Hotel Manapany Review: A Smart Pick for Beachfront Luxury in St. Barthélemy
Advisors love Manapany for its Michelin Key recognition, eco-certified footprint, and rare on-the-sand setting—here’s how to book it best.
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There were a few things I didn’t know about St. Barthélemy before my recent trip. First, there are only 15 hotels on this small and exclusive island—and only three of them are located directly on the beach.
With that in mind, Hotel Manapany, which was acquired by the family-owned, Paris-based group B Signature Hotels & Resorts, is truly a gem. Recently awarded one Michelin Key, this eco-resort—which has also received a Green Key certification—offers a picture-perfect stay right on the beach, just minutes from the city center.
“I knew the family owners from Paris, and when I first came here, just to get a sense of the place, I never thought I would stay,” said Kader Bendjeddah, the resort’s general manager. “But there’s something about this island; once you come, you just keep coming back.” Benjeddah, who arrived three years ago, added that the owners visit often and have even bought a home on the island so they could visit more often.
We personally love family-owned properties: The owners care. They’re present. They’re proud. They treat their hotels like a family member—and that’s exactly how it should be.
Why Travel Advisors Book It
- Hôtel Manapany holds one Michelin Key and a Green Key certification, giving advisors a sustainability-forward, award-recognized property in one of the Caribbean’s most competitive markets.
- It is one of only three true beachfront hotels in St. Barthélemy, offering direct ocean access that’s exceptionally rare on the island.
- Multi-bedroom villas—including options accommodating up to five guests, plus a newly built four-bedroom private villa—make it a strong fit for families and small groups seeking privacy without sacrificing luxury.
- Every room and suite is designed by acclaimed Paris-based designer François Champsaur, blending Caribbean character with global influences for clients who value elevated, design-driven stays.
Rooms & Suites
The hotel has a charming boutique feel, with all rooms designed like mini treehouses nestled into the hillside. Offering just 43 suites, Hotel Manapany was thoughtfully built in harmony with nature, with accommodations spread across the lush property.
At the top sits the impressive Panoramic Two-Bedroom Villa, perched above it all and offering breathtaking views. Guests can choose between elevated rooms with sweeping vistas or suites with direct beach access, complete with private decks and effortless walk-in access to the shore.
Every room is designed to capture the spirit and colors of the Caribbean, infused with touches inspired by the world travels of designer François Champsaur, who also created the exquisite interiors of Hôtel Vernet in Paris, among others.
Shower alcoves draw inspiration from the Greek islands, while handmade blankets pay tribute to Mexican arts and crafts. Each room features an outdoor space, a king-size bed, a desk and living area, and a vibrant custom-made closet. Wood accents are omnipresent, always chosen with sustainability in mind. Guests can choose between direct beach access or elevated rooms offering panoramic sea views.
Room categories range from spacious villas that accommodate up to five guests to elegant suites designed for two adults (and one child). (Many rooms can be connected, making it easy for families or larger groups to stay together.)
Recently, the owners also built an opulent private villa from scratch just a few minutes from the hotel. Designed in the same refined style as the hotel’s rooms and suites, this four-bedroom retreat can accommodate up to eight guests and includes full hotel services, plus a chef. Think of it as being invited on a beach vacation by your most stylish, effortlessly chic friends.
Food & Drink
The hotel features two distinct dining experiences, both offering breathtaking ocean views.
Rockies serves as the all-day dining venue, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast—included with every stay—is offered both à la carte and buffet-style. By night, the ambiance turns intimate, with twinkling lights and cozy firepits creating a warm, romantic glow. By day, the restaurant evokes the feeling of being aboard a cruise ship, with its panoramic windows and the delightful sensation of floating above the water.
For a more casual yet equally refined experience, guests can enjoy lunch with their feet in the sand at Sandy Beach, which is open exclusively during the day. It’s the epitome of Caribbean barefoot luxury—succulent cuisine, sea breeze, and effortless charm. Notably, the food at Manapany is exceptional: the culinary team and ingredients are French, ensuring the same level of quality and sophistication found in the group’s luxury Parisian hotels.
Amenities & Wellness
Hôtel Manapany offers something I personally love: a complimentary daily fitness program. Each morning, guests can start their day on the spa deck with a rejuvenating yoga or Pilates class. The hotel also features a fully equipped fitness center, open 24/7 for those who prefer to train on their own schedule.
The Manapany Spa, in partnership with Dr. Hauschka, offers single and couples treatment rooms for exquisite massages, body treatments, and facials. The massage was truly exceptional, and the treatment rooms are thoughtfully designed with private showers, changing areas, and windows that let in the soothing sound of the waves.
The spa area also features an infinity lap pool, available exclusively to hotel guests, providing a tranquil space to unwind at any time of day.
The hotel’s main pool, located just beyond the restaurant, features plush loungers, sun umbrellas, sweeping ocean views, and attentive food and beverage service.
Just below, the beach area offers the same relaxed luxury, with the added option of surf lessons—thanks to the island’s ideal waves on this side of the coast.
Location & Access
To reach St. Barthélemy, travelers can either take a short 10-minute flight from Sint Maarten or a 45-minute ferry ride. Upon arrival, you’ll land at the local airport (just five minutes from the hotel) or dock at the marina (about 10 minutes away). Whatever your preference, Hôtel Manapany’s private car service can arrange a seamless pickup.
The only commercial airline connecting Sint Maarten to St. Barthélemy is Winair, offering flights every 30 minutes throughout the day. Alternatively, guests can fly private with St. Barth Commuter or Flexjet for a more exclusive experience.
How to Book Smart
Manapany is a proud member of Virtuoso and Serandipians Hotel Partners. Bookings can be made directly via the GDS platform.
