Saint Martin is a small Caribbean island split between France and the Netherlands. The north is French, the south is Dutch, but the border is open and easy to cross. The island is known for its calm beaches, great food, and a mix of Caribbean and European culture.
Saint Martin is warm throughout the year. December to April is the best time to visit: dry, sunny, almost no rain and perfect beach weather. May to November is low season with 30-50 % lower prices, far fewer crowds and still lots of sunshine, just occasional short showers.
December-April is the sunniest and most popular season on Saint Martin.
Saint Martin may be small, but every area feels different. Some are made for beach days and great food, others for shopping and easy island exploring. These are the top places to stay on Saint Martin.
Orient Bay is the most popular beach area on Saint Martin, with miles of soft white sand, beach bars and turquoise water. Stay in large resorts, beachfront hotels, modern apartments or private villas, almost everything is steps from the sea.
Best for: beach lovers, couples, relaxed days by the sea
Why stay here: you are steps from the water, restaurants and beach clubs, with a lively yet easygoing Caribbean vibe
Grand Case is the gourmet capital of the island, lined with excellent beachfront restaurants and a calm sandy shore. Choose from romantic boutique hotels, small guesthouses and luxury villas with direct ocean views.
Best for: food lovers, couples, slow mornings and local dining
Why stay here: world class dining is literally outside your door, paired with a quiet beach and romantic sunsets
Marigot is the charming capital on the French side of the island, with a daily market, marina and French cafés. Find cozy hotels, Airbnbs and apartments in the center, plus hillside villas with harbor views and easy access to shops and ferries.
Best for: day trips, shopping, a mix of local life and convenience
Why stay here: central location makes exploring the whole island easy, plus ferries, shops and good restaurants are all within walking distance
Saint Martin is safe for tourists, especially in busy spots like Orient Bay, Grand Case and Marigot. Petty theft like pickpocketing can happen in crowds, so keep valuables close. The open French-Dutch border lets you roam freely day or night.
Stay aware of your belongings and you’ll have a safe, relaxed trip.
Saint Martin mixes perfect beaches with French food and easy island life. These are the three experiences almost every visitor loves most.
Orient Bay is the most famous beach on the French side, with miles of soft white sand, turquoise water and lively beach clubs. Swim, snorkel, try paddle boarding or just relax with a cold drink while music plays. The atmosphere is social yet relaxed, and the water stays calm and warm all year. Most people spend at least one full day here because it feels like the heart of Saint Martin.
Grand Case is known as the gourmet capital of the Caribbean. The main street runs along the water and is lined with excellent restaurants serving French and Creole food. Come for lunch at a beachfront lolos for grilled lobster, then return at night for fine dining under the stars. Food lovers call it the best evening activity on the island.
Marigot is the charming capital on the French side with a colorful daily market, French cafés and a pretty marina full of yachts. Shop for local spices and souvenirs, enjoy fresh pastries for breakfast and walk up to Fort Louis for panoramic views. It is the perfect morning or half day activity before heading to the beach.
Nightlife on the French side of Saint Martin is relaxed yet stylish. Think open air beach bars, live music and elegant lounges with French wine and Caribbean cocktails. Parties stay social and chic rather than wild, and most spots wind down around 1 or 2 am. These are the areas where the nights feel longest and best.
Saint Martin sits in the northeast Caribbean, about 300 km east of Puerto Rico. It is a small island split between two countries: the northern French side (Saint-Martin) and the southern Dutch side (Sint Maarten). The open border means you can walk or drive from one side to the other with no passport check.
The French side has more restaurants per person than Paris.
Orient Bay is one of the Caribbean’s most famous clothing-optional beaches.
There is no real border. You can walk or drive to the Dutch side with zero checkpoints.
Saint Martin is the smallest inhabited island in the world shared by two countries (France and Netherlands).
24°CThis island is amazing for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
25°CAnguilla is a small, tranquil Caribbean island known for its white sand beaches and upscale atmosphere.
25°CAn exclusive Caribbean retreat blending sophistication and natural beauty.
26°CUnspoiled Caribbean volcano island with epic hikes, world-class diving and zero beaches.
