St. Martin » general info

Saint Martin is a glorious little island of low rolling hills, fine beaches and warm seas located on the boarders of the Greater and Lesser Antilles in the eastern Caribbean Sea. At 95 sq. kilometers it is the smallest land in the world to be shared by 2 different nations – and harmoniously for nearly 350 years. Sint Maarten occupies roughly a third of the island and is Dutch, and St. Martin is French, so it’s like visiting 2 countries at once! The French side has an emphasis on nature, comfort, elegance, luxury, pristine beaches and the finest gourmet cuisine. Nothing there to tempt you? Try the Dutch side then with its’ busy cruise port, casinos, vibrant nightlife and duty free shopping!

FBC St. Martin is situated on the French side to the east of the island in the heart of a peaceful and protected natural reserve where mangroves, turquoise water and white sand mix in total harmony. There are no jet skis or motor boats here. The spot is a classic tropical paradise, and has been voted the best and safest beach on the island. The eastern coast of St. Martin is exposed to almost constant trade winds which blow side onshore from the left November to March and side onshore from the right June to September – a chance to improve on both tacks, with breaking waves on the outer reef if you really want to test your skills.

St. Martin is famous for her beaches (37 in all) that open on the Atlantic Ocean or the Caribbean Sea, and they will amaze you with their diversity. The sea is always warm (around 27 degrees all year) and the water idyllically clear. All this water means endless water sports and water based activities can be experienced all around the island – from incredible scuba diving to motorized water sports, kayak tours, world class sailing and deep sea fishing charters. Land sports feature highly too, with all terrain off-road guided tours, horse riding, tennis, golf and dedicated mountain bike trails. That should be enough to keep you going – and if not one of the greatest attractions of the island can keep you occupied for as many hours as you can manage. You guessed it – duty free shopping! Luxury items from all over the world can be purchased at great prices. Finally – St. Martin is also renowned for fine cuisine. Whether dining in gourmet restaurants or the BBQ roadside shacks or “Lolos” - you will find something to satisfy all palettes and wallets!

St. Martin is a fascinating melting pot of people and influences from over 70 different nations – a truly Cosmopolitan atmosphere with a Caribbean twist! It’s is like nowhere you have ever been before – and you will never go anywhere like it again!

WE RECOMMEND:

Fort St. Louis – Built in 1767 to protect from foreign invasion, the climb to the summit provides panoramic views of the island.

Marigot Market (Fort St. Louis) – Wednesdays and Saturdays – open air market with homegrown produce, tropical fruits, spices and fresh fish.

Grand Case – famous for its’architecture, the buildings are small wood houses in pastel colours, and the whole area is very charming and has the finest cuisine on the whole island.

Paradise Peak – Spectacular views to the island and tropical forests below – at 414m this is the highest point on the island.

Butterfly Farm (Le Galion) – hundreds of rare and exotic butterflies in beautiful landscaped gardens.

The Loterie Farm – take an eco-hike and a tree top tour along ropes from tree to tree.