Summary
In contrast to the more densely populated and extravagant Dutch counterpart, St-Martin does not feature casinos or large nightclubs, yet it offers a myriad of exquisite sights and activities. The French side boasts stunning viewpoints, the longest beaches on the island, and a delectable French-Caribbean culinary scene.
Moreover, the gastronomic offerings of this French territory significantly contribute to the dual-nation island’s reputation as the culinary capital of the Caribbean. Explore the flavors and excitement with our first-timer’s guide to St-Martin.
When should I go to St-Martin?
The ideal time to visit depends on your preferences and budget. The island enjoys an average temperature of 27℃ (80.6℉), while the sea temperature remains around 26-28℃ (80-82℉) throughout the year.
From December to April, St-Martin witnesses the highest influx of tourists, while those seeking better deals and who can tolerate increased humidity may consider visiting between May and August. Be aware that hurricane season spans from June to November, during which many establishments close in September and October, the rainiest months.
Key annual events in St-Martin include the vibrant carnival festivities from February to early March, and The Gastronomy Festival in November.
How much time should I spend in St-Martin?
To fully appreciate St-Martin, a stay of two to three days is advisable. Essential activities include relaxing on the pristine sands of Orient Bay, indulging in culinary exploration in Grand Case, and perusing the Marigot market. Additionally, joining a pool party at La Lotterie Farm and enjoying a day at Îlet Pinel is highly recommended.
Is it easy to get in and around St-Martin?
Travelers can fly from numerous major US cities into Princess Juliana International Airport located on the Dutch side, with landings happening directly over the renowned Maho Beach. The French side’s modest Grand Case-Espérance Airport accommodates only flights from Guadeloupe and St Barthélemy.
St-Martin’s capital, Marigot, serves as a frequented cruise ship port, albeit smaller in size compared to Philipsburg on the Dutch side. Regular boat services are also available to Anguilla and St Barthélemy.
While bus services within St-Martin can be erratic, renting a car is advisable. Rental rates range from €40-60 daily during peak season, and the road conditions are generally favorable. A car journey from the Dutch side to Marigot takes approximately 20 minutes, with the border being marked only by a white obelisk commemorating the 1648 treaty that divided the island.
Top things to do in St-Martin
Spend a day at Orient Bay
Although St-Martin boasts several spectacular beaches, the pristine sands and crystal-clear waters of Baie Orientale, also known as Orient Bay, are undeniably exceptional. Spanning 1.3 miles, it ranks as the second longest beach on the island, following the 1.5-mile Baie Longue (Long Bay), also located on the French side.
Orient Bay hosts trendy open-air beach bars where sun loungers abound. The Peruvian-inspired driftwood decoration of Kkô Beach Bar & Restaurant and Kontiki Beach, known for its weekend DJs, are worth a visit.
Topless sunbathing is permitted across the beach, with the southern section designated for complete nudity.
The beach can be accessed via the pastel-hued gated community of Parc de la Baie Orientale (Orient Bay Park), which features a town square named La Place du Village, hosting eight restaurants for dining options.
Wander around the colorful town of Marigot
Commence your exploration of the capital on the French side by strolling along Rue de la Republic, the main street adorned with 19th-century stone houses. Proceed to the bustling open-air market along the waterfront, open from Monday to Saturday, where clothing, spices, rum, and various souvenirs can be found.
Scan for vibrant stairs leading up to the remnants of Fort Louis, which was established in 1789. The steep 10-minute ascent may be demanding, but the 360-degree vistas of the island are well worth the climb.
Following your fort exploration, visit the cozy, wood-paneled bakery Chez Fernand for a delicious tuna baguette. Alternatively, consider the traditional French bistro O Plongeoir in Marina Fort Louis for lunch.
In the afternoon, drive over to Loterie Farm, a rainforest retreat merely 10 minutes from Marigot. This destination features a lagoon-style spring water pool, accessible for €25. Guests can relax with champagne on sun loungers amid lush greenery, accompanied by ambient house music.
