Where to Stay in Orient Bay: Best Hotels, Resorts & Villas on Orient Beach, St. Martin

Quick Overview: Where to Stay in Orient Bay

Looking for the best place to stay on Orient Beach, St. Martin? Here’s the quick lowdown:

• Best Overall Location: Stay downtown in Orient Bay Village for walkable access to the beach, restaurants, cafés, and nightlife.
• Best Beachfront Hotels:
  • Orient Beach Hotel – sleek and modern, right on the sand
  • La Playa Orient Bay – boutique-style with a lively beach club
• Best Resorts for Space & Comfort:
  • Hotel La Plantation – charming Creole-style villas
  • Esmeralda Resort – spacious suites, each with its own pool
• Best for Adults Only:
  • Résidence Adam et Eve – a private, clothing-optional escape in the hills
• Best for Groups or Longer Stays:
  • Villas on Booking.com or VRBO
• Related Reads: Orient Beach Travel Guide, Best Beaches in St Martin, Where to Stay in Grand Case

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them — at no extra cost to you.

If you’re planning a trip to St. Martin and asking yourself where to stay in Orient Bay — you’re already thinking like a seasoned traveler. I’ve visited the island six times now, and I always choose to stay on Orient Beach. It’s not just one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the Caribbean, it’s also the heart of French-side charm — with boutique hotels, stylish villas, beach bars, and that luxury European vibe you only get in this part of the island.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury beachfront hotel, a spacious resort, or a private villa for a group trip, Orient Bay has some of the best accommodations in St. Martin. In this guide to where to stay in Orient Bay, I’ll walk you through my personal favorites, plus tips on which areas to stay in depending on your travel style.

Best Beachfront Hotels in Orient Bay

Looking for a hotel right on the sand? These are some of the best beachfront hotels in Orient Bay, St. Martin — offering ocean views, beach service, and prime access to the water. You’re just steps away from beach clubs, restaurants, and that iconic white sand.

Orient Beach Hotel

If you want modern, boutique-style luxury right on the beach, this is one of the top spots. This hotel definitely deserves the top spot for where to stay in Orient Bay. The rooms are fresh and spacious, most with ocean views, and they include sun loungers and umbrellas on the beach. It’s also centrally located, so you can walk to cafés, bakeries, and beach bars within minutes.
Good for: Couples, solo travelers, anyone looking for a sleek, no-fuss beachfront stay.

Ready to Book? Book on Expedia | Book Booking.com

La Playa Orient Bay

This one has a slightly livelier vibe thanks to its attached beach club. The rooms are stylish with boho-chic decor, and the property feels very Caribbean-French. The on-site bar and restaurant add convenience, and it’s a popular spot for both couples and groups.
Good for: Couples, groups of friends, travelers who want a bit more energy.

Ready to Book? Book on Expedia | Book Booking.com

Best Resorts in Orient Bay not Beachfront

If you’re after a hotel NEAR the best but not ON the beach for where to stay in Orient Bay, these resorts offer beautiful accommodations surrounded within walking distance to the beach. You’ll still be close to the beach, but with more space and privacy.

Esmeralda Resort

Set up like a village, this resort is made up of private villas, each with its own pool shared between a few units. The rooms are spacious and quiet, and it’s just a short walk to Orient Beach. It feels more laid-back and residential — perfect if you’re after peace and a bit of space.
Good for: Families, couples, long-stay travelers.

Ready to Book? Book on Expedia | Book Booking.com

Hotel La Plantation

This is one of the more affordable full-service resorts in Orient Bay, with colorful Creole-style cottages scattered through tropical gardens. It’s about a 5-minute walk to the beach, and they offer beach access through partner clubs. There’s also an on-site restaurant, though you’re close to others too.
Good for: Budget-conscious travelers, families, couples.

