🇲🇫 St. Martin

Discover St. Martin

St. Martin represents the French side of the unique Caribbean island shared with Dutch St. Maarten, offering visitors sophisticated European flair blended with Caribbean warmth. The French side delivers exceptional gastronomy, with Grand Case earning recognition as the "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean" - a charming village where Michelin-quality restaurants line the main street alongside local lolos (barbecue stands) serving authentic Creole cuisine. Marigot, the capital, charms with French colonial architecture, open-air markets selling fresh produce and French products, waterfront cafés, and Fort Louis overlooking the harbor.

Orient Bay Beach stands as the French side's most famous beach - a two-mile stretch of white sand offering water sports, beach clubs, restaurants, and a clothing-optional southern section. The laid-back European atmosphere embraces topless sunbathing at most beaches. Pinel Island, accessible by water taxi, provides pristine beaches and snorkeling. Anse Marcel and Friar's Bay offer tranquil alternatives. The French side maintains a more relaxed, less commercialized character compared to the Dutch side, with an emphasis on natural beauty, fine dining, and sophisticated leisure over casinos and nightlife.

Award-Winning Excellence

Caribbean-Wide Award

• St. Martin - Caribbean's Leading Festival & Event Destination 2025

St. Martin-Specific Award Winners

• Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa - Saint Martin's Leading Resort 2025
• Hotel L'Esplanade - Saint Martin's Leading Hotel 2025
• Lagoon Group - Saint Martin's Leading Destination Management Company 2025
• Leisure Car Rental - Saint Martin's Leading Car Rental Company 2025

Top Attractions & Things to Do

• Orient Bay Beach - Iconic two-mile beach with water sports, beach clubs, restaurants, and European beach culture including clothing-optional area
• Grand Case - "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean" with gourmet French restaurants, beach lolos, art galleries, and stunning sunset bay
• Marigot - French capital with open-air market (Wednesday & Saturday), Fort Louis, Marina Royale, boutique shopping, and waterfront dining
• Pinel Island - Car-free island paradise accessible by water taxi with pristine beaches, snorkeling, beach restaurants, and tranquil atmosphere
• Anse Marcel - Protected horseshoe bay with calm waters, luxury resorts, snorkeling, and secluded beach atmosphere
• Friar's Bay - Two beaches (Friar's Bay Beach and Happy Bay) offering Caribbean relaxation with beach bars and local flavor
• Loterie Farm - Rainforest nature preserve with hiking trails, zip-lining, natural spring-fed pool, treetop dining, and jungle ambiance
• Pic Paradis - Highest point on island (1,391 feet) with hiking trails and panoramic views of both sides and neighboring islands
• Tintamarre Island - Uninhabited nature reserve accessible by boat with pristine beaches, snorkeling, and sea turtle nesting sites
• Fort Louis - Historic French fort ruins above Marigot with 360-degree views of the harbor, coastline, and Anguilla
• Baie Rouge (Red Bay) - Beautiful clothing-optional beach with red-tinged sand, rock formations, and sunset views
• Marigot Market - Open-air market selling fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, local crafts, and French Caribbean specialties

Regional Highlights

Beaches & Coastal Beauty

St. Martin's beaches embrace European sensibilities with topless and clothing-optional sunbathing common and accepted. Orient Bay reigns as the most developed beach with water sports concessions, beach clubs like Kontiki and Bikini Beach, restaurants, and shopping. The southern end transitions to clothing-optional Club Orient naturist resort area. Pinel Island offers pristine, uncrowded beaches accessible by quick water taxi rides from Cul-de-Sac.

Baie Rouge features beautiful reddish sand, rock formations, and clothing-optional culture. Grand Case Beach provides calm swimming alongside the culinary village. Anse Marcel creates a protected horseshoe bay with luxury resort access. Friar's Bay maintains a local vibe with beach bars and authentic atmosphere. Happy Bay, accessible by short trail, offers secluded nude beach experience. The French beaches generally maintain a more natural, less commercialized character than Dutch side beaches.

Culinary Excellence

St. Martin stands as a premier Caribbean culinary destination, particularly Grand Case where over 20 restaurants line a single street offering French, Caribbean, and international cuisine. Michelin-quality French restaurants serve classic and contemporary dishes with fresh local seafood and imported French ingredients. Beach lolos provide authentic Creole cuisine including fresh fish, ribs, chicken, and traditional sides at communal picnic tables - offering exceptional value and local flavor.

The French influence permeates dining culture with fresh baguettes, croissants, fine wines, champagne, and French cheeses readily available. Marigot Market supplies fresh produce, local spices, and tropical fruits. Seafood dominates menus with lobster, conch, red snapper, and mahi-mahi prepared with French technique and Caribbean flair. The island celebrates culinary excellence through food festivals and events, contributing to its Festival & Event Destination award recognition.

Culture & Festivals

St. Martin's French heritage creates a distinct European Caribbean atmosphere. French is the primary language, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The culture celebrates art, cuisine, music, and laid-back sophistication. Local art galleries showcase Caribbean artists. Festivals throughout the year include Carnival, SXM Festival (electronic music), restaurant weeks, and cultural celebrations that earned Caribbean's Leading Festival & Event Destination recognition.

The French side maintains stronger connections to European culture with French customs, holidays, and lifestyle. Markets, bakeries, and shops reflect French Caribbean identity. Music ranges from French Caribbean zouk to international genres. The relaxed atmosphere embraces long lunches, evening aperitifs, and appreciation for life's pleasures. Cross-cultural exchanges with the Dutch side and international visitors create a truly cosmopolitan Caribbean destination.

Travel Tips

• Entry Requirements: US citizens need valid passport (6+ months validity). No visa required for stays under 90 days
• Getting There: Share Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) with Dutch side. Airport located on Dutch side near French border
• Getting Around: Rental cars recommended (drive on right). Taxis available. Car allows exploring both sides. No border formalities or checkpoints
• Currency: Euro (EUR) official but US Dollar widely accepted. Exchange rates vary. Credit cards accepted. ATMs available
• Language: French official language. English widely spoken in tourist areas. Basic French phrases appreciated and enhance experience
• Best Time to Visit: December to April for dry season. Carnival February/March. SXM Festival in March. Hurricane season June-November
• Border Crossing: No passport needed between French and Dutch sides. Watch for road signs changing from miles to kilometers and English to French
• What to Pack: Light summer clothing, European-style swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, resort attire, camera
• Tipping: 15% standard at restaurants (check if service included). French side often includes service charge. Tip taxi drivers and hotel staff
• Safety: Generally safe. Use normal precautions. Don't leave valuables on beaches (especially clothing-optional areas) or in rental cars