Posted on 11 December 2018

For couple's seeking the finer things for a week or two, St. Barts presents opulent French hotels and cuisine, along with some of the most photogenic beaches in the Caribbean. No wonder it's a hit with honeymooners and grade-A celebrities the world over.

This small Caribbean island is a mecca for the rich and famous, who descend on its soft, sandy beaches year-round, but particularly at Christmas and New Year. First class French restaurants and high end hotels typify the tourism landscape, which has made many residents as wealthy as the island's well-heeled visitors.

Despite the general high cost of accommodation and food, those with more modest finances can also enjoy a visit on St Barts - so long as they arrive during quieter periods when hotel prices are lower.

Romance in the Caribbean

For honeymooners or couples seeking a Caribbean paradise infused with romance, St Barts has few rivals. And if you're going to break the bank on a holiday with someone you love, you might as well do it here.

Do it in St. Barts

The rewards of choosing this French-influenced island for a romantic getaway are clear: gas-blue seas and picturesque beaches; some of the finest snorkelling and diving spots in the Caribbean; a wide choice of watersports; high end shopping and some of the finest restaurants in the Caribbean.

A brief history

While St Barts - or Barthélemy to use its full name - is famed as one of the only Swedish imperial outposts in the Caribbean - the French have influenced its history, culture and cuisine far more. The island has been administered by France since 1878, but the Swedish crowns join the French fleur-de-lis and the Maltese Cross on the coat of arms.

Best time to visit

St Barth's summer lasts from May to November, which is also the rainy season. Sunshine is prevalent year-round, even during the rains. Winter time is still enjoyably warm and is not humid due to the winds.

Currency and banking

As a French ‘territorial collectivity', St Barts uses the euro. However, US dollars can be used at the local exchange rate. Visa and Mastercard credit cards are widely accepted island-wide, but many merchants do not accept American Express or Discover cards. You'll receive better exchange rates at banks, ATMs ('ABMs' locally), and currency exchange offices. Most banks are in the capital Gustavia and St. Jean. They close for a typically lengthy French lunch - from 12:00 to 14:00.

Getting around

The most convenient way to get around this 25sq km island is by hire car. All major car rental firms operate here, alongside some private local establishments. You'll need a full driver's licence. A wide range of SUVs and super-minis are available. Book ahead if you're arriving during winter, when vehicles can be snapped up by the many incoming visitors. There are only two petrol stations on the island.

Motorbikes and scooters are also available for rent.

You can also get around by taxi, but this could be costly if you use them often.

Honeymoons

Honeymoons in the Caribbean are seldom possible 'on the cheap' - and St Barts is no exception. There are a range of all-inclusive honeymoon packages available, in super-exclusive hotels such as Eden Rock, with its hill top villas, infinity pools and dedicated concierge service. Le Guanahani is another honeymooner favourite, with its private terraces and stunning views. A honeymoon on St Barts is perfect for a romantic sojourn of the tranquil variety - particularly if the wedding itself was high tempo and very social.

Things to do

Kite Surfing at Grand Cul-de-Sac

Average year-round temperatures are 27 degrees at Grand Cul-de-Sac, making it the perfect place to learn to kitesurf. Here you can book lessons or, if you have experience, simply rent the equipment.

Sunbathing at Anse de Gouverneur

The perfect spot for sun-worshipping and picnics, Anse de Gouverneur edges a horseshoe-shaped bay. Even in high season this arc of golden sand is little-visited, further encouraging sunbathing sans swimsuit.

Diving

There are no less than 22 dive sites around the island, making it the ideal location for sub-aquatic adventures. Most diving areas take around 30 minutes to reach by boat, with some just a few minutes from the capital, Gustavia. A number of dive companies are based in Gustavia and around the island. L'Anse de Colombier is ideal for experienced divers, while beginners head to the soft corals and colourful fish of Gros Ilets.

Dine at On The Rocks

This well-loved eatery is situated in the famous Eden Rock hotel, perched on a rock affording views fit for royalty - pop or otherwise. Try artichoke and black-truffle ravioli or sake-caramelized black cod, followed by banana soufflé and one of the many ostentatious cocktails on offer. The kitchen is run by award-winning chefs Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Eric Desbordes, so no wonder the praise - and the prices - are high.

Anse de Grande Saline

Another beach popular among nudists, Anse de Grande Saline is a secluded arc of golden sand - and quite probably the finest looking beach on the island. The shoreline is a 500m walk from the car park, over scrubland and dunes. Perfect for sunbathing and gambolling in the bay's clear blue waters. However, take your hat and sunblock, as there is no shade at all.

Reserve Naturelle

This 1,200 ha area covers the bays of Grand Cul de Sac, Colombier, Marigot, Petit Cul de Sac, Petite Anse and a number of offshore rocks. It was set up to protect the island's coral reefs, seagrass and sea turtles - but snorkelling, diving and boating are permitted in certain areas.

Shopping in Gustavia

As well as being home to most of the island's hotels, Gustavia has a number of high-end boutiques, frequented by well-heeled holidaymakers. If you're not in the market for a Gucci handbag or an Armani suit, you can at least enjoy a spot of (famous) people-watching.

Where to stay

You'll be hard-pushed to find a budget hotel St Barts, so be ready to splash the cash. There are only about 25 hotels on the island, most of which have fewer than 15 rooms. The vast majority of hotels are in the capital, Gustavia. For reservations, most of the high end hotels must be contacted directly, rather than booked online.

Eden Rock

Perched on a craggy bluff overlooking the Baie de Saint Jean, Eden Rock is much-loved by the rich and famous and even has an artist-in-residence - who also happens to be the owner.

Cheval Blanc

This 40-room luxury colonial-style hotel is located on Flamands Beach and boasts two restaurants. It is frequented by numerous celebrities, including Jay Z and Beyoncé.

Hotel Le Toiny

Located on Anse Toiny on the southeastern coast, Hotel Le Toiny is reputed to be the most costly accommodation on the island and features just 12 rooms and villas. Expect chic interiors, wonderfully appointed private villas and some of the finest views of any hotel in the Caribbean.

Villas

There are around 400 villas available to rent around the island.

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