On the tiny piece of paradise called Mustique, you won’t feel pressure to do a much other than relax and relish the natural beauty that surrounds you. But even though this Caribbean island (part of the nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines) is all about taking it easy, little about it could be called low-key. Its small size (just two square miles) and high prices equal exclusivity, and you might find yourself sipping rum punch next to part-time resident Elle McPherson. Although the hotels are top-notch, many vacationers choose to rent a villa, since there are lots available and many come equipped with a staff.
Before You Go: Need-to-know info
Language: English
Currency: East Caribbean dollar
Entry requirements: Passport
Flight time (to Barbados): 5 hours from New York City; 4 from Miami; 50 minutes via charter flight from Barbados
Getting around: Kawasaki Mule (a jeep/golf cart hybrid), a motorcycle, jeep, bicycle and taxi
When to Go: Mustique at its best
Best weather: It’s sunny and mild from December to August, with average highs in the mid-80s in the winter, and high-80s in summer. Just avoid hurricane season (June through November), when many of the island’s businesses shut down.
Best prices: Glamorous globetrotters flock to the island from December to April, so to find bargains plan your trip between May and August.
What to Do
Beach hop: All of Mustique’s nine beaches are breathtaking, but each is slightly different as well, so sample a few of them during your stay. The water on the Caribbean side is as warm and clear as a swimming pool, while the Atlantic-facing beaches feature more dramatic surf.
Get pampered: Since the island seems to possess a surplus of outrageously beautiful people, you might feel inspired to polish up your own appearance at the luxe spa at The Cotton House hotel. In addition to a long menu of indulgent treatments, they offer a guy-specific revitalizing facial.
Sidle up to a bar: When you need a break from lounging on the sand, order up a cool cocktail at one of the island’s picturesque local watering holes. You can’t go to Mustique without at least one visit to Basil’s Bar, a legendary spot perched above the water on stilts, to listen to reggae and devour burgers or lobster.
