Green Cay Caye Verte
An uninhabited gem accessible by kayak, offering pristine conch shell beaches and stunning views of St. Martin.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer waters, less sun
Green Cay Caye Verte
Best Time
Calmer waters, less sun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An uninhabited gem accessible by kayak, offering pristine conch shell beaches and stunning views of St. Martin.
"Found a private island for the day, littered in conch shells."
Kayak Rental Essential
Rent a kayak from Orient Beach for the most authentic and rewarding access to Green Cay. 🛶
Pack for Adventure
Bring water, snacks, and sturdy shoes for navigating rocky terrain. :waterwave: :athleticshoe:
Quick Facts
Rating
5 · 3 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Conch Shell Beaches
Island shores
Discover pristine shores adorned with countless conch shells, a unique natural treasure.
Panoramic St. Martin Views
Island's highest points
Hike the island for breathtaking vistas overlooking the mainland of St. Martin.
Secluded Atlantic Beach
Eastern side of the island
Find a quieter, more rugged beach on the Atlantic-facing side for ultimate tranquility.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Kayak to Paradise
Embrace the Unspoiled
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak Rental Essential
Rent a kayak from Orient Beach for the most authentic and rewarding access to Green Cay. 🛶
Pack for Adventure
Bring water, snacks, and sturdy shoes for navigating rocky terrain. :waterwave: :athleticshoe:
travel in May
Hello friends! I want to surprise my husband with a trip to SXM and due to his crazy work calendar, May is the best month for him to be able to take time off work without worrying. That being said, how is the weather and crowds around that time? Are there any ideal spots we…
Hello. We are coming in mid March and have been several times. We always stay in orient beach area and love it there. This time we would like to go to at least one more non busy beach. If anyone has suggestions would sure be appreciated. Thanks
Anse Marcel, Happy Bay or Petite Caye.
Embrace the Solitude
This is an uninhabited gem; enjoy the peace and quiet. :microphone_off:
Conch Shell Souvenirs
Collect beautiful conch shells as unique mementos of your visit. :shell:
Visiting for the first time in mid-June—any restaurants suggestions/must-see beaches/activities/day-trips? LGBT couple, late 20s/early 30s
My girlfriend and I are visiting for the first time in mid-June (we are both fully immunized), and looking for suggestions! We're staying on the Dutch side, near Oyster Pond/right by the border. We've already rented a car and plan to explore as much of the island as we can.…
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak Rental Essential
Rent a kayak from Orient Beach for the most authentic and rewarding access to Green Cay. 🛶
Pack for Adventure
Bring water, snacks, and sturdy shoes for navigating rocky terrain. :waterwave: :athleticshoe:
Embrace the Solitude
This is an uninhabited gem; enjoy the peace and quiet. :microphone_off:
Conch Shell Souvenirs
Collect beautiful conch shells as unique mementos of your visit. :shell:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Green Cay for its pristine, uninhabited nature and the unique experience of reaching it by kayak. The abundance of conch shells and the stunning views of St. Martin are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some mention that water quality can be impacted by sargassum, and the rocky terrain requires appropriate footwear.
"Found Caye Verte over a decade and a half ago, sailing around Sint Maarten. Went there in 2017 by kayaking over from Orient Beach, and found a private island for the day, littered in conch shells. Fast forward to 2025, we repeated the same adventure and albeit a bit more difficult (getting older), found the same amazing island, uninhabited by anyone but ourselves for the day. The water quality was diminished a bit due to the build up of sargassum around the north, and south sides. Be ready to scramble over some rocks, and then you can hike the 500m long island. You honestly will be amazed of the views towards the island mainland. Travel time over is about 45 minutes against the tide. Its about 15 back due to opposite reasons. Overall, it will be a great experience for anyone wanting a more physical day outside of the typical Caribbean excursion."
Derek Schott
"Great place for feeling lonely, or to see St. Martin from a different perspective. The best way to get there is to rent a kayak.
There are 2 beaches, the main one faces Orient Bay, and the second on the Atlantic side."
Oswen Corbel
"Beautiful little island, quiet and isolated."
Jean Michel Berrier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The best way to reach Green Cay (Caye Verte) is by renting a kayak from Orient Beach on St. Martin. The paddle takes approximately 45 minutes against the tide, so be prepared for a bit of a workout.
While kayaking is the most recommended method for a personal adventure, some boat tours might offer access. However, for the true experience of solitude, kayaking is unparalleled.
Expect a moderate paddle, especially on the way there against the tide. The return journey is usually easier. Enjoy the open water and the anticipation of reaching a secluded island.
No, there are no public ferry services to Green Cay. It's an uninhabited island, and access is primarily through private means like kayaking or small boat rentals.
The kayak journey to Green Cay typically takes around 45 minutes against the tide. Factor in time for breaks and enjoying the scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Green Cay (Caye Verte) is an uninhabited island and does not require any admission tickets. Access is free for all visitors.
There are no landing fees for Green Cay. You are free to explore the island and its beaches without any charges.
As an uninhabited natural island, Green Cay does not have official opening or closing hours. You can visit during daylight hours.
No, there is no entrance fee for Green Cay. It's a natural reserve accessible to the public for exploration.
While not as common as tours to populated islands, some local operators might offer guided kayak or boat trips. However, many visitors prefer the self-guided adventure.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the island's two beaches, hike its length, collect conch shells, and enjoy the stunning views of St. Martin. It's ideal for relaxation and nature appreciation.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy footwear for walking on rocky terrain. A waterproof bag for your phone and camera is also recommended.
No, Green Cay is completely undeveloped. There are no restrooms, shops, or any other facilities. You'll need to be self-sufficient.
The water around Green Cay is generally clear, but the experience can be affected by sargassum. The main beach facing Orient Bay is usually calmer for swimming.
You'll likely see plenty of conch shells. Birdlife is also present, and the surrounding waters are home to marine life, though snorkeling conditions can vary.
📸 📸 Photography
The beaches with their conch shells offer great foregrounds. Hike to the island's higher points for panoramic shots of St. Martin and the surrounding turquoise waters.
Absolutely. The contrast of the rugged island, the clear waters, and the distant views of St. Martin provide excellent opportunities for landscape photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers softer, more flattering illumination for photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
Yes, the abundance of conch shells makes for unique and visually interesting photographs. Be mindful of collecting them responsibly.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A waterproof camera or a protective case is advisable due to the marine environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit