Tag Archives: St. Martin

Antigua Jolly Beach
Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean, Dominica, Plan, Puerto Rico, St. Barts, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Trip Ideas, U.S. Virgin Islands

The Caribbean Makes a Comeback

Leave a comment

 

In the fall of 2017, portions of the Caribbean received back-to-back blows from hurricanes Irma and Maria. These Category 5 storms did significant damage to some islands, while virtually sparing others. In the months following the storms, rebuilding efforts were underway on all islands affected.

News of these efforts was shared during the recent Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association’s annual show. According to reports and updates, the region is not only repairing damage and restoring existing properties, but also undertaking a number of expansion projects and new builds.

In all, there are an expected 74 new builds planned. Airports are being expanded as they rebuild, and many of the islands are now receiving more incoming flights. Ferry services have returned, with some increases from both private and public ferry companies. The beaches are returning as sand comes in with the tides and on many islands life is returning to normal. Some areas and islands are still without full electrical power but expectations are to get back to 100 percent by early to mid 2018. Essentially the Caribbean is back and is still the paradise we all know and love.

Puerto Rico

In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico was very much in the news. The storm left widespread devastation, but though the Enchanted Island was down, it was far from out. Cruise ships made their first return to the Port of San Juan less than three weeks after the storm’s passing, and even without electricity, resilient shop owners were selling their wares to cruise passengers on a cash basis. The San Juan and Old San Juan tourism district spent two months recovering, with electricity and services returning week by week. By the December holiday season, a majority of the city was in business, with some 1,500 restaurants and most hotels. On the entire island 80 percent of the resorts are now open.

Puerto Rico is emerging renewed and revamped as many hotels are taking the time to renovate and add new rooms. There are still the isolated communities in the country without power, but expectations are that 95 percent of the island’s power will be restored by the end of February. Hardest hit are the eastern coast areas of Palmas del Mar and Humacao, which may take longer to recover. El Yunque rainforest was hit hard, but replanting is underway and some hiking trails have reopened. Visitors are also returning to the islands of Vieques and Culebra, which received minimal damage.

Puerto Rico San Juan Port

Cruise ships are once again docking in the Port of San Juan, and the shops and restaurants in the adjacent historic district of Old San Juan are open for business. Photo: Puerto Rico Tourism

USVI

The campaign slogan of the US Virgin Islands is “still nice”, and almost 100 percent electrical power has been restored to all three islands, the days of candles and bucket baths are over. St. Croix was spared major damage and most everything is up and running, with exception of a couple of the larger resorts. Most beaches recovered beautifully on all three islands and after a massive cleanup and rebuilding project, Magens Bay on St. Thomas is once again welcoming swimmers. Some of the larger hotels and resorts on St. Thomas and St. John were hit hard and will take time to recover. Most will be back in full operation by the end of 2018 or early 2019, renewed, renovated and in some cases with additional space. Island visitors now have the opportunity to get to know the locals by staying in small guesthouses, B & B and villas, and there is no shortage of these accommodations. On St. John the National Park trails and beaches are open. The shores are not yet as green as before the storm, but foliage is slowly coming back.

St. Croix Buccaneer

St. Croix’s landmark Buccaneer resort was spared from major storm damage from Irma and Maria, and was soon fully operational and welcoming guests. Photo: Steve Simonsen/The Buccaneer

Antigua & Barbuda

The big island of Antigua dodged the full force of Hurricane Irma, and returned to normal within 48 hours of the storm. Hotels, restaurants and bars are all open, and visitors who were already booked were able to come and enjoy vacations as planned. Unfortunately, the sister island of Barbuda was literally flattened by wind and waves, and for an already flat island of scrub and mangrove forests, the effects were devastating. The island’s 2,000 residents had to be evacuated and now live with friends and family on Antigua while their homes are being rebuilt. The potential silver lining is that new structures will be totally green and supplied by solar polar, which is a first in the islands. The storms didn’t scare away Robert DeNiro and plans are still on the books for his resort to be built on Barbuda. The islands continue to attract sailors from around the world with several sailing events throughout the year.

Antigua English Harbour

Sailboats ride at anchor in Antigua’s English Harbour. The island was not in the direct path of the storms, and suffered minimal damage from wind or waves. Photo: Stephen Robertson/iStock

Anguilla

An island that made a fast post-storm recovery is Anguilla. The airport was back open one week after Irma, and thanks to British and Canadian support, rebuilding and clean up moved quickly. Electricity was fully restored by mid December, so the island celebrated with Christmas lights and festivities. Many of the island’s five-star properties are now undergoing renovations and will open throughout the coming year. In the interim, the island has a number of small hotels and villas that are welcoming guests. The well-known Dune Preserve will need some time to rebuild, but all festivals are on, most favorite dining venues and beach bars are back in operation.

Anguilla Beach

The powder-fine sand shores of Anguilla were not severely affected by the hurricanes of 2017, and all of the island’s 33 public beaches are once again welcoming visitors. Photo: Anguilla Tourist Board

BVI

The British Virgin Islands was hit hard with back-to-back hurricanes and two floods. Maria held back some of its full force, but Irma made a direct hit on the islands. After the first hurricane, Puerto Rica sent ships with supplies to help the British Virgin Islands, but soon those ships and supplies were back on their way to Puerto Rico after Maria devastated that island. While some of the BVI’s lux resorts will take time to make their recoveries, there are several that are already up and running, including Scrub Island, Oil Nut Bay and Cooper Island. A number of smaller guesthouses and hotels are welcoming guests and crews from sailing yachts. Sailing, diving, fishing and other water sports operations are all back in business, and several charter yacht companies have expanded their fleets. The islands are rebuilding and also replanting palms, as some 6,000 coconut trees were gifted from the island of St. Vincent.

BVI The Baths

While a number of resorts in the British Virgin Islands suffered significant storm damage, iconic natural features such as the Baths of Virgin Gorda were spared. Photo: Robert Ingelhart/iStock

St. Martin/St. Maarten

The half Dutch, half French island is still rebuilding but open to visitors. The Princess Juliana airport is open and operative, using tents to receive passengers. A rebuilt terminal is scheduled to open by the end of 2018. All 37 beaches on the island are open. On the French side, Grand Case restaurants and shops are opening up on a daily basis; while the bars on the Dutch side are also back in business. Cell phone service is still spotty, but transportation services are fully operative. Both nations have a range of small hotels and guesthouses available as the larger properties rebuild. Large resorts like Oyster Bay and Sonesta on the Dutch side will be back in business by the end of 2018 or early 2019. On the French side, Grand Case and Belmond La Samanna plan on reopening by the forth quarter of 2018.

