Table of Contents
Quick Overview: Best Places to Stay in St Martin(French Side)
- Orient Bay – Wide beach, lively beach clubs, restaurants, and great for families or couples. Best Hotels: Orient Beach Hotel, La Playa Orient Bay
- Grand Case – Laid-back beachfront village with calm water and the best restaurants on the island. Best Hotels: Grand Case Beach Club, LOVE Boutique Hotel
- Anse Marcel – Hidden cove with a luxury resort vibe and a peaceful, romantic setting. Best Hotels: Anse Marcel Beach Resort, St. Martin Beach Resort & Spa
- Cul-de-Sac – Quiet and residential, with boutique hotels and easy kayak access to Pinel Island. Best Hotels: Karibuni Boutique Hotel, LE MARTIN BOUTIQUE HÔTEL
- Villas in St. Martin(French Side): Book on VRBO
- Related Reads: Where to Stay in Orient Bay, 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 wondering where to stay in St. Martin on the French side, you’ve already narrowed it down to the part of the island known for quiet beaches, boutique hotels, fantastic food, and a more laid-back, European vibe. Compared to the Dutch side (Sint Maarten), the French side moves a little slower — in the best way possible.
While you won’t find high-rise all-inclusives or casinos over here, you will find charming beach towns, local bakeries, calm swimming spots, and plenty of hidden gems that make this part of the island my personal favorite. Whether you’re looking for a romantic boutique hotel in Grand Case, a villa near Pinel Island, or a family-friendly resort right on the sand in Orient Bay, the French side has something for every kind of traveler.
In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay, along with top hotels, beach resorts, and villas — all based on first-hand experience from spending over a year in total in St. Martin over the years and what I’d personally recommend to friends planning a trip here.
Best Areas to Stay on the French Side of St. Martin
The French side of St. Martin is all about character. Each area offers something a little different — from calm, hidden coves to beach clubs with music and mojitos. Below are my top picks for the best places to stay in St. Martin on the French side based on the vibe, location, and what kind of trip you’re planning.
Orient Bay
Best for: Beach clubs, restaurants, families, and a livelier social vibe
Orient Bay is often called the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean”, and for good reason. It’s a wide stretch of beach lined with lounge chairs, colorful umbrellas, and beachfront restaurants that serve everything from fresh seafood to French rosé. You’ll find water sports, kite surfing, and even the island’s well-known clothing-optional section on the southern end — though there’s plenty of space if that’s not your thing.
The area behind the beach has a charming village square with cafés, a bakery, wine shops, and casual dining, so it’s very walkable and self-contained. It’s easy to go days without needing a car, especially if you’re just here to relax, swim, and enjoy the sun.
Learn more about where to stay in Orient Bay here!
I always stay in Orient Bay when I am in St. Martin and it remains one of my favorites places in the world even after 5 years of full time traveling. It has such a chic yet laid back vibe with some of the most beautiful stretch of long sandy beach on the entire island. And for nightlife, the food options are plentiful and all very high quality and delicious. Orient Bay is definitely at the top of my list for the best places to stay in St. Martin French Side.
Top hotel picks:
- Orient Beach Hotel – Modern, beachfront, with beautiful views.
- La Playa Orient Beach – Onsite beach bar, comfortable rooms, and a prime beachfront location.
- Villa Vacation Rentals – You’ll also find lots of great options in Orient Bay for villas and apartment style rentals if you want more space and more amenities.
If you’re traveling with kids, friends, or just want to mix a beach vacation with a bit of a scene, Orient Bay is one of the most fun and versatile places to stay.
Grand Case
Best for: Foodies, couples, boutique hotel lovers
Grand Case is one of the most iconic villages on the island — a colorful, relaxed beachfront town known for its French-Caribbean fusion cuisine and boutique hotel scene. It’s smaller than Orient Bay and has a more local feel, but it punches way above its size when it comes to restaurants. You’ll find everything from fine dining bistros to the famous Lolos(open-air BBQ spots serving ribs, grilled fish, and Creole sides).
Learn more about where to stay in Grand Case here!
The beach here is calm, swimmable, and backed by a charming main street where you can walk from your hotel to dinner in under five minutes. Most places are adult-oriented, making Grand Case especially popular for romantic trips and couples looking for a quieter stay without sacrificing access to incredible food.
Top hotel picks:
- Grand Case Beach Club – A relaxed, full-service beachfront resort with private access and epic sunsets.
- LOVE Boutique Hotel – Right on the sand and perfect for couples who want style without the fuss.
- Looking for a vacation rental in Grand Case? Find the best place on VRBO!
If food is a priority (and it should be in St. Martin), Grand Case is hands-down the best place to stay.
