What to Do in Saint Martin: A Travel Guide to Coconut Island
Discover the laid-back charm of Saint Martin's north side — lush hills, secret beaches, French cafés and vibrant local markets — perfect for anyone searching for what to do in Saint Martin beyond the usual tourist trail.
Updated | October 2026
Why Saint Martin Should Be Next on Your Passport
Two countries, one island and a rather irresistible mix of French sophistication and Caribbean soul. If you're wondering what to do in Saint Martin, picture mornings spent wandering colorful seaside villages, afternoons on beautiful white-sand beaches and evenings lingering over good food with the warm Caribbean breeze rolling in.
On the island's northern French side, Saint Martin feels like a little piece of France transplanted into the tropics. Think charming cafés, boutique shops, excellent restaurants and beaches ranging from lively stretches of sand to secluded coves where clothing is entirely optional. Head south across the invisible border into Dutch Sint Maarten, and the atmosphere shifts toward busy waterfronts, beach bars and a livelier resort scene. Two distinct personalities, with no passport required to move between them.
But there's more to Saint Martin than sunshine and a good glass of rosé. Originally known as Soualiga, or the Land of Salt, the island has a complex history shaped by Indigenous communities, European colonization, the salt trade and slavery. Since 1648, the French and Dutch have shared this small Caribbean island, creating a fascinating cultural blend that's still evident in its architecture, cuisine and everyday life.
My own introduction came during a two-week Caribbean island-hopping adventure to celebrate my birthday. Rather than another party at home, I traded familiar routines for turquoise water, new places and the pleasure of having absolutely nowhere urgent to be. Saint Martin turned out to be a particularly lovely place to embrace that philosophy.
At a Glance
📍 Destination: Saint Martin
🕒 Time Needed: 3-5 days
💰 Budget: €140-€235/day ($150-$250 USD)
👟 Walking Level: Mild
🌤️ Best Season: Dry season (December-April)
☕️ Don’t Miss: Loterie Farm (on my list for next time)
🖤 Perfect For: Beach and nature lovers
My Bibimbap Moment
This trip added: Resilience.
Saint Martin added the ingredient of resilience to my Bibimbap Life. Not every stop went as planned and a few things I had hoped to see simply weren't available. Loterie Farm was closed, the Marigot Market was quieter than expected and getting to Happy Bay involved a hike that felt much more intense than I'd anticipated. But then the trail opened onto the beach, the views from the fort stretched across the island and the day suddenly felt worthwhile again. Sometimes a trip isn't about getting every experience you hoped for; it's about letting the day be what it is and finding the moments that make it memorable anyway.
My Two-Week Caribbean Island Hopping Itinerary
Twice a year, I carve out two weeks, plus weekends, for some intentional travel — longer adventures that leave room for curiosity, rest and unexpected discoveries. This particular journey took me island hopping through the Caribbean, with four destinations originally planned and plenty of variety between them.
The journey began on Sint Maarten, the island's Dutch side, where beautiful beaches, a colorful parrot sanctuary and an exhilarating zip-line adventure set the tone. Across the border, French Saint Martin offered a different perspective, with coastal villages, charming cafés and a slower pace.
Next on the itinerary was Guadeloupe, followed by Dominica, where dense rainforest, dramatic waterfalls, natural hot springs and winding waterways revealed a wilder side of the Caribbean. Exploring the atmospheric Indian River, a filming location for Pirates of the Caribbean, was especially memorable.
The final destination was Antigua, with its gorgeous beaches, gentle tortoises and an unforgettable encounter with stingrays.
Of course, the trip had other plans. A sudden tropical storm in Sint Maarten forced an early departure, followed by the rather inconvenient discovery that my connecting flight to Guadeloupe didn't exist. With no realistic way to rejoin the original schedule, I booked a new flight to Dominica and reluctantly crossed Guadeloupe off the list.
It wasn't quite the itinerary I'd planned but I loved how different each island felt — from Saint Martin's French-Caribbean character to Dominica's wild landscapes and Antigua's beautiful coastline. And the unexpected change of plans became a memorable lesson in flexibility.