St. Maarten Great Bay

Cruise ships are once again docking at the port facilities in St. Martin’s Great Bay. Hotels around the bay are now in the process of rebuilding and reopening. Photo: Gerry Slabaugh/Flickr

Dominica

Maria did significant damage to most of the island’s buildings, including resorts. The island’s forests suffered significant wind damage, but by late fall, the Forestry & Wildlife Parks Division had reopened a number of natural attractions for tourism, including the Emerald Pool, Trafalgar Falls, Titou Gorge and Indian River. The 115-mile Waitukubuli National Trail is still being cleared and volunteers are working on restoring the path in the segments badly hit. Meanwhile, divers are working on restoring the coral reefs. The first cruise ship, the Sea Cloud II arrived December 28 and more are returning every month. Several small hotels and guesthouses are now receiving visitors and more are partially open. The Fort Young Hotel in Roseau renovated and opened a portion of its rooms. And as other hotels renovate and rebuild, there was news of a new resort near Portsmouth breaking ground. Power is still being restored on much of the island and many of the larger properties are being rebuilt and will open in mid 2018 or 2019.

Dominica Scotts Head

Dominica’s Scotts Head Marine Reserve is one of the best and calmest snorkeling spots on the west coast of the island. Efforts are still underway to restore and clean all of the island’s dive sites. Photo: Discover Dominica

St. Barts

This was one of the first islands to announce that it was back in business after hurricane Irma slammed the Caribbean. The entire island now has electricity and water service. Clean up efforts went smoothly and the beaches are more pristine and beautiful than ever. Guests will find plenty of villas and a handful of hotels available as the larger properties rebuild. Many of the lux properties will reopen in late 2018. Resorts like Eden Rock, which sits on a promontory over the ocean, and Le Toiny, which sits at the top of a hillside, were badly damaged but will also reopen near the end of 2018.

St. Barts

The beaches of St. Barts have recovered from passing storms, and a number of the island’s favorite resorts are now in the process of rebuilding and reopening. Photo: Saint Barth Tourisme

Valentine's Day In The Caribbean On Beach
Anguilla, Bahamas-New Providence, Barbados, Caribbean, Dominica, Grenada, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, St. Martin/St. Maarten, U.S. Virgin Islands

10 Romantic Caribbean Escapes

Leave a comment

 

Don’t settle for the same old flowers and candy routine this Valentine’s Day. Treat yourself and that special someone to a romantic interlude in the Caribbean. These premiere properties are offering special packages that are sure to fan the flame.

Suite Love

Rekindle romance in a Love Nest Suite at Sandals on Barbados. These private enclaves of intimacy provide all the elements, from four-poster beds to balcony soak tubs with ocean views. Personal butler service brings indulgences right to the room, but should you wish to venture out, all the amenities of Sandals Barbados await. For Valentine’s week, the resort will offer special couple’s nights presentations such as a chocolate themed buffet. 

Barbados Sandals Resort

A swim-up suite at Sandals Barbados includes a private veranda with a soak tub that blends indoor and outdoor spaces, while still providing the ultimate in privacy. Photo: Sandals

Wine and Dine

If the way to the heart really is the stomach, there’s love aplenty at Nassau’s Graycliff Hotel. This historic and casually elegant five-star property serves up a three-night Romance Package that begins with a chilled bottle of champagne and a sampler of Graycliff chocolates. Later, you’ll be indulged with a four-course chef’s tasting menu and wine. Another night is highlighted by a Caipirinha and dinner at the Churrascaria Humidor. There is also a culinary lesson with an executive chef, a chocolate and spirits tasting and a day at the Blue Lagoon Beach.

Nassau Graycliff Chocolatier

Signature chocolate creations from Graycliff Chocolatier. This historic Nassau hotel combines five-star service with a casually elegant atmosphere. Photo: Graycliff

Stay Together, Play Together

Sugar Beach’s Sweet As Sugar package starts off with champagne and a long-stemmed rose at a luxury villa. But this isn’t your usual boudoir-centric getaway. Over the course of four days you and your special someone will bond over an introductory dive in the crystal waters of St. Lucia’s national marine reserve, hike up Gros Piton, and experience the Sulphur Seduction tour, which includes a visit to an active volcano and a soak in therapeutic mineral springs. There’s also relaxation in the mix, including a sunset cruise, breakfast in bed and a romantic candlelit dinner served beachside or in a garden setting. 

St. Lucia Sugar Beach Viceroy

A hillside villa at St. Lucia’s Sugar Beach takes in expansive views of the Caribbean Sea. Native fruit trees grow on the landscaped grounds. Photo: Sugar Beach

Spice It Up

Escape to Grenada, the island of spices, where your private luxury suite opens to spectacular Grand Anse Beach. You don’t actually have to be newlyweds to enjoy the Spice Up Your Honeymoon package at Spice Island Beach Resort, which welcomes you with tropical flowers, fresh fruit, chocolate truffles, and champagne on ice. Dine on your private patio or take in spectacular ocean views and the sounds of a steel band at Oliver’s. Relax with a couple’s massage at Janissa’s Spa and leave with a basket of spice scented body oils. Cap off a memorable day at the beach with a sunset sail along the island’s scenic Caribbean coast. 

Grenada Spice Island Resort

Spice Island Beach Resort is Grenada’s premier all-inclusive property. The resort occupies a prime location on Grand Anse Beach. Photo: Dehoog/Spice Island

Let Love Linger

Why settle for a day of romance when you can stretch a Valentine’s Day treat to a full week of togetherness. An ideal way to keep that special feeling going is with the Sea of Love package at CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa on Anguilla, where luxury accommodations are set against a dazzling crescent of white sand on Rendezvous Bay. Couples can begin the day with al fresco offerings at Café Med or enjoy in-room breakfasts. There’s golf and beach time, but food often takes center stage, as the package includes select meals at three additional signature restaurants, plus cooking classes, private beachside dining and a chef’s table experience. Also in the mix are massages and spa packages, and a day’s use of a rental car to explore the island. 

Anguilla Cuisinart

Beachfront rooms and suites at Anguilla’s CuisinArt resort provide sweeping views of Rendezvous Bay. Fine dining is a hallmark of this upscale property. Photo: Joe Rahm/CuisinArt

If you love Piña Coladas…..

The song may be kitsch, but the setting is not. Puerto Rico’s Caribe Hilton actually is the birthplace of the Piña Colada, but there are many more reasons to visit this landmark property. Occupying a prime beachfront location on Condado Lagoon, and just a short distance away from the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, the Caribe Hilton is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The property has kept up with the times, and offers a full range of modern luxuries. Couples who book a three-night Valentine’s package will enjoy special perks and pricing. 

Puerto Rico San Juan Caribe Hilton

The pool at the Caribe Hilton in San Juan. For more than 60 years, this resort has been a favorite with vacationers to the island. Photo: Don Riddle/Caribe Hilton

Natural Attraction

Reconnect with nature and each other at the Caribbean’s premier eco- resort. The Tropical Romance package at Dominica’s Rosalie Bay is a five- night immersion in the island’s natural beauty, and a relaxing indulgence for body and mind. Enjoy healthful, savory cuisines based on locally sourced foods, wander a surf-washed black sand beach and enjoy a private five- course dinner served on the banks of a scenic river. The package also includes a couple’s massage, a day trip to Dominica’s famous Champagne Reef, and a relaxing soak in the hot sulphur springs. Rooms are lavished with fresh flowers daily, and gifted with natural island-related aphrodisiacs at evening turndown.

