Tucked at the northeastern edge of the Caribbean Sea, Saint Barthélemy (St Barths or St Barts in common tongue) is all about pristine white-sand beaches and celebrities flitting between luxury stores and yachts. The Caribbean as it is isn’t the most LGBTQ-friendly destination, but this gorgeous French island is perhaps the most open-minded of them all. With a myriad of gay hotels in Saint Barts and a laissez-faire French culture, this island is hailed as the Caribbean’s most gay-friendly island. In fact, it’s like Christmas in Disneyland for the LGBTQ community and has been attracting discerning gay travelers for decades. While some relax in their upscale and chic hotels and villas, others come to party hard at the bars and the beaches.
In fact, St Barts is so accepting and gay-popular that it doesn’t even have specific gayborhoods or gay bars and clubs! Since it’s a part of the French West Indies, the island follows in the progressive footsteps of France when it comes to LGBTQ equality. It’s so progressive that aside from anti-discrimination laws, it even has gay marriage and adoption rights! All in all, Saint Barts is a haven for gays. And what it lacks in terms of gay parties or even a pride celebration, it sure makes up for with its gay beaches and hotels. In any case, it’s where you head to get lost in the magic of the Caribbean, far from the cruise-ship crowds. To that end, here are the top 11 gay friendly hotels in Saint Barts.
Hotel Manapany
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Nestled on a tranquil sandy Anse de Cayes beach in northwest central Saint Barts is the vibrant five-star Hotel Manapany, one of the best hotels in Saint Barts. It’s just a five-minute transfer from the airport and is the only hotel on this beach, guaranteeing you all the privacy and serenity in the world. The hotel will immensely appeal to eco-conscious travelers since it showcases a clear commitment to sustainability. Think homegrown organic fruits and veggies, bamboo fiber towels, and usage of solar panels. The stationery and signs feature French artist-painted watercolor scenes, while red-footed tortoises roam the gardens. In short, this resort is all about rejuvenating the soul, which is evident in its list of amenities.
Begin your day with an excellent buffet breakfast at the sea-facing restaurant, after which you can head to the divine adults-only pool. If you don’t mind people around, the second pool is larger, or you could head to the gym to work up an appetite. Post all that rigor, a session at the sea-facing spa is just what the doctor ordered. On sunny afternoons, social butterflies can spend time in the games room, while bibliophiles can head to the library. If you’re a fitness fanatic, the yoga studio is right up your alley.
Choose from just 43 rooms and suites which feature a neutral palette with pops of bright colors in the furnishings. While not all have TVs, they feature sundecks with picture-perfect views of the Caribbean. Plush king beds, minibars, and B Signature toiletries aside, you’ll love the personal touches like madeleines and flip-flops. Do you want to splurge? Go for the rooms that come with hot tubs or private beach areas.
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Villa BelAmour
10
Villa BelAmour is nothing less than a Caribbean seaside love nest and one of the best gay friendly hotels in Saint Barts. The utterly magical gay-owned property is the ultimate lap of luxury and sits on the northernmost edge of Saint Barts, Pointe Milou. The best part? It’s all yours for your entire stay! Featuring a sprawling open concept, the villa boasts a cloud-like king bed imported from Bali, double vanity in the bathroom, and a 24-hour concierge to cater to every whim and fancy of yours. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows practically bring the outdoors in, while the gourmet kitchen is perfect for cooking romantic meals. Don’t want to cook food? You have your very own private chef too! You’ll love the outdoor patio, which sits right outside the all-glass, retracting wall in the living room. Its centerpiece is the pool, which seems to blend into the Caribbean Sea right beyond.
The patio is the perfect place to sip on coffee and drinks, eat meals, and generally just laze around after a refreshing dip in the pool. If you want to get out, the white sand Lorient Beach and the Grand Cul de Sac lagoon are perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and more. When you get hungry, tuck into a delicious traditional Caribbean meal at the beachside La Gloriette restaurant.
