Destination: St. Barths
I think most people think of St. Barths as a couples destination and while it exceeds in this department, we had the absolute best time as a family… so much so that our children are constantly asking when we are going back! While St. Barths is difficult to get to, that is probably what makes it so special. A remote little island in the middle of the bluest and warmest Caribbean water make this a place unlike any other. Top it off with the French culture and it makes it extremely unique and incredibly charming. When you ask our children what makes it so special, they will first say everything! But secondly, they will tell you that it is the only destination we have ever been to where Mommy gets in the ocean every day. The water exceeds all expectations and leaves you desiring a daily plunge or more realistically an hour long float. My skin definitely took a beating from the sun exposure, but I will tell you it was worth every sun spot. St. Barth’s is truly one of the most magical places I have ever been and I can’t wait to go back! One hot tip is that the best way to get there is though San Juan, Puerto Rico with a transfer on Tradewinds. This ended up being such a game changer and I highly recommend it over the St. Martin transfer option. Here are some of my top recommendations based on our experience.
Where to Stay
Eden Rock
We are biased as this is where we stayed and absolutely LOVED it! Everyone was so warm and welcoming to our children and we had the best room setup that we have ever experienced as a family of five (which is difficult, especially overseas). The hotel’s location couldn’t be better as you are a two minute ride from the airport and is one of the only places in the world where being situated next to the airport is hightail desirable as you get to watch the incredible take off and landings at the world’s trickiest runway. The rooms are spacious and luxurious and the beach coudln’t be any more pristine. I especially loved the swim platform to give you a destination to swim to. There is only one restaurant, The Sand Bar, that accommodated breakfast, lunch and dinner, but it is spectacular and we never were bored of the view or the cuisine. You are approximately a 12 minute car ride to Gustavia, the harbor where all of the shopping is. And another great feature is that you can walk to two of the beach clubs, Nikki Beach and Nao, if you are trying to avoid jumping in a car/moke.
Cheval Blanc
I recently had friends stay here and they said it was the perfect romantic destination. An idyllic white setting with the bluest waters and not only features a pool (Eden Rock doesn’t have a pool), but it is situated on the other side of the island so it is more tranquil and doesn’t have the Nikki Beach vibe next door. From the rooms to the cuisine, it leaves nothing to be desired and is highly recommended by all who visit.
Le Barthélemy
Another tranquil and gorgeous option is Le Barthélemy, who just receive Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award for Top 5 Best Resorts in he Caribbean for the seventh consecutive year. This property also features a pool and spa and modern rooms that are all along the water. A true gem in the Caribbean.
Le Guanahani
Rosewood’s newest offering in the Caribbean, Le Guanahani is cherished for its authentic reflection of the island. This resort offers two pools, a Spa, Fitness center, tennis court and a Rosewood Explorers children’s club. It has come highly recommended for families traveling to the island.
Where to Eat
Sand Bar
A perfect blend of melt into the ocean views coupled with exquisite cuisine. We loved every meal there including the fabulous breakfasts! This restaurant can accommodate Gluten allergies with advanced notice.
Nikki Beach
A over the top fun and eclectic mix of food and people watching that is more of a day club atmosphere. It was perfectly fine with children, just don’t go on a Sunday afternoon which is the most wild of all the days.
Bonito
A charming restaurant located above the harbor with views down below. The restaurant feels light and airy and the food was delicious. They have one of the best Children’s Menus I have ever seen with the most beautiful presentation and nutritious options. I wish all restaurants had options like this! We highly recommend this and if you have children, a special treat is the virgin cocktail served in a bubble bath complete with yellow ducky on top.
Tamarin
A jungle-like setting that is a perfect compliment after a day at the beach. There are no ocean views, but the food is a combination of French and Caribbean and lends itself to an exotic culinary experience.
Nao Beach
Located on the other side of Eden Rock than Nikki Beach, this beach club/restaurant offered the best sushi we had during our whole stay on the island. The fish was outstanding! It is smaller and more quaint than NB and I would highly recommend.
What to Do
Boat Excursion
Charter a boat excursion with Master Ski Pilou and enjoy a day out on the water exploring bays to snorkel or ride a Sea Bob.
Rent a Moke
Every hotel concierge can rent you a Moke for the day to explore the island and pose for some photos. If you do it, I highly recommend you venturing over to the airport to watch the planes land. Quite the experience!
Snorkeling at Colombier
One of the most famous snorkeling spots on the island, this beautiful beach spot is a natural reserve which allows it to be quite vibrant with sea life. You can hike to this location or come via boat, but be forewarned, no Sea Bobs allowed.
Rent Sea Bobs
Master Ski Pilou is conveniently set up on the beach by Eden Rock where you can rent Sea Bobs, E-Foils and other water activities to lend a hand in your fun in the ocean.
Where to Shop
Poupette St. Barths
Monique “Poupette” Giraud fell in love with the island of St. Barth at the age of 21 and decided to make it her home. Her boutique in Gustavia by all of the other fashion staples is a fun way to see her bohemian garments in person. Known for their fun prints, their lightweight pieces are perfect for the island. They also have a fabulous selection of Mommy and Me dresses and separates.
Orlebar Brown
A British Swim company uniquely for men, this store had an impressive array of St. Barths inspired swim trunks, including the infamous photos of the crystal blue water and airplanes landing like the ones pictured above.
Pipiri Boutique MC2
Here you will discover the MC2 Saint Barth brand which is now know internationally, but has a selective number of exclusive St. Barths labeled swim suits for women, men and children, like the suit pictured above. A fun souvenir that will keep you thinking about returning to the breathtaking island.
Vilebrequin
The largest Vilebrequin store in the world, this two-story beauty is the perfect place to find those difficult to locate patterns for both Men, Women and Children. Their Daddy and Me swimsuits have a cult following (me included) that leave you impressed with quality and in love with the prints!
Eden Rock Boutique
Exceptional selection of trendy brands and unique St. Barths items, this is a must go for me!
If you are planning a trip to St. Barths, you will find yourself always wanting to go back. It is truly one of a kind! Bon Voyage!