An Unforgettable New Year’s at Villa Embrace, St. Barths
The New Years Eve fireworks in Gustavia Harbor as viewed from Villa Embrace. Image by Edmund Gudenas.
New Year’s is one of the most fashionable events on the St. Barth’s calendar, and there is one place that brings these celebrations to another level - the Caribbean’s most exclusive property, Villa Embrace.
The modern and refined villa is etched into a verdant hillside overlooking the cerulean waters and mega-yachts of Gustavia bay. The grandiose property spans four storeys – each room immaculately furnished, and the villa is home to many island firsts – the largest infinity edged pool, a glass elevator, waterfall and rare art collection including pieces by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.
Roy Lichtenstein Artwork at Villa Embrace. Image by Claudio Napolitano.
From the moment you arrive at Villa Embrace, a dedicated team, including your personal butler, concierge, private chef, and housekeepers, is devoted to crafting a flawless stay, ensuring every detail is taken care of so you can simply relax and indulge.
If you arrive in St. Barths a few days early, you’ll have the chance to enjoy exclusive excursions, from helicopter rides and golf trips to Anguilla to private yacht charters exploring the island’s most idyllic beaches. Leading up to New Year’s Eve, the island comes alive with nightly cabaret shows at top restaurants and the prestigious annual UNICEF Gala, a star-studded event featuring live music, an elegant dinner, and an auction – often attended by celebrity guests like Leonardo DiCaprio.
For a different kind of celebration, the world-famous Nikki Beach offers four unforgettable nights leading to NYE. Known for hosting icons like Beyoncé and Mariah Carey in previous years, this year promises to be just as spectacular, with DJ Solomun taking over the decks to welcome 2025 in style.
On New Year’s Eve, festivities begin early in the morning. The waters buzz with activity as sail boats embark on the New Year’s Eve Regatta – a 24-mile-long race that encircles the island. The spectacle can be viewed over coffee, fresh juices and a delicious breakfast prepared by your personal chef and served on the terrace of Villa Embrace.
The view from Villa Embrace’s infinity pool. Image by Edmund Gudenas.
As sails unfurl amid a backdrop of St. Barths’ lush hills and elegant architecture, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in one of Villa Embrace’s two sparkling infinity pools. Sip handcrafted cocktails on a hammock or perfect your salute to the sun during a private, alfresco yoga session. Alternatively, late morning, venture into Gustavia to browse designer boutiques, putting the finishing touches to your New Year’s Eve ensemble in exclusive stores unique to St. Barths.
Decadent lunch menus are designed in advance by your party and prepared by Michelin and five-star hotel trained chefs who can prepare everything from handmade pasta to prime cuts of grilled meat, fresh seafood and sushi.
In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating massage and beauty treatment or soak in one of the villa’s Japanese tubs surrounded by bountiful nature, preparing mind and body for an unforgettable evening.
As night falls upon St. Barths, transfer to one of the island’s finest restaurants. Many venues offer fixed price, multi-course tasting menus created with fresh local ingredients and diners are entertained with live music and an upbeat carnival atmosphere.
The most unmissable NYE event is the annual fireworks display, and the best place to view the dazzling showcase is from the terrace at Villa Embrace. As the clock strikes midnight, fireworks spin and spiral across the night sky above Fort Oscar - sip champagne and clink glasses while welcoming in a magnificent New Year in paradise. The evening doesn’t end here, live music performances, canapes and wine from the villa’s own private cellar help to keep the celebration going well into the early hours.
Drinks served at Villa Embrace. Image by Hugo Allard.
When the evening finally winds down, return to one of five beautifully appointed guest suites to be greeted with a customized turn-down service. The service is personalized to you, featuring thoughtful extras such as mood lighting, pillow menus, handmade chocolates, beverages and even soothing balms and creams depending on how you’ve spent your day.
Spending New Year’s at Villa Embrace allows you to experience the extraordinary. From unsurpassed service, fine dining and curated experiences to the best views of seasonal island events, the cherished memories that you create are sure to linger long after your departure.