Inside St. Barts: Billionaire Playground & Luxury Travel Guide

St. Barts, officially known as St. Barthelemy, is a premier Caribbean destination located in the French West Indies. The island is widely recognized for its exclusive atmosphere, attracting high-profile visitors including Jeff Bezos, Beyoncé, and the Rothschild family. It offers a unique blend of tropical relaxation and French culture, featuring pristine beaches and high-end amenities.

Access to the island typically involves flying into a larger Caribbean hub, such as San Juan, followed by a ferry or private boat transfer. Once on the island, visitors can explore a variety of attractions, from world-class snorkeling spots to designer shopping districts. The destination is particularly busy during the winter months, which is peak season for tourism and superyacht arrivals.

St. Barts is a small island situated off Saint Martin in the Lesser Antilles. It measures approximately 11 miles long and 2.5 miles wide. As a French territory, the official language is French, although English is widely spoken throughout the island.

The climate is generally warm and sunny year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from the 70s to the low 90s. Peak tourist season runs from late fall through the spring. The island's topography includes mountains and hills formed from ancient volcanic eruptions, though there are currently no active volcanoes on St. Barts.

Key natural features include:

• More than a dozen sandy beaches
• Shallow coral reefs surrounding the island
• Crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming

The island is a magnet for the world's wealthiest individuals. Jeff Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sánchez Bezos, were photographed in St. Barts at the start of 2026. The Amazon founder's $500 million yacht, Koru, was spotted in the harbor. He is joined by other high-profile figures such as Dmitry Bukhman, Miriam Adelson, and David Geffen, whose massive yachts are often docked in Gustavia.

These superyachts serve as both transportation and floating resorts, often equipped with amenities like jacuzzis and movie theaters. The influx of elite travelers has shaped the island's infrastructure and services.

Elisabeth Brown, membership director at Knightsbridge Circle, described the island's appeal:

"I always say if you want to have your toes in the sand and eat a croissant that feels like you're in Paris, St. Barts is the place for you."

Beyond Bezos, the island has hosted celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Leonardo DiCaprio, solidifying its status as a playground for the 0.001%.

Accommodations on St. Barts are known for their high price tags and exceptional privacy. Villa rentals typically start at over $900 per night, while luxury hotels command even higher rates. The Eden Rock hotel overlooks St. Jean Bay and features fine-dining restaurants and holistic spas. During New Year's celebrations, a single night in its largest villa can cost upward of €13,000 (approximately $15,200).

Another exclusive option is the Rosewood Le Guanahani resort, located on a private peninsula with two secluded beaches. Even the most basic rooms at this resort can cost thousands of dollars per night.

The retail landscape caters specifically to high-net-worth shoppers. The island hosts boutiques for:

• Hermès
• Cartier
• Dior
• Louis Vuitton

Additionally, luxury watchmaker Patek Philippe has a presence on the island, offering unique timepieces. Retail prices often reach into the six and seven figures.

St. Barts offers a vibrant social scene that extends beyond the beaches. One of the most popular venues is Nikki Beach, an upscale restaurant and beach club known for its lively atmosphere. It serves as a hub for both relaxation and entertainment.

The venue is famous for its New Year's Eve celebrations, which have previously featured performances by major musicians such as Kygo and Mariah Carey. For those looking to relax, poolside lounging is available, though costs can be steep; renting a lounge chair may cost over $100.

For water enthusiasts, St. Barts offers top-tier snorkeling, particularly at Grand Cul-de-Sac. This area is home to sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish, thanks to the surrounding shallow coral reefs.