Gay St. Barts: Caribbean Holidays
sydney on Jul 1st 2009
St. Barts is in the French West Indies, and is considered one of the most upscale Caribbean Islands. However, the atmosphere here is warm and inviting, not snobby as you might expect. Gay St. Barts (or St. Barths or St. Barthelemy) attracts a huge crowd of travelers, and it’s no wonder: there are a multitude of beaches, delectable restaurants, renowned hotels, and shopping options. There isn’t a gay only beach or specific gay and lesbian bar in St. Barts, but it is one of the gay friendliest locations in the Caribbean. It’s funny, as it’s one of the most popular gay and lesbian Caribbean travel destinations, but doesn’t have a gay club or bar or a gay scene.
As you probably guessed, St. Barts is not for the frugal traveler. If you’re looking to do gay St. Barts on a budget, don’t set foot on that charter flight. Gay tourists arrive in droves to indulge in expensive meals, fancy car rentals to explore neighbouring beaches, and of course – designer shopping in nearby Gustavia. There are some cheaper packages and flights here: Visit Travelocity for Caribbean Deals. But NOTE: When booking, you need to plan to fly into St. Maarten, and then take one of the ten minute shuttle flights on WINAIR, Air Caraïbes, or St-Barth Commuter.
Where to Stay:
Guanahani Resort and Spa
Features of this deluxe resort include the Clarins Spa, Frederick Fekkai salon, gourmet Indigo restaurant, and offers activities like scuba diving, boat and Seadoo rentals, and a gorgeous beach bar. $500+
Islanders Villas and Hotels
If you want to rent a private villa, rather than opting for a resort or hotel, Islanders has over 130 villas, is gay-owned and operated, and also well versed in wedding and honeymoon planning for the gay traveler. $1000+
Le Christopher Hotel
This 40 room hotel has one of the most beautiful oceanside pools in St Barts. The beach is stunning, service is impeccable, and no matter which room you stay in, you’ll have an amazing view of the island. $440+
Where to Eat:
Maya’s
This recommendation is a given: Maya’s is one of the most popular restaurants on the island. Tip: As soon as your feet hit the white sand, make a call and reserve a table as this place fills up fast. The cuisine is French-Creole fusion and the menu changes nightly. The atmosphere here is casual chic, prices are $40+.
Eddy’s Restaurant
For casual dining, Eddy’s is the best. The service is friendly and impeccable, and there is a large selection of freshly grilled entrees. $30-$60.
La Marine
If you want to feel like a rock star, and perhaps rub elbows with on, La Marine is the place to see and be seen. The eatery sits atop a deck, overlooking the harbor, and the specialty is mussels, flown in fresh every Thursday from Normandy. If you want to eat late, this is when La Marine really gets going. $20+
What to Do:
In terms of nightlife, most involves piano bars or lounges at the hotels and resorts. Feeling is a small disco and hosts cabaret shows a few times a week. The Yacht Club is another option, on Gustavia Harbor. It opens at 11 pm, and attracts a crowd.
We mentioned Gustavia, the main island port, for shopping, and there are plenty of options here. St. Jean is the other shopping option, and doesn’t offer the same higher end options Gustavia does, but it’s got charming craft and art stores to explore.
For more information on St. Barts, visit the French Government Tourist Office
Filed in Caribbean
I am most interested in planning a trip to St. Barts. I am gay and would like as much information as possible. I have been to the island twice before and I’m ready to come back! It’s my favorite vacation-destination of all time.
Thanks!
Dr. William Hanna