Dominica Rosalie Bay

A view from the porch at Rosalie Bay. Sitting next to a nature preserve, this upscale eco retreat overlooks a black sand beach and the surf-washed Atlantic. Photo: Rosalie Bay

Love on the Rocks

Perched on a rocky seaside bluff at the entrance to Charlotte Amalie’s harbor, Frenchman’s Reef provides a romantic setting where couples can watch the ships come and go from a private balcony, and take in the lights of St. Thomas at night. The resort’s Ultimate Romance Package is ideal for a Valentine’s getaway, and includes requisite perks such as champagne, couple’s spa treatments and special dining credits. An added attraction of stays at Frenchman’s is immediate access to the quiet sands of Morningstar Beach.

St. Thomas Frenchman's Reef

A view from the hillside terrace at Frenchman’s Reef take in the harbor of Charlotte Amalie and the island of St. Thomas. Photo: Corey Weiner/Frenchman’s Reef

Fragrant Memories

A dozen red roses set the tone when you arrive at Belmond La Samanna, where rooms open to fresh sea breezes and the sapphire blue waters of Long Bay. During the month of February, the resort’s Valentine’s Package provides perks such as a Tijon VIP gift bag, couple’s Swedish massage and a unique dinner experience at La Cave, the resort’s on-site atmospheric wine cellar. For a sensory reminder of their time together on St. Martin, couples are treated to a perfumery tour, where they can create their own handcrafted fragrance.

Belmond La Samanna St. Martin

Whites and warm wood accents complement the blues of the Caribbean at Belmond La Samanna. This St. Martin resort is known for good food and fine wines. Photo: La Samanna

Say I Still Do

Anguilla’s Cap Juluca is a stunningly beautiful setting where it would be hard not to fall in love—or fall in love again. To facilitate romances new and old, the resort is offering several Valentine’s themed specials during the month of February. The Romantic Rendezvous pampers couples in a luxury oceanfront room or suite, and adds in extras such as couple’s massages, daily libations and a special private beachside dinner under the stars. During Valentine’s week, couples can reaffirm their commitments with the I Still Do package, which begins with a beach or lawn ceremony, complete with photographer, bouquet and boutonniere. This is followed by champagne and cake, and the day ends with a private three-course dinner with wine on the beach.

Cap Juluca Anguilla

The distinctive Greco-Moorish architecture of Cap Juluca resort complements the white sands and blue waters of Anguilla’s Maunday’s Bay. Photo: Mark Welland/Cap Juluca

St Maarten Overview
Caribbean, Eat, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Trip Ideas

St. Martin’s Best Beach Bars

Leave a comment

 

It’s hard to go wrong when you combine a gorgeous Caribbean beach with a frosty beverage and some tasty bar food to boot. There are plenty of places on the two-nation island of St. Martin/St. Maarten to imbibe while you’re beaching it, each with their own special charm. Here are some of our top picks. Read on to find your perfect spot, or better yet, make the rounds and sample all five.

Mr. Busby’s, Dawn Beach, St. Maarten

This Oyster Pond-area establishment covers all the beach bar bases. Beautiful beachfront location? Check. Laid-back setting? Check. Ice-cold drinks? Check. But Mr. Busby’s doesn’t stop there. Service is prompt and friendly, and the menu combines popular local foods with bar food mainstays resulting in delicious vittles. Their perfectly crispy, flaky johnnycake with ham and cheese pairs flawlessly with a refreshing Carib. The beach bar’s covered shacks are joined by wooden walkways, built to accommodate the sea grapes and palms that add a decidedly tropical feel, and Dawn Beach beckons for a revitalizing swim once your meal is through.

Mr. Busbys Bar St. Maarten

Sea grapes and palm trees lend a tropical vibe to the open-air pavilions at Mr. Busby’s. The kitchen opens early for the breakfast crowd, and serves dinner under the stars. Photo: Mr. Busby’s

Sunset Bar & Grill, Airport Runway at Sunset Beach, St. Maarten

Watching planes skim the heads of beach-goers can make you thirsty; Sunset Bar & Grill is there to help. An island institution, this famed beach bar has gained national press for its proximity to the Princess Juliana International Airport, an actual stone’s throw from Maho Beach, where visitors gather to the rhythm of flight schedules to experience the thrill of jumbo jets gliding mere feet above. During runway lulls, the fun doesn’t stop thanks to live music, crab races, and other entertainment. The food is good, the beer is cold, and the party is on— topless women drink for free.

Sunset Beach Bar St. Maarten

At Maho Beach, low flying jet aircraft pass mere feet over the roof of the Sunset Bar & Grill when landing at Princess Juliana International Airport. Photo: Sunset Bar & Grill

Buccaneer Beach Bar, Kim Sha Beach, St. Maarten

Brightly colored picnic tables shaded by umbrellas lend a typical beach bar ambiance to the Buccaneer Beach Bar, but what happens here after dark is anything but typical. On Friday and Sunday evenings, large metal balls are set ablaze on the beach, their intricate carvings telling the tale of Poseidon, Zeus, and Hades. By day, Buccaneer Beach Bar is the kind of bar you’re not afraid to bring your kids to. It’s a place where locals and visitors bond over good food and drinks like old friends. Crab races, beachfront pig roasts, Friday night movies, and the beautiful Kim Sha beach setting round out the offerings at this fun, family-friendly beach bar.

Buccaneer Beach Bar St. Maarten

Unique spherical fireballs are lit each Friday and Saturday night at the Buccaneer Beach Bar. Barbecues and movies on the sand are also part of the fun at this family-friendly establishment. Photo: Buccaneer Beach Bar

Calmos Café, Grand Case, St. Martin

Calmos takes its designation as a beach bar seriously. With picnic tables so close to the waterline you can feel the waves washing over your toes, you can’t get much closer to the ocean while you’re eating or enjoying a drink. You’ll be hard-pressed to find the will to tear yourself away from Calmos’ beachfront tables and lounge chairs, and in true Grand Case fashion, the food is simply incredible. Goat cheese mousse on a beach bar menu is simultaneously surprising and unforgettably delightful. The wait staff may be barefoot, but the food they bring borders on fine dining. No beach bar is complete without an extensive drink menu, and Calmos Café delivers. Try the Calmos—a quintessential frozen fruity cocktail.

Calmos Cafe St. Martin

On the scenic edge of Grand Case’s famous restaurant district, the Calmos Café provides shoreline seating that allows diners to dip their toes in the water. Photo: Compflight

Karakter, Simpson Bay Beach, St. Maarten

As the name might suggest, this Dutch St. Maarten establishment has character. A funky old bus serves as both the kitchen and a place for patrons to belly up to the bar, while lounge-like beachfront seating evokes a modern feel. The menu is surprisingly inventive when it comes to beach bar fare; their fish cakes are perfectly crispy, and the tuna bruschetta is simple and refreshing. Lunch offerings feature inspiration from around the world, like the Indonesian chicken skewers with peanut sauce and cassava krupuk. You’ll find patrons dressed in every style from full-on glam to board shorts and bikinis, all enjoying the beautiful setting, delicious food, and perfectly strong rounds of Ti Punch.

