2012 has been good to Rihanna. After scoring her first No. 1 album with Unapologetic, 12th No. 1 single with “Diamonds,” and purchasing a lavish $12 million mansion in L.A., the pop superstar took some much-needed time off during the holidays.

RiRi returned to her native Barbados for Christmas with the paparazzi in tow. She soaked up the sun in a bikini while vacationing at Cove Spring House, which has played host to Oscar winners and Forbes list financiers. The 10- bedroom villa boasts a private movie theater, library, fully-equipped gym, and fresh water swimming pool.

The paps snapped RiRi lathering up with suntan lotion and chatting with her BFF Melissa while overlooking the ocean on her balcony.

Check out more pics from Rihanna’s Christmas in the sun.