st. barth’s - the chicest island in the caribbean
And folks - drum roll please… (da da da da da *snare) we are BACK. And how could I not come back with a destination of interest to - let’s just say it - most of you all. Let’s dive into St. Barth’s - the chicest island in the Caribbean.
As someone who just came back from the island - I can attest that this is a true statement. Shall we get into why? Shall we get into the nitty gritty details? Shall we get into the tiny a** plane you can take to get to the island? Let’s do it.
*A reminder for all of my newbies - this is for the Millionless Millennial. All of the below hotels are luxury properties and will cost ya $$ if you wanna stay (ya girl isn’t going to recommend any bad properties). I do have some “Honorable Mentions” and these tend to run higher nightly rates so if you want to splurge - here ya go. Another reminder that rates fluctuate throughout the year. High season in St. Barth’s is November to April (give or take) so always keep that in mind.
GETTING THERE
First things first - let’s get you to the island. Now, if you aren’t coming from the East Coast, it’s not the easiest to get to - but it’s doable. Coming from Dallas, I overnighted on the way there and back in Miami. From there I flew to St. Maarten and then to St. Barth’s. You can also fly through San Juan to get to St. Barth’s as well. The flight time from SXM (St. Maarten) to SBH (St. Barth’s) is about 15 minutes in a small 16 seater plane whereas the flight time from San Juan to SBH is around an hour in a plane that’s a little larger (but not much). You have to keep in mind that St. Barth’s landing strip is quite small so only small planes can land. No typical commercial planes my peeps. You can also take a ferry or a speedboat - but flying is the most typical route. Be prepared for QUITE a landing into SBH (look to your right and you’ll see all of Gustavia appear in front of you)!
ACCOMMODATIONS
Want a super cute, 5-star hotel? HERE IT IS! It is situated in St. Jean’s Bay overlooking the beautiful blue water but note, this hotel is not on the beach. It’s a small hotel with just 23 keys so it feels super intimate. It’s more of the new kid on the block and I’m excited for its future! And y’all know I’m a sucker for decor…. can you even with these rooms?
Another precious, boutique property - Le Toiny is a bit secluded but it does have its own beach club (LET’S GO)! The rooms are light, bright, and airy and really just call you in to relax. Many of the accommodations have their own private pool which screams romanceeeee.
Le Barthelemy is chic and timeless with little Parisian hints here and there. It is in a quiet and discreet location which bodes well for relaxation and serenity. The accommodations are modern yet they do have some Caribbean flavor as you can see in the images to the right. If you want that Instagram shot - perch on their lobby swings and snag that pic b****.
Le Sereno is just a calming property - with the pool you can’t keep your eyes off of to the room decor - you really can’t go wrong. If you know Lake Como, yes, this is the sister property of Il Sereno - one of the icons on the lake in Italy. The rooms are tranquil and well-designed giving you the best place to relax and draw your attention to the crystal clear blue waters in the distance. Wow, that was poetic.
HONORABLE MENTION
Now you know what “Honorable Mention” means. If you have that higher budget - look no further. Personally, I have stayed at Cheval Blanc and it is so romantic, absolutely stunning, and the epitome of luxury. Cheval Blanc is located on Flamands Beach, which makes the hotel feel like it’s on on it’s own and isolated (in the best way possible). Like I said - you want a St. Barth’s honeymoon. Here. You. Go.
HONORABLE MENTION
Eden Rock is iconic with its location right by the airport - you see the flights go in and out each day. Another reason why it is iconic is because it has been the vacation destination of the rich and famous to St. Barth’s since the 1950s. It is casual yet elegant. The beach is fantastic and guess what - you are walking distance from the best beach clubs. That means you can play and relax babyyyy. Plus the decor is funky and fun which you know I love.
DINING & BEACH CLUBS
You know what - if you know me, you know I’m absolutely obsessed with Italian food. If I could eat pasta every day, I would *as she plans to make a pasta dish for dinner. The food and wine was superb. I had some ravioli and - bury me with that dish. It is a very classy vibe and if you want a meal without the fanfare, this is your place!
La Petite Plage is business in the front, party in the back LOL. I’m cracking myself up with that one. I mean - if you sit outside for dinner, you just have a peaceful dinner with great food. If you sit inside, the night will turn and you will be dancing on tables with champagne flowing in the blink of an eye. Catch my drift? Pro tip - the floor of the restaurant is sand so keep that in mind.
Bringing the French Mediterranean cuisine and vibes to the Caribbean are we now? This iconic restaurant is a must visit during your time in St. Barth’s. And much like La Petite Plage - get ready for those club vibes later in the evening *wink wink. It is also a lovely place for lunch!
A favorite amongst many on the island, Bonito offers a French Pan-American cuisine. It has stunning views of Gustavia and the water in the distance. This is another option for a great, elegant dinner sans that party vibe (because some nights, you just need good food right)?
Yes. You read that right. The infamous Nikki Beach. It is a must. On a Sunday. Do it. The food is great. The vibes are immaculate. And you will leave having had way too much rosé. But with no regrets. And yes, I did dance on tables. And yes, the french fries are AMAZE. Where else can you get sushi and french fries yet still be (semi) classy?
Shellona brings together great food, fantastic vibes, and immaculate views. It’s a stones throw away from Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf (honestly another Honorable Mention if I do say so myself). Share some amazing lobster with your friends, have a glass of champagne, and enjoy! Honestly, the decor *chef’s kiss.
SO MILLENNIAL
Head to Eden Rock and take a picture in front of their “Let’s Rock” sign
Dance on a table and snap. that. shot. biotch
Pack a picnic, go for a hike, and find a private beach - then snap that Insta moment
At Nikki Beach, take a video of the sax player (iykyk)
Le Barthelemy lobby swings
INSIDER TIPS
Villas are a HUGE part of the island. If you have a large group of friends - or even two couples - consider renting a villa for a week. That way, you have a kitchen where you can cook breakfast each day.
Rent a car. Taxis are easy to come by in the summer and fall, but come winter time - it’s madness.
Spend a day on a boat. Enjoy the water.
Go on hikes and enjoy the island.