Ready to Book? Book on Expedia | Book Booking.com

Additional Places to Consider

If you’re looking for something a little different from the larger resorts, there are a few smaller properties in Orient Bay that blend the privacy of a villa with the comfort of a boutique stay. These are great picks for couples, digital nomads, or anyone planning a longer trip.

• Les Galets SXM Luxury Lodges
  Modern and upscale, these high-end villas feature sleek design, outdoor terraces, and a strong sense of privacy. A great option for couples traveling together or digital nomads looking to stay awhile in style.
• Pomme Cannelle Luxury Suites & Spa
  A boutique guesthouse-meets-villa setup, with a tranquil, spa-like atmosphere. The suites are thoughtfully designed and perfect for a quiet, restorative stay.
• Shamrock Orient Bay
  A more local-feeling alternative with bright, airy villas and fully equipped kitchens — perfect for longer stays or travelers who prefer a home-like setup. Simple and practical, with a good balance of comfort and affordability.

Best Adults-Only Hotel in Orient Bay

If you’re looking for quiet, privacy, or a couples-focused atmosphere, this adults-only retreat might be just what you need.

Résidence Adam et Eve

A clothing-optional, adults-only guesthouse tucked away in the hills above Orient Bay. It’s quiet, open-minded, and very private. While it’s a little removed from the beach (about 10–15 minutes on foot), many guests love it for the peaceful atmosphere and warm hospitality.
Good for: Couples, solo travelers looking for a unique, adults-only vibe.

Ready to Book? Book on Expedia | Book Booking.com

Best Villas in Orient Bay for Groups & Longer Stays

If you’re traveling with family or friends, or just want more privacy and space, renting a villa can be a great option. Many come with private pools, full kitchens, and stunning views of Orient Beach.

While villas cost more, you usually get a lot more for your money like a pool, kitchen and more space. If you plan to travel to Orient Beach with a group of friends and split the cost of a villa, it can actually be more affordable.

You can find a wide range of villas on Booking.com and VRBO.

Here’s why it might be the right choice for your trip:

• More space to spread out – Great for groups, families, or couples traveling together
• Private amenities – Many villas include private pools, gardens, BBQ areas, and full kitchens
• Better value when sharing – The cost per person often comes out equal (or cheaper) than multiple hotel rooms
• Ideal for longer stays – Full kitchens and laundry make it easier to settle in and live like a local
• More privacy and independence – No shared hallways, resort crowds, or early check-out calls

Whether you’re after a luxury ocean-view villa or a practical, homey rental near the beach, you’ll find a wide range of options depending on your budget and group size.

Ready to find the best villa in Orient Beach? Find it on VRBO or Booking.com

Best Area to Stay in Orient Bay: Downtown vs Hills

Having stayed all over Orient Bay over the years — from hillside apartments to townhouses right in the heart of the village — I can say with confidence that where you stay in Orient Bay really shapes your experience.

Here’s an honest breakdown of the two main areas: Downtown Orient Bay Village and the Mont Vernon Hills.

Downtown Orient Bay Village (Highly Recommended)

If it’s your first time visiting St. Martin — or you just want that easy, beachside lifestyle — staying in downtown Orient Bay Village is the way to go.

This area is flat, walkable, and right next to Orient Beach. You’ll be within a few minutes’ walk of everything:

• The beach itself (with loungers and beach bars)
• French cafés and bakeries
• A small grocery store
• Beach clubs like Bikini Beach and Kontiki
• Restaurants serving everything from sushi to wood-fired pizza
• Live music and casual nightlife

I stayed in a townhouse here on my most recent trip and honestly, it was the best of both worlds — beach in the morning, coffee shops in the afternoon, and dinner without ever needing a car. It’s ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, and anyone who wants a bit of everything.

Mont Vernon Hills (Peaceful but Remote)

Up in the hills behind Orient Beach is the Mont Vernon area — a quieter, more residential part of the island with sweeping views over the bay. I used to stay up here when I wanted more privacy and those postcard-worthy sunrise views.

