TOP BEACHES
Orient Beach, St Martin
Located on the northeast coast of French Saint-Martin, Orient Beach is one of the island’s most iconic and recognizable beaches. Known for its long stretch of white sand, calm turquoise water, and unmistakable French-Caribbean atmosphere, it offers far more than a simple day at the beach. Orient Bay is a way of life, shaped by slow mornings, unhurried lunches, and evenings that unfold naturally as the sun sets.
Here, the pace feels intentional. There are no wristbands, no rigid schedules, and no sense of urgency. Days are spent barefoot, moving easily between the sea and the shade of beach umbrellas, with the soft trade winds setting the tone. The atmosphere blends the elegance of the French Riviera with the relaxed spirit of the Caribbean, creating a setting that feels both refined and effortlessly casual.
Orient Beach, St Martin
Located on the northeast coast of French Saint-Martin, Orient Beach is one of the island’s most iconic and recognizable beaches. Known for its long stretch of white sand, calm turquoise water, and unmistakable French-Caribbean atmosphere, it offers far more than a simple day at the beach. Orient Bay is a way of life, shaped by slow mornings, unhurried lunches, and evenings that unfold naturally as the sun sets.
Here, the pace feels intentional. There are no wristbands, no rigid schedules, and no sense of urgency. Days are spent barefoot, moving easily between the sea and the shade of beach umbrellas, with the soft trade winds setting the tone. The atmosphere blends the elegance of the French Riviera with the relaxed spirit of the Caribbean, creating a setting that feels both refined and effortlessly casual.
The Beach
Stretching for nearly two miles, Orient Beach is the largest and most famous beach in St Martin. Its shallow, clear water makes it ideal for swimming, while its size allows everyone to find their own rhythm. Some areas are lively and social, others quieter and more discreet.
The beach is also known for its clothing-optional section at Club O, a long-established part of Orient Bay’s open-minded identity. Beach clubs line portions of the shoreline, offering comfortable loungers, attentive service, and menus designed for long, indulgent afternoons. Water sports such as paddleboarding, parasailing, and jet skiing are readily available, though many visitors find that drifting in the water or lingering over a glass of rosé feels like activity enough.
Local Life & Nearby Escapes
Orient Beach is also an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. A short boat ride leads to Pinel Island and its shallow turquoise waters, while Grand Case, considered the gastronomic heart of Saint-Martin, is just minutes away.
Local markets, coastal walks, and casual conversations with residents often lead to the most memorable discoveries — places and moments rarely found in guidebooks.
Where to Eat
Just behind the beach, Orient Bay Village adds another layer to the experience. Dining here is not an afterthought but an essential part of the day. Restaurants range from relaxed beachfront spots to more refined evening tables, where French technique meets international influences.
Fresh seafood, grilled lobster, creative fusion dishes, and thoughtfully selected wines define the culinary scene. Meals often stretch well beyond sunset, carried by warm evenings and the easy rhythm that defines life in Orient Bay.
Where to Stay
Staying near Orient Beach means enjoying both energy and privacy. Villas in and around Orient Bay offer space, comfort, and a sense of independence that hotels rarely provide. Designed for travelers who value calm as much as connection, they allow easy access to the beach while offering a quiet retreat at the end of the day.
Whether traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, a private villa provides the freedom to experience Orient Bay on your own terms.
Best Time to Visit
The most popular time to visit Orient Beach is from December through April, when the weather is dry, breezy, and consistently pleasant. May, June, and November offer excellent conditions with fewer visitors, while the summer months bring warmer temperatures, dramatic skies, and a quieter atmosphere across the island.
A Few Practical Tips
Pack light and plan loosely. You’ll spend most days moving between swimwear, linen, and one outfit suitable for long dinners that may last longer than expected. Renting a car makes exploring easier, though transfers and excursions can also be arranged locally. During peak season, booking accommodations early is essential, as the most desirable villas tend to fill quickly.
Orient Beach rewards those who leave room for spontaneity. Here, the best moments often arrive when nothing is scheduled at all.
