Pinel Island Beach — Attraction in Saint Martin (France)

f you’re not confident with paddle boarding or kayaking, I recommend taking the ferry—it’s a pretty long haul otherwise. Parking at the ferry dock was plentiful, though the sargassum at the pickup point was heavy (none once you reach the island).

After arriving, we hiked over the hill to the far side of the island, where the beach was completely empty—we had it to ourselves for about an hour. The hike is doable in flip-flops, but sturdier shoes make navigating the rocks and uneven terrain much easier. The views are gorgeous, and snorkeling there was much better than on the main beach, though I’d only suggest it for intermediate to experienced snorkelers. It was windier and the water more challenging, so beginners may find it tough.

There wasn’t much else to do on the island, so we didn’t stay long—about two hours total before heading over to...

$12 (cash only) pp round trip “ferry ride,” or small boat ride over to island. Most families made reservations for chairs/umbrellas, my bf and I didn’t but came around 11 am and we were able to get chairs. You can rent for either of the two restaurants, we chose Yellow Beach. Lunch was delicious, had the burger with a huge slice of goat cheese, the red snapper with coconut cream was also delicious, light and fresh, and also ordered the appetizer platter. All great choices. There’s a port-a-potty type of bathroom for women and men use outdoor urinals. No sink to wash your hands with soap, only hand sanitizer. You’re allowed to bring your own food, chairs and drinks. You can also kayak here, which also seemed like a popular choice. Dogs allowed, also saw some topless women, family-friendly. The water is shallow, warm,...

Pinel Island is one of those gems you just have to visit when you’re in SXM. Yes you have to take the Ferry for €10 or $12 per person and to be comfortable rent some beach chairs for $25 per day and once there certainly try the amazing food at Karibuni or Yellow Beach. So in the end a day to Pinel Island will cost you $125 per person but this is more then worth it! When you are on Pinel make sure to bring snorkeling gear as there’s amazing sealife here in the nature reserve. Also walk around to the top and the other side of the island or even to the second more secluded beach. I will let the pictures do the talking, ooh and make sure to check our page with...