Karakter Beach Bar St. Maarten

In the heart of Simpson Bay Beach, Karakter serves up an inventive international menu, and attracts an eclectic mix of locals, casual beach goers and beautiful people. Photo: Karakter

Bermuda St George New Years Eve Onion Drop
Bahamas-New Providence, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean, Cayman Islands, Plan, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Trip Ideas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Favorite Caribbean New Year’s Eve Parties

Leave a comment

 

Forget Times Square. The best place to celebrate, say goodbye to the old and ring in the new is in the Caribbean, where balmy trade winds and sandy beaches set the tone for a night of celebration like nowhere else. Each island has something going on, but some go bigger than others, and that’s where you want to be. Here are seven of our favorites.

Dropping the Onion in Bermuda

Bermuda is no longer a major exporter of onions, but the island still pays homage to its namesake vegetable on December 31. The celebration starts before dark as thousands gather at King’s Square in the city of St. George’s to enjoy street food and live music. The party builds towards midnight as everyone waits for a lighted papier-mâché replica of an onion to descend, then the fireworks light up the waters of the harbor.

The Ultimate Beach Party on Jost Van Dyke

In the British Virgin Islands, revelers converge on the small island of Jost Van Dyke to join local icon Foxy Calwood at his legendary Old Year’s Eve party. Staged on the shores of Great Bay at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, the party draws boaters and celebrities alike for a night of dancing on the sand, lobster barbecues, Firewater Rum punches and, for the less inhibited, a plunge into the foam pit. Additional ferries are pressed into service from the islands of St. Thomas and Tortola to handle the arriving crowds.

Grand Cayman with No Resolutions

No need to keep the little ones up late to see the show at Grand Cayman’s Camana Bay complex. The center’s No Resolutions Party kicks off at 6 p.m. on The Crescent, with food, drink; music and early fireworks show at 7 p.m. Once the youngsters are tucked away the dancing and celebrations keep going past 1 a.m., with a second fireworks lighting up the harbor at midnight. Those who would rather get some sand between their toes wander over to Seven Mile Beach, where the Westin Grand Cayman hosts a beach party with bubbly, sand sculptures and island tunes.

Fire on the Water on St. Martin/Sint Maarten

If you love fireworks, the island of St. Martin is the place to be on December 31st. Several clubs along Orient Beach stage parties that spill onto the sand as revelers await a spectacular display of midnight pyrotechnics. Even more popular is the show that takes place above the waters of Great Bay in the Dutch capital of Philipsburg. As dusk falls, the Great Bay Beach Promenade takes on a festival atmosphere with music and food. The fireworks show that is unleashed to herald the New Year is said to be the largest in the Caribbean, and it is certainly the most spectacular.

Night of the Junkanoo in the Bahamas

Counting down and toasting in the New Year are just the beginning of the celebration on the Bahamian island of New Providence. At 2 a.m. on New Year’s Day, the capital of Nassau comes alive with the sounds of drums, bells and whistles as thousands of costumed revelers make their way down Bay Street. The Junkanoo parade continues through the night, ending in mid morning as everyone heads home to sleep it off.

Greeting the Dawn on St. Croix

In the U.S. Virgin Islands, residents of St. Croix turn the entire month of December and the first days of January into one big celebration. In the spirit of keeping the party going, many follow up a harbor side fireworks display in Christiansted on December 31 with a trip to the eastern end of the island, where Point Udall is recognized as the easternmost point of the United States. Here, a crowd of revelers greets the New Year with toasts and dancing that continues until first light.

Jump Up on Montserrat

On the Caribbean’s Emerald Isle, the end-of-the-year party starts on December 23 with the annual Festival, an island-wide celebration of the season that includes pageants, a Calypso King Competition, musical extravaganzas and costumed masqueraders parading in the streets. The Festival continues through New Year’s Eve and on to January 1st, which is known as Jump Up Day. This holiday commemorates island emancipation with parades, steel bands and street dancers.

St Martin Ocean 82
Caribbean, Plan, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Trip Ideas

Best French Restaurants on St. Martin

 

St. Martin is as much about food as sun and sand. In fact, the town Grand Case holds the undisputed title of “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.” We’ve done the difficult work of sampling French delicacy after French delicacy to narrow down the best places to treat your taste buds right. Surprisingly, not all of them are in Grand Case. Bon appetit!

L’Auberge Gourmande

Competition is fierce on Grand Case’s restaurant row, where eateries seemingly crop up then disappear overnight. L’Auberge Gourmande’s longevity in the heart of the Caribbean’s culinary capital is a testament to how incredible the food is here. The restaurant’s atmosphere and decor take you back to historic France. Cheery yellows dominate the dining room, accented by charming white stone arches.

L’Auberge’s classic French menu is extensive and mouthwatering. Service is on par with the quality of the cuisine. The wait staff is attentive yet non-intrusive, and highly skilled at ensuring your evening at L’Auberge Gourmande is everything you would expect. Be sure to make reservations well in advance.

Favorite bites: Be a little adventurous; this is no place to shy away from French delicacies. The foie gras, frog legs, and escargot are simultaneously delicate and full of flavor. If you somehow manage to save room for dessert, there are several choices bridging a wide range of flavors, but the trio of white chocolate mousse, hot baked fondant, and iced dark chocolate drizzled with hibiscus coulis sauce is unimaginably exquisite.

St Martin Lauberge Gourmande Dessert

At L’Auberge Gourmande the emphasis is on traditional French favorites and attentive service, with culinary presentations designed to please both the eye and the palate. Photo: L’Auberge Gourmande

La Croissanterie

You haven’t lived until you’ve started your day off with the truly French breakfast of a warm, flaky, buttery croissant. On St. Martin, you’ll find the best of the best at La Croissanterie, located on the waterfront in Marigot.

This unpretentious little establishment is tucked into a corner at the Marina Port La Royale. The lovely marina view merely improves on a dining experience that’s already close to perfect. Your only problem will be selecting from the many tempting and delicious offerings.

Favorite bites: A croissant is the obvious choice. Step it up a notch and order the pan au chocolat, with the delightful treat of warm, sweet chocolate hidden inside. Prefer something savory? Try the seafood crepes, with shrimp, scallops, and fresh cream. Pair your meal with one of La Croissanterie’s rich, dark espressos.

St Martin La Croissanterie Croissant

La Croissanterie’s namesake pastry delivers an overload of buttery, melt in your mouth flavors. This waterfront cafe also serves a tempting assortment of crepes and espressos. Photo: La Croissanterie

L’Estaminet

Another major contender on Grand Case’s competitive restaurant row is L’Estaminet. Situated in a quaint Creole cottage on the southern end of the strip, the food here is French, modern, and inventive. Presentations are masterfully constructed, so artful in fact that you hesitate to take a bite in fear of ruining the sculpture on your plate. And then your taste buds win the battle, and you’re oh so happy they did.

The food is as flavorful as it is beautiful. Chef Ina’s culinary skill is evident in her pairings of flavors. Stick around for the after-dinner shot that is a hallmark of the Grand Case dining scene. L’Estaminet’s tiramisu shot with Bailey’s, Kahlua, and cocoa-dusted cream is the hands-down winner of restaurant row.

