Vacationing in St. Martin

The timeless question: where to go on a warm vacation in the winter that is affordable, unique and just so happens to be toddler friendly. There were a lot of contenders on our vacation wish list this year, from California to Savannah, from to Curacao to Aruba, all with their own set of pros and cons. At the last minute a whole new destination came on our radar when we found a flight deal to St. Martin, and a brand new AirBnB listing that looked too good to be true (Spoiler: It was legit and even better than the photos).

If you are looking for a warm trip of your own, here’s a few tips for planning a St. Martin vacation that kids and grown ups will enjoy.

Good to know: It’s been three years since Hurricane Irma hit St. Martin. You can definitely still see some of the aftermath of the natural disaster on the island, from shipwrecks to ruins of resorts and homes. If you are curious what’s been going on the island since the hurricane, this Travel + Leisure article is a great read.

WHERE TO STAY

We saw lots hotels and resorts while we drove around the island that caught our interest, bit for this trip we wanted somewhere where our toddler could nap during the afternoon, while we enjoyed a pool or beach. It just so happened that there was a new listing on Airbnb on the Dutch side of the island that fit the bill perfectly. Complete with two bedrooms, a pool and terrace overlooking Simpson Bay and a fully-equipped kitchen for cooking meals at home, this spot was the perfect hybrid of #vacationgoals and practicality. There was a grocery store just down the street, so easy to stock up on food and supplies, and prices were pretty reasonable.

WHAT TO DO

Beach hop and beach hop some more. There’s over 36 beaches on the French and Dutch sides of St Martin. We made it to 6 of them, and they each had their own vibe - some with wild waves, others with gentle surf, perfect for little ones.

SIMPSON Bay

Just a short drive from the airport, this long sandy stretch of beach was a peaceful pocket of the island, but still in the heart of it all. The waves were gentle, and the views of the sailboats and yachts moored in the harbour are postcard perfect.

Parking: Street Parking

Shade: Pick a spot under the palm trees

Amenities: A little walk along the beach will take you to some restaurants.

Mullet Bay

Just around the corner from Simpson Bay, Mullet Bay seems like a world away, with a European vibe. While one end of the beach is busy and has lounge chairs and umbrellas, the other end is quiet with some pretty stunning rock formations. Take a little walk up the cliff and get a view of the beach from above.

Parking: Street Parking

Swimming: Bigger waves, fine for grown ups, but little kids will probably be more into the sandcastles vs the swimming at this beach.

Shade: Not much shade, unless you opt for

Amenities: Umbrellas and chairs if you so choose.

Baie Rouge

On the French Side of the island you’ll find Baie Rouge. This spot was recommended to us by a couple who vacation on the island every year. Everything is larger than life on this beach - big waves, dramatic ruins from the hurricane, and a huge stretch of sandy beach to stroll. If you are a very strong swimmer, there is a secret beach around the corner, as well as a rock arch. We admired both from the safety of the shore, but both looked pretty stunning!

Parking: A couple “do not enter” signs and a parking lot with potholes the size of small craters make this a bit of a local secret, but you’ll find lots of tourists in the know are regulars here.

Swimming: Big waves on the day we went, and swimming here is definitely swim at your own risk.

Shade: A couple of shady spots - you can set up a towel on some of the ruins along the beach for a unique lounging solution.

Amenities: No

Phillipsburg

The capital of the Dutch side of the island is a busy spot. A cruise ship port, a shopping destination, and of course a beach make this worth a visit while on the island. Lots of restaurants, a beach packed with beach chairs, and even a playground make this the beach to visit on the day you want to in the heart of all the action.

Parking: It was actually a little tricky finding parking near the beach here. Plan to walk a little to get to the beach.

Swimming: Pretty sheltered, good (but busy) swimming

Shade: An infinite number of chairs and umbrellas for rent.

Amenities: Loads

Friar’s Bay

This was my personal favourite beach. There was something about the beach cafe, the kids taking sailing lessons, and the views of Anguilla to the north that made this an ideal spot to spend a morning.

Parking: Parking lot

Swimming: Very sheltered, a little rocky when you first get in the water, but then soft smooth sand.

Shade: Half of the beach has chairs and umbrellas for rent.

Amenities: Two beach cafes - perfect for an afternoon cocktail

Coconut Grove/GaLion Beach

Just down from the much busier Orient Bay is what feels like a forgotten tropical hideaway. This spot is known as the ultimate family beach, protected from waves by a coral reef. While there is some seaweed along the shore, it adds to the untouched wild beauty of the beach.

Parking: Parking lot

Swimming: A sheltered hideaway, perfect for kids

Shade: Not much shade here. Definitely consider bringing an umbrella.

Amenities: None on the beach, but the busy Orient Bay and Grand Case is nearby.

More to see and do

We covered a lot of ground on the island over seven days. In addition to beach hopping, we had a couple of delicious meals out, including at La Bodega (a wine bar and restaurant with a cute patio) and Mezza Luna (a beachside Italian spot). And of course, we came across little gems along the way, which was is all part of the adventure.