St. Martin Contents
Destinations | Caribbean | St. Martin
St. Martin is one island split between two countries—France and the Netherlands—and one of the easiest bases in the Caribbean for island-hopping by yacht. From Simpson Bay Lagoon you can reach Anguilla in under an hour and St. Barths in about the same, making St. Martin a natural embarkation point for a multi-island charter rather than a single-destination stay.
Overview
St. Martin’s dual French and Dutch identity shows up everywhere, from its cuisine to its two capitals—Marigot and Philipsburg are a 20-minute drive apart but feel like different countries. For charter guests, the real advantage is location: Simpson Bay Lagoon puts you within a short sail of Anguilla’s beaches, St. Barths’ harbor and dining scene, and the wider Leeward Islands chain, so a week here rarely stays on one island.
History & Culture of St. Martin
St. Martin’s history reflects centuries of cultural exchange. Indigenous peoples first inhabited the island before European colonization. The Treaty of Concordia in 1648 officially divided the island between France and the Netherlands, a unique arrangement that continues today. This dual heritage shines through in its languages, cuisine, music, and architecture. Visitors can enjoy French sophistication in Marigot or Dutch vibrancy in Philipsburg. Annual events such as Carnival and Heineken Regatta showcase the island’s festive spirit and multicultural heritage.
Destinations
St. Martin sits at the center of the Leeward Islands, making it a natural jumping-off point for a multi-island charter. From here you can sail to Anguilla for quiet, calm-water beaches or to St. Barths for a more upscale stop, both well within a single week’s itinerary
Yachts
Yachting in St. Martin feels effortless and thrilling. Simpson Bay Lagoon gives safe anchorage, while nearby marinas provide every service you need. From here, you can quickly reach famous sailing spots across the Caribbean.
Featured Yachts
Hotels in St. Martin
St. Martin offers hotels for every mood and budget. La Samanna brings pure luxury, while Sonesta Ocean Point gives all-inclusive comfort. At the same time, Secrets St. Martin and Grand Case Beach Club deliver charm, views, and warm service.
Belmond La Samanna
Belmond La Samanna sits on the French side and offers pure luxury. Guests enjoy private villas, infinity pools, and ocean views that feel endless. Moreover, the elegant service and fine dining make every stay unforgettable. Best for couples wanting total privacy
Sonesta Ocean Point Resort
Sonesta Ocean Point Resort brings all-inclusive comfort in a modern setting. Travelers relax with swim-up bars, rooftop lounges, and nonstop entertainment. In addition, its location near Maho Beach puts you close to St. Martin’s vibrant nightlife. Best for families and larger groups who want everything on one property.
Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa
Secrets St. Martin gives couples a romantic, adults-only escape. You can enjoy spa treatments, gourmet dining, and sunset views right from the beach. Furthermore, the calm atmosphere ensures peace throughout your stay. Best for a honeymoon or anniversary trip rather than a family stay.
Grand Case Beach Club
Grand Case Beach Club combines boutique charm with natural beauty. Its beachfront setting provides easy access to snorkeling and water sports. At the same time, friendly staff create a warm, welcoming vibe for every guest. Best for a quieter stay near Grand Case’s restaurants.
Combine St. Martin with Anguilla or St. Barths?
Many guests use St. Martin as a base and add a day or two in Anguilla or St. Barths. Tell us your dates and group size and we’ll help route it.
- Preferred travel dates
- Group size and cabins
- Budget and yacht style
- Route and onboard preferences
Itineraries
You can plan days filled with adventure or rest.
Day 1: Anguilla Beach Day
Start your trip with a short sail to Anguilla, just under an hour from Simpson Bay. Spend the day at Shoal Bay or Meads Bay, two of the calmest, most photographed beaches in the Leewards. Return to St. Martin in the evening for dinner near the marina.
Day 2: Snorkeling and Shopping
Head out to Creole Rock for a morning of snorkeling in clear, protected waters. In the afternoon, browse the French market in Marigot for spices, crafts, and fresh produce. Wrap up with a stroll along Marigot’s waterfront before sunset.
Day 3: St. Barths or Orient Bay
For a more upscale day, sail to St. Barths and spend the afternoon at Gustavia’s harbor and boutiques. Prefer to stay local? Spend the day at Orient Bay Beach instead, then walk the Philipsburg boardwalk before a final dinner in Grand Case.
Sail to Anguilla
Start your journey with a yacht trip to Anguilla. The ride is short, yet the change in scenery feels dramatic. As a result, you get two islands in one vacation.
Snorkel at Creole Rock
Creole Rock offers crystal-clear waters and lively marine life. Snorkeling here feels both easy and exciting for all levels. Therefore, it’s a perfect activity for families and adventurers alike.
Shop in Philipsburg
Philipsburg’s duty-free shops make it a shopper’s paradise. You can browse jewelry, fashion, and local crafts while enjoying the Dutch charm. Moreover, its boardwalk adds extra fun with cafés and seaside views.
Dine in Grand Case
Grand Case earns its title as the “Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean.” Restaurants here mix French finesse with island flavors. Consequently, every meal turns into a memorable dining experience.