Favorite bites: The asparagus soup, a customer favorite, melds perfectly with its bacon crème brulee and goat cheese ice cream accents. No matter how full you are by the end of your meal, you must top the night off with L’Estaminet’s chocolate cigar dessert. A unique combination of chocolate variations meant to resemble a cigar and its ashtray; this confection is equal parts luscious and fun.

St Martin L Estaminet Dining

A favorite on Grand Case’s restaurant row, L’Estaminet delivers a modern take on French cuisines, with artfully selected flavor pairings and lavish attention to presentation. Photo: L’Estaminet

Le Ti Bouchon

This cul-de-sac restaurant brings French traditions to the Caribbean. It is modeled after the bouchons in Lyon, where settings are small and intimate, the plates are generous and flavorful, and the atmosphere is festive. The only indication you aren’t actually in France is the restaurant’s colorful Creole cottage setting.

Owner Momo is always on hand, and by the end of the night; his charming nature and colorful storytelling skills will have you wanting to come back for more. The quality of the food is as respectable as the atmosphere is fun. Momo can help explore menu choices, though his lyrical, detailed descriptions of each dish might make it harder to choose, and you’ll want to taste them all.

Favorite bites: If you want to go French, the confit de canard is incredibly tender. Experience Momo’s creativity with his take on the traditional shepherd’s pie, which features lobster and sweet potatoes.

St Martin Ti Bouchon

At Le Ti Bouchon, the emphasis is on savory meats and the French comfort foods associated with Lyon’s bouchon tradition. Equally authentic is the personal rapport chef Momo creates. Photo: Le Ti Bouchon

Ocean 82

A tank full of lobsters entices you to come inside. Amazing ocean views captivate as you anticipate one of the best meals on the island. A relative newcomer on the scene, Ocean 82 is among the more modern restaurants in the heart of Grand Case.

Portion sizes are reasonable, allowing you to save room for dessert. The house-made banana vanilla-spiced rum is the perfect way to end your meal. For a truly romantic evening, reserve a seat along the rail in time for sunset.

Favorite bites: Enjoy some of the most tender meat you’ll ever eat in your life with the beef cheeks and veal stew with porcini mushroom risotto. Lobster is an obvious choice. Choose yours from the tank at the restaurant’s entrance and decide whether you’d like it grilled or served thermidor style.

St martin Ocean 82 Lobster Langouste

Lobster is always on the menu at Ocean 82. Patrons can choose their favorite crustacean from the restaurant’s glass display tank, then have it prepared to their liking. Photo: Ocean 52

St Martin Belmond La Samana
Bahamas, Bahamas-Out Islands, Barbados, Caribbean, Jamaica, Play, St. Lucia, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Trip Ideas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Romantic Adventures in the Caribbean

Leave a comment

 

The mere mention of the Caribbean conjures romantic visions of sparkling waters, beachside frolics and island sunsets. But some visions are more romantic than others, and few can compare to the memories made at these stunning resorts, which highlight the best and most romantic the Caribbean has to offer.

Swimming In Your Private Infinity Pool – Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Anse Chastanet owner/architect Nick Troubetzkoy put everything he’s learned about design and hospitality into Jade Mountain Resort and the result is more than magical—it’s nearly surreal. The resort’s suites have only three walls, with the fourth open to sweeping views down the mountain and over the Caribbean to the Pitons across the bay. And each room has an infinity edge pool that’s completely private. Enough said.

St Lucia Jade Mountain Pool

The wow factor comes standard at St. Lucia’s Jade Mountain resort, where hillside suites open to big views of the twin Piton Peaks and the Caribbean Sea far below. Photo C.J. Walker/Jade Mountain

Marooned On A Deserted Island – Kamalame Cay, Bahamas

Perhaps the most persistent and widely shared romantic fantasy is being on a deserted island with your significant other, laying in the shade of a palm tree and, well, whatever else might happen in that sort of situation. Book into the Kamalame Cay Resort just off of Andros and their boatman will take you to a deserted islet for the day, set up a lunch and leave you to your own devices for as long as you care to stay.

Kamalame Cay Villa Andros Bahamas

Kamalame Cay Resort provides day trips to a deserted Bahamian island, where you can live out castaway fantasies before returning to the luxuries of a private villa. Photo: Danilo Scarpati/Kamalame Cay

Couples Massage – Caneel Bay, St. John

Having a skilled masseuse remove the knots and soothe frayed nerves is a wonderful feeling. Sharing that makes it twice as nice. There are fabulous spas all across the region where you can be rocked, reiki’d or rolfed, but for pure romantic potential the casual old-money surroundings of Caneel Bay are hard to beat. Book one of the resort’s massage cabanas, with their high-peaked wooden roofs and gaze out over the private beach and the Caribbean as the two of you are gently lubed, rubbed and restored.

St John Caneel Bay Massage

On the island of St. John, the open-air massage cabanas at Caneel Bay Resort combine the pleasures of a relaxing massage with soothing sea breezes and water views. Photo Michael Grimm/Caneel Bay

Sunday Brunch By The Sea – The Crane Barbados

If you’ve attended the jump up at Speightstown on Friday, you should be sufficiently recuperated to enjoy the Sunday brunch at L’Azure in the venerable resort, The Crane, which has reigned over the east coast of Barbados since 1887. On Sundays, couples flock to the tables on the terrace overlooking the beach to load up on the breakfast buffet and listen to sweet Gospel music. If this doesn’t inspire you, nothing will.

Barbados Crane Restaurant

At The Crane beachfront resort in Barbados, Sunday brunch is served on the terrace, accompanied by gospel music and spectacular views of Crane Beach and the Atlantic. Photo: Ross Knight/The Crane

Sunset Cruise – Bolongo Bay, St. Thomas

There may be no more romantic place on earth than aboard a boat in the Caribbean. The warm salt water and the moist salty air create a combustible amorous atmosphere. Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas is the perfect picture of a Caribbean harbor, with a long waterfront and narrow streets winding up the hills that back the city. Board the 53-foot catamaran Heavenly Days at Bolongo Bay Resort in St. Thomas and sail through the sunset in Charlotte Amalie harbor. Glittering lights flicker along the waterfront, working their way up to the hilltops as the sun lavishes its last rays on the ridge above the city.

St Thomas Bolongo Bay Sailing

Bolongo Bay has long been one of St. Thomas’s premier beachfront getaways. Each evening, the resort’s sailing catamaran departs for sunset cruises of the Charlotte Amalie harbor. Photo: Bolongo Bay

Private Dinner On The Beach – Belmond La Samanna, St. Martin

Dining alone on a torch lit beach with the waves for a soundtrack is more than memorable. Champagne, a private chef and a cushioned chaise lounge a deux combine in a potent recipe for romance on the shores of Baie Longue in St. Martin. Far from the clamor of Marigot and Maho Beach, the Belmond La Samanna serves up something, which, if it’s not true love, is pretty close.

