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The heavenly beaches of Saint Martin

Beach lovers and water sports fans will feel right at home on Saint Martin. Whether you visit the Dutch or the French part, you are always surrounded by stunning Caribbean views of swaying palm trees and white sandy beaches. This Leeward Island has over 44 miles of coastline and is thus the perfect destination for snorkelling, diving, (kite) surfing, kayaking – or simply lounging at a beach bar.

Beach

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.

Arts & Culture

Thanks to its numerous shops, cafés and hotels, Philipsburg is one of the liveliest places on the island of Saint Martin. Giant cruise ships and luxury yachts cast anchor in the azure blue bay which was discovered in 1493 by Columbus, even though Indians already lived here. Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch part of the island and is located on the beautiful white sandy beach of Great Bay.