My route: Sint Maarten/Saint Martin → Dominica → Antigua
Explore
Here’s where the journey will take us.
01 | Things to Do on Saint Martin
02 | When to Go
03 | How to Get There
04 | Where to Stay
05 | How to Get Around
06 | How Long to Stay
07 | Tours & Day Trips
08 | Good to Know
Travel More | Sint Maarten’s Dutch Inspired Paradise
What to Do in Saint Martin — Exploring the French Side
Saint Martin may be small but there's plenty to discover beyond its beautiful beaches. From the seaside restaurants of Grand Case and the colorful streets of Marigot to the turquoise waters of Îlet de Pinel and the lush hillside setting of Loterie Farm, the French side offers a lovely mix of coastal scenery, local culture and opportunities to slow down.
Whether you're crossing over from Dutch Sint Maarten for the day or spending several nights exploring the northern half of the island, there's enough variety to build an itinerary around whatever interests you most — food, beaches, nature or simply wandering somewhere new.
💡 My Tip | I only had one day to explore the French side, so this visit was more of an introduction than a deep dive. If I were planning it again, I'd allow at least another day to enjoy a proper meal in Grand Case, visit Îlet de Pinel, spend some time at Orient Beach and finally explore Loterie Farm, which was closed during my visit. Sometimes one day is just enough to know you need to come back.
So Benedict in Marigot
After several days of getting around Sint Maarten by taxi, I finally decided to take my chances with the local buses. And I'm glad I did. Between figuring out which van to flag down, changing buses at Cole Bay and watching the island unfold through the windows, getting to French Saint Martin became an experience of its own. A little trial and error, plenty of Caribbean heat and a much better glimpse of everyday island life.
My first destination was Marigot, the French capital, where pastel-colored buildings, perfumeries, little boutiques and the smell of fresh bread drifting from local bakeries make it clear you've crossed into a different side of the island. And after navigating my first Caribbean bus adventure, breakfast was definitely in order.
Enter So Benedict, a small French café with mirrored interiors, crisp linens and sidewalk tables made for people-watching — although you may have to share the experience with a little cigarette smoke.
I went for the tuna tartare eggs Benedict, a rather decadent combination of smashed avocado, poached eggs, tender tuna and a generous helping of hollandaise sauce. It arrived wonderfully gooey, with sauce spilling over the toasted base and pooling around the plate. Alongside it came a fresh little salad and, somewhat unexpectedly, a warm baked potato topped with chive sour cream.
Was it rich? Absolutely. Possibly a little too rich. But the tuna was delicious, the fresh flavors helped balance all that creamy goodness and the whole thing felt deliciously indulgent. Not exactly a light breakfast before a day of exploring but when in France — or at least the Caribbean version of it.
If you're spending time in Marigot, So Benedict is worth considering for a leisurely breakfast or brunch before wandering the market and waterfront. Just don't plan on leaving hungry.
Marigot Market & Its Colorful Streets
After a rather indulgent brunch at So Benedict, it was time to wander Marigot, the French capital of Saint Martin. The town has an interesting mix of Caribbean color and French influence, with pastel buildings, little shops, waterfront cafés and the occasional splash of street art tucked between its streets.
Even the name has an unexpected origin. Marigot comes from a French word referring to a swamp or backwater, a reminder of the waterways that once shaped this coastal settlement. Today, the town sits along a sheltered bay, with Fort St. Louis watching over the harbor from its hilltop perch.
One of Marigot's best-known attractions is its open-air waterfront market, where vendors traditionally sell everything from tropical produce and spices to colorful clothing, handicrafts and souvenirs. Wednesday and Saturday mornings are generally the busiest times to visit, when the market is more likely to have its full complement of stalls.
I'd imagined something active with vendors, shoppers and all the wonderful chaos that makes a Caribbean market so much fun. Instead, I found a rather different scene.
The market was still open but many of the stalls were empty. Brightly painted structures and outdoor seating sat beneath the tropical sun, looking almost like a colorful little stage waiting for someone to show up and start the performance.