The upside is the scenery: waking up to views of the turquoise ocean, hearing nothing but birds and breeze. But here’s the tradeoff — you’ll need a car, and it’s not walkable to the beach or restaurants. You can technically walk down, but it’s a steep trek and not great in the heat or after dark.

Mont Vernon is good for travelers looking to disconnect, or for longer stays where you don’t mind driving to the beach. There are also a few budget-friendly apartment rentals here, often with full kitchens, which can be great for digital nomads or couples on a longer trip.

Bottom line:
If you want to spend your days on the beach, walk to restaurants, and soak up the energy of Orient Bay, stay downtown in the village. If you’re after solitude and a slower pace (and don’t mind driving), Mont Vernon can work — just know what you’re trading off.

Best Things to Do in Orient Bay, St. Martin

While Orient Bay is best known for its stunning stretch of beach, there’s more to this area than just sunbathing. Whether you’re here for a week of relaxation or looking to stay busy between dips in the ocean, there’s a great mix of activities that make Orient Bay feel like a full vacation destination in itself.

Here are some of the best things to do in and around Orient Bay:

1. Spend the Day at a Beach Club

If you’re going to Orient Bay, spending at least one day posted up at a beach club is a must. The beach is lined with clubs offering everything from loungers and umbrellas to cocktails, lunch, and music. Each one has its own vibe — some are upscale and relaxed, others are more lively and social. You can easily spend the entire day hopping between them or find your favorite and settle in.

My top picks:

• Kontiki Beach – Trendy and upbeat, great for a group hang
• Wai Plage – Beachy, bohemian vibes with great drinks on one of the best areas of the beach
• Bikini Beach – Stylish and laid-back with great food and cocktails

The service is usually excellent, and many clubs will waive the cost of chairs if you’re ordering food and drinks. It’s beach life, French style — relaxed, indulgent, and unhurried.

2. Try Watersports on Orient Beach

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to stay active, Orient Bay is one of the top spots in St. Martin for watersports. The conditions are ideal — generally calm, with warm, turquoise water that invites you to dive in.

On any given day, you’ll see jet skis zipping by, colorful sails of Hobie Cats, and kite surfers taking advantage of the breezy afternoons. Rentals and guided activities are available right on the beach. You can try:

• Jet skiing along the coastline
• Paddleboarding or kayaking
• Windsurfing and kiteboarding (lessons available)
• Parasailing for a bird’s eye view of the bay

Even if you’ve never tried these before, the beach is beginner-friendly, and there are always instructors nearby. It’s one of the best ways to experience Orient Bay beyond just the sand.

3. Dine Like a Local

Orient Bay is on the French side of St. Martin, which means the food is top-notch — fresh baguettes, seafood, French wine, and Caribbean spices all come together here. The village has a great mix of restaurants, from beach bars to upscale dining, all within walking distance of most hotels and villas.

Some of my personal favorites include:

• Le Piment – Cozy, French-Caribbean fusion, great for dinner
• Good Morning Café – Perfect for your morning espresso and croissant
• SAO – A little more upscale, serving fresh sushi and Asian fusion
• Yellow Sub – Casual and friendly, with big burgers and strong drinks

No matter where you go, you’ll eat well. And the open-air dining under the stars? That’s part of what makes Orient Bay so magical.

4. Walk the Full Stretch of the Beach

Orient Beach stretches for nearly two kilometers, and walking its full length is a great way to get your bearings. On one end, you’ll find the more developed part of the beach, with beach clubs, loungers, and restaurants. As you walk east, it gets quieter — more natural, more rugged, and eventually leads into the clothing-optional section near Club Orient.

If you’re staying here for a few days (which I recommend), take time to explore the beach at different times of day. Sunrise is peaceful and perfect for photos, midday is lively, and sunset brings a golden glow that lights up the sand and surf.

