5 Days in St. Martin: The Ultimate Foodie Adventure
Discover the Island's Hidden Gems and Savor the Flavors!
Discover the Captivating Island of St. Martin: Your Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary
Planning your trip to St Martin and want to know what needs to be added to your list! I’m thrilled to share the best experiences this tropical paradise offers. Prepare for a 5-day journey filled with adventure, relaxation, and delectable cuisine.
Let’s start with the local food items you need to know about:
Callaloo - A national dish made with greens, pork, onions, okra, thyme, and hot peppers.
Crab Backs - Fresh blue crab seasoned with onions, tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce, baked with a breadcrumb topping.
Johnny Cakes - Small, slow-fried cornmeal balls, slightly sweet and versatile as a side dish or snack.
Conch and Dumplings - Locally sourced conch paired with homemade dumplings in a savory gravy-like sauce.
Dutch Cheese - Authentic Dutch cheeses available in Philipsburg, offering a taste of the Netherlands.
French Pastries - Indulge in irresistible croissants, quiches, and pastries on the French side of the island.
Best Restaurants on the island by cuisine:
French Cuisine:
Le Moulin Fou - Located in Maho Plaza, known for classic French dishes like roasted rack of lamb and Dover Sole Meuniere.
L'Auberge Gourmande—Located on the French side at 89 Boulevard de Grand Case, this restaurant offers a charming ambiance and delicious French options, including phyllo pastry stuffed with seasonal vegetables.
Creole Caribbean Cuisine:
Yvette's Restaurant - A local favorite in Grand Case, serving large portions of island favorites like fried plantains, saltfish cake, stuffed crab back, and more.
Rosemary's - Located in Marigot, this renowned lolo offers excellent local fare such as red snapper, curry goat, Creole conch, and garlic shrimp.
Dutch Cuisine:
Emilio's...Dine with History—Located at 59 L.B. Scott Rd, Sint Maarten, this restaurant is known for its historical ambiance and Dutch-inspired dishes.
Local Delights:
Sky's the Limit - A popular lolo on the French side offering delectable local delights like garlic conch, grilled marlin, shrimp curry, ribs, and Johnny cakes.
The Original Fat Boy BBQ Jimmy's - Located in Philipsburg, this casual eatery serves authentic Sint Maarten fare including grilled pigtail, stew conch, crab callaloo, and freshly made Johnny cakes.
Seafood Vibes – newest seafood restaurant on maho beach with some new takes on fresh fish and more. They play soca, reggae and more and the service is amazing.
I’m sure you’re wondering what there is to do on the island. If you want it to be lively and exciting for most of your trip, you should come during high season. If you’re okay with less crowds then the best time is May- October.
Now lets get’s get into the itinerary that includes exciting day trips to the neighboring islands of Anguilla and St. Barths, ensuring you make the most of your visit to St. Martin.
Day 1: Explore the French Charm
Start your day by visiting the picturesque Orient Bay Beach, a popular spot known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Afterward, venture into the colorful markets of Marigot, the capital of the French side of the island. Here, you'll find a vibrant array of local crafts, fresh produce, and lively street vendors. For dinner, indulge in the delicious offerings at Tropicana, a renowned restaurant in Marigot, where you can savor the fusion of French and Caribbean flavors. Head over to Phillipsburg for photo ops in front of some beautiful artwork on the walls. My favorite was the “I left my heart in St. Marteen” Wall.
Day 2: Uncover the Island's History and Natural Wonders
Begin your day by exploring the historic Fort Louis, a 17th-century fortification that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Next, embark on a boat ride to the stunning Pinel Island, where you can snorkel in the turquoise waters and marvel at the vibrant marine life. For lunch, head to Le Karibuni in Cul-de-Sac, a local favorite known for its delectable Creole cuisine. As the day winds down, treat yourself to a relaxing sunset cruise around the island.
If you’re by the airport, you need the classic photo of the beach with the planes landing behind you, but be careful with the jet blast while the larger jets are taking off. I speak from experience—it does not feel good!
