Saint Martin Nature Reserve
Discover pristine beaches, lush forests, and untouched islands within this protected Caribbean paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Saint Martin Nature Reserve
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover pristine beaches, lush forests, and untouched islands within this protected Caribbean paradise.
"The beach is AMAZING. Pack lots of water and food. There is nothing there and not really any shade."
🚗 Car Rental Recommended
Essential for reaching trailheads and exploring different parts of the reserve.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Rocky and steep trails demand good hiking shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pinel Island Paradise
Off the coast of Cul-de-Sac
Idyllic island escape with pristine beaches, clear waters, and two charming restaurants. Accessible by boat or kayak.
+2
Tintamarre's Untamed Beauty
Northeast of Saint Martin
A protected nature reserve offering a truly wild beach experience with untouched nature and underwater wonders.
+2
Loterie Farm's Lush Escape
Marigot
Saint Martin's only private nature reserve, featuring natural pools, hiking trails, zip lines, and a unique jungle vibe.
+2Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Reserve
Pack Smart for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car Rental Recommended
Essential for reaching trailheads and exploring different parts of the reserve.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Rocky and steep trails demand good hiking shoes.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities within the reserve.
💰 Bring Cash
Some boat services and island restaurants prefer cash.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car Rental Recommended
Essential for reaching trailheads and exploring different parts of the reserve.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Rocky and steep trails demand good hiking shoes.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities within the reserve.
💰 Bring Cash
Some boat services and island restaurants prefer cash.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Explore vibrant marine life, especially around Pinel Island.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the stunning natural beauty and unique experiences within the Saint Martin Nature Reserve, highlighting pristine beaches and diverse landscapes. However, some find navigation and access challenging due to unclear signage and limited facilities, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation.
"This place is worth the trouble so I’m hoping to save others a little confusion. GPS takes you to a resort area and we didn’t see anything that would indicate a nature preserve. Thankfully, the resort apparently walks their guests to the trailhead and we caught an employee on her way back to ask questions. She did not seem to recognize the term “nature preserve” but caught on when we said “hike”. There is an access parking lot just off the resort area and then you walk to the trail. Thank God we ran into a couple walking back or we would never have figured out the trail start nor the switch halfway through. The first three pictures are where the trail starts - you can see where signs are supposed to be that are just gone or the one is completely obscured by foliage. At the end of this long well paved trail, you end up at what looks like a water treatment plant area and over in the corner is the start of the trail over the hill to the beach. (Last two pictures). It is fairly strenuous - very rocky with a decent amount of climbing. Fairly steep descent. I say wear good hiking shoes but we saw one guy doing the trail in flip flops 🤣🤷🏻♀️. The beach is AMAZING. Pack lots of water and food. There is nothing there and not really any shade. Just beautiful, relaxing views and gorgeous water. Save energy for the long hike back."
Andrea Tackore Cunard
"The most beautiful trail I have done in sint maartin. Anse Marcel has a nice track and beautiful scenery of the water. A few beaches to stop at so bring your swim shorts if you have as well as some slippers."
Maher Jebara
"Exhilarating early morning hike. Fresh air, cool breeze. Would be nice if other hikers kept the trail clean by not dropping their face masks. It would be useful too if the overgrown bush from around the sign for the reserve at Anse Marcel were cleared away."
M Richardson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing the reserve often requires a car. GPS can be misleading, sometimes directing you to resorts. Look for trailheads near Anse Marcel or ask locals for directions. Ferries or private charters are available for islands like Tintamarre.
Trailhead signage can be poor or obscured. It's helpful to ask resort staff or other hikers for guidance.
Public transport is limited within the reserve areas. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and reaching various points of interest.
Pinel Island is accessible via a short boat ride from Cul-de-Sac or by kayaking.
Tintamarre can be reached by ferries from the French Cul de Sac or by private charters.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the reserve itself is largely natural, specific attractions like Loterie Farm may have entry fees. Boat services to islands like Pinel and Tintamarre also have associated costs.
There are no explicit entrance fees for Tintamarre beach itself, but you'll need to factor in the cost of transportation to get there.
The nature reserve is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific attractions like Loterie Farm have their own operating times.
Camping is permitted in certain areas, such as Tintamarre, but visitