Don’t be a crepe! Get your baguette over to Saint Martin and enjoy the croissant-ry of the French side
Are you planning a trip to the French side of Saint Martin and wondering what to do? The island is a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike, with a unique blend of French and Caribbean culture that sets it apart from other Caribbean destinations.
From pristine beaches to historic forts, from delicious cuisine to exciting outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in Saint Martin.
In this list, we’ll explore the top ten things to do on the French side of the island, from exploring the island’s natural beauty to experiencing its vibrant nightlife.
- Explore the beaches: Saint Martin is famous for its pristine beaches. You can visit Orient Bay, Grand Case Beach, Baie Rouge, and Mullet Bay Beach, among others.
- Visit Loterie Farm: A unique nature reserve and adventure park, Loterie Farm offers zipline tours, hiking trails, a pool, and a restaurant.
- Tour the Island by Boat: Take a tour of the island by boat and see Saint Martin from a different perspective. Many companies offer day tours, sunset cruises, and snorkeling adventures.
- Shop in Marigot: The capital of the French side of the island, Marigot, is known for its open-air markets selling local handicrafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs.
- Visit Fort Louis: A historic fort dating back to the 1700s, Fort Louis offers stunning views of Marigot and the surrounding area.
- Take a Day Trip to Pinel Island: A short ferry ride from Saint Martin, Pinel Island offers a secluded beach, hiking trails, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
- Experience the Local Cuisine: Saint Martin is known for its unique fusion of French and Caribbean cuisine. Try local favorites like Johnny cakes, conch fritters, and the famous French pastry, croissant.
- Visit the Butterfly Farm: A beautiful attraction that houses over 40 different species of butterflies, the Butterfly Farm is a must-visit for nature lovers.
- Go on a Hike: The island offers many hiking trails that lead to beautiful views and secluded beaches. Some popular hikes include the Paradise Peak Trail and the Pointe Blanche Trail.
- Enjoy the Nightlife: Saint Martin offers a vibrant nightlife scene with bars, nightclubs, and casinos. Visit the popular Maho Village, where you can party the night away.
A little history:
The French side of Saint Martin has a rich and diverse history that spans back over 3,000 years. The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak people, who lived off the land and sea.
In 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered the island and claimed it for Spain. However, it was the Dutch who first established a permanent settlement on the island in 1631, followed by the French in 1648.
Over the next few centuries, the island changed hands numerous times between the Dutch, the French, and the British.
In 1817, the Treaty of Paris officially recognized the Dutch and French sides of the island. Today, the island remains divided, with the French side covering an area of 21 square miles and having a population of approximately 33,000 people.
In the 1900s, Saint Martin began to emerge as a popular tourist destination, thanks to its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and unique blend of French and Caribbean cultures.
Today, the island is known for its luxury resorts, fine dining, and lively nightlife. Despite the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma in 2017, Saint Martin has bounced back and remains a popular destination for travelers from around the world.
