Few islands evoke the same sense of luxury as St Barts. It’s home to pristine beaches, gorgeous landscapes, and a chic, vibrant culture. It’s that unique mix that creates such an intoxicating atmosphere. And yet it’s also that variety that makes choosing where to stay in St Barts such a challenge, especially since the island has quite a few beautiful villa neighborhoods to choose from.
This post will guide you through some of the most popular places to stay in St Barts so you can choose which is best for you. We’ll look at the pros and cons of each neighborhood, as well as which type of traveler it’s best for. We’ll also look at a villa pick that reflects the neighborhood. By the end, I hope you’ll have a better idea of where to stay in St Barts for you and your fellow guests.
Staying in Gustavia
Starting first with St Bart’s capital, Gustavia is the historic center of the island. This is where you’ll find many of the island’s top cultural sites, including Fort Gustav, a testament to St Barts’s early Swedish history; the Wal House Museum, taking you through St Barts’s history, starting from its indigenous roots; and La Pointe, the island’s local market, full of artisanal crafts. And, of course, the harbor is a yacht paradise.
Pros of Staying in Gustavia
- Vibrant culture
- Rich history
- Fine dining and nightlife
- Unmatched harbor
Cons of Staying in Gustavia
- Can be noisy
- Less secluded and pristine
Gustavia is Best For:
- History and culture lovers
- Boating enthusiasts
Gustavia Villa Pick:
4 bedrooms, 4 bath
$1,357-$5,700 / night
Offering beautiful harbor views, the 4-bedroom Casa Paraiso is a slick and modern villa that combines contemporary architecture with elegant design. Step outside and enjoy lush tropical vegetation and an infinity pool as you watch the yachts. Step back in and enjoy a workout in the fitness room or a meal from the gourmet kitchen. A great choice near Gustavia lighthouse.
Casa Paraiso – Gustavia
Staying in Saint Jean
If Gustavia is the head of St Barts, Saint Jean is the heart. This is where you’ll find the island’s best restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. It’s also where you’ll find one of the best beaches, especially if you enjoy beach clubs like Nikki Beach.
Pros of Staying in Saint Jean
- Some of the best dining and nightlife in the Caribbean
- Centrally located on the island
- A beautiful beach with lots of services
Cons of Staying in Saint Jean
- Can get crowded in peak season
- Higher prices than other areas
Staying in Saint Jean is Best for:
- Social groups
- Food and nightlife lovers
Saint Jean Villa Pick:
6 bedrooms, 6 bath
$13,571-$40,714 / night
Internationally recognized as one of the most beautiful villas in the Caribbean, Neo stuns thanks to its thoughtful design, rich materials, and uncompromising style. Marvel at the indoor and outdoor water features. Take in the views from the infinity pool over Saint Jean beach. Relax in the inviting cinema room, or have a workout in the gym followed by a steam. There’s even an indoor disco room.
Neo – Saint Jean
Staying in Flamands
Set on the island’s northwestern coast, Flamands offers a perfect mix between serenity and convenience. It’s home to Flamands Beach, one of the prettiest and most secluded on the island, and it’s just a 10-minute drive to both Gustavia and Saint Jean. That makes it one of the most desirable residential neighborhoods on the island.
Pros of Staying in Flamands
- Beautiful beachfront villas
- Stunning ocean views
- Limited development
- Centrally located
Cons of Staying in Flamands
- Little nightlife
- Few restaurants
- Few shops
Flamands is Best For:
- Beach lovers
- Families with young children
Flamands Villa Pick:
8 bedrooms, 8 bath
$7,857-$39,286/night
An elevated take on the Caribbean beach house, Ela is located directly on Flamands Beach. Stretched out over multiple pavilions, it offers a perfect mix of privacy and elegance, with four bedrooms located in a separate two-floor building. It’s all punctuated by a two-level terrace that stretches directly onto the soft sand and clear water. A perfect choice for a group of families traveling together.
Ela – Flamands
Staying in Colombier
Moving to the furthest northwestern tip, Colombier offers stunning views and pristine surroundings. It’s characterized by its rugged coastline and the gorgeous Colombier beach – accessible only by boat or a hike. It’s less developed than other parts of the island, and as a result many consider it a hidden gem when choosing where to stay in St Barts.