It wasn't quite what I'd expected. There appeared to be redevelopment activity around the waterfront, although I couldn't tell whether that explained the quiet market or whether I'd simply arrived at the wrong time.
Still, there was something interesting about seeing the place without its usual crowds. The colors, open-air layout and surrounding buildings were worth a look, even if the shopping experience I'd imagined never quite materialized.
If you visit when the market is in full swing, you'll have more opportunities to browse local crafts, pick up spices and sample Caribbean food. The nearby lolos — casual, locally run eateries — are particularly worth seeking out for Creole dishes and grilled specialties.
One detail I particularly appreciated was the Market Woman statue, a tribute to the generations of women who have helped sustain Saint Martin's markets and everyday commerce.
Designed by local artist Martin Lynn, the sculpture honors the women whose work has long been central to the island's market culture. It's a meaningful piece of public art, especially when you consider how much of Caribbean history has been shaped by the people who worked, traded and built communities along these waterfronts.
Beyond the market, Marigot has another colorful side worth discovering: its street art. Murals and painted walls bring unexpected bursts of creativity to the town, offering a more contemporary expression of Saint Martin's culture alongside its older architecture.
I love finding these little artistic surprises when exploring somewhere new. They're often the details that make me stop, pull out my camera and pay attention to a place in a different way.
💡 My Tip | If Marigot Market is high on your list, aim for Wednesday or Saturday morning rather than assuming every day will be equally lively. Even when the stalls are quiet, the surrounding streets, public art and waterfront are worth exploring — and Fort St. Louis is just a short distance away.
Fort St. Louis
Perched high above Marigot, Fort St. Louis is one of those places that makes you work a little for the reward. And by work, I mean climbing a rather steep hill in the Caribbean heat, wondering whether you really needed that enormous brunch after all.
But if you enjoy a little history, interesting architecture and a spectacular view, this 18th-century fortress is absolutely worth the effort.
The walk begins in Marigot, where a wonderfully bright canary-yellow Catholic church makes an easy landmark. From there, follow the road uphill as the town gradually falls away beneath you. The climb is exposed in places but the higher you go, the more the harbor and surrounding coastline begin to reveal themselves.
Near the parking area, another splash of yellow marks the approach: a cross beside the entrance to Fort Louis. From here, a final stretch of steps leads toward the old stone ramparts. If you'd rather skip most of the uphill walk, you can drive to the parking area and tackle only this last section.
A Little History Behind the Walls
Fort St. Louis was constructed in 1789 under Governor Jean-Sébastien de Durat, during the reign of King Louis XVI. Its hilltop position was no accident. Marigot was an important trading settlement, and the fort was designed to protect the harbor and its valuable stores of salt, coffee, sugar and other commodities from attacks by foreign privateers.
The fortress was more than a collection of cannons pointing toward the sea. Its original layout included military quarters, a guardroom, a kitchen and a cistern for collecting rainwater. At one point, its barracks could accommodate around 54 soldiers.
I find these practical details especially interesting. It's one thing to admire a dramatic ruin but quite another to imagine how people actually occupied it — where they slept, how they collected water and how the buildings were arranged to defend such an exposed hillside.
Much of the original structure has disappeared but the remaining stone walls, terraces and cannon positions still reveal the fort's defensive design. Its elevated position offered soldiers clear views of vessels approaching Marigot Bay, while additional batteries once protected the coastline below.
The fort was decommissioned in 1851 and underwent restoration work in the 1990s. Today, you can wander through the surviving ruins, explore the old battlements and get a sense of how this small military outpost once functioned.
The Views Are Worth the Climb
Of course, the original builders weren't thinking about beautiful panoramas but they certainly chose an excellent location.
From the top, Marigot Bay spreads out beneath you, with colorful rooftops, boats scattered across the harbor and the coastline curving toward the open Caribbean Sea. On a clear day, you can even spot Anguilla on the horizon.
The stone walls frame the scenery beautifully, and the contrast between the weathered masonry, turquoise water and surrounding green hills makes this an especially rewarding place to photograph.