5. Explore Nearby Beaches

While Orient Bay is hard to beat, you’re also just a short drive from a few lesser-known but equally beautiful beaches. These make great day trips if you want to switch things up.

• Pinel Island – A short ferry ride from nearby Cul-de-Sac takes you to this tiny offshore island with calm beaches, great snorkeling, and beachfront restaurants serving grilled lobster and chilled rosé. You can rent a chair and stay all day or hike the short trail to the wild side of the island for panoramic views. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a favorite among both locals and visitors.
• Grand Case Beach – Just a 10–15 minute drive from Orient Bay, this charming beach sits alongside the island’s culinary capital. It’s quieter than Orient Bay, with soft sand and calm, clear water — perfect for a relaxing swim. After your beach time, stick around for sunset and grab dinner at one of the town’s famous French-Caribbean restaurants or beachside BBQ shacks known as lolos.

Orient Bay is a destination on its own, but it also makes the perfect base for exploring the rest of the French side of the island.

Learn more about Pinel Island here!

Best Time to Visit Orient Bay, St. Martin

One of the best things about visiting St. Martin is that it’s a year-round destination — but depending on your travel style and budget, some months will suit you better than others.

Here’s a breakdown of the best time to visit Orient Bay based on weather, crowds, and prices.

December to April – Peak Season (Best Weather, Most Crowded)

This is the sweet spot for most travelers. The weather is near-perfect — warm, sunny days, low humidity, and very little rain. Temperatures hover in the upper 70s to low 80s°F (25–28°C), and the water is ideal for swimming and watersports.

This is also when the island is at its most vibrant. Restaurants are buzzing, beach clubs are lively, and the whole area has a festive, energetic feel — especially around Christmas and New Year’s.

The catch? Prices are highest this time of year, and accommodations book up quickly. If you’re planning to travel during peak season, book your hotel or villa months in advance.

Best for: Honeymooners, holiday travelers, snowbirds, first-time visitors
Not ideal if: You’re on a tight budget or prefer quiet, uncrowded beaches

May to June / November – Shoulder Season (Great Value, Fewer Crowds)

If you’re looking for fewer people and lower prices, the shoulder season is a sweet spot. The weather is still warm and mostly dry, though you might get the occasional tropical shower (usually brief and in the late afternoon). Flights and hotel prices tend to drop a bit, and there’s more availability across the board.

The beach is quieter, but everything is still open, and you get a more relaxed, local vibe.

Best for: Couples, long weekend travelers, digital nomads
Good mix of: Value, good weather, and availability

July to October – Low Season / Hurricane Season (Hotter, Rainier, But Cheap)

This is the off-season, and while it’s not for everyone, it does have some upsides. It’s hotter and more humid, and yes — it’s technically hurricane season. But that doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get bad weather. Many days are sunny and hot, with quick rainstorms rolling through.

On the flip side, you’ll find deep discounts on villas, flights, and beachfront hotels. Restaurants are quieter, and the beaches are blissfully uncrowded. Just know that some businesses close temporarily during September for renovations or holidays.

Best for: Budget travelers, flexible schedules, long stays
Not ideal if: You’re expecting consistent sunshine or a fully buzzing beach scene

Final Thoughts: Where to Stay in Orient Bay

If you’re heading to St. Martin and wondering where to stay, Orient Bay should be at the top of your list. I keep coming back here trip after trip because it really offers the best of the island — a stunning beach, French-Caribbean charm, great food, and that relaxed-but-lively atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury beachfront hotel, a cozy villa in the village, or an adults-only escape, Orient Bay has options for every type of traveler. I always recommend staying downtown in the Orient Bay Village area for the full experience — walkability, beach access, great restaurants, and the kind of place you can settle into for a while.

Take your time, explore, and don’t be afraid to go beyond the resorts — that’s where the real magic of St. Martin reveals itself.

FAQ: Where to Stay on Orient Beach, St. Martin

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