See & Do in St. Martin
St. Martin never runs out of activities. You can watch planes at Maho Beach, hike at Loterie Farm, or explore history at Fort Louis. For more fun, relax at Orient Bay Beach, where the energy is always high.
Maho Beach
Maho Beach gives thrill-seekers a one-of-a-kind view of airplanes landing overhead. The excitement keeps crowds cheering as jets soar just above the sand. In addition, the beach itself remains perfect for sun and sea.
Loterie Farm
Loterie Farm offers adventure in a lush nature reserve. Visitors can hike trails, swim in natural pools, or zip-line through the canopy. Because of its variety, it appeals to both nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Fort Louis
Fort Louis combines history with sweeping island views. You can explore ruins while learning about the French defense of the island. As a bonus, the hike up also rewards you with breathtaking scenery.
Orient Bay Beach
Orient Bay Beach buzzes with life and energy. Travelers enjoy water sports, beach bars, and endless sunshine. Furthermore, it remains a top spot for both relaxation and fun.
Marigot Market
A morning market for French-Caribbean produce, crafts, and street food, best visited early. Vendors set up along the waterfront with fresh spices, tropical fruit, and handmade souvenirs, making it an easy stop before a day on the water.
Pic Paradis
The island’s highest point, reached by a short hike with panoramic views over both the French and Dutch sides. On a clear day you can see all the way to Anguilla and St. Barths, making it a quick, low-effort add-on between beach days.
Eat & Drink in St. Martin
Food in St. Martin mixes French flavors with Caribbean spice. Try fresh seafood at Le Pressoir, or enjoy Creole BBQ at Lolo’s. Meanwhile, Sunset Beach Bar and Bamboo House give you cocktails, views, and a lively vibe.
Le Pressoir
Le Pressoir in Grand Case delivers fine dining with Caribbean flair. The restaurant blends French techniques with local seafood. As a result, guests enjoy a gourmet experience in a charming setting.
Lolo’s in Grand Case
Lolo’s gives you authentic Caribbean BBQ. The casual vibe, fresh flavors, and friendly service make it unforgettable. Moreover, the prices stay reasonable, so everyone can enjoy.
Sunset Beach Bar
Sunset Beach Bar combines cocktails with a front-row seat to plane landings. The energy here is always high, and the views never disappoint. In addition, it’s a must-stop for anyone visiting Maho Beach.
Bamboo House
Bamboo House offers a creative mix of Asian and Caribbean tastes. Also, the stylish décor matches the innovative menu. Therefore, it’s perfect for travelers seeking something different.
Climate in St. Martin
The climate stays warm all year, so every season feels like summer. From December to April, skies stay mostly dry and sunny. So, between May and November, short showers refresh the island without stopping the fun.
Honeymoons
Couples find romance everywhere on St. Martin. You can enjoy a private yacht cruise, spa treatments, or candlelit dinners by the beach. Charming cafés in Marigot also make every honeymoon sweet and memorable.
Private Yacht Cruises
Couples can sail privately around St. Martin and nearby islands. The sunsets at sea create romantic, unforgettable moments. Moreover, the privacy adds to the magic of the trip.
Spa Treatments
Luxury resorts offer couples’ massages and wellness rituals. These treatments provide both relaxation and bonding time. As a result, honeymoons feel even more special.
Beach Dinners
Candlelit dinners on quiet beaches set the perfect mood. Chefs prepare local dishes while waves create a soothing backdrop. Furthermore, this setting makes romance effortless.
French Café Strolls
Marigot’s cafés give honeymoons a European touch. So, couples sip coffee, share pastries, and walk cobblestone streets. Because of this charm, many call it the island’s most romantic town.
Ready to Plan Your St. Martin Yacht Charter?
CKIM Group Inc. can help you compare available yachts, review inclusions, and build a route across St. Martin, Anguilla, and St. Barths.
- Compare available yachts
- Review charter inclusions
- Plan your island-hopping route
FAQ – St. Martin
St. Martin is famous for its dual identity—French sophistication and Dutch energy. Visitors love its beaches, yacht marinas, fine dining, and duty-free shopping.
Yes. St. Martin is a major yacht charter hub, with easy access to Anguilla, St. Barts, and the British Virgin Islands.
Highlights include Orient Bay Beach, Maho Beach, Fort Louis, and Loterie Farm.
December to April is peak season with sunny weather, while May to November offers fewer crowds and lush scenery.
Rates depend on yacht size, season, and length of charter. See our cost guide for current ranges and what’s typically included.
New To Yachting?
If you’re new to yachting, our First Time Yacht Charter Guide is the perfect resource to help you navigate the world of luxury yacht charters.
First Time Yacht Guide
Whether you’re a seasoned charterer or new to luxury yacht charters, our comprehensive First Time Yacht Charter Guide is designed to assist you every step of the way.
Filled with frequently asked questions, a detailed boat comparison guide, real-life experiences, and visually engaging infographics, this resource is the perfect tool to educate yourself on the world of yacht chartering.