There are also informational panels around the site, offering a little more context about the fort's history. And after that hot climb, the breeze coming off the water feels particularly wonderful.
But the views weren't the only thing that caught my attention.
The Fort's Other Residents
Iguanas. Everywhere.
Tiny ones darting between rocks, medium-sized ones soaking up the sunshine and some impressively large adults wandering around as though they owned the place. Which, considering how long the fort has been abandoned, perhaps they do.
I loved this unexpected combination of history and wildlife. One minute you're examining centuries-old stonework and the next you're distracted by an enormous lizard casually making its way across the ruins.
It's these little surprises that make exploring a place so enjoyable. Fort St. Louis might draw you in with its history and panoramic views but don't be surprised if the iguanas steal the show.
💡 My Tip | Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and comfortable shoes with good grip. The walk up from Marigot is steep and offers limited shade, especially around midday. If you're driving, there's parking closer to the fort, although you'll still need to climb the final steps. Give yourself time to explore the ruins, enjoy the views and keep an eye out for the resident iguanas.
Happy Bay Beach via Friar’s Bay Beach
After exploring Marigot and climbing Fort St. Louis, I had one more destination in mind: Happy Bay Beach, a secluded, clothing-optional cove on Saint Martin's northwestern coast. I'd read about its beautiful shoreline and the short hike from neighboring Friar's Bay Beach. It sounded like the perfect place to spend the rest of my afternoon.
What I hadn't quite figured out was how to get to the beginning of that hike without a car.
Having recently discovered the local bus system, I decided to give it another go. I hopped off near the road leading toward Friar's Bay and set off on foot. What followed was roughly 30 minutes of walking around toward the beach, under the hot Caribbean sun, before I'd even reached the trailhead.
Somewhere along the way, I began to suspect there was a much more sensible way to do this.
Eventually, Friar's Bay Beach appeared, a pretty crescent of sand with turquoise water and a few beachside restaurants. Under different circumstances, I might have stopped right there and called it a successful afternoon.
But I'd come all this way for Happy Bay and I wasn't turning around now.
By this point, I was hot, thirsty and beginning to question my planning skills. I stopped at a beach bar for some much-needed water and asked the bartender how to reach Happy Bay. He pointed toward a trail disappearing into the vegetation at the far end of the beach.
Apparently, I still had some walking to do.
Through the Overgrown Coastal Trail
From Friar's Bay, the trail toward Happy Bay wound through coastal vegetation and along the hillside. The hike itself wasn't terribly long or technically difficult but it certainly wasn't the gentle, carefree beach stroll I'd imagined.
The trail was quite overgrown, with uneven ground, exposed roots, scratchy vegetation crowding the path and very little relief from the heat. It required some attention to where I was stepping, especially as the greenery became thicker.
Still, there were beautiful glimpses of the coastline between the vegetation, with Friar's Bay gradually shrinking into the distance. Iguanas lounged among the rocks, apparently far better adapted to the Caribbean heat than I was.
There was something wonderfully wild about the setting, even if I was becoming increasingly aware of how much of my afternoon had disappeared just getting here.
Eventually, the vegetation opened into a grassy stretch, and beyond it was the beach I'd been looking for.
Happy Bay. Finally.
Was Happy Bay Worth the Effort?
Tucked between Friar's Bay and Grand Case, Happy Bay Beach feels wonderfully removed from the busier parts of Saint Martin. White sand, coconut palms, turquoise water and very little development give it the sort of peaceful, unpolished character that's becoming harder to find.
It's also a clothing-optional beach, so don't be surprised to encounter a few people enjoying the sunshine without the inconvenience of swimwear. When I arrived, only a handful of visitors were scattered along the sand, with plenty of room to find a quiet spot.
The water was warm, although the surf was a little rougher and murkier than I'd expected. With rocky areas along the shoreline and waves rolling in, it's worth paying attention to conditions before swimming.
There are no dependable facilities here, which is part of the appeal, but also means you'll want to arrive prepared with water, snacks and anything else you need.
