Summary
Saint Martin is a unique gem among picturesque Caribbean destinations: one wondrous island split between two separate countries. Dutch Sint Maarten and French Saint-Martin have coexisted peacefully here since the Partition Treaty of 1648. (No wonder they call it the “Friendly Island.”) Nearly all of its 2 million annual visitors fly into the Dutch side, home of Princess Juliana International Airport (and its world-famous beachfront runway). Though most of the main tourist attractions are within French borders, wherever you end up on the island, you won’t be far from pristine surf, boutique beachfront hotels, and colorful cafes and bars teeming with local flavor. Here’s how to map out your ideal St. Martin getaway.
The Best Times to Visit St. Martin
With its positioning along the eastern edge of the Caribbean Sea, St. Martin enjoys tropical weather all year long. There are actually only two seasons here: the dry season and the wet season. The former lasts from December to April and is also the peak time for tourists who crave nonstop sunshine. However, if you arrive during the shoulder months — November or May — you might just catch the best of both worlds; the rain is still minimal, and so are the crowds. Total flying time is just under four hours from New York airports, which offer several direct flights daily across multiple airlines.
The Best Hotels in St. Martin
The island has no shortage of luxury lodging. However, La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, is the undisputed winner for well-heeled jet-setters. Hugging the cliffside above its own private beach, this luxury property features stand-alone suites and a top-notch food and beverage program including the island’s oldest wine cellar. It all comes at a premium, of course: rates here usually start above $1,000 per night.
If you’re okay with dialing down the opulence a notch or two, consider Paradise Peak Bed and Breakfast. These cozy cottages are tucked into the high rainforests of the island, suspended 1,300 feet above sea level, with unrivaled views of the surrounding landscape. Sure, you’re not by the beach, but you can easily admire it in the distance from the serenity of your heated pool.
For those who crave something closer to the action, consider staying at Divi Little Bay Beach Resort. It overlooks Great Bay on a spit of land within striking distance of Philipsburg’s famed nightlife.
The Best St. Martin Beaches
When it comes to world-class sandy shores, St. Martin is an embarrassment of riches. Singling out the best is a challenging task since the entire island is pretty much enveloped by one big, beautiful beach. Therefore, choose your personal slice of paradise based upon your specific preferences. For example, if you want to avoid other people entirely, Mullet Bay is the perfect choice. It’s on the western side of Sint Maarten, not far from the French border. In fact, the entire peninsula here boasts secluded gems like Long Beach, which abuts La Samanna resort. In between sits Cupecoy Beach, which is notable for its limestone cliff formations rising gracefully from the sands.
Conversely, there’s Maho Beach, which some have dubbed “the most extreme beach in the world.” Why? Because jumbo jets take off and land directly overhead due to the unusually short landing strip at Princess Juliana International Airport. It is teeming with crowds and anything but serene, but it certainly makes for a good Instagram story.
If it’s aquatic activity you’re craving, the bustling strand of Orient Beach is where you want to be. However, with a slew of clubs, bars, and restaurants right alongside it, you have to be comfortable with crowds. Farther down the eastern shore, Dawn Beach is another popular destination, prized for its talc sands and unobstructed views of St. Barts across the channel. Hedge your bets between beauty and liveliness with an afternoon at Anse Marcel Beach. Perched at the foot of a narrow cove, overlooking Anguilla, with its own namesake resort, this place offers a little bit of everything.
Things to Do in St. Martin
You’ll want to allow ample time for simply laying on the beach and soaking up the sun, of course. However, if that ever gets dull, there’s an abundance of activities both on and offshore to keep you busy. Start off by snapping selfies in front of the iconic murals of Marigot. The vibrant Wall of Art was created, in part, by local street artists in the wake of Hurricane Irma — an inspired testament to resiliency. If you want to elevate your heart rate, head to Loterie Farm, where you can zip line through the rainforest. The area is also a good launching spot for ambitious hikers looking to make their way to Pic Paradis, the island’s tallest point. Start from the trailhead near Colombier, and enjoy a 3.1-mile out-and-back journey to the pinnacle.
If you prefer to stay on the water, the options are equally as robust. Up along the northern end of the island is Orient Beach. Its calm, cerulean surf sets it apart as a prime location for marine activities. At Bikini Watersport, based right on the beach, you can rent Jet Skis or go parasailing above the waves, all while enjoying stunning views of neighboring St. Barts hovering over the distant horizon. Just north of the beach is Cul-de-Sac Bay, where you’ll find the ferry to Pinel Island. The five-minute ride introduces you to this idyllic iguana-guarded getaway. It’s a Natural Reserve with short walks through the native flora and fauna. Alternatively, stay near the dock and enjoy piña coladas and cod fritters from tables and stools literally seated in the water. For those favoring a more private experience, charter a catamaran with Pyratz Gourmet Sailing and combine a full-day cruise with chef-prepared cuisine and craft cocktails.
What to Eat and Drink in St. Martin
Just make sure to save room for dinner, because St. Martin is home to some of the finest cuisine in all of the Caribbean. In Marigot, embark on an evening crawl through the many Creole-centric restaurants crowding the center of town. La Petite Auberge is a standout, a cozy affair specializing in local seafood drenched in rich, buttery sauces and curries.
Up the road is Grand Case, another quaint village teeming with flavor. Check out Ocean 82, one of the island’s most famous dining destinations. Grilled lobster and creamy pasta dishes are must-tries as diners enjoy seaside sunsets.
For a more French Bistro vibe, head to L’Atelier Bar à Viande et Poisson in Orient Bay. The steak frites are as savory as any you’ll find in Paris, while the wine and rum options are plentiful. If you want to elevate your dining experience to another level, however, make a reservation at La Villa Hibiscus, just under the shadow of Pic Paradis. Owned and managed by chef Bastien Schenk and his wife, Sabine, Schenk trained under Joël Robuchon in France before bringing those Michelin sensibilities back to this exquisite part of the island. The daily French nouvelle-style tasting menu is crafted based on fresh and seasonal ingredients.
Down in Philipsburg, the Dutch are doing things slightly less precious, but they’re having a great time nonetheless. Check out the Greenhouse for a prime example. Signature items include the Jamaican jerk chicken salad and the slightly spicy bang bang shrimp. The lively beachside dining hall features live music on most nights of the week. If you’re strolling through town during the day, stop by the Amsterdam Cheese And Liquor Store — recognizable by its bright yellow façade. It’s a great place to stock up on authentic gouda and pair a wedge with wine during their daily tastings. However you approach it, do not leave without sampling a sip of the guavaberry liquor, a local delicacy.
