Do you want visit the island of San Martín ? You want to know what to do or see in san martin ? Where to find accommodation? Do you know the activities to do on Saint Martin Island? In this article, I will tell you what you need to visit Saint-Martin Island for a successful vacation.
Article Summary (find it on the right or at the top of this screen):
- What to see in San Martín
- The beaches of San Martín
- Where to find accommodation in San Martín
- Airports in San Martín
- Where to go out in San Martín
1) When to visit San Martín
First of all, you should know that the temperature varies very little in San Martín and that even during the rainy / hurricane season (which runs from March to November). Anyway, and whatever the month of the year, you should know that the sun is almost always there.
- So you have to avoid the months of March to November?
The island of San Martín is "on the edge" of the hurricane region, so it is quite rare that the island is affected. However, keep in mind that between May and December, showers are more frequent. And that the hottest and most humid season is from July to October.
- What is the tourist season in San Martín, the most indulgent season?
The months of December, January, February, March and April are the most touristy months in San Martín. The months of July and August are, however, very touristy also due to the school holidays.
- What are the hottest and humid months of the year on the island of Saint Martin?
The hottest and most humid months in San Martín are July and August. San Martín enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 23 degrees in January to 33 degrees during the month of August.
2) What to do on the island of Saint-Martin?
Located an 11-hour flight from Paris, the island of Saint-Martin is historically divided into two parts, one French and one Dutch. While the south of Holland is famous for its festive side, essential for night outings, the north of France gives pride of place to nautical activities, relaxation and walks in the abundant nature typical of this island of West Indies.
Located 250 km north of Guadeloupe, the island of San Martín is considered the rare pearl of the Antilles.
- Should we rent a car in San Martín?
Saint Martin has simple and inexpensive public transportation, however, you will waste a lot of time exploring the island. That is why I advise you to rent a car (very affordable) or rent a scooter that suits your tastes and needs.
Visit the north of Saint Martin and its extraordinary landscapes.
On the French side (with Marigot as the “capital” of the French part), the landscape presents a real contrast between sea and mountains with white sand beaches and turquoise waters dominating peaks full of lush vegetation. This part ofisla de Saint-Martin presents everything one imagines of a stay in the Antilles.
- Marigot
Marigot is the capital of the French part of Saint Martin. The must-see sites are the Catholic Church, François-Auguste Perrinon's tomb, Durat bridge, rue de la République, and Fort Saint Louis.
- Fuerte Saint Louis
Fort Saint Louis was built in 1789 and there. A pleasant little walk awaits you with a panoramic view of Marigot Bay.
- Grand Case (gastronomic capital of the Antilles)
Grand Case is a town that you cannot miss, on the menu, a restaurant with really impressive cuisine, fine sandy beaches, colorful houses. If you are looking for a heavenly beach, opt for Happy Bay Beach, known as Anse Heureuse Beach.
If you like diving and snorkelling, Grand case is the perfect place!
Between January and April, don't forget Grand Case Tuesdays "Harmony Night"
- Le Pic Parafis for sports holidays and majestic discoveries on the island of Saint Martin
If there is one place not to be missed while visiting the island of Saint-Martin, it is the Peak Paradise, the highest peak on the island and Lottery farm, the natural reserve that it houses. Throughout the ascent to Pic Paradis, you will go through lush trails of typically exotic vegetation where all kinds of butterflies and birds coexist.
You will certainly meet some of the many iguanas and monkeys that inhabit the slopes of this mountain. Walks, tree climbing, swimming in pools, natural pools, tapas tasting, local specialties ... Lottery farm It offers you a multitude of surprises to enjoy the place in peace.
- San Martín Nature Reserve
Another must-see during your visits to Saint Martin is to see the riches of the Saint Martin island nature reserve. On the menu, more than 3000 hectares where you can see coral reefs, mangroves, coastal forests ... There are also many marine mammals (dolphins, humpback whales) and bird species ...
- More information on the official website www.reservenaturelle-saint-martin.com:
- Isla Pinel
Pinel Island is a small island located east of Saint Martin Island. It is an ideal activity for your stay in Saint Martin.
- How to get to Pinel Island?
To get to the Pinel islet, go to the Cul de Sac pontoon. From there you have boat departures every 30 minutes: 10 am, 10:30 am, 11 am, 11:30 am… Count € 5 for the return trip.
Visit the south side of Saint Martin Island
- Philipsburg
Philipsburg is the capital of South Holland. There are 2 main streets, Back Street and Front Street, with many bars and casinos, as well as the must see "The Courthouse", a historic and iconic Philipsburg building dating back to the XNUMXth century.