I wish I could say I spent the rest of the afternoon blissfully lounging beneath a palm tree. In reality, I was exhausted. Between the earlier sightseeing, that unexpected 30-minute walk and the overgrown coastal trail, I'd used up most of my energy — not to mention the time I'd hoped to spend discovering more of French Saint Martin.
But the day had one more unexpected turn.
I met a couple of guys at the beach who offered me a ride back toward the Dutch side. Faced with the prospect of retracing that entire journey and figuring out the buses again, I gratefully accepted. Before long, I was back at Mullet Bay Beach in Sint Maarten, ending the afternoon somewhere wonderfully familiar.
Not exactly the day I'd planned but certainly one I won't forget.
How to Get to Happy Bay Beach
Via Happy Bay Parking Area: This would be my first choice. When I left Happy Bay with a couple of guys who offered me a ride back to Sint Maarten, we simply walked out to a nearby parking area. No difficult hike, no scrambling through overgrown vegetation — just a much easier walk than the route I'd taken to get there. I wish I'd known about it earlier. Access and parking conditions may change, so check locally before heading out.
Via Friar's Bay: The more commonly recommended route is to park at Friar's Bay Beach and follow the coastal trail from its northern end. Allow approximately 10–15 minutes each way for the hike itself. It's not especially long or technically difficult but the trail was quite overgrown during my visit, with uneven ground, thick vegetation and very little shade.
By Local Bus: Buses can get you into the general area but reaching either beach may involve a considerable walk. I spent roughly 30 minutes getting to Friar's Bay before even starting the trail to Happy Bay. It's doable but not necessarily the best use of your time if you're only visiting the French side for a day.
💡 My Tip | Before committing to the hike from Friar's Bay, investigate the parking area near Happy Bay. Having walked out that way myself, I'd absolutely try that approach first. The coastal hike can be a fun little adventure but if you're short on time, traveling in the heat or simply hoping for a relaxing beach day, the easier access could save you considerable time and energy. Bring water and comfortable shoes whichever route you choose.
My Bibimbap Moment
Every destination adds another ingredient to our life's recipe and sometimes the best travel days aren't the ones that go exactly according to plan. My day exploring the north side of Saint Martin came with a few missed opportunities — closed doors, a half-empty market and a surprisingly intense hike to reach Happy Bay — but there was still plenty to love along the way. From brunch and wandering Marigot to the views from Fort St. Louis and finally reaching that beautiful stretch of beach, the day unfolded in its own way. Here's the ingredient Saint Martin added to my Bibimbap Life.
Today’s Bibimbap Recipe
🥢 Flavor: Laid-back
🌿 Ingredient: Resilience
❤️ Best Memory: Setting eyes on Happy Bay Beach
🎒 Take With You: Not every day needs to go according to plan to become a good memory. Sometimes you just have to keep going and see what the day has waiting for you.
When I think back on that day, I remember both what I saw and what I missed. I wish I'd gotten to experience Loterie Farm and catch Marigot Market in its full rhythm but I'm also glad I didn't let those disappointments define the day. The views from Fort St. Louis, a good brunch in Marigot and the feeling of finally arriving at Happy Bay after that wild hike are the things that stayed with me. Travel rarely unfolds exactly as we imagine it will and perhaps that's part of what makes each trip its own story.
Saint Martin Travel Essentials
Saint Martin may be a small island but exploring both its French and Dutch sides takes a little more planning than you might expect. It's easy to cross between the two, with Marigot, Grand Case and some of the island's most beautiful beaches all within reach of Dutch Sint Maarten. Renting a car gives you the most flexibility, particularly for secluded spots like Happy Bay and Îlet de Pinel, while local buses are an affordable option for traveling between the main towns. Give yourself at least a couple of days to explore the French side without rushing and remember that reaching some of those gorgeous, tucked-away beaches can take considerably longer than the map suggests.
When to Go
Saint Martin enjoys warm tropical weather year-round but December through April is generally the best time to visit, with lower humidity, plenty of sunshine and pleasant trade winds. It's also the busiest and most expensive season, particularly around Christmas and New Year's. For a balance of good weather, fewer crowds and more reasonable prices, consider the shoulder months of May and early June.
Dry Season (December–April): The most popular time to visit, with generally sunny days, comfortable temperatures and ideal conditions for beach hopping and exploring the island. Book accommodations and popular restaurants in advance.
Shoulder Season (May–June): Warmer, quieter and often more affordable, with occasional tropical showers. A good option if you'd prefer a slower pace without the peak-season crowds.
Hurricane Season (June–November): Expect higher humidity, more frequent rainfall and the possibility of tropical storms, particularly from August through October. Prices are often lower but travel plans may require more flexibility.
💡 My Tip | If you're visiting during hurricane season, consider flexible bookings and travel insurance that specifically covers weather-related disruptions. Caribbean storms can change an itinerary surprisingly quickly — something I learned firsthand when a tropical storm interrupted my island-hopping plans.
How to Get There
Most visitors arrive in Saint Martin through Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on the Dutch side, which offers the widest selection of international flights. From there, it's an easy drive across the open border into French Saint Martin, with Marigot approximately 20–30 minutes away and Grand Case a little farther, depending on traffic. There's no routine border checkpoint between the two sides, making it easy to explore the entire island during your stay.
Air: Fly into Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) for most international connections, including flights from the United States and Europe. Grand Case-Espérance Airport (SFG) on the French side primarily serves regional routes connecting nearby Caribbean islands.
Taxi or Rental Car: Taxis are readily available at SXM, while rental cars offer greater flexibility for exploring the island's beaches and smaller villages. Allow approximately 20–45 minutes to reach the French side, depending on your destination and traffic.
Local Bus: Shared minibuses connect major towns on both sides of the island, including Philipsburg and Marigot, although there isn't a direct public bus service from the airport terminal. You'll need to reach a nearby main road and may have to change buses depending on your destination. It's inexpensive but less convenient with luggage or a tight schedule.
Ferry: If you're island hopping, ferries connect Saint Martin with nearby Anguilla and Saint Barthélemy (St. Barts). Departure points vary by destination and operator, with services from Marigot and the Dutch side.
💡 My Tip | I relied on taxis initially before finally giving the local minibuses a try. They're a fun, inexpensive way to experience everyday island life but they're not necessarily the quickest option. If you're planning to visit several beaches or explore the French side in a single day, I'd recommend renting a car or arranging transportation in advance.
Where to Stay
Choosing where to stay in Saint Martin depends on the kind of island experience you're after. The French side offers charming coastal villages, boutique hotels, beautiful beaches and exceptional dining, while Dutch Sint Maarten has a livelier atmosphere, with waterfront restaurants, nightlife and convenient access to the airport.
I based myself in Cupecoy, on the Dutch side, where having an apartment near Mullet Bay Beach gave me a comfortable home base for exploring the island. Whether you prefer a quiet seaside village or somewhere with more restaurants and activity on your doorstep, choosing the right location can make a big difference — especially when getting between beaches isn't always as straightforward as it looks on a map.
French Saint Martin
Grand Case: One of my top choices for its walkable village atmosphere, beautiful bay and exceptional restaurants. Often called the culinary capital of the Caribbean, it's ideal for food lovers who prefer intimate guesthouses, beachfront apartments and boutique hotels over large resorts.
Orient Bay (Baie Orientale): A lively beach destination known for its long stretch of white sand, beachfront restaurants, water sports and clothing-optional areas. A good choice for travelers who want to spend most of their time by the water, with restaurants and beach bars close by.
Anse Marcel: A peaceful, sheltered cove surrounded by green hills, with upscale accommodations and a more secluded atmosphere. Best for couples or travelers seeking quiet mornings, beautiful scenery and a relaxed resort-style escape.
Marigot: The French capital offers colorful streets, cafés, local markets and a working waterfront, with convenient ferry connections to nearby islands. A practical base for exploring the French side, particularly if you enjoy being close to everyday island life rather than staying at a beach resort.
Dutch Sint Maarten
Simpson Bay: One of the most convenient and versatile places to stay, with waterfront restaurants, beach bars, shops and a wide range of accommodations. Its central location makes it a good base for exploring both sides of the island, particularly if you're renting a car.
