North-East SXM

The north-east side of Saint Martin unrolls over 30 km² the east and north coast of the French zone — a spectacular coastline facing the Atlantic, bathed by constant Caribbean trade winds, and turned toward the iconic islets of the archipelago (Pinel and Tintamarre). It is the most emblematic seaside area of the island, nicknamed the 'Saint-Tropez of the Antilles' in reference to Orient Bay and its festive Caribbean atmosphere.

Orient Bay is the most famous beach on the island — 2 km of golden sand, turquoise water, constant trade winds, framed by green hills. The beach is lively all day with colourful lolos (Bikini Beach, Waikiki Beach, Kakao Beach, Kontiki Beach) that rent sun loungers (€15-25/day) and serve quality beach cuisine (grilled fish, salads, cocktails). It is also a major water sports hub: kitesurfing (regular trade winds at 20-25 knots), windsurfing, jet-ski, parasailing, catamaran rental. The southern end of the beach, toward Club Orient, has historically been naturist — the establishment was destroyed by Irma in 2017 and has partially reopened since. A quieter atmosphere persists there.

Anse Marcel, 10 minutes north of Orient Bay, is a round and protected bay — one of the most beautiful on the island. More confidential than Orient Bay, it hosts the Anse Marcel Marina (yacht harbour) and two upscale hotels (Le Domaine Anse Marcel Beach Resort, Riu Palace). The golden sand beach, calm lagoon and absence of festive animation make it the ideal choice for couples seeking tranquillity.

The islets accessible from this coast are one of the great attractions of the area. Pinel Islet (from Cul-de-Sac, regular shuttle 25 min, €12 return) is a small uninhabited islet with shallow turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling, with a few beach restaurants (Karibuni, Yellow Beach). Tintamarre (excursion from Orient Bay, 40 min by boat, €60-90/person) is a deserted islet to the north-east, classed as a nature reserve — pristine white sand, crystalline water, exceptional snorkelling.

The interior of this area includes the hills of Mont Vernon (residential, panoramic view) and the hamlets of Cul-de-Sac (departure for Pinel) and Quartier d'Orléans (the most authentic on the island, Creole and English-speaking atmosphere). Le Galion beach, at the southern end of Orient Bay, is quieter, shallow and ideal for families with children.