The facilities include a restaurant, ziplining courses, a children’s adventure park, and hiking trails (the summit hike to SXM’s highest point, Pic Paradis, takes about an hour). The highest party vibes occur on the last Saturday of each month at Loterie Farm’s adults-only Jungle Pool Party.
Spend a day on Îlet Pinel
A swift boat transports visitors across the sapphire bay to this protected marine reserve in just five minutes. Upon arrival, a white sandy beach adorned with palm trees and crystal-clear waters welcomes visitors, while striped-tailed green iguanas make their way into the bushes.
Pinel Island offers two dining options: Le Karibuni, known for gourmet seafood, and the more casual Yellow Beach, serving thin-crust pizzas. Both eateries offer fresh lobsters sourced directly from seawater cages.
Yellow Beach remains open year-round, whereas Le Karibuni is closed from July to mid-October. Both restaurants feature thatched-roof wooden gazebos where patrons dine at wooden tables, with reservations recommended. Cushioned beach chairs and parasols can be rented on-site.
A brief hike to the highest point of the grassy island allows visitors to view Pinel’s two additional beaches (rocky, but excellent for snorkeling) as well as nearby islands such as Anguilla and St Barths, along with the nature reserve of Tintamarre.
Daily cash-only boat service (€10) operates from French Cul de Sac every 30 minutes from 10 AM to 5 PM. Alternatively, kayaks can be rented from Caribbean Paddling for a 20-minute crossing across the bay.
Dine in Grand Case
The former fishing village of Grand Case primarily consists of a single street lined with an array of restaurants, ranging from sophisticated French Caribbean fine dining to casual street stalls known as lolos, which specialize in grilled specialties.
The latter are traditional Caribbean barbecue establishments featuring smoked ribs, grilled lobster, and Johnny Cakes. Noteworthy choices include Cynthia’s Talk of the Town and Sky Is The Limit, both of which attract significant crowds. For lighter options, consider the colorful acai and poke bowls from nearby MOOD SXM.
Grand Case has earned the title of Gourmet Capital of SXM for good reason. Iconic fine dining spots such as Le Pressoir, Bistrot Caraibe, and La Villa are must-visit destinations along Restaurant Row.
After your meal, enjoy a refreshing swim at the town’s long, narrow beach. Alternatively, consider securing a lunch reservation at Balalou, a floating solar-powered restaurant where guests can savor pizza and bokits (stuffed Johnny Cakes) while relaxing on U-shaped pontoons.
For those dining in Grand Case during dinner, the vibrant promenade atmosphere, complemented by occasional live music from Calmos Cafe and Le Temps des Cerises, enhances the experience.
Local boutique accommodations such as L’Esplanade and Grand Case Beach Club offer convenient lodging options for those wishing to explore the dining scene without the hassle of driving after indulging in a Ti’ Punch. Additionally, L’Esplanade offers a complimentary restaurant shuttle.
How much money do I need for St-Martin?
In terms of pricing, St-Martin aligns closely with other Caribbean vacation spots. When comparing St-Martin to Sint Maarten, accommodation on the French side may be slightly pricier, while dining costs are somewhat lower. While tipping is not obligatory, many patrons tend to round up their bills.
Credit cards and Apple Pay are generally accepted (though not in taxis), but some smaller businesses, particularly lolos, may charge an additional fee for card transactions. It is advisable to carry some cash, as both euros and dollars are commonly used.
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Hotel room for two: €150-500
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Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €80-500
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Bus ticket: €2
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Coffee: €3-4
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Tuna baguette: €5-6
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Lunch at a lolo: €15-25
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Fixed-price 3-course dinner: €55-180
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Beer at a bar: €5-8
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Car rental per day: €35-70
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Sun lounger rental: €15-30
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Taxi from Maho Beach to Marigot: €25
Frequently asked questions
Can I get by with English in St-Martin?
While it is beneficial to know some basic French phrases and keep a translation app readily available, English is widely spoken among locals.
Will my electric appliances work?
St-Martin utilizes European round-prong electric plugs. It is advisable to bring an adapter, and a voltage converter is required if your appliances are not compatible with 220V (most phone chargers are dual-voltage).
