St Barths Hidden Gems
As Curated by Voyager Voice, Jordan Kanegis Founder Netta swimwear
st barths, carribean
While most of you who have been to St. Barths know it for its vibrant social scene, there is so much more this beautiful island has to offer. It is truly a paradise in every meaning of the word. From its incredible views to its natural beaches and perfect weather (except for September - November hurricane season), this island is full of an energy that transcends your typical tropical trip. My grandparents bought a house on the island 25 years ago, so I have been coming here since the day I could walk. Before luxurious hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs were around, St. Barths was a natural oasis situated a hop, skip, and a jump from New York. Now, people from all over the world convene here to experience French culture and party like there’s no tomorrow. However, some remnants of old St. Barths remain— the scariest runway landing of your life, adorable boutiques full of beach and swimwear from small European brands you can’t pronounce, and boulangeries packed with fresh croissants and other traditional French pastries, visiting this soulful island should be on everyone’s bucket list….
Le Toiny
Jordan Kanegis
Saint Barthélemy
Villa Marie
WHERE TO STAY...
Villa Marie Saint-Barth is a Voyager Club favourite hidden gem. Located in the hills above Colombier, the hotel overlooks the famous Flamands Bay and is a tranquil haven. This very voyager hotel has serious style and with each room uniquely designed, the bohemian and colonial influenced interiors will delight lovers of French Art de Vivre. After a day at Colombier Beach, rejuvenate at the spa.
Another hidden gem with the soul and essence of space, calm and privacy is Hotel Le Toiny. Whether you are planning a couples retreat or a family vacation, Le Toinys luxurious unique suites, offer private heated pools and unobstructed ocean views and direct sunlight throughout the day. Their new beach club for lunch is a must!
The villas on the island are truly remarkable….Voyager Club has access to some amazing villas on the island and two, in particular, have stood out to me, each with their own unique St. Barth flare.
Villa Nureyev, Le Toiny, St Barths
The Nureyev Villa is one of the most mysterious villas on the island. The legend tells the story of a star dreaming of dancing and floating above the waves, hence Nureyev constructed the largest floating deck to achieve his dream, entirely surrounded by the ocean. The Villa proposes 4 unique bedrooms, 2 masters in the main floor of the villa, a private Suite with its own terrace and kitchen area and a guest cottage with its independent bathroom and view of the pool.
My favorite area to stay in is Point Milou— it is here that you get the best view of the sun setting perfectly over the horizon full of colors you forgot even existed in nature. Villa What Else is a boho-chic, four-bedroom villa with an unparalleled 360 view of St. Jean, this spot gets booked up fast but is certainly worth the wait (and the price). The youthful interior, filled with massive buddha heads, multiple seating areas, and basket-woven chandeliers makes for a great spot to hang with friends. Villa Chant De La Mer…Talk about a room with a view! Or rather five rooms with five ocean-facing views… this private home has a dining table overlooking the sea and is the epitome of luxury. Hire a private chef and you never have to leave, nor will you want to. Coupled with an infinity pool, a hot tub, and a stairway that leads down to the water’s edge, this place makes for the ideal photo-op.
WHERE TO EAT…
Bonito, located atop a steep hill overlooking the harbor in Gustavia, Bonito is a romantic spot to go with your significant other and feel that warm island breeze. L’Esprit, with a menu that changes regularly to serve the freshest and most delicious cuisine, the island has to offer, L’Esprit is a quaint restaurant for a casual night out with friends. Tamarin - Situated in an ethereal garden with delightful cocktails, this restaurant has the best ambiance out of any restaurant on the island. Bar De L’Oubli, located in the center of Gustavia is full of energy, yet somehow simultaneously relaxing straight out of a classic Parisian film. With locals screaming as they watch live fútbol, perfectly frothed cappuccinos and fast wifi this place is the perfect pitstop for a midday work email check.
Tamarin
Columbier
WHAT TO DO…
Hike to Columbier- Located on the northwest side of the island, the easiest way to get to this exquisite beach is by boat. However, should you decide to get your body moving, it is the perfect hike to break a sweat and then dive headfirst into the crystal-clear blue water. Rent a catamaran - pack up some brie and baguettes, and a cooler full of Caribe beer, and rent a catamaran for the day. Take it to Columbier and go snorkeling, then to Shellona for some cliff jumping, then end the day by swimming to shore for a sunset cocktail. Hit the Beach - Looking to party? Check out Pearl Beach for Bikini Brunch on a Saturday or Nikki Beach on a Sunday. However, what makes St. Barths truly special are the natural beaches such as Gouverneur and Saline. Shade is limited, so it’s best to visit at sunrise or sunset. The sun and saltwater are good for the soul!
WHERE TO SHOP…
Sunday - With two locations, one in Gustavia and the other at Shellona, Sunday is the best place to purchase eccentric beachwear with a twist. Coverups, beach hats, and sandals galore, this is my favorite boutique to buy beachwear for all my warm-weather vacations. Gisele - A tiny store tucked away in the hills of Gustavia, Gisele offers an array of beach and swimwear from boutique brands your friends will constantly ask you how to get their hands on….
For beauty lovers head to Ligne St Barth, all their products are made on the island using natural ingredients such as frangipani flowers and mango butter. Co-founder Hervé Brin calls on his Breton and West Indian heritage, which goes back to 1648, working with the herbs and medicinal plants….
For homeware discover the bazaar of Baya. The owner who is originally from Tunisia, curates pieces from all over the world with an emphasis on artisanal techinques and with one-off finds from handmade Indian tableware to Moroccan pillows, rattan chairs and Israeli floor tiles.
Jordan Kanegis, Founder of Netta swimwear