St Martin Belmond La Samana

The quiet waters of St. Martin’s Baie Longue provide a perfect backdrop for an intimate beachside dinner, complete with private chef provided by Belmond La Samanna resort. Photo: Joe Vaughn/Belmond La Samanna

Drinks On The Veranda Bar – The Cotton House, Mustique

There are two distinct Caribbeans, the glitzy new Caribbean of glam go- go multi-story resorts and the laid-back old Caribbean of plantation houses, deserted beaches and serenity. While it may be sexy to strap on some heels and kick it in a chic disco, find the true meaning of romance sitting next to your significant other on the veranda at the Cotton House in Mustique. This hip oasis in the Grenadines has hosted a procession of rock ’n’ roll and actual royalty; Mick Jagger has a villa nearby, as did the late HRH Princess Margaret. Relax on the veranda with your prince or princess and feel the buzz; it could be the magnificent view or perhaps it’s that Planter’s Punch.

Mustique Cotton House Verandah Restaurant

The setting is chill at Mustique’s Cotton House, which has long provided a low-key getaway for royalty, rock stars and celebrities seeking a respite from public life. Photo: The Cotton House

Sweet Dreams From A Hilltop – Strawberry Hill, Jamaica

It was one of Admiral Lord Nelson’s cousins who was first taken by the view from Strawberry Hill. Horace Walpole planted his flag here, building a home on the 3,100-foot rise overlooking Jamaica’s capital, Kingston. Chris Blackwell, the owner of Island Records, bought the property in the 1970s and Bob Marley was a frequent visitor. Book into one of the dozen cottages scattered across the property and then retire to the deck of the infinity pool. Order up some Myers Dark Rum to sip while the sun goes down and, as the shadows spread along the base of the mountain, the lights of Kingston blink on below.

Jamaica Strawberry Hill Night Vista

At Strawberry Hill resort, private cottages overlook the green hills of Jamaica. In the evening, the distant lights of Kingston come alive to enhance the view. Photo: Nikolas Koening/Strawberry Hill

St Maarten Coral Beach Club
Caribbean, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Stay, Trip Ideas

St. Maarten’s Top Dutch Resorts

Leave a comment

 

Though the dual nation of St. Martin/St. Maarten is small and you’re never really that far away from restaurants, nightlife, casinos, and all the island has to offer, those 10 extra minutes spent driving to your destination could be better spent on the beach. Whether you like the hustle and bustle of a busy resort area or prefer a little tranquility, our picks for the top resorts on St. Maarten’s Dutch side are all within a five-minute drive—or walk, in some cases—to the island’s most popular areas. And they’re all located on beautiful, white sandy beaches. What more could you ask for?

The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa

Tucked into the south side of beautiful Dawn Beach in the popular Oyster Pond area and backed by The Westin name, you can’t go wrong with this resort. The feeling of calm and serenity so closely linked with being on vacation begins the moment you enter the large, breezy lobby where neutral colors are accented by pops of turquoise. The twinkling lights of the resort casino beckon you to try to your luck, while the large infinity pool and surrounding deck area look out over the brilliant blues of the Atlantic. Meander among the grounds where plush green lawns and perfectly placed palm trees keep the calmness and serenity alive. From ice-cold drinks and casual fare at the poolside bar to fine dining at the resort’s Aura restaurant, The Westin has your dining options covered. This resort’s suites offer an unparalleled level of comfort; their Heavenly Bed lives up to its name, and the large tub is ideal for a soothing soak at the end of a day in the sun. From the entrance to the suites to the grounds, decor is seamless and chic. If you can tear yourself away from this beautiful property, the surrounding area has much to offer including restaurants, bars and shopping, and both the French border and Philipsburg are a short drive from The Westin.

St Maarten Westin

Upscale amenities are a hallmark of the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, which overlooks a prime section of Dawn Beach. Photo: Westin Dawn Beach

Coral Beach Club

Location, location, location is what it’s all about at Coral Beach Club, which is nestled on the Dawn Beach waterfront in the popular Oyster Pond area. Several bars and restaurants are within walking distance including Mr. Busby’s Beach Bar and Big Fish Seafood Grill, and you can stock up on freshly baked pastries, coffee, ice cream, and essentials at nearby Pier Grocer. A plethora of shops and dining options await in Philipsburg, just a short drive away, and the island’s French border is conveniently nearby. Coral Beach Club’s modern buildings gleam white on the beautiful beachfront, and are backed by Oyster Pond.

Coral Beach Club St Maarten

The sleek modern architecture of the Coral Beach Club provides a fitting backdrop to waterfront views of Dawn Beach. Photo: Coral Beach Club

From condos to townhouses to two-, three-, and four-bedroom villas, this sleek resort can accommodate parties of various sizes. Attention to detail is paramount; travertine floors, central air conditioning, rain showerheads, and fully equipped Italian kitchens add an air of luxury to your vacation. The on-site concierge takes the stress out of planning excursions, and is on hand to assist with whatever need should arise during your stay. Enjoy snorkeling at the offshore reef, then go for a refreshing dip in the common pool or your own private swimming pool, depending on which accommodation you choose.

Royal Palm Beach Resort

If you like to stay in the midst of restaurants, shops, activities, and more, Simpson Bay is the place to be. And the Royal Palm Beach Resort is ideally located a stone’s throw from the airport and a short drive to the island’s best shopping in Philipsburg. Despite all that is nearby and though it’s one of the larger resorts on the island, Royal Palm offers a homey, peaceful atmosphere.

Simpson Bay St Maarten

The Royal Palm Beach Resort sits on a white sand beach in the heart of the popular Simpson Bay resort area. Photo: iStock

Just off the gorgeous white sand beach you’ll find intriguing snorkeling, where beautiful tropical fish gather around large underwater boulders. There’s plenty of beachfront seating from which you can take in the island’s rolling green hills and sparkling blue waters, and the pool and swim-up bar offer the ultimate refreshment. There’s no shortage of activities based right at Royal Palm, like scuba diving, shopping, scheduled events, and more, but be sure to take the time to pause for sunset. Watching the sun sink into the Caribbean Sea at the end of a perfect day is one of those unforgettable vacation experiences that’s not to be missed.

Divi Little Bay

Situated on a peninsula just west of Philipsburg with amazing sweeping views of the bay and cruise ships that come to call, Divi Little Bay offers an air of seclusion despite its proximity to one of the Caribbean’s best shopping destinations. Whether you want to jump right in to Philipsburg’s bustling streets lined with duty-free jewelry, clothing, and souvenir shops or you prefer to watch mammoth cruise ships as they approach and depart from the busy harbor, the Dutch side’s capital is sure to entertain.

Divi Little bay St. Maarten

Just minutes from Philipsburg, Divi Little Bay offers sweeping water views and more secluded setting than in-town properties. Photo: Joel Collins/Divi Little Bay

Families and couples both young and old will find what they’re looking for at this Divi property. Several on-site swimming pools, restaurants, and poolside bars offer land-based entertainment, while numerous watersports including windsurfing, scuba diving, and more are ideal for exploring the beautiful waters of Little Bay. This property offers an all- inclusive option as well, eliminating the decision-making and budget considerations that come with dining out. In the guest rooms you’ll find modern amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a flat screen TV, as well as your own private balcony. The Divi Little Bay’s combination of a tranquil, private setting and proximity to Philipsburg makes it hard to beat.

