Marigot, the French capital of Saint Martin, blending charm and authenticity
Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and verdant hills, Marigot is the cultural,
administrative, and historical heart of Saint Martin on the French side.
Authentic, colorful, and deeply Caribbean, the town blends Creole influences,
French heritage, lively markets, and beautiful views of the bay.
A true nerve
center of the French territory, Marigot charms with its traditional architecture
featuring colorful tin roofs, colonial houses, and a village atmosphere despite
its status as the capital. Its streets are laid out around the waterfront, the
Marina Royale, and the old quarters where shops and French-style cafes are
concentrated.
Marigot embodies the French art of living in Saint Martin, with its duty-free
shops, cafés, lively market, and Marina Royale. The cultural heart of the French
side, the town charms visitors with its gastronomy, events like the Gastronomy
Festival, and panoramic views from Fort Louis.
A key stop for discovering the
soul of the island and setting sail for Anguilla or Saint Barthélemy.
You’ll find: spices, vanilla, infused rum, local jams, Creole crafts, stalls selling fresh fish and local produce, and street food (accras, bokits, smoked chicken, etc.).
It’s one of the most vibrant and authentic places on the island.
After a short climb, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view: of the city center, Marigot Bay, and even, on a clear day, Anguilla, just across the water.
It’s the perfect spot for sunrise and sunset photos.
- daily connections to Anguilla (approx. 20-minute crossing)
- daily connections to Saint Barthélemy (approx. 45–50-minute crossing)
All information on schedules and fares can be found on the official website:
www.portdemarigot.com/gare
The village of Grand Case
and Creole Rock
A village renowned for its Caribbean cuisine, Grand Case charms with its “lolos” and beach restaurants that serve local dishes in a friendly and lively atmosphere, between Creole simplicity and refined touches.
Visible from Grand Case, Creole Rock is a natural emblem of Saint-Martin. Its majestic profile offshore marks the landscape and invites contemplation of the Caribbean Sea, also offering a spectacular diving site with crystal- clear waters and rich marine life.
The village of Orient Bay
Nicknamed the «Saint-Tropez of the Caribbean,» Orient Bay is one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan hubs of Saint Martin. Charming hotels, residences, restaurants, bars, and boutiques cluster around the bay, creating a truly lively and elegant atmosphere.
Highly prized by both visitors and residents, it captivates with its constant energy, international vibe, and relaxed yet refined lifestyle.
Here, people come as much for the ambiance as for the socializing, in a chic, carefree spirit, resolutely focused on enjoyment.
During the day, the atmosphere is lively and relaxed, with lunches on the terrace and water sports activities.
In the evening, Orient Bay becomes a popular spot for dinner or drinks, in a festive and friendly atmosphere that naturally continues into the evening.
Baie Nettlé / Trou David
A small, quiet village, perfect for enjoying calm beaches and small coves. Ideal for those who love relaxing and snorkeling.
Trou David, or Devil’s Hole, is a natural pool formed by a collapsed cave with two arches where the sea appears to boil.
This geological curiosity dates back to the collapse of an underwater chamber fifty million years ago.
Trou David can be reached after a short walk between Baie Rouge and Pointe du Bluff, at the end of the path leading to Baie des Petites Cayes.
Philipsburg, the Dutch capital of Sint Maarten, known for its seaside setting and duty-free shopping
Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch side of the island. Located between the Caribbean Sea and the lagoon, it serves as the administrative and commercial heart of Sint Maarten. Lively and cosmopolitan, the city contrasts with the more laid-back atmosphere of the French side and reflects the island’s international character.
Philipsburg is well known for its shopping, particularly along Front Street and Back Street. Jewelry, watches, perfumes, spirits and international brands are sold duty-free, attracting both visitors and cruise passengers. Shops are interspersed with cafés and galleries, creating a pleasant seaside stroll
The city stretches along Great Bay Beach, a wide sandy beach lined with a lively promenade. Bars, restaurants and water activities can be found here, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day. It is an ideal place to relax while staying in the heart of the city.
Philipsburg also boasts a rich historical heritage, visible in its colorful colonial buildings, museums and surrounding forts. The city blends Caribbean, European and American influences, creating a unique atmosphere that becomes especially lively when cruise ships arrive.
Cole Bay / Simpson Bay
A rapidly developing area with numerous restaurants and shops, as well as the Vegas casino and the large Princess complex with its magnificent casino.
Its proximity to the airport and Simpson Bay makes it a convenient area for visitors.
The vibrant heart of the island’s nightlife, Simpson Bay boasts a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs that come alive after dark.
Its busy marina welcomes yachts and boat trips, while the long, sandy beach remains ideal during the day for swimming, relaxing, and water sports.
Maho, the lively district of Sint Maarten, between beach, bars, and casinos
Maho is one of the most vibrant and festive districts on the island, known for its constant energy, especially after nightfall.
International restaurants, bars, lounges and the famous Casino Royale attract a cosmopolitan clientele who come to enjoy lively evenings, with music, cocktails and entertainment until the early hours.
The true heart of the island’s nightlife, Maho captivates with its vibrant and relaxed atmosphere, where it’s easy to move from dinner to a bar, then to a festive evening.
A lively district, ideal for those who love going out, having fun, and experiencing the nighttime pulse of Saint-Martin.
ESCAPE 2026
Escape, the Saint Martin guide – explore beaches, restaurants, activities, and boutiques handpicked for a full island experience.
See the 2026 edition!