Maho Beach: Best known for the planes flying dramatically low over the beach near Princess Juliana International Airport. The surrounding area has resorts, restaurants, casinos and nightlife, making it a fun choice for travelers who prefer a lively atmosphere and easy airport access.
Cupecoy: A quieter, more residential-feeling coastal area known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, beautiful sunset views and upscale apartments and resorts. A good option for travelers who want a more relaxed stay while remaining within reach of Mullet Bay, Maho and Simpson Bay.
Philipsburg: The Dutch capital is known for its colorful waterfront, duty-free shopping and long stretch of sand along Great Bay. It's convenient for shopping, sightseeing and cruise excursions, although it can feel particularly busy when ships are in port and quieter after the daytime crowds leave.
💡 My Tip | If I were planning another visit, I'd seriously consider staying in Grand Case for its combination of good food, walkability and coastal charm. For a first-time visit focused on exploring both sides of the island, Simpson Bay is a particularly practical base. Wherever you stay, remember that short distances don't always mean quick journeys, especially during busy periods.
Where I Stayed in Sint Maarten
For beach access & a relaxed island base — Mullet Bay Loft Condo
I stayed in a one-bedroom loft apartment in Cupecoy, on the Dutch side of the island, just steps from beautiful Mullet Bay Beach. Having my own kitchen, living space and laundry made it a comfortable base for a longer Caribbean adventure, with easy access to nearby Maho and French Saint Martin.
Where I’d Stay in Sint Maarten
For ocean views & sunset cocktails — Maho Beach Oceanfront Suite
A spacious two-bedroom oceanfront apartment near Maho Beach, with a private balcony, full kitchen and gorgeous sunset views. It's a great option for travelers who want the comforts of an apartment with beaches, restaurants and Maho's lively atmosphere close by.
Where I’d Stay in Saint Martin
For barefoot luxury & island escapes — Karibuni Boutique Hotel
An intimate, adults-only boutique hotel overlooking Îlet de Pinel, with just six suites, tropical gardens and beautiful sea views. Private pools or plunge pools and boat transfers to Pinel Island make this a particularly special choice for a peaceful French-Caribbean escape.
For mountain views & a little freedom — The Paradise Peak
Tucked into lush gardens near Pic Paradis, this adults-only boutique retreat offers sweeping island views, intimate rooms and a clothing-optional pool and jacuzzi. Its relaxed, inclusive atmosphere makes it an appealing alternative to the larger beachfront resorts.
Additional Options
For a design-minded splurge — Le Martin Boutique Hôtel
A beautifully considered boutique hideaway in Cul-de-Sac, where warm Caribbean colors, natural textures and contemporary French design create something a little more interesting than your typical island resort. With just seven individually styled accommodations, tropical gardens and a pool, it's a particularly tempting choice for travelers who appreciate thoughtful interiors.
Prefer a place of your own in Saint Martin or Sint Maarten?
For more space, a kitchen and the freedom to explore at your own pace, browse apartments and villas across both sides of the island, from the beachfront neighborhoods of Cupecoy and Simpson Bay to the charming coastal villages of Grand Case and Orient Bay. Vacation rentals are especially appealing for longer stays or travelers who prefer a home away from home.
Browse vacation rentals across Saint Martin & Sint Maarten →
How to Get Around
Saint Martin is small enough to explore both sides in a day but getting between its beaches, villages and hidden coves isn't always as straightforward as the map suggests. Renting a car is the easiest way to explore, especially if you're planning to visit more secluded spots like Happy Bay or Îlet de Pinel. Taxis and local minibuses are alternatives, although each comes with its own limitations.
Rental Car: The most flexible option for exploring both French Saint Martin and Dutch Sint Maarten. Expect to pay approximately $35–$70 USD per day, depending on the season and vehicle. Traffic can be heavy around Simpson Bay, Marigot and the airport, so allow extra time.
Local Bus: Shared minibuses connect major towns on both sides of the island, with destination signs displayed in their windows. Fares are generally inexpensive, often around $2 USD per ride, and cash is preferred. Routes and schedules can be unpredictable, particularly outside the main towns.