Day 3: Discover the Neighboring Island of Anguilla
Today, you'll venture out to the nearby island of Anguilla. Take the Anguilla Ferry from Marigot and enjoy the scenic 25-minute ride. Once on the island, relax on the pristine shores of Shoal Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Afterward, explore the charming capital, The Valley, and indulge in a beachside dinner at Dad's Bar & Grill, known for its local specialties and stunning ocean views. We stayed at the posh and modern beach club, SAVI and loved it.
Public Ferry Cost plus taxes:$91pp (must have cash)
Day 4: Explore the Charms of St. Barths
Embark on a day trip to the enchanting island of St. Barths, accessible via the Great Bay Express ferry from Marigot. Upon arrival, wander through the charming town of Gustavia, admiring the French-inspired architecture and high-end boutiques. Spend the afternoon lounging at the serene St. Jean Beach, and for dinner, indulge in a gourmet experience at the renowned Bonito St. Barth restaurant. I visit every Nikki Beach so we had to grab lunch here and then headed over to Gyp Sea after for some snacks and drinks before heading back to the ferry.
Ferry Cost: $92.11pp
Day 5: Immerse Yourself in Nature
Start your day with a hike to the stunning Pic Paradis, the highest point on the island, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Afterward, relax at the serene Friar's Bay Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. For your final dinner, savor the flavors of the island at La Villa in Grand Case, a local favorite that showcases the fusion of French, Dutch, and Creole cuisines.
Hikes on the island:
Based on the search results provided, here are the top hikes in St. Martin and the estimated time to complete them:
1. **Pic Paradis Hike**:
- Distance: 2.8 miles roundtrip
- Estimated Time: 2.5-3 hours (with stops for photos)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- This hike takes you to the highest point on the island (Pic Paradis) and offers stunning panoramic views of St. Martin. It involves some rock scrambling and can be challenging in parts.
2. **Northeast Ridges Hike**:
- Distance: 2.8 miles
- Elevation Drop: 1,345 feet
- Starts at: Pic Paradis
- Ends at: Orient Bay
- This hike follows a mountain path north from Pic Paradis, passing through the abandoned hamlet of Petit-Fond before reaching the Orient Bay area.
3. **Central Ridges Hike**:
- Distance: 2.8 miles
- Elevation Drop: 508 feet
- Starts at: Pic Paradis antenna
- Ends at: Concordia Hill and St Peters Hill antenna
- This hike follows the ridge line south from Pic Paradis, passing through the border between the French and Dutch sides of the island.
4. **Eden Well Hike**:
- Distance: 2.8 miles
- Elevation Drop: 1,345 feet
- Starts at: Pic Paradis west antenna
- Ends at: Pic Paradis
- This loop trail follows a ravine on the north side of Pic Paradis, passing the ruins of the Paradis sugar plantation and a historic well.
5. **Rambaud Ravine Hike**:
- Distance: 3.7 miles
- Elevation Drop: 1,312 feet
- Starts at: Pic Paradis west antenna
- Ends at: Happy Bay
- This hike descends from Pic Paradis towards the coast, offering views of the island's beaches and coastline.
10 Essential Tips:
1. Currency: The Euro is used on the French side, while the Netherlands Antillean Florin is the currency on the Dutch side.
2. Language: English, French, and Dutch are widely spoken throughout the island.
3. Weather: The low season (May-November) brings slightly higher temperatures and occasional rain showers.
4. Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the island at your own pace.
5. Beaches: Most beaches are free to access, with some offering chair and umbrella rentals for a fee.
6. Cuisine: Indulge in the unique fusion of French, Dutch, and Creole flavors that make up the local cuisine.
7. Safety: St. Martin is generally safe, but it's always wise to take precautions, such as securing your valuables and avoiding isolated areas at night.
8. Tipping: A 10-15% tip is customary in restaurants and for taxi services.
9. Nature: Respect the island's natural environment, including the coral reefs and nesting sea turtles.
10. Chargers: You will need a universal charger as the Dutch side has American outlets and the French side has European outlets.
11. Time zone: St. Martin follows Atlantic Standard Time, which is 4 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time. Please keep that in mind.
Embark on your St. Martin adventure and immerse yourself in the island's rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. From the French charm of Marigot to the serene beaches and vibrant marine life, this tropical paradise will surely captivate you. Get ready to create unforgettable memories on the enchanting island of St. Martin!