be all the rage.
Le Grain de Sel – best creole lunch
Grande Saline, St. Barthélemy
Since hitting up Saline Beach is a must-do, then you’ll want to stop by this great lunch spot in the area: Le Grain de Sel. Feel free to stroll in with sandy feet and wet suits. Caribbean Creole spices take over the menu, don’t miss coconut chicken or the dorade. With a pint of cold local beer, and rum on the house after dinner, this will be a relaxing yet savory meal!
DRINK
Nikki Beach – for sunday shakes
Plage de St. Jean, St. Barthélemy
On Sundays, everyone’s at Nikki Beach. This world-renowned club is where things go down. Make sure to reserve a table due to its popularity. For the best hair of the dog from day to night, you’ve gotta be Nikki’ed.
Casa – lounge nightclub
2 rue de Dinzey Gustavia BL 97133, Rue des Dinzey, Gustavia, St. Barthélemy
Casa is right in Gustavia, tucked inside a small alley. It’s where everyone goes after hours, and your night might get a little messy (wink!)
