Where are the eight best beach clubs in St Barths for yachts?

Set in Gustavia, the beating heart of the island lying on the west coast, Ocean Club St Barths is the island’s answer to exclusivity, with a members-only arrangement that opened its doors in November 2022. Boasting panoramic views over Port de Gustavia, guests at Ocean Club St Barths will have their run of the club’s restaurant, serving an eclectic mix of local flavours and delicate pastries. Natural textures, brass accents and striking shades of orange, blue and white make up the contemporary interiors of the club, while infinity pools and rooftop loungers can be found outside towering over the marina. Members are also invited to make use of the Ocean Club concierge service, on hand to take care of everything from dinner reservations to yacht charters so that guests can truly make the most of everything St Barths has to offer.

Towards the end of 2022, a new venue on St Jean Beach opened its doors: Nao Beach Club. Flanked by palm trees, the club has a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere. The terrace setting is dotted with custom-made furniture crafted from recycled fluted wood, while the ceramic decorative pieces are courtesy of a Milan-based designer. Attention to detail has been upheld throughout, from the aesthetics to the table settings and the Mediterranean and Japanese fused menu. Enjoy the stracciatella with golden imperial caviar, accompanied by sundowners and DJs as the sun sets. 

One of the most popular destinations on the island is Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France. Located on the beach at Baie des Flamands, it offers 40 bungalows and villas along with a stunning beach club on which you can dine, drink and soak up the sun. Visit La Case de l'Isle or La Cabane de l'Isle for unrivalled beachside cuisine.

Nikki Beach is now something of an iconic brand that conjures up images of all-white plush sunbeds and crowds of celebrities and VIPs dancing to the sounds of international DJs. A must-visit, the beach club becomes party central, where sipping Champagne in the Nikki Beach signature tepees promises a well-heeled clientele. (Jay Z and Beyoncé, Mariah Carey and Bono have all indulged at Nikki Beach St Barths.) Partying aside, the food is reliably good and includes creative seafood entrees, fresh salads and top-grade sushi. Unashamedly jet set, Nikki Beach is something to be experienced.

Aptly named and located on the iconic Shellona Beach, this club blends Mediterranean charm – and cuisines – with Caribbean zest. The restaurant is helmed by a Greek chef who creates dishes to complement the extensive French rose wine menu. Guests can seek out relaxation in one of the many lounging areas, soaking up the rays or under the shaded canopies. A hotspot for regular performances by famous musicians and DJs, days turn into fun and vibrant nights here, inspired by the Ibiza partying scene. Following its Caribbean success, there is now a Shellona outpost in St Tropez.

The Eden Rock Hotel in St Barths has a top-class reputation and attracts rock stars and celebrities as well as a loyal following of regular clients. Positioned on St John’s beach, the Sand Bar was conceptualised by the international chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and brings an element of New York’s ABC Kitchen to the sun and sand backdrop of St Barths. The seafood is truly exceptional, the cocktails are flawlessly mixed and the pizzas are some of the best in the Caribbean, which is why it’s one of the best for those without their own superyacht beach clubs. Sitting on the beach beholding the beautiful Baie de St Jean and enjoying a long lunch at the Sand Bar is a day well spent, and the weekly brunch is a must.

Situated right on the point of the Port of Gustavia, enjoy flawless al fresco dining at La Guérite, a Mediterranean-inspired seafood and grill restaurant and cocktail bar. Sharing its name with a sister establishment in Cannes, its gastronomic treats can be credited to Yannis Kioroglou, a talented chef of Greek origin. Enjoy a few creatively curated cocktails and sumptuous Mediterranean dishes while looking out over beautiful views of the port, featuring fishing boats and stunning yachts alike.

Staged in the St Jean district on the powder-white sands of Pelican Beach is the Gyp Sea Hotel, hosting its beach club, which opened in 2020. Guests can expect stylish chic interiors with cosy loungers and cabanas. A more relaxed vibe here: the restaurant is characterised by its wood fire grill and local offerings. Enjoy the barbecued catch of the day, washed down with an expertly curated cocktail by the in-house mixologists. Regular special events are hosted here, from New Year’s Eve parties and saxophone afternoons to brunch soirees. The cigar cellar – home to some of the world’s finest cigars – is the cherry on top for those looking for a luxurious beach club to unwind in St Barths.