Holiday rentals Saint Martin

Three iconic places to discover in Saint Martin

Saint Martin boasts a wealth of stunning attractions, from idyllic beaches and colourful villages to historic sites. The three sites we present here embody the very essence of the island: its Caribbean landscapes, its Creole culinary culture and its colonial heritage. Each is well worth a visit during your stay.

1. Orient Bay (Baie Orientale)

Baie Orientale stretches for three kilometres of fine white sand along the island’s east coast, offering a picture-postcard view. Its turquoise waters, fringed by coconut palms swaying in the breeze, make it one of the most sought-after beaches in the Caribbean. Opposite you lies Pinel Islet, a lush little island that completes this idyllic setting. All along the shore, beach establishments offer sun loungers, parasols and refreshments for carefree, relaxing days. Whether you’re here to swim, go snorkelling or simply laze about, this bay has everything you could want for a tropical getaway.

2. Grand Case

Nestled in the north of the island, the village of Grand Case exudes authentic Creole charm. Its main boulevard runs alongside the beach and is buzzing with a vibrant culinary scene: restaurants run by local families sit alongside ‘lolos’, small street grills where fish, meat and seafood are cooked over an open flame. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with customers sitting on high stools facing the sea, chatting with the owners. The flavours are bold, generous and rooted in Caribbean tradition. This is the beating heart of the island’s gastronomy, a place you simply must visit at least once to savour the culinary soul of Saint Martin.

3. Fort Louis

Overlooking Marigot Bay from a rocky hill, this 18th-century fort bears witness to the island’s military past. Its stone walls, weathered by the centuries, bear witness to the geopolitical struggles that have shaped Saint Martin. From the summit, the view sweeps across Simpson Bay lagoon and the town of Marigot below, a landscape that is both urban and maritime. The climb is well worth the effort: the panoramic view makes it clear why this strategic post was so important. The sunsets here take on a special intensity, tinging the sky and sea with shades of orange.

These three facets of Saint Martin – natural, culinary and historical – shape the experience of a holiday in a holiday rental. They embody the very heart of the island, the essence that visitors come to seek in the Caribbean.

The ideal time of year to book a holiday rental in Saint Martin

In Saint Martin, the seasons do not follow the same pattern as in mainland France. The archipelago follows the rhythm of the Caribbean, marked by two distinct periods that each lend a different flavour to your stay: the dry season and the wet season. Each offers a distinct atmosphere, climate and range of leisure activities.

The dry season, from December to April, is the peak tourist season in Saint Martin. The days unfold under constant sunshine, rain is rare and the trade winds blow gently. The turquoise sea glistens, unclouded by a single cloud, and the beaches are perfect for swimming and water sports. Temperatures range between 26 and 28 °C, which is pleasant even for travellers who dread extreme heat. This is the best time to explore the French and Dutch sides of the island, stroll along the coastlines and savour life in the open air. A holiday rental opens its shutters to days free from any weather disruptions.

The wet season, from May to November, transforms Saint Martin into a greener, subtropical island. Rainfall is more frequent, but often short and heavy rather than persistent. Temperatures remain warm, around 28 to 30 °C, and humidity rises. This period coincides with the hurricane season, although the island is generally outside the path of the most severe storms. There are fewer tourists, accommodation is more affordable, and nature bursts into colour. If you can cope with the muggy heat and sporadic showers, you’ll discover a vibrant Saint Martin, with even more intense tropical landscapes and a more authentic atmosphere, far from the crowds.

For the most part, a holiday rental is the most flexible option: you’ll find all the facilities you need to adapt to any season. Air conditioning to combat the humid heat, a covered veranda for tropical downpours, and a kitchen to prepare your meals at your own pace. Whether you’re escaping the European winter or seeking an authentic experience in the low season, you’re in control of your comfort and your schedule, free from the constraints of hotel life.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Saint Martin

Saint Martin offers a wide variety of beach and water-based experiences. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family or with friends, the island offers plenty of opportunities to venture out from your holiday rental to explore its crystal-clear lagoons, coastal landscapes and little hidden gems. Here are three iconic activities that capture the charm of a Caribbean holiday.