Anse Marcel
Best for: Quiet luxury, couples, romantic getaways
Anse Marcel is a small, upscale enclave tucked between two hills on the north side of the island, and it’s about as secluded and peaceful as it gets. The drive down is a bit of a winding adventure, but once you arrive, you’re rewarded with a protected cove, a soft-sand beach, and barely any crowds.
The water here is calm and crystal-clear, perfect for swimming or just floating the day away. There’s a luxury-meets-nature vibe in this area, and it’s ideal for honeymoons, anniversary trips, or travelers who want to unwind in a tucked-away corner of the island.
Top hotel picks:
- Anse Marcel Beach Resort – A hidden gem with loungers on the sand, an excellent beachfront restaurant, and a very relaxed atmosphere.
- St. Martin Beach Resort & Spa – Tucked into the hillside with spa treatments, sea views, and a peaceful ambiance.
If you want privacy, tranquility, and a low-key luxury experience, Anse Marcel is where you go to disappear for a few days — in the best way possible.
Cul-de-Sac
Best for: Nature lovers, off-the-beaten-path travelers, and easy access to Pinel Island
Cul-de-Sac is a quiet, residential area on the northeast coast of the island, and it’s the launch point for kayaks and boats to Pinel Island — one of St. Martin’s most popular day trips. It’s not a party spot or restaurant hub, but that’s exactly the appeal. The vibe here is peaceful and local, with beautiful water views, a handful of boutique stays, and a real sense of calm.
If you’re planning to do your own thing — cook at home, spend the day on Pinel Island, or just unplug — Cul-de-Sac makes a great base, especially for longer stays. It’s also just a 5–10 minute drive to both Orient Bay and Grand Case, so you’re still close to the action when you want it.
Top hotel picks:
- Karibuni Boutique Hotel – Hilltop views, a pool, and optional access to a private beach club on Pinel.
- Le Martin Boutique Hôtel – A new, stylish stay with an emphasis on comfort and quiet.
Cul-de-Sac is perfect for travelers who want a slower, more independent kind of vacation — it feels like your own little corner of the island.
Renting a Villa on the French Side of St. Martin
If you’re planning a longer stay, traveling with a group, or just want a little more privacy, renting a villa on the French side of St. Martin can be a great alternative to a hotel or resort. Villas range from modern oceanfront estates to cozy hillside homes with private pools — and many come with full kitchens, terraces, and stunning views.
Benefits of renting a villa:
- More space for families or groups
- Full kitchens for self-catering or private chefs
- Private pools, gardens, and panoramic views
- Great for longer stays or travelers who want independence
The best areas to find villas are Orient Bay, Cul-de-Sac, and Terres Basses (on the western edge of the French side). Some are beachfront, while others are perched in the hills with incredible views.
You can browse available villas on platforms like:
Vrbo – St. Martin Villas
Booking.com – French Side Rentals
Best Things to Do on the French Side of St. Martin
One of the best parts of staying on the French side of St. Martin is how easy it is to explore — everything is close, and each beach or village has something different to offer. Whether you’re here for food, beaches, or just to relax, here are some of the top things to do nearby:
- Visit the Best Beaches on the French Side – Spend the day at Orient Bay, Grand Case Beach, Anse Marcel, Happy Bay, or Baie Rouge. Each one has its own vibe — from social beach clubs to quiet hidden coves. Learn more about the best beaches in St. Martin
- Take a Day Trip to Pinel Island – Rent a kayak or take a short boat taxi from Cul-de-Sac to this tiny island paradise. You’ll find beach loungers, a couple of local restaurants, and some of the calmest water on the island. Learn more about Pinel Island
- Try Watersports in Orient Bay – Paddleboarding, windsurfing, jet skiing, or parasailing — Orient Bay is the island’s go-to spot for active beach days.
- Charter a Boat for the Day – Head out on a catamaran or speedboat to explore the coastline, snorkel around Creole Rock, or even cruise over to Anguilla. Book a boat here!
- Enjoy Sunset Drinks in Grand Case – Grab a cocktail or glass of wine at LOVE, Les Temps des Cerises, or Ocean 82 and catch a classic Caribbean sunset right on the beach.
- Explore Marigot’s Markets & Cafés – Stroll the Marigot waterfront market for spices, handmade crafts, or local rum, then grab a coffee or croissant at a French café nearby.
- Catch Live Music at Blue Martini – This local favorite in Grand Case often hosts live music in the evenings — perfect for a relaxed night out with good food and cocktails.
- Hit a Local Bakery for Fresh Pastries – Don’t skip the boulangeries! You’ll find some of the best croissants and baguettes outside mainland France.
- Pack a Picnic and Hike to Happy Bay – For something quieter, walk the short coastal trail from Friar’s Bay to Happy Bay and spend a few hours with barely anyone around.