Pros of Staying in Colombier
- One of the most secluded and tranquil spots on the island
- Dramatic landscapes and clear blue waters
- Untouched nature
- The beauty of Colombier beach
Cons of Staying in Colombier
- Can be challenging for some to access the beach
- Less services
Staying in Colombier is Best For:
- Adventurous travelers
- Honeymoons
Colombier Villa Pick:
2 bedrooms, 2 bath
$957-$5,000/night
Evoking the villas of Greece with its white columns and hand-painted frescos, Byzance is a striking, seductive villa that is perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic getaway. You’ll be amazed by the views of Petit Anse and the island of Bonhomme, especially over sunset. The lush gardens, inviting pool, and warm jacuzzi beckon you outside. Inside, the two suites are on opposite ends of the living room for maximum privacy – perfect for two couples traveling together.
Byzance – Colombier
Staying in Pointe Milou
Heading now to the northeastern coast, Pointe Milou is home to dramatic landscapes and beautiful cliffside views. This neighborhood does not have a beach, but the hidden, Atlantic-facing trails and spectacular sunsets more than make up for it. Plus the nearest beaches, Lorient and Grand Cul de Sac, are just 5 minutes away, and you’re 10 minutes away from Saint Jean.
Pros of Staying in Pointe Milou
- Dramatic landscapes
- Best views on the island
- Hidden trails
- Proximity to Saint Jean
Cons of Staying in Pointe Milou
- No direct beach
- Less restaurants
Pointe Milou is Best For
- Multigenerational groups
- Sunset lovers
Pointe Milou Villa Pick
5 bedroom, 5 bath
$4,800-$20,000 / night
A stunning hillside villa inspired by the American Arts & Crafts movement, Danse des Etoiles combines rich stonework, intricate woodwork, and large floor-to-ceiling windows to create an inspiring inviting space. Everything about this villa is designed for pleasing contrasts, including the heated infinity pool overlooking Turtle Island. A truly magical place.
Danse Des Etoiles – Pointe Milou
Staying in Marigot
Also along the northeastern coast, you’ll find Marigot, a lush, rich area that’s part of a natural marine reserve. This results in crystal clear waters and some of the best snorkeling opportunities on the island. It’s private and pristine, but still close enough to Saint Jean to enjoy a night out with ease.
Pros of Staying in Marigot
- Pristine water from marine reserve
- Great snorkeling
- Serene natural beauty
- Proximity to Saint Jean
Cons of Staying in Marigot
- Limited shops and restaurants
- May be too laid back for some
Marigot is Best For:
- Snorkelers
- Couples
Marigot Villa Pick:
3 bedrooms, 3 bath
$1,243-$6,229/night
Built over two levels, Eden House makes an ideal choice for a group of couples or a small family traveling together. It features stunning views over Marigot Bay, an inviting pool area, a chic, contemporary décor, and even a private artificial beach. The perfect place to get away from it all.
Eden House – Marigot
Staying in Gouverneur
At the southernmost tip of the island lies Gouverneur, famous for the immaculate Gouverneur Beach. In general, the south is the wilder, lusher part of the island, and Gouverneur is no exception. Come here to enjoy crystal-clear water, an abundance of tropical vegetation, and true harmony with nature, while still being just 10-15 minutes from Gustavia.
Pros of Staying in Gouverneur
- Private retreats
- Stunning landscapes
- More nature-focussed
- Near Gustavia
Cons of Staying in Gouverneur
- Limited nightlife and dining
- Distance to Saint Jean
Gouverneur is Best For:
- Nature lovers
- Privacy seekers
Gouverneur Villa Pick
6 bedrooms, 6 bath
$7,857-$32,143
An ultra-private villa in one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Saint Barts, the colonial-style Blanc Blue combines blue and white accents to create a unique ambiance. The outdoor deck includes a 20-metre infinity pool and a projector for outdoor movies. Inside, this villa is furnished to the highest standards and designed to maximize your enjoyment of your surroundings. There’s also a fitness room and even a tennis court – a rarity for St Barts villas.
Blanc Bleu – Gouverneur
Summary of Where to Stay in St Barts
- For nightlife and dining: Saint Jean
- For culture: Gustavia
- For beachfront villas: Flamands
- For couples: Marigot
- For hillside villas: Pointe Milou
- For nature: Colombier
- For privacy: Gouverneur
Still Wondering Where to Stay in St Barts?
Hopefully, this guide gives you a better understanding of where to stay in St Barts according to your needs and travel preferences. If you’re still wondering where the best place to stay in St Barts is for your group, though, then one of our Villa Specialists will be happy to help you choose the perfect neighborhood and villa for you. Contact us today!
3 Comments
I love how organized and practical this post’s info is. Thanks!
So useful! organized and practical. Thanks
Love all options – and really appreciate you including “cons” under every title too, that info is relevant, helps to choose.