Another visit to be made in Philipsburg is the Sint-Maarten museum, you will learn more about the history of the island of Saint Martin and its first inhabitants, the Arawaks / Taïnos Indians.
3) See the beaches of San Martín
The island of San Martín has more than 35 magnificent beaches. There is something for everyone! If you like vacations by the sea, you can enjoy all kinds of water activities such as downhill skiing, jet skis or going out to sea for a fishing trip.
And for the less brave, a swim in the clear waters that line the island or a nap on the beach while sipping a cocktail are popular activities in these places.
If you are looking for quiet beaches, head to Mullet Bay and Baie Rouge. If you are looking for beaches with waves, head to Baie de l'Embouchure, Petites Cayes, Le Galion.
If you're in the mood for adventure, start looking for the wild beaches of Grandes Cayes and Baie aux Prunes.
If you are looking for amazing and magnificent beaches… choose Happy Bay and Ile Tintammare.
For those who want to snorkel / dive, Grand Case Beach will be a perfect beach for you.
- The beaches of the south coast of San Martín
Some beaches are essential, like Little Bay known for harboring formidable colonies of birds or Playa Maho, famous for its location very close to the Princess Juliana Airport and its planes that practically skim the sand during landings.
4) Where to find accommodation on the island of Saint-Martin?
This part is a summary of the article “where to sleep in San Martín”.
It all depends on what you want to do during your stay, are you more partying or more relaxed?
Please note that the north of the island (French part) is the most charming part of the island in terms of scenery, natural spaces and water activities, but it is still quieter than the southern part. It is also in the northern part where you will have access to accommodation on the seafront.
If you are looking for a hotel in this area, it is in Grand Case, Orient Bay, Anse Marcel or Cul de Sac that you will need to refine your research. It is this sector that should favor your stay.
Keep in mind that more and more people are offering to rent their houses, so don't hesitate to take a look at Airbnb!
Anyway, here are some addresses in the north of Saint Martin:
For example, you have the blue Emeraude hotel, a very beautiful address right on the water with a pampering service that will provide you with the best addresses.
You also have the Esmeralda resort to make the most of the pleasures of the Caribbean. Read the reviews:
- Accommodation on the south side of Saint Martin Island:
On the Dutch side, it's a must-see destination, the Princess Casino, which borders the marina and marina. You can enjoy its casino, its many international restaurants and all the events that mark the season for a very "Las Vegas" atmosphere.
In Philipsburg you have a good address, Alicia's Inns, which is very good value for money:
5) Transfer from the airport to Saint Martin
You will arrive at Princess Juliana Airport, which is located in the south of the island (Dutch side). If during your stay you have to visit other islands of the Antilles, you should know that it will be at the Espérance Grand-Case airport that you will have to catch.
6) Where to go out in San Martín
Simply put, know that most of the establishments are located in Marigot (French side) or Maho (Dutch side). It also has Philipsburg and Grand-Case, which are two very lively places. If you want to go out partying you will have to look towards the Dutch side, towards the south, more specifically towards the west with a large number of discos.
In fact, in the northern part (French side), the problem is that during the week (except in exceptional periods) life is quite calm ... the bars and restaurants close quite early and therefore you run the risk of frustrating a little bit. ...
- Go out to San Martín for wild or more authentic evenings
The north of the island and in particular the town of Grand Case is known for being the inescapable gastronomic place to discover. In fact, there is a rather elegant and relaxed atmosphere.
You can taste all kinds of authentic dishes from the Antillean and Creole culture. Beyond being an ideal destination with all the island's assets and a famous spot for diving, Grand Case is also a very festive place where music and atmospheric bars reign.
It is preferable if you want to spend the nights in a slightly more modern context.
On the Dutch side (that is, in the south), the streets of Philipsburg are worth a detour with the many duty free shops, bars and casinos that abound.
For a more ostentatious destination, Philipsburg welcomes you at any time of the day or night, ideal for evenings between adults. In short, in the south, the atmosphere is more “Las Végas, brilliance and cosmopolitan clientele”.
Well there you go, I think you have all the keys in hand to visit the island of San Martín as it should be
Do not hesitate to leave a comment at the bottom of the page to give me your impressions, share a good address, a hotel, a bar ... Sharing is good;)
- And what do you prefer in San Martín?
- Do you have an interesting address to share?
- Feel free to leave a comment at the bottom of the page!
See you soon!
Maxence
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