
Arriving in St. Barths will take your breath away, and not just because of the nail-biting plane ride. Awe is one of the key characteristics of this small Caribbean island, which is as charming and magnetic as the rich and famous guests who frequent it. Craggy peaks, swaying palms, crystal clear waters and a blissfully buzzing social scene make this an incredible destination to visit - especially as a group. Whether you’re planning a birthday blowout, a champagne-fueled reunion or barefoot retreat, here’s our go-to guide for group travel in wildly wonderful St. Barths.
Reported By: Dylan Essertier
St. Barths boasts an array of stunning hotels, yet for those seeking a serene private villa on the island's most picturesque beach, the choice is clear: The new Gyp Sea beach houses grace the half-moon beach of St. Jean, renowned for its tranquility thanks to a protective reef that keeps the sea serene. This beach is also home to some of the island's most famous beach clubs, all within walking distance of your villa, promising days filled with dancing and relaxation depending on your vibe.
Each Gyp Sea beach house, which ranges from one to three bedrooms, offers a bohemian ambiance thanks to artisanal furniture and vibrant textiles sourced from around the globe. The entire Gyp Sea brand has a quirky and modern aesthetic and we love that no two houses, let alone rooms, are alike. Best of all? Functionality isn’t compromised for the sake of form; guests of the beach house will enjoy personalized service, including a dedicated butler to curate bespoke experiences like poolside dinners or sunset drives through the fragrant frangipani-scented island making a stay at Gyp Sea the perfect blend of style and substance.
Tropical Hotel St. Barth is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve found the perfect balance between island living and sophistication. Right by Grand Cul-de-Sac beach, this spot is known for its laid-back yet stylish atmosphere. The rooms are refreshingly modern with an eye for detail—think sharp, clean lines with pops of color that echo the island’s natural beauty. One of the coolest things about staying here? The hotel’s signature "fish pond" offers a quirky touch and the perfect spot for an Instagram-worthy snap.
If you’re the active type, try out a paddleboarding session right off the beach or take a yoga class on the deck. And for those who love a good food experience, the hotel’s restaurant is a must, especially when you're craving that perfect post-beach bite with a cocktail in hand.
Hotel Christopher makes sure that relaxation and adventure aren’t mutually exclusive. Perched above the sea, it offers some of the best views of the Caribbean (and yes, those sunset photos will be chef’s kiss). The hotel’s design is a mix of clean, modern lines and tropical flourishes that just work. You’ll feel like you’re in a cool, open-air gallery, with the ocean breeze filling the spaces.
A fun fact? Their infinity pool seems to blend right into the horizon, so you might find yourself doing a double-take when you first see it. And while it’s peaceful, it’s also just a short trip from the action, so when you’re ready for a night out in Gustavia, the scene is always within reach. Don’t leave without trying their signature cocktails – they’ve got a few concoctions that could turn anyone into a fan of rum.
Shell Beach, just a short stroll from Gustavia, the beating heart of St. Barths, lives up to its name with its shores adorned in millions of glimmering shells. It's an idyllic spot for a leisurely walk, a refreshing swim with mega yachts dotting the horizon, and later, a sunset cocktail at Shellona. This beach club and restaurant offer Mediterranean delights amidst stylish, laid-back beach vibes. The culinary experience matches the ambiance, with highlights like mahi-mahi burgers and feta cheese in honey filo pastry. After a satisfying lunch, indulge in a seaside siesta on one of Shellona's daybeds, recharging for the evening ahead.
Think of La Guérite and you'll likely envision the famed restaurant in Cannes bearing the same name. Bringing its killer cocktails and breezy Mediterranean ambiance to St Barths, La Guérite now graces the island with both a restaurant and a beach club. At the Gustavia location of La Guérite, prepare for an evening of dining and dancing that stretches into the late hours, enveloped in glitz, glam, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and a DJ who ignites the scene around 9 pm. Meanwhile, over at St. Jean beach, La Guérite’s beach club awaits—a sand-between-your-toes seaside eatery serving up fresh lobster and chilled beats until the late afternoon crescendo of music and lively company. Make it a Saturday for the full experience!
Visiting Nikki Beach is basically a St. Barths right of passage. Since its inception in 2002, this renowned beach club has been known as the place to go if you want a leisurely lunch to seamlessly transition into a champagne shower. Don’t miss their signature cocktails (hello red-hot margarita!) or events (Rose Friday anyone?). But for the ultimate Nikki Beach experience, Sundays are a must with music playing from noon till sunset. Ensure your group secures a table well in advance and completes their experience with an order of the iconic Nikki Beach sushi dragon. A full stomach is a must.
Speaking of iconic, your group would be remiss if they didn’t make it to Eden Rock hotel. Sand Bar is perfect for a fancy last-night dinner, really embodying what St. Barths does so well, laidback glam. Surrounded by white sands and gin-blue water, dining here basically feels al fresco because of the open air terrace. Kick off your meal with watermelon and goat cheese salad before moving onto a truffle pizza or the wood fired St. Barth's lobster. And for your nightcap? Opt for a chili chili bang bang cocktail (Jalapeño infused tequila, passoa liqueur, and lime juice) with a delicious side of people watching. You won’t be sorry!
St. Barths is the ideal spot for a group getaway, with everything from stunning beaches to lively nightlife. Whether you're looking to unwind or make the most of the island's energy, it's all here. Ready to plan? Head over to Venue Report and start booking your next adventure.