Park Hyatt St. Kitts

Located on the southernmost tip of Saint Kitts, this 126-suite resort mixes modern architecture and local island elements to foster the ultimate environment for relaxation, and every room has an ocean view.

• The simple and chic décor, in white and neutral tones that allow the vibrant colors of the Caribbean to take center stage
• Breakfast overlooking the water at The Great House, featuring freshly baked pastries and eggs from a local farm
• Rum tasting at Tots Rum Bar, followed by dinner at adults-only restaurant Stone Barn
• Renting a kayak and heading over to Reggae Beach for snorkeling and piña coladas
• The kid-friendly Island Fort by Camp Hyatt, with indoor and outdoor activities for guests from two to 12 years old, including a shaded playground, an outdoor arena for budding performers, swimming lessons and nap rooms

Long regarded as the kid sister to neighboring Nevis, St. Kitts is finally coming into its own, thanks to the opening of its first luxury hotel, the Park Hyatt. Spanning 20 acres on a peninsula overlooking the Narrows—a strait that separates the islands of St. Kitts and Nevis—the property’s design was inspired by the sugar plantations that once fueled the island’s economy. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a “Welcome Walk” that utilizes the hotel’s modern exterior to frame a view of the sea, volcanic sand beaches and palm trees.

Accommodations are fresh and modern, purposefully designed with simple lines and neutral colors to enhance the vivid colors of the Caribbean and the ocean views. Suites feature a sitting room, private terraces and luxurious bathrooms with soaking tubs. Premium suites with individual swimming pools and sun decks are available. For those traveling with a group, the 5,200 square foot Presidential Villa has three bedrooms, an in-house kitchen, a game room and a gym, plus private pool and beach access.

Guests can while away afternoons by the pool or at the beach. The two pools (one is adults-only) serve as the centerpiece of the property and are a short walk from the black-sand beach. Additional facilities include a state-of-the-art fitness center and Miraval Life in Balance Spa. Although the beaches of St. Kitts do not stretch for miles, like some Caribbean islands, the crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming and water activities, such as kayaking, snorkeling and paddle-boarding (non-motorized water equipment can be rented at the hotel).

The Park Hyatt St. Kitts offers three restaurants on site. Don’t miss breakfast at The Great House, which has a buffet with fresh juices, pastries and breads (along with à la carte items). For a casual seaside “ocean-to-table” meal, the beautiful Fisherman’s Village serves local seafood. The more formal Stone Barn is an adults-only restaurant that uses seasonal ingredients to create their rotating menu of sophisticated dishes, highlighting fresh seafood and produce. Guests with dietary restrictions can order off-menu or amend dishes at every restaurant, and the staff is incredibly accommodating. For foodie guests, cooking classes and Chef’s Table dining at The Great House are also available upon request.

The hotel is equally suited to couples and families seeking a low-key getaway.

High season in St. Kitts runs from December through the end of March, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s and a refreshing breeze coming off the sea. As in many Caribbean destinations, there are frequent sun showers that pass quickly. From April to November, temperatures hold relatively steady, due to St. Kitts’ proximity to the equator.

St. Kitts is an easy plane ride from New York City, as American, Delta and United offer non-stop flights from JFK and EWR (flight duration is 4 hours and 20 minutes). The St. Kitts airport is also served by direct flights from Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami, London and Toronto, as well as inter-island flights from neighboring Caribbean islands. There is only one airport on the island, and the Park Hyatt St. Kitts offers shuttle service from the airport. It is a 20- to 30-minute drive to the hotel, depending on traffic.