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Hotel Le Toiny
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Set on a panoramic hillside peninsula in far east St Barts is Hotel Le Toiny, one of the most luxurious gay hotels in Saint Barts. Set on a breezy and sandy beach, this private enclave has facilities and amenities galore, while still oozing intimacy and exclusivity. Chic without being haughty, Le Toiny’s aesthetic melds all the laidback Caribbean elements. Think inventive cuisine, a tranquil beach club, and coastal chic interiors. With just 22 villa suites spread across the adjacent hillside, staying here is as intimate an experience as it gets. What’s more, they’re framed in gardens brimming with cacti and bougainvillea, ensuring all the privacy in the world. Open-plan white interiors, huge king beds, swanky mod-cons, and plush robes in the bathrooms with Bamford toiletries add to the luxury. The best bit? They give you a complimentary beach bag and flip-flops!
Sitting in the breezy white main building is its amenities – the pool, restaurant, and lounge. The upper pool boasts mesmerizing and far-ranging views of the high seas. Meanwhile, the lower one is right down by the beach at the Beach Club and chi-chi boutique. After a languorous swim, head to the lovely one-room cottage spa for a romantic couple’s massage. Begin your day with a veritable feast of an à la carte breakfast, and that too in the comfort of your own room on the terrace! Finally, enjoy other meals down at the Beach Club or the in-house restaurant.
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Hotel Christopher Saint Barth
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With its convivial and zestful poolside scene, Hotel Christopher Saint Barth was designed for the classy and contemporary luxury-seeking LGBTQ set and is one of the best gay friendly hotels in Saint Barts. One of the coolest places to hang your sun hat on the island, it lies around 15 minutes from the airport. The owner of this French Riviera-esque resort is an ardent fan of Hermès, and it shows in the use of the color orange across everything from artwork to bedding. The piece de resistance of this property is the large pool set on an extensive deck, complete with an island. Besides a gym with sea views, you’ll love the decadent ocean-facing Sisley Spa. The poolside restaurant serves lunch and other meals, but breakfast is a hearty affair at the indoor-outdoor lounge-restaurant.
The 42 rooms border the pool and are set in gardens landscaped with tropical flowers, grasses, and palms. While they’re spread across categories, they all come with excellent sea views and deep-soaking bathtubs for amorous adventures. Pale hues and natural woods with flashes of the signature orange keep the tone restful. Finally, the rooms even come with a host of amenities such as minibars, swish mod-cons, Sisley toiletries, robes, and flip-flops.
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Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa
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Few hotels on Saint Barts evoke a hedonistic feel as the Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa does. Considered amongst the best gay hotels in Saint Barts, it also happens to be amongst the Best Hotels in St Barts, and it’s easy to see why. The incredibly sophisticated resort sits on the eastern end of the scenic Grand Cul-de-Sac beach. The only word that can be used for their rooms and suites is: vast. Simply but elegantly and impeccably furnished, they’re peppered with oversized beach-related photographs, deep and cushy sofas, and inviting beds. What’s more, you’ll even find indulgence in the form of deep-soaking tubs in some and open-air showers in others. If wanton sensuousness was a thing, then it’d be the rooms at Le Barthélemy.
The rest of the hotel is equally impressive. The infinity pool, for instance, is one endless stretch of turquoise blue stretching right out into the Caribbean. Lined by sunloungers beneath umbrellas and lush foliage, it’s the best place to unwind on the property. The open-air rooftop bar serves particularly delicious cocktails, where you can enjoy a sundowner or a nightcap. Aside from remarkably sublime meals, the hotel also serves a healthy breakfast buffet. The best bit is that intrepid LGBTQ travelers can head for enthralling hikes which the hotel staff is thrilled to share information.
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Le Sereno Hotel
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Bordering the enchanting Anse de Grand Cul de Sac lagoon is Le Sereno, which discerning and luxury-loving gay travelers will fall head-over-heels in love with. Fringed by a shallow but vast lagoon and a sandy beach, the gay friendly hotel in Saint Barts is famed for its protected marine reserve that’s home to brightly colored coral and fish, turtles, and stingrays – marine lovers, take note. The hotel’s setting is spectacular – low-rise, beach-facing structures sit on a curve in landscaped grounds. The lush gardens are so vibrant that you might just stop in your tracks and click an endless stream of pictures.
