There’s Only One French Riviera, Or Is There? Visit St. Barths!

February 19, 2025

By marimar

Think the French Riviera is one of a kind? Think again. Hidden in the Caribbean, St. Barths radiates the same effortless elegance, gourmet dining, and stunning coastal scenery. Browse stylish boutiques, relax on sun-drenched beaches, and soak in the island’s vibrant joie de vivre—pure paradise.

Experience the magic of Saint Barths—plan your escape today!

Mornings in St. Barths begin with a walk along St. Jean Beach—time to reflect, plan the day, and enjoy a swim. A stop at Chokola Vany for fresh pastries on the way back is an essential part of the ritual. Another first-day must? A visit to Passion Beauté in St. Jean to stock up on Esthederm tanning products—arguably the best for achieving a lasting, sun-kissed glow. The soft fragrance alone makes reapplying all day a pleasure. 

A half-day snorkeling trip to Colombier is a highlight—calm waters, vibrant marine life, and just the right amount of adventure. Returning to Gustavia just in time for lunch, Shellona makes the perfect next stop. The feta in filo with honey and pita pizza with truffle and caviar are menu standouts. A post-lunch swim at Shell Beach is the ideal way to wind down.

Shellona

Evenings start with sunset cocktails at Ocean Club, where elevated views of the harbor create a stunning backdrop. After dark, a stroll through Gustavia leads to dinner at Mamo, a new lively Italian restaurant where you must try their dessert called Little Italy.

The Ocean Club & Mamo

A morning in Gustavia begins with breakfast before the shops open—ideal for people-watching. Shopkeepers set up their boutiques, yacht crews run errands, and tourists head to the beach or bakery. Favorite stops include Clic for books, artwork, and handbags, plus must-visits like Hermès and Longchamp. Some of the best finds come from wandering into boutiques without a plan. 

Sundays on the island are synonymous with long, leisurely lunches. Le Toiny’s Beach Club, with its swaying palms and panoramic ocean views, is the current favorite. If the surf is up, watching the locals navigate the waves adds to the charm. Another excellent Sunday option? A villa lunch. The right villa makes staying in just as special—whether cooking for friends, picking up prepared dishes, or hiring a chef. Romain Villaret from Fabulous Feasts is a top choice, offering impeccable service and some of the best meals in recent memory. 

Le Toiny & lunch at the villa

As the trip nears its end, a spa treatment is the perfect indulgence. Le Spa La Mer at Le Barthélemy offers instant relaxation from the moment one steps inside, while Tanagra Esthetique in Gustavia is the go-to for facials—Francoise has been a trusted expert for 30 years, though appointments must be made well in advance. A final highlight? An in-villa massage, set by the pool or overlooking the sea. Afterward, a bottle of champagne is opened, and the moment is savored—one last toast to St. Barths before the next visit. 

Le Barthélemy & in-villa massage

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