A Caribbean Jewel

Caribbean islands are like politicians—everyone has a favorite and everyone has an opinion about them. So when you ask your neighbor, coworker, sister-in-law, whomever, without fail, someone will tell you to go to Jamaica or Aruba or St. Lucia, either because of a particular resort, the weather during their trip, or their favorite beach.

WRITTEN BY BLAKE MILLER

But what oft goes overlooked is a destination that truly combines everything from world-class dining and five-star resorts to adventure and ultimate relaxation. The truth is, while everyone may have his or her own opinion on which island is the best, the reality is that there’s one that is leaps and bounds above the rest: Saint Bart’s. The eight-square-mile island epitomizes everything a tropical destination should be. There’s truly something for everyone—foodies, fashionistas, beach lovers, adventure seekers—here, and it’s offered on the highest level of service and detail. It is without a doubt the reason celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, and Kevin Hart flock here for their getaways.

STAY

Two of the best options for accommodations on Saint Bart’s are a private villa or one of the many boutique resorts on the island. If you choose the former, book through Wimco or Sibarth, two of the premier villa rental agencies. But if you’re really looking to splurge, contact Eden Rock Villa Rental. This option gets you the best of both worlds with options for luxurious, well-equipped properties nestled in the hillsides of the island while also giving you exclusive access to the resort’s coveted beaches and amenities. If you simply want an intimate resort feel with world-class service, book a villa at Le Sereno, the most recent honoree of the number-one resort in the Caribbean by Conde Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards. This unpretentious yet luxurious property sits in a quiet cove where kite surfers skim the horizon while you can relax under swaying palm trees. The oceanfront villas are decidedly private and romantic, and provide stunning views of the moon casting a glow over the ocean at night.

From beach lounging to water activities to refreshing hikes, there is plenty to do outdoors.

DO

Sure, it’d be easy enough to lounge on the beach with a glass of rosé every day. But don’t. You’d be missing out on the island’s natural beauty and scenery (not to mention fantastic shopping scene). Hike to one of the island’s most secluded spots, Colombier Beach. (For years it’s been known as Rockefeller’s Beach as David Rockefeller owned the Nelson W. Aldrich-designed property that overlooks the cove.) The 30-minute or so hike—wear sneakers!—affords you panoramic ocean views, but it’s the final destination that’s the treasure here. This secluded beach is only reachable by foot or boat, which means much of the time you’ll have it all to yourself to watch amazing sunsets, snorkel about the water, or picnic after the long hike.

Water is everything on Saint Bart’s, from activities to incredible views. Rent a small inflatable boat from Jicky Marine Service for a half day and tour the island’s quiet coves and rocky coastline. Better yet, let someone do the driving for you on a sunset sail where you’ll weave in and out of the mega yachts in Gustavia’s harbor while sipping a cool beverage as the sun dips below the horizon.

EAT

If world-class dining in a relaxed setting is your thing, then Saint Bart’s is the place for you. Culling the best flavors and ingredients from all over the world including the Caribbean, chefs here create dishes that range from French to Asian to contemporary American. Do not miss Tamarin. Nestled among dimly-lit trees you’ll find private, alfresco tables where your culinary adventure will take place. The food is just as impressive as the setting: fresh tuna tartare in coconut milk and lime juice or squid and shrimp served tempura style in ginger-lime dressing are delectable.

Head to the beach for restaurants in the luxe resorts Eden Rock and Cheval Blanc. At the former, notable chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten has created an incredible array of options for the resort’s three restaurants. The St. Barths Lobster Salad (on the Sand Bar lunch menu) is an absolute must. The lobster is perfectly tender while the champagne dressing is truly mouthwatering. At Cheval Blanc’s La Cabane de L’isle, dig your toes into the sand while noshing on one of the most decadent grilled cheese sandwiches. Lightly toasted bread is covered in a flavorful truffle oil with just about every cheese imaginable, resulting in a gooey, flavorful treat. Don’t forget to hit celebrity-loved Le Ti St. Barth. This cabaret-inspired show/restaurant/bar is the place to see and be seen, especially during the high season.

Photography by (top) ©iStockphoto.com/yanta, (above from left) ©iStockphoto.com/mtcurado, ©iStockphoto.com/JudyDillon, ©iStockphoto.com/NinaRuseva, ©iStockphoto.com/LanaCanada.