I you’re dreaming of turquoise water, white sand, and a day that feels like a Caribbean postcard brought to life, you’ll want to set your sights just offshore from Saint Martin — to a place called Pinel Island.
This little speck of paradise off the northeastern coast of the French side of the island has become the insider’s pick for the ultimate beach day in Saint Martin. It’s just far enough to feel like an escape, yet close enough to reach in under 10 minutes by ferry. And once you’re there? Two beach bars, shallow reef-lined lagoons, and a vibe that mixes castaway charm with French-Caribbean indulgence.
Here’s your full guide to spending a perfect day on Pinel Island.
How to Get to Pinel Island
The journey begins at the Cul-de-Sac pier, a quiet bay on the French side of Saint Martin, about 20 minutes by car from Grand Case or 30 from Philipsburg. From here, small ferries run regularly to Pinel Island between 9:30 AM and 4 PM. The ride is quick — just 5–10 minutes across the calm bay.
If you want a little more adventure, you can also kayak or paddleboard across. The water is generally calm, and the route is scenic, winding through a marine reserve with glimpses of sea turtles and coral beds below.
Where to Set Up: The Beach Bars
Once you land on Pinel’s south-facing beach, you’ll have a choice between two legendary beach clubs:
Yellow Beach is the more laid-back of the two — think hammocks, rum punch, and grilled Caribbean lobster served just steps from the sea. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for the day, and the staff will keep you supplied with rosé or Ti’ Punch on request.
Karibuni, slightly more upscale, offers Mediterranean-style seafood and sushi in a shady palapa setting. Their signature cocktails are reason enough to stay all afternoon, and their beach service is among the best you’ll find anywhere in Saint Martin. I love the truffle tuna.
You really can’t go wrong with either. If you’re staying all day, it’s not uncommon to start at one and finish at the other.
What to Do on the Island
Pinel may be small, but it’s packed with experiences. Most visitors come for the beach, and it delivers: calm, clear water ideal for swimming or just floating the day away.
On the eastern side of the island — about a 10-minute walk from the main beach — you’ll find a wilder, more rugged coastline. The hiking trail winds past cacti and sea birds, leading to views of nearby Tintamarre Island and St. Barts in the distance.
The surrounding waters are part of the Saint Martin Nature Reserve, making this a great spot to snorkel. Bring your gear or rent some on the beach — you’ll often see rays and colorful reef fish close to shore.
The Best Way to Do It
Karibuni isn’t just a beach bar: it’s a boutique hotel on the mainland, set in the hills of Cul-de-Sac. I stayed here and loved it; but the best amenity is that the hotel has its own boat that picks you up and takes you to Pinel. It also guarantees a seat for your party on the island every day of your stay. That’s a pretty hard-to-beat amenity.
What to Know Before You Go
- Cash is king: While some cards are accepted, it’s best to bring euros or dollars.
- Arrive early: The beach fills up by midday, especially during high season. Catching the first ferry guarantees you a better spot.
- Don’t miss the last boat: Return ferries usually stop running around 4:30 PM — check times when you arrive.
- Sun protection is essential: There’s little natural shade outside the beach clubs.
Why It’s the Best Beach Day in Saint Martin
Pinel Island is the rare kind of place that delivers on the fantasy. It’s easy to reach, yet feels worlds away. It has comfort — food, drinks, loungers — but never loses its off-the-grid appeal. And with only two beach bars, the vibe is always relaxed, never rowdy.
Whether you’re sipping a cocktail at the water’s edge or wading into warm, still waters with a view of the Saint Martin coast behind you, Pinel Island isn’t just a good beach day. It’s the best beach day on the island — full stop.