1. Explore Pinel Islet by kayak and snorkelling

Just a few minutes by boat from the mainland, Pinel Islet is a small, unspoilt paradise. You’ll paddle a kayak through turquoise waters, admire the seabed from the surface, then set foot on an unspoilt islet where absolute tranquillity reigns. This is the sort of getaway that alone justifies a holiday in Saint Martin: warm water, colourful fish, a white sandy beach and hardly anyone else around.

Address: Cul-de-Sac, 97150 Saint Martin.

2. Cycle or ride a scooter around the island, crossing between the French and Dutch sides

One of Saint Martin’s unique features is that it is shared between two nations. A day spent on two wheels or on a scooter allows you to cross this invisible border, discover varied landscapes and charming villages, and understand how two cultures coexist on the same piece of land. The coastal road offers some remarkable views, particularly of the lagoons and surrounding islets. It’s also a chance to stop off at a small local restaurant or take an impromptu break on the beach.

Address: .

3. Go windsurfing and kitesurfing at Baie de l’Embouchure

Embouchure Bay, in Orient Bay, is a renowned spot for board sports. The wind conditions and calm waters make it an ideal playground, whether you’re a beginner looking for your first thrills or an experienced enthusiast seeking a challenge. Schools offer lessons and equipment hire. After your session, you can enjoy the surrounding beaches to relax or take a dip in the tropical waters.

Address: Orient Bay, 97150 Saint Martin.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in Saint Martin

When planning a holiday in Saint Martin, the comfort of your accommodation is just as important as the beauty of the location. With the tropical heat, sunny days and the desire to unwind after a day of exploring, certain amenities quickly become essential for making the most of your holiday. Here’s what travellers prioritise when choosing a holiday rental in the department.

• Air conditioning: essential in the tropical climate, it ensures restful nights and pleasant days, even during the hottest periods.
• Ceiling fans: the ideal complement to air conditioning, they promote air circulation and offer an energy-efficient alternative for less intense periods.
• Fully equipped kitchen: having a proper kitchen allows you to prepare your own meals, sample local produce and eat as you please without having to rely entirely on restaurants.
• Washing machine: handy for stays of one or two weeks, it frees you from the chore of doing the washing and leaves more room for your luggage.
• Access to a terrace or balcony with a view: often facing the sea or the surrounding countryside, these outdoor spaces become little havens for relaxing in the evening.
• Internet and Wi-Fi: useful for staying connected without being glued to your phone, checking out local tips or sharing your photos later.
• Private parking or secure access: once you’ve hired a car, having a dedicated parking space takes all the stress out of it.
• Private swimming pool or access to a communal pool: a much-appreciated bonus for families and travellers who enjoy a swim without having to make the effort to get to the beach.
• Beach equipment: towels, parasols or inflatable loungers provided on site save you from having to make last-minute purchases.
• High-quality bedding: firm springs, well-maintained mattresses and comfortable pillows make all the difference after a week of sightseeing.

Finding a holiday rental that suits your needs and your travel style means getting your holiday off to the right start. Whether you’re a couple, a large family or a group of friends, Saint Martin has accommodation designed for every type of holiday and every budget.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in Saint Martin?

Holiday rental rates in Saint Martin vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small studio or a one-bedroom flat, you can generally expect to pay between 80 and 150 euros per night in the low season, and more during periods of high demand. A family-sized property with three to four rooms tends to cost between 120 and 250 euros per night. Large villas or luxury properties, with a private swimming pool or a view of the bay, often exceed 300 euros per night and can reach much higher prices during the high season.

Several factors influence these prices. Proximity to the sea, access to a beach or ocean views justify higher rates. The length of stay also plays a role: rental properties often offer discounted rates on a weekly or monthly basis, making a longer stay more cost-effective than a series of short-term bookings. The time of year is a key factor: Saint Martin experiences a peak tourist season from December to April, when prices rise significantly. Summer and autumn, which are less busy, generally offer more affordable rates.

Before booking, take the time to compare the various options available. Check reviews from previous travellers to ensure that the value for money meets your expectations. Booking several weeks in advance, especially during peak season, often allows you to benefit from more attractive rates.