With the arrival of spring and its promise of renewal, travellers looking toward new horizons and considering new experiences need look no further than St. Barths, a gem of the Caribbean in the French West Indies.
With Easter approaching, it’s widely considered the perfect time to visit this stunning island, famous for its status as a luxe destination and a favourite of the jet set.
What are the best things to do in St. Barths?
A host of activities draws visitors to the pristine beaches, upscale shops and spas, renowned restaurants and exciting nightlife in summer. Whether it’s for sailing, swimming, dining or dancing, St. Barths (also widely known as St Barts), offers many ways to enjoy the best of glamorous island life.
Easter Sunday, on April 17, is a public holiday in St. Barths, and festivities fill the calendar around this time of year. Many quite naturally involve water sports, such as The Sails of St. Barth, six days of regattas featuring some of the world’s most beautiful yachts. There is also a midweek crew party at the famous Nikki Beach barefoot-chic beach club and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the French lifestyle on island during the races from April 17-23. Following on from that event is the West Indies Regatta from April 28-30.
Windsurfing takes centre stage the weekend of May 1 on St. Jean beach. If you’d rather have a go at kitesurfing as a leisure activity rather than as a spectator, head to Le Sereno beach, where the lagoon is shallow and the barrier reef keeps the waves at bay. The calm, turquoise water is also great for swimmers, paddle boarders and, further out into the ocean, a spectacular destination for divers.
If you’re looking for a bit of respite from the sun and surf, don’t miss the Caribbean Cinema Festival from May 4-7 for a glimpse into the region’s arts and culture. Filmmakers gather to screen and discuss their works every evening on the beach.
In addition to all of the scheduled events, there is, of course, plenty of time to relax and indulge in any number of the island’s amenities. For shopaholics one of the best things to do in St. Barths is to spend some time shopping at the chic designer shops along the harbour in the capital of Gustavia and browse the boutiques in the nearby Carré d’Or plaza or at the Coeur Vendôme Center.
Follow up with a well-deserved, revitalizing treatment at one of the island’s exceptional spas, such as the Sisley Spa at the Hotel Christopher or the famous Spa Diane Barrière at the Hotel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf.
Of course, no mention of the best things to do in St. Barths would be complete without mentioning the island’s gourmet dining scene. Ease into the evening with fine dining at any number of St. Barths’ top-rated restaurants, such as L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon at the Gustavia harbour or François Plantation in the historic Villa Marie Hotel. For a romantic Italian-inspired meal, reserve a candle-lit table at L’Isola. And if it’s an authentic Caribbean experience you’re after, head to the exotic tropical garden at the storied Eddy’s Ghetto.
Whatever your plans when it comes to visiting St. Barthelemy around Easter – or any time of year – the best way to enjoy the island is by staying in a luxury villa. Boasting luxury amenities, from infinity pools to lush grounds and stunning contemporary décor, a luxury villa offers the ideal way to enjoy the best things to do in St. Barths during Easter.