Simpson Bay Resort & Marina

Restaurants, activities, and shopping abound in Simpson Bay, where lovely Simpson Bay Resort & Marina stands tall on the beautiful white sand beach. Nightlife and casinos are also within walking distance, or if you prefer to stay close to home, the resort offers plenty of on-site entertainment options including watersports, a tennis court, a casino, and multiple dining venues. Several pool areas, some with swim-up bars, help you keep cool on those hot Caribbean days.

St Maarten

Simpson Bay Resort & Marina is a favorite with families and groups, offering a wide range of water sport and land activities. Photo: Simpson Bay Resort

Rooms at this large resort feature tropical-themed decor and can sleep from two to eight people. Each unit has its own kitchen should you wish to prepare a meal from the comfort of your room, and a private terrace or balcony, ideal for watching the sunset. If you’re looking for more of a high-end experience, the adjacent recently renovated Villas at Simpson Bay offers larger rooms and a sprawling free-form pool. No matter which property you choose, be sure to take advantage of Simpson Bay’s extensive watersports program, whose offerings include water skiing, windsurfing, stand up paddleboards, Simpson Bay Lagoon cruises, and many more. The noticeably cheery attitude of the staff is contagious, making it hard to be unhappy during your vacation here.

Caribbean Cliff Jumping
Aruba, Bonaire, Caribbean, Curacao, Jamaica, Play, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Trip Ideas

Best Caribbean Cliff Jumping

1 Comment

 

Most of us access Caribbean waters via the beach. It’s safe, easy and relaxing. But if you want to shake things up a bit, you can also find places suitable for a leap of faith. Adventurous types willing to trek through underbrush and scramble over rocky bluffs know of dozens if not hundreds of elevated launch points through the region. But if you are looking for a known quantity that’s easy to reach and safe to try, you might want to consider these five, which we have arranged in ascending order from mild to wild.

Conchi, Aruba

A visit to Aruba’s favorite natural swimming hole will take you through the island’s rugged interior to the windswept eastern coast and Arikok National Park. The journey to the site, which is known as either Conchi or Cura de Tortuga will require four wheel drive or a sturdy horse—so most people just sign up with a guide. Once there, a small lagoon is flanked by boulders that shelter swimmers from breakers that foam and surge against the outer rocks. Bathers jump in from one of several points around the pool, most at heights of ten feet or less. The main attraction isn’t the drop, but the stark beauty of this isolated site.

Ricks Cafe, Jamaica

The Caribbean’s best-known cliff jumps take place on Jamaica’s West End cliffs. A mile outside of Negril, Rick’s Cafe perches on the edge of the cliffs, providing panoramic views of the Caribbean and the area’s best sunsets. Here, an undercut cleft in the coastal facade creates an inciting turquoise cove that jumpers can’t resist. Youngsters and the less adventurous can begin at lower stations that promise easy entry. Bolder souls can propel themselves from the top of the cliff to drop 35 feet into clear water, while local performers mount makeshift platforms or shinny up cliffside trees to leap from even greater heights. Anyone who jumps can almost assuredly be guaranteed a cliffside audience, and plenty of encouragement.

Boca Slagbaai, Bonaire

A drive along the dirt roads of Bonaire’s Washington Slagbaai National Park will bring you to Boca Slagbaai, where a weathered limestone outcropping overlooks the southern end of the bay. After enjoying some refreshments at the adjacent waterfront restaurant, make your way through the scrub and cactus-covered slope to the edge of the cliff, where you’ll enjoy a sweeping view of the north coast as you gather your nerve for the 25-foot plunge. Showoffs have just enough time for a quick flip. Otherwise it’s an easy feet-first entry and a 30-yard swim back to the beach. The spot gets popular by mid afternoon, but the fun stops by four, as the park closes early.

Playa Forti, Curacao

A leap from the cliffs at Curacao’s Playa Forti isn’t for the faint of heart. With a drop of nearly 40 feet to the water, it takes nerve to edge out onto the small platform that locals have constructed as a launch point. Commit and you have an adrenaline-charged drop into 20 feet of clear Caribbean water. The path to the jump zone follows a ledge running between the cliff edge and the low walls of an open-air restaurant that perches on the bluff. After the drop, you’ll have a reasonable swim over to the beach, and some stairs to climb back up the parking area. This site in Curacao’s Westpunt region is well known, and most anyone on the island can provide directions.

Maho Cliff, St, Martin

Located just off the airport runway, St. Martin’s Sunset Beach provides safe thrills each time a landing jetliner thunders mere feet overhead. Anyone wanting to take flight themselves can walk up the beach towards the Sonesta Ocean Point Resort, and make their way through the hotel grounds to the cliff face at the western edge of the property. The drop is nearly 40 feet—plenty for most—but true adrenaline junkies can substantially up the ante by accessing the flat roof of the hotel. A running leap propels the brave and possibly foolish into an 80-foot free fall. From either height, there’s plenty of time to relive the jump as you make the 200-yard swim back to the beach.

 

St Maarten Airport Beach
Caribbean, Plan, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Trip Ideas

St. Martin/St. Maarten: 10 Reasons to Go

1 Comment

 

This dual-nation island is easy to reach, thanks to direct flights from numerous U.S. Cities. And once there, its friendly residents are oh so welcoming. Whether you’re coming to party or looking for a quiet family getaway, St. Martin/St. Maarten is an ideal destination for every traveler. The stunning natural beauty that Caribbean islands are known for, paired with St. Martin’s plethora of hotels, restaurants, and activities galore, ensures you’ll find the vacation you’re seeking.

1  A Combination of Cultures

The small 34-square-mile-island is part French collectivity, part Kingdom of the Netherlands; it’s the only place in the world where these two countries share a land border. The melding of these two cultures is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the melting pot that is St. Martin. Europeans, South Americans, East Indians, and immigrants from other Caribbean islands have all come to make St. Martin their home, resulting in a mix of cultures that permeates the tourism experience.

2  Eat Around the World

Come to St. Martin hungry. This island might be small, but it’s jam- packed with a collection of restaurants more diverse than you’ll find almost anywhere else in the world. With more than 365 dining venues, you could eat at a different restaurant every day for a year. During your culinary tour, you’ll find everything from fine French dining and unique Dutch food to classic Caribbean dishes. Lebanese, German, Indian food and more, with plates ranging from $5 to more than $100.

St Martin Grande Case Sweets

This tempting treat is typical of the culinary confections found at bakeries and cafes around St. Martin, where inspirations of a French heritage are evident. Photo: David Wallace/iStock

3  Get Naked

When in this French collectivity, do as the French do and forgo your swimwear. The official get-naked beach is the Club Orient section of Orient Beach, and whether you’re in the best shape of your life or you’re feeling the effects of eating too much of St. Martin’s delicious food, you’ll fit right in. People of all ages, shapes, and sizes flock here to feel the sun shine where it usually doesn’t. Full nudity is tolerated, though discouraged, at other French beaches; going topless is a safe bet.