Whether you’re looking to lounge, explore, or eat your way through town, the French side of St. Martin makes it easy to enjoy the island at your own pace.
Travel Tips for Staying on the French Side of St. Martin
The French side of St. Martin has a totally different feel than the Dutch side — and that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s slower, more relaxed, and has a distinctly European-Caribbean vibe. If it’s your first time staying here (or even if it’s been a while), here are a few practical tips to help you settle in and make the most of your trip:
- Currency: The official currency is the Euro, but US dollars are widely accepted. Just note that change is often given in Euros, and sometimes prices are slightly better if you pay in cash.
- Language: French is the official language, but almost everyone in tourist areas speaks English. Still, a friendly “bonjour” goes a long way — locals definitely appreciate the effort.
- Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended, especially if you’re staying outside of Grand Case or Orient Bay. Taxis are limited and can get expensive fast. The roads are well-paved but narrow and a bit hilly in places.
- Groceries & Bakeries: There is a large Super U at Hope Estate between Orient Bay and Grand Case. They have everything you could possibly need. You’ll also find plenty of small supermarkets and French-style bakeries throughout the French side. Great for stocking up on breakfast items, wine, and beach snacks — especially if you’re staying in a villa or rental.
- Pace of Life: Things move slower here. Many shops and restaurants close for a few hours in the afternoon, and Sundays tend to be quiet. Embrace it — the French side is all about slowing down and enjoying the moment.
- Power Outlets: French-style outlets are standard (Type C/E, 220V). Some hotels offer dual sockets or adapters, but it’s worth bringing your own if you’re coming from North America.
- Wi-Fi & Cell Service: Most hotels, resorts, and rentals offer solid Wi-Fi, though some more remote areas (like parts of Cul-de-Sac or Anse Marcel) can be a bit spotty. If you’re working remotely or need strong service, ask ahead.
- Water: Tap water is generally safe to drink, but many people (myself included) stick to bottled just in case, especially in older buildings or rentals.
- Safety: The French side is generally very safe, especially in the main beach areas. That said, always lock your car, don’t leave valuables on the beach, and keep things low-key at night in less-touristy areas.
Final Thoughts: Best Places to Stay on the French Side of St. Martin
The French side of St. Martin is one of those places that leaves a mark — whether it’s the long beach days, the bakery runs, or the sunset dinners in Grand Case. With its mix of laid-back charm, boutique stays, and world-class beaches, this part of the island is perfect if you’re looking to slow down and travel with intention.
From the social energy of Orient Bay to the peaceful coves of Anse Marcel, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for where to stay — and that’s what makes it so special. Choose a spot that fits your pace, and you’ll have the kind of trip that doesn’t just check boxes — it actually feels like a break.
Frequently Asked Questions About Staying on the French Side of St. Martin
What are the best areas to stay in St. Martin on the French side?
The most popular areas are Orient Bay (great beach clubs and family-friendly hotels), Grand Case (boutique hotels and top-tier restaurants), Anse Marcel (quiet, upscale cove), and Cul-de-Sac (perfect for kayaking to Pinel Island and nature lovers).
Is it better to stay on the French or Dutch side of St. Martin?
It depends on what kind of experience you want. The French side is quieter, more local, and offers better food and boutique hotels. The Dutch side has more nightlife, casinos, and cruise crowds. I personally prefer the French side for a slower, more authentic vibe.
What are the best hotels on the French side of St. Martin?
Top picks include Grand Case Beach Club, Orient Beach Hotel, La Playa Orient Bay, LOVE Boutique Hotel, and Anse Marcel Beach Resort — each with its own vibe depending on your travel style.
Which French side beaches have hotels nearby?
You’ll find great beachfront hotels at Orient Bay, Grand Case, and Anse Marcel. These areas all offer direct beach access, and most hotels are just steps from the sand.
Are there all-inclusive resorts on the French side of St. Martin?
The French side doesn’t really do the traditional all-inclusive model. Instead, you’ll find boutique hotels and small resorts that encourage you to explore local restaurants — which is part of the fun here.
What’s the best French side town for couples in St. Martin?
Grand Case is perfect for couples who want a romantic vibe, amazing food, and quiet beach days. Anse Marcel is also great if you’re looking for privacy and a more upscale, tucked-away experience.
What’s the quietest area to stay on the French side of St. Martin?
Cul-de-Sac and Anse Marcel are both peaceful and away from the crowds. They’re ideal for travelers who want to unwind, disconnect, and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
Can I find luxury villas on the French side of St. Martin?
Yes, especially in areas like Orient Bay, Cul-de-Sac, and Terres Basses (on the French border). Many come with pools, ocean views, and full kitchens — perfect for longer stays or group trips.
