Le Sereno

In your Villa du Pêcheur at Le Sereno, you remember that the best things in life are about simplicity. Take these 900 sq. ft. lodgings, whose spacious front deck opens onto a private swimming pool and the palm-tree-shaded curve of Grand Cul-de-Sac beach. The modern décor - by renowned French designer Christian Liaigre - is sophisticated yet unfussed, much like the island of St. Barts itself.

The same esthetic governs all of Le Sereno's 37 rooms and suites, whose bathrooms feature exotic wood cabinetry and granite sinks. Steps from the 600 ft. beach and a freshwater pool, the hotel offers 24-hour room service. But you'll want to dally at its casually elegant restaurant and lounge, which specializes in fresh and simply prepared fish dishes.

And speaking of room service, make time for an in-suite spa treatment courtesy of therapists from local body-care company Ligne St. Barth. Depending on your appetite, special spa "menus" can keep you blissed out for days.