St Martin Orient Bay

St. Martin’s Orient Bay is one of the island’s most popular beaches. Near the southern end, there is an area designated for those who prefer to sunbathe in the buff. Photo: Christian Wheatley/iStock

4  The Friendly Island

The people of St. Martin are well aware that tourism is their bread and butter, and nearly everyone—whether they work in the tourism sector or not—is accustomed to greeting visitors with a welcoming smile. From asking for directions to making dinner reservations to strolling the streets of the island’s main towns of Philipsburg and Marigot, you’ll be made to feel that your presence here is appreciated. The locals’ attitude of “live and let live” infuses the mindsets of vacationers too, upping the happiness and relaxation factor for all.

5  Guavaberry

Both a tourist attraction and something to sample at local bars and restaurants, this sweet flavored rum is an integral part of the island’s history and culture. Rum is steeped with sugar, spices, and wild guavaberries, which grow prevalently in the center of St. Martin’s high hills. You’ll find guavaberry featured in many different concoctions on island restaurant and bar menus, and Philipsburg’s Guavaberry Emporium is a must-see. Sample their rums, liqueurs, and hot sauces before deciding which bottle of deliciousness you’d like to bring home.

6  Turbulence

It’s rare these days to find yourself a stone’s throw from a plane in flight, let alone close enough to feel the immense jet wash as a 747 soars mere feet above your head. At Maho Beach on the island’s Dutch side, you can combine a day of sun and sand with the added thrill of watching planes buzz over beach-goers before landing safely at the Princess Juliana Airport, right across the street. The Sunset Bar & Grill will keep you hydrated and informed of the arriving flights, so you can have your camera ready to capture the thrill of getting up close and personal with incoming aircraft.

7  Island Hopping

St. Martin is a great jumping-off point for island exploration. Prickly Pear, Anguilla, St. Barts, and Saba are all easily accessible by day charter or ferry, and each offers its own unique experience. Prickly Pear is the ideal deserted island, while nearby Anguilla boasts powdery white sand beaches and brilliantly clear turquoise waters. People-watching is paramount on St. Barts, a well-known playground for the rich and famous, and Saba is pure paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and scuba divers.

8  Shoppers Delight

Retail therapists and bargain hunters, get your credit cards ready. Not only is shopping on St. Martin entirely duty free; each of the island’s towns offers their own unique collection of stores where you can find everything from high-end jewelry to souvenir t-shirts. Philipsburg is a shopping mecca, with its pedestrian-friendly streets neatly lined with shop after shop. In Marigot, the scent of buttery croissants and other delectable pastries wafts under your nose as you peruse this French island town’s stores. There’s even a new mall on the scene—Blue Mall in Cupecoy, where you’ll find top of the line jewelry and clothing stores in a comfortable, air-conditioned setting.

Shopping St Maarten

In the heart of Philipsburg, the 19th century architecture and cobblestones of Old Street provides a colorful backdrop for a range of specialty shops and unique sidewalk kiosks. Photo: iStock

9  Place your Bets

There’s a little bit of Vegas in St. Martin, whose Dutch side is home to several casinos. Some, like the Casino Royale in the Maho Beach area, offer everything you need under one roof—slots, roulette, craps, blackjack, poker, and of course, fabulous shows. Several hotels, like the Westin Dawn Beach and the Pelican Resort, have their own in-house casinos. Simpson Bay and Philipsburg are home to the majority of the island’s casinos, many of which also make great venues for taking in those can’t-miss sporting events.

10  Accommodate Yourself

Family-oriented all-inclusives. Budget accommodations for young travelers. Lavish villas with unprecedented luxury and a price to match. St. Martin offers all these, and many more. No matter what you’re looking for when it comes to accommodations, you’ll find it here. Small boutique hotels in the distinctly French city of Grand Case, hotel giants like Westin and Divi, luxury high-rise all-inclusives with perfect views of planes arriving at Princess Juliana Airport. Take your pick!

St Martin La Samanna Beach

At the western end of St. Martin, the white sands and aquamarine waters of Samanna Beach are sheltered from prevailing easterly trade winds and overlooked by rows of shaded cabanas. Photo: iStock

 

Caribbean clothes
Antigua & Barbuda, Caribbean, Jamaica, Plan, St. Barts, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Trip Ideas

The Caribbean’s Best Nude Beaches

Leave a comment

 

We come to the Caribbean for sun and uninhibited fun. But on most islands, there are cultural limits that should be respected -not to mention legal statues against getting totally naked in public. But for those who enjoy sunbathing in the buff, there are a few select locations throughout the region where it’s perfectly acceptable to work on that all-over tan.

Orient Beach, St. Martin

On an island that’s half Dutch and half French, you’d expect a somewhat relaxed attitude towards beach attire. Skimpy suits and topless tolerance are prevalent, but the only place where full nudity is standard practice is at Orient Beach. Located on the northeast corner of the island—the French side—the stretch of sand where one can bear is clearly marked by a large billboard-style sign, and occupies the waterfront south of Club Orient, which is the island’s only clothing optional resort. This is a popular beach, so don’t expect privacy or solitude if you plan to shed your inhibitions.

Grand Saline Beach, St. Barts

Topless sunbathing is universally accepted on the beaches of St. Barts, but full nudity is not officially sanctioned. That said, it’s quite common for the beautiful people who frequent this gem of an island to bare all at two of the island’s more remote beaches. On the south coast, Anse de Grand Saline sits at the end of the road, tucked between two headlands, with nary a hotel or beach bar in sight. Just to the west, also cloistered between bookend cliffs, is Gouverneur Beach, which offers a greater chance of privacy and a similarly lax attitude towards nudity.

Point Tarare, Guadeloupe

You can disrobe legally on the island of Guadeloupe, but only if you can get directions to the somewhat obscure beach at Point Tarare. From a car park on the roadway leading to the island’s easternmost tip at Pointe des Chateaux, a path follows a deserted headland to a relatively small beach that, despite its remote location, can draw a respectable crowd of sun worshipers. There are no facilities, but local vendors sometimes hawk drinks and snacks, and there is a restaurant near the car park. A second option for buff sunbathing is along the beach in front of the Club Med near Sainte Anne.

Sapphire Island, Jamaica

While it’s both inappropriate and illegal to bare all on the public beaches of Jamaica, there are a number of private resorts that cater to the clothing optional crowd. One of the most comfortable places to work on your all- over tan is at the Couples Tower Isle resort in Ocho Rios. Here, a ferry shuttles guests to Sapphire Island, a modest outcropping of rock just offshore of the resort that is just large enough to hold the property’s signature watchtower and a collection of sun decks and cabanas. There’s no beach to speak of, but sunbathers are treated to a range of amenities that include bathrooms, lounges, a plunge pool and a swim-up bar.

Hawksbill Bay, Antigua

Unless you can talk a local with a four-wheel drive vehicle into ferrying you down a remote dirt road, you’ll need to do a bit of walking to reach Antiqua’s officially sanctioned nude beach. Fortunately, the hike is easy and scenic. You’ll start at the parking lot of the Hawksbill resort, and simply follow the beach south. After traversing Landing Bay Beach and crossing on to Hawksbill Beach, a path leads across a scrub-covered headland to arrive at a third stretch of sand that extends toward the southern point of an uninhabited peninsula. This is Pinching Beach. It’s remote, quiet and an ideal place to get some all-over sun time in a near private setting.