Taxi: Convenient for airport transfers, evenings out and occasional excursions, although fares can add up quickly. Confirm the price before setting off, as taxis generally operate on set fares rather than meters.
Ferry: Boats connect the main island with nearby destinations, including Îlet de Pinel, as well as neighboring islands such as Anguilla and Saint Barthélemy. These are separate excursions rather than practical transportation between the French and Dutch sides.
💡 My Tip | I started my trip relying on taxis before finally taking a chance on the local minibuses. They were inexpensive and gave me a glimpse of everyday island life but reaching Happy Bay without a car turned into a much longer adventure than anticipated. If you're short on time or hoping to visit several beaches, I'd recommend renting a car. Save the buses for days when you have a little more flexibility.
How Long to Stay
Allow at least 3–4 days to explore Saint Martin and Sint Maarten, giving yourself time to discover both sides of the island without rushing. A full week is ideal if you want to balance beach days with exploring Marigot, dining in Grand Case, visiting Îlet de Pinel and enjoying the livelier Dutch side. While it's possible to visit French Saint Martin as a day trip from Sint Maarten, you'll only scratch the surface — something I learned firsthand after spending far too much of my afternoon getting to Happy Bay. If you're planning to explore without a rental car, consider adding an extra day to account for slower transportation.
Tours & Day Trips
Saint Martin is easy to explore independently, particularly the coastal villages of Marigot and Grand Case, but guided experiences can help you discover more of the island's French-Caribbean culture, beautiful coastline and lush interior. Food tours, snorkeling excursions and boat trips to Îlet de Pinel are particularly appealing on the French side, while Pic Paradis and Loterie Farm offer opportunities to explore beyond the beaches.
On Dutch Sint Maarten, island sightseeing tours, catamaran cruises and visits to Maho Beach offer a different perspective, with many excursions combining highlights from both sides. If you have more time, neighboring Anguilla and Saint Barthélemy (St. Barts) make wonderful day trips, with spectacular beaches, charming harbors and a change of island scenery just a ferry ride away.
Want to See More of Saint Martin & Sint Maarten?
From French-Caribbean food experiences and secluded beaches to sailing adventures and guided island tours, there are plenty of ways to explore beyond the main sights. A guided excursion can be especially worthwhile if you're short on time, hoping to visit harder-to-reach places or simply prefer to leave the transportation logistics to someone else.
Explore tours and experiences in Saint Martin & Sint Maarten →
💡 My Tip | If you're visiting French Saint Martin for just one day, consider a guided tour or private driver rather than relying entirely on local buses. I'd prioritize Marigot, Grand Case and Îlet de Pinel, leaving time for a leisurely meal instead of trying to squeeze every beach into one afternoon.
Good to Know
Saint Martin may be one island but its French and Dutch sides have distinct cultures, currencies and local customs. Crossing between them is remarkably easy, although a few practical details are worth knowing before you set out to explore.
Currency: The euro (€) is the official currency on French Saint Martin, while Dutch Sint Maarten uses the Caribbean guilder (Cg). U.S. dollars are widely accepted on both sides, although exchange rates can vary. Carry small bills for local buses, markets and beach vendors.
Border Crossings: There's no routine immigration checkpoint between French Saint Martin and Dutch Sint Maarten, so moving between the two sides is generally straightforward. English is widely spoken throughout the island, although French, Dutch and local Caribbean influences give each side its own character.
Beach Etiquette: Some beaches, particularly Happy Bay and parts of Orient Bay, are known for clothing-optional sunbathing. Respect other visitors' privacy and avoid photographing people without permission.
🌍 One Last Thing | Saint Martin is the world's smallest inhabited island shared by two nations. Divided between the French and Dutch since the 1648 Treaty of Concordia, its unusual history has created a fascinating blend of cultures, languages and traditions. Today, a few modest monuments mark the boundary between two distinctly different sides of the same island.
Discover what to do in Saint Martin: wander café-lined streets and hilltop forts, then melt into the island’s elegant French romance on secret beaches.