It’s no wonder that the beach is the star here, and you can indulge in everything from snorkeling to kayaking. For languorous layers, the large heated pool with double daybeds and loungers is just what the doctor ordered. The staff makes a beeline for your perch, serving a litany of cocktails and snacks. After a swim, we implore you to head to SPA Le Sereno, one of the very few Valmont Switzerland spas in the world! If you want to splurge, the waterfront pavilion is perfect. Begin your day with the most satisfying and hearty à la carte breakfast you’ll have in your life. Plus, the resort has three other fantastic restaurants to choose to dine at.
It’s only logical that such an exclusive property has equally exclusive digs. Choose from a host of room categories across 39 rooms, a majority of which look out to the sea. The zenith of opulence is the four-bedroom villas at the back of the property, all with heated pools, plush robes, candles, minibars, and Richart chocolates at turndown. Yum.
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Pearl Beach Hotel
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Do you want to stay in a lavish LGBTQ-friendly hotel near the capital of Gustavia? Then the Pearl Beach Hotel in Baie de St Jean is where you should be. One of the best gay hotels in Saint Barts, it’s also one of its most fun-filled and zestful ones. Pointe Milou and its cluster of gay-friendly establishments is just a five-minute drive too, making this an excellent base to explore the island’s nightlife. It’s also close to Saint Jean beach, which is one of the Most Unique Beaches On Earth.
With just 14 rooms, both sea and garden-facing, the hotel makes for an intimate and serene retreat even in the middle of all the buzz. From the comfort of your beach-facing rooms, watch planes make their infamous landings at Gustaf III airport, which is located along the bay from the hotel. Making a low descent over the brilliant blue waters, they’re an absolute spectacle. Alternating between traditional and breezy beach decor, they’re all spacious with huge balconies that make you feel like you’re living luxuriously outdoors.
For those who like livelier atmospheres, the beachside restaurant with regular live music is definitely right up your alley. Start your day on the right note with breakfast in the comfort of your room. The outdoor swimming pool is an absolute stunner, but it’s the blinding white-sand beach that you’ll love. What’s more, the hotel has set up sunbeds and umbrellas for languorous unwinding. Finally, the snack bar and à la carte restaurant take care of all your dining whims and fancies as you enjoy a memorable stay here.
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Villa Marie Saint Barth
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Lordly coastal views are the star attraction at the hillside hotel Villa Marie Saint Barth, which lies just 10 minutes from the airport. Adventurous LGBTQ travelers will love this gay friendly hotel in Saint Barts as a 20-minute hike will get them to the terrific and ethereal beach at Colombier. It’s one of the Top Things To Do In Saint Barthelemy and is only accessible by foot or boat. This property is slightly more traditional than the other luxury Saint Barts hotels – think white clapboard walls, red tin roofs, and a period dining room. After being welcomed with hibiscus tea, your rooms feel like a sanctuary of peace.
Scattered all over the hillside, the rooms (all but three) have picturesque views of the island. In fact, the top-tier ones even come with private pools. Nevertheless, they all feature chic interiors with shell-framed mirrors, rattan chairs, and four-poster beds. Looking to splurge? Go for the bungalows, which come with clawfoot bathtubs and alfresco showers.
The rest of the property is equally impressive, whether it’s the compact gym or the excellent spa which dishes out high-quality therapies. The kidney-shaped pool, albeit small, is a lovely place to relax on the loungers. The attention given to food is particularly excellent. One on-site restaurant pairs French cuisine with local flavors and dishes, but it’s the extremely popular François Plantation restaurant where you should definitely have a meal at. Excellent cocktails at the rum/cigar bar and an à la carte poolside breakfast are highlights of your stay.
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Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf St Barth
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Another excellent Gustavia hotel that’s very gay-friendly is Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf St Barth. It lies right on the mesmerizing Shell Beach, which is a pristine sandy beach lined with millions of shells. The hotel models its interiors and furnishings in an easy French beach style; think palm-print wallpapers, seagrass shades, and rattan furniture. The on-site restaurant Shellona is famed for its seafood, especially the coconut milk-infused mahi-mahi. The property is more about the individual suites and rooms and less about the amenities. That said, it does have an excellent spa where a facial or a massage is just the way to end a long day of water activities out front. Start off your day on a high note with a delicious à la carte breakfast in the comfort of your room.
