Where to Eat, Stay and Play in St. Barths

Learn some French: Technically, this suggestion should fall under the things to do before your trip, but it’s a good idea to learn some basic French phrases before your visit to St. Barths. A bonjour and a smile goes a long way!

Rent a car: Yes, the roads of St. Barths are their own adventure, but if you really want to explore everything the island has to offer, a car is the absolute best way to do it. Gumbs Car Rental offers a selection of dependable vehicles, and their friendly staff is always happy to welcome you back to the island!

Boulangeries: If there’s one thing the French are known for, it's their pastries, and St. Barths has plenty of them! Boulangerie Choisy and La Petite Colombe (two locations) are some of the island’s best.

Beaches: Every beach has a different vibe; be sure to visit as many as possible to find your personal favorite. That said, your stops should absolutely include Gouverneur, Lorient, Saline, Shell, and St. Jean.

Hike to Colombier Beach: Absent from the previous list of beaches is Colombier, and that’s because you have to work to get there (unless you have access to a yacht, that is!). There are two moderate hiking trails that lead to one of the best beaches on the island. Be sure to pack a bag with sunscreen, snacks, towels, and snorkeling gear – there are lots of colorful fish hanging out by the rocks on the far end of the beach.

Shopping: From the colorful boutiques in St. Jean to the designer storefronts in Gustavia, St. Barths is a shopper’s paradise.

Grocery Stores: It’s no secret that St. Barths is an expensive destination, but there are bargains to be found in the island’s grocery stores. Visit the cheese counter for the best cheese and charcuterie selection (your French will come in handy here!) and swing through the wine aisle for bottles of rosé and bubbly with price tags that will leave you feeling positively giddy.

Dancing/Nightlife: Party people will fit right in with the brunch and late-night scene. Sundays at Nikki Beach and weekend nights at Bagatelle are iconic. Make reservations well in advance..

Spas: If full relaxation is on your agenda, there are plenty of options in the spa department. Most hotels have full-service spas onsite; narrowing down a favorite may prove difficult!

Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch

• Arawak: This casual all-day eatery has friendly service and clean, light options.

• Shellona: Shellona’s location on Shell Beach makes it a perfect late lunch destination. Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes, then stick around for a sunset dip in the ocean.

• L’Isoletta: Delicious salads, pizzas sold by the meter, and crisp, cold beverages are a winning combo. Even better after a morning hike and swim at Colombier Beach!

• Pearl Beach: A great brunch or lunch destination, located on the sands of St. Jean. Be sure to enjoy a cocktail on the swings by the bar!

Dinner

• Black Ginger: If you like Thai food, you will love Black Ginger. The ambiance, drinks, cuisine, and service are just lovely.

• Eddy’s Ghetto: A St. Barths classic, stepping through the threshold at Eddy’s feels like a vacation in and of itself. If you’re a tuna fan, don’t miss the local tuna platter.

• Tamarin: In a sea of gorgeous restaurants with incredible scenery, Tamarin tops them all. This is your big night out dinner. Dress to impress and be sure to reserve well in advance.

• Crêperie St. Barth: St. Barths has the best of the best when it comes to fine dining, but sometimes, you just want a burger! Crêperie St. Barth has several delicious options. Be sure to save room for dessert – crêpes, bien sûr!