Orient Bay Beach
Region: East coast
Nature
Popular beach called the "Saint-Tropez of the Caribbean" with 3km of white sand and turquoise blue waters.
Tourism in Saint Martin
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Pic Paradis
Region: Island center
Nature
Highest peak at 424m elevation. Observatory offers panoramic views of both territories and nearby islands.
Fort Louis
Region: Hilltop in Marigot
Cultural Heritage
18th-century fortress ruins. Historic site overlooking the port and town.
Loterie Farm
Region: Foot of Pic Paradis
Nature
Eco-park in tropical forest with ziplines and natural pools.
Simpson Bay Lagoon
Region: Western area
Nature
One of the Caribbean's largest saltwater lagoons. Famous for marine activities and luxury marinas.
Grand Case Village
Region: North coast
Culture
Restaurant district and colorful houses called the "Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean."
Baie Rouge
Region: Terres Basses area
Nature
Quiet cove with reddish rocks and crystal-clear waters.
Butterfly Farm
Region: Near Oyster Pond
Nature
Greenhouse farm with butterflies from around the world. Popular with families.
Ilet Pinel
Region: Northeast offshore
Nature
Snorkeling paradise with exceptional water clarity. Accessible by day boat.
Ile Tintamarre
Region: 3km northeast of island
Nature
Uninhabited island where you can encounter sea turtles. Ramsar Convention registered site.
Happy Bay
Region: Northwest coast
Nature
Hidden beach accessible only by trail.
Marigot Market
Region: Marigot waterfront
Culture
Open-air market with fresh seafood, spices, and handicrafts.
Suggested itineraries
Beach-Filled Weekend Plan
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: Orient Bay, Baie Rouge, Sunset dinner in Grand Case
Arrival day: Marigot sightseeing and market visit. Day 2: Rent car for island beach hopping. Final day: Snorkeling at Ilet Pinel before returning via Dutch side.
Nature and Gastronomy Relaxed Week
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Pic Paradis, Loterie Farm, Gastronomy Festival, Fort Louis
First half: Enjoy nature through tropical forest trekking and ziplines. Second half: Tour culinary festivals and French bistros in port town, with day trip to Saint-Barthélemy.
Travel tips
- Even in EU territory, carry passport; no checks for crossing to Dutch side.
- During hurricane season (July-November), get travel insurance and check weather updates.
- Limited bus service; car rental or taxis recommended for transport.
- Bring both euros and US dollars for smooth payments.
- Very strong sunlight; SPF 50+ sunscreen recommended.
- Use hotel-purified water; buy bottled water outdoors.
- Use certified dive shops and follow coral protection rules for diving.
- French-style Type C outlets at 220V. Don't forget adapter plugs.
- Limited public Wi-Fi; arrange eSIM or pocket Wi-Fi in advance.
- Restaurants often open until after 22:00 but tend to close early on Sundays.
- Many taxi fares are negotiable; confirm price before boarding.
- Beach vendors can be declined with a smile and "No, thank you" to avoid trouble.