The suites and rooms at this hotel sit high on the hill above overlooking stellar views of Gustavia. What’s more, each of them boasts the same Caribbean flair with a contemporary twist. The best of them even have their own private plunge pool on the patio, complete with yellow striped sunbeds with views of the ocean and the town.
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Hotel Les Ondines Sur La Plage
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If you’re looking for a low-key yet excellent hotel on Saint Barts, then go for Hotel Les Ondines Sur La Plage. This small but cute and exceptionally sweet place is amongst the best gay friendly hotels in Saint Barts. It’s merely a handful of suites that are clustered around a pool. The kicker? It lies right on the stunning Grand Cul de Sac lagoon, within steps of its brilliant blue waters. In fact, some of the suites enjoy direct access to the beach from their amazing terraces. Moreover, all the suites, which are spacious radiate a sense of barefoot luxury with lots of sea-worn wood and stone. Full kitchens allow you to indulge in romantic cooking sessions, with the added advantage of a complimentary breakfast. So, you don’t have to cook anything in the morning, except making yourself that delicious cup of brew.
Even though it’s such a small hotel, the service is exceptional and extremely personable. The outdoor pool is surrounded by plush sun loungers and cabanas where you can lie after a refreshing swim in the cool waters. A well-informed concierge helps you with everything from flight and hotel to restaurant bookings. Afternoons are best spent out of the Caribbean sun and in the library curled up with a book on the cushy sofas.
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Villa Lodge 4 Epices
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Occupying the top spot on the list of best gay hotels in Saint Barts is the impressive Villa Lodge 4 Epices. The small yet cozy hotel sits right on the Grand Cul de Sac lagoon, with its stellar infinity pool seemingly melding with the ocean. There’s a lot you’ll love about this little gem of a hotel. Start your day with an English or French breakfast by the pool, after which you simply hop, skip, and jump to your poolside perch or dive right in. A refreshing swim later, dig into a hearty meal at the on-site restaurant, or read a nice book on the terrace or the garden.
Notwithstanding whether you choose the regular rooms or the villas, both offer spectacular views of the ocean. What’s more, they all feature bright pops of color either complementing or blending with ocean hues – think vibrant pink, seafoam green, mustard yellow, and more. Moreover, all rooms come with swish bathrooms, coffee machines, and terraces with million-dollar Caribbean sea views.
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Just So You Know:
- Despite being more than gay-friendly in every way, shape, and form, Saint Barts is probably the only gay-friendly place on earth without pride celebrations or gay bars! It might appear to be a shame since it would be riotous fun, but in a way, it speaks to the culture of the island. The denizens of Saint Barts encourage the LGBTQ community actively to live their truth so freely and proudly on all days of the year that they don’t need a separate day or month or a festival to celebrate queer acceptance. We only hope the rest of the world can catch up to this tiny island nation and its thinking.
Get Some Culture in Saint Barts:
- Saline Beach: When it comes to gay Saint Barts beaches, there’s no better beach than Saline beach. The extreme right and left sections of the beach are extremely popular with the gay community. The best bit? It’s clothing-optional, so you’re sure to see lots of good-looking sights!
- Nikki Beach: Are you a social butterfly who wants to party hard in Saint Barts? The gay-friendly and sexy Nikki Beach is for serious partygoers, complete with sunbeds and teepees. As the day winds down, things get crazier by the minute – in a good way!
Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Saint Barts:
- Le Ti: This boudoir-themed supper club exudes a Moulin Rouge ambiance – think lots of red velvet. Between Tuesdays and Thursdays, expect to see hot cabaret shows with show-boys and showgirls. What’s more, they also regularly schedule sexy theme nights.
Best Gay Saunas in Saint Barts:
- Saint Barts doesn’t have a gay sauna, per se. But, that’s only because all places are so openly accepting of gay couples. So much so, that you’ll see PDA just about everywhere!