Some of the best discoveries happen when plans fall through. I had my sights set on a beach club on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten, but when I went to book, it was completely full. I felt that sinking feeling, the one where you think your whole day is about to be thrown off. Instead of giving up, I did what I always do when traveling, I dug deeper. A little research led me to a beach I had never heard of before, Anse Marcel, tucked away on the French side of Saint Martin.
Getting there is not easy. It is about a 45 to 60 minute drive from the Dutch side, and the roads are windy, narrow, and nearly impossible if it is raining. Luckily we had Rudy, one of the best drivers I have ever met, who knew the roads like the back of his hand. Without him, we probably would not have made it.
When we finally arrived, it felt like stepping into a secret. The area had a few family style hotels nearby, nothing like the big resorts you find elsewhere. The beach itself was quiet, not crowded at all, and the view was stunning with turquoise water, soft sand, and the kind of calm that makes you want to just sink into your chair and breathe.
We decided to spend the day at a beach club, and here is what surprised me most. It was so affordable compared to the Dutch side or even neighboring islands like St. Barts and Anguilla. Beach chairs started at 10 euros, and a beach bed was just 20 euros. To put that in perspective, I have paid up to 85 euros just to sit at other beach clubs in the region. Drinks started at 15 euros and food at 15 euros too, which was a huge difference from the 50 euro menus we had seen elsewhere. We reserved two beds, had table service all day, and never once felt rushed. It was relaxed, easy, and exactly the vibe I did not know I needed.
The French side of Saint Martin has its own rhythm. It is more about unwinding and less about chasing activities. If you want the big name restaurants and nightlife, you will find those on the Dutch side. But if you are craving a day of pure relaxation, Anse Marcel delivers.
What I loved most was the cultural mix. It felt like France with a Caribbean twist. Everyone spoke English, but since I speak French, I took the opportunity to brush up, learn a few new words, and connect with the local flavor of Caribbean French culture. For much of the day, I think we were the only English speakers there, which made it feel even more special, almost like we had stumbled into a local secret.
By the time we left, I felt like I had found something rare, a hidden gem that was not crowded, was not overpriced, and gave me exactly what I wanted. A chance to just relax. Anse Marcel reminded me that sometimes the best part of travel is being open to what you did not plan. It is definitely worth a visit, but shhhhh, keep it on the low so it does not get overpopulated.
xoxo,
Ariana