Travel article
How to make the most of your holiday on Mustique
By Kim Hart, Travelwise luxury travel specialist
I’ve been lucky enough to holiday on Mustique three times...
…and each visit has left me a little more obsessed with this extraordinary island. If you’re heading there for the first time – or just looking to experience it more deeply – these are my top tips to make your stay truly unforgettable.
Kim Hart
An expert in the ultra luxurious, Kim is your go-to for superyachts, exclusive-use villas and the kind of experiences that don’t appear on websites. She has an extensive understanding of the world’s finest hotels and a personal in-depth knowledge of Africa, Australia, New Zealand, USA & Canada, shaped around her own worldwide adventures. Kim also has a passion for the iconic wildlife viewing experiences both above and below the water.
The private island where billionaires go to feel normal (and everyone else feels fabulous).
Mustique is a private Caribbean island like no other. It’s where royalty and rockstars go to relax, where nobody bats an eye at bare feet in designer kaftans and where the vibe is effortlessly exclusive.
My best advice? Put the phone away.
It’s tempting to document every second (because yes, it is that photogenic), but the real luxury here is presence. Go for a digital detox, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and soak up the magic without distraction.
Time doesn’t matter – except when it’s cocktail hour.
On Mustique, you’ll quickly forget what day it is. Watches aren’t really a thing here. You’ll know it’s time for a sundowner when the breeze shifts and the sky turns peach – that’s all the schedule you need.
Embrace the mule life.
Your trusty steed for the week? A “mule” – basically a golf cart with island swagger. Speed limits are low and so is the urgency to get anywhere fast. You might spot Kate Moss cruising past, and yes, she’ll give you a wave. That’s the Mustique way.
Go dancing at Basil’s Bar (preferably on a Wednesday).
No Mustique trip is complete without a visit to Basil’s Bar, the island’s legendary beachside hangout. Go on a Wednesday for Jump Up night – a local tradition of rum-fuelled dancing that once attracted everyone from Mick Jagger to Princess Margaret. If you’re lucky, Basil himself might still make an appearance on the dance floor.
To dine in or out?
All private villas come fully staffed with brilliant chefs (and trust me, you’ll eat like royalty). But if you fancy dining out, lunch at the Beach Café on Endeavour Bay is casual and breezy and dinner at Veranda or the Cotton House offers a more refined setting. Just remember to book ahead – this is low-key luxury, not last-minute.
What to wear? Whatever you like.
Mustique has no dress code. Wear what makes you feel fabulous. It’s as individual as the people who love it – think barefoot chic, beach-to-bar style or full glam if the mood strikes.
My favourite beaches:
Macaroni Beach – wild waves, perfect for body surfing and dramatic selfies. Take a breakfast picnic and watch the sun climb above the Atlantic.
Gelliceaux Bay – calm, clear waters ideal for snorkelling or pretending you’re in a Bond film.
Lagoon Beach – sheltered and serene. Great for paddleboarding, picnics or doing nothing at all.
The Mustique magic.
It’s hard to describe the feeling Mustique gives you – but once you’ve been, you’ll know. It’s barefoot hedonism at its best. You feel like the island belongs to you, and for a little while, it truly does. If you’re dreaming of a similar getaway, get in touch and I’ll help you plan the perfect experience.
