The French part of the island
Cocktails at Orient Bay Beach
Orient Bay Beach is one of the longest and liveliest beaches on Saint Martin. The bay lies on the north-east coast, on the French part of the island. The many beach bars and lounge beds evoke images of the Côte d'Azur, but the restaurants under the palm trees serve up authentic local flavours; sip a tropical cocktail or order some ‘acras’ (Creole fish dumplings). The bay with its long white sandy beach and deep blue water looks out over 3 small islands: Pinel, Green Cay and Tintamarre.
The idyllic and remote Happy Beach
Happy Beach: pure tropical paradise
It takes a little bit of effort to reach Happy Beach: from Friar’s Beach, follow the foot path (approximately a 15-minute walk) through the forest to this remote bay. The beach offers no facilities – there are no chairs, no beach bars and no restaurants. Instead, you will be rewarded with crystal clear water, photogenic rocks and lush vegetation that comes right down to the beach: a perfect spot for a picnic. Happy Beach is also great for snorkelling, because the bay is full of tiny fish.
The red rocks at Cupecoy Bay
The perfect sunset at Cupecoy Bay
To end the day on a romantic note, follow the locals to Cupecoy Bay Beach: at sunset, the red-brown rocks bask in a beautiful golden glow. There are no bars on the beaches of Cupecoy Bay, but vendors often come by selling cold beer.
