Once you weather the short, white-knuckle flight from St. Maarten to St. Barthèlemy — the small, chartered plane slipping through a narrow gap between two mountains to ease itself onto the runway, stopping just short of the narrow beach dotted with sunbathers — island time begins. A 15-minute van transfer over a lush landscape takes you to Hôtel Guanahani, a perfect island getaway for small meetings or incentives.
Set on its own 15-acre peninsula, Guanahani has two sandy beaches. The island itself is ringed with lovely white-sand strands and secluded coves. In the French style, many beaches are clothing-optional.
The hotel's 75 brightly colored bungalows, each with a terrace and lush, private garden, sprawl from beachside to the top of a breezy headland with spectacular views. Several bungalows feature private pools and outdoor Jacuzzis. For groups of eight or more, an off-season package (April through October) includes accommodations in an ocean-view room, breakfast and lunch or dinner, and use of the hotel's meeting room (at 500 square feet, it holds up to 22 people).
St. Barth is part of the French West Indies, so exquisite dining abounds, including that to be found in Guanahani's two restaurants. Boutique-style, duty-free shopping is a short drive away in Gustavia.
Contact Guanahani, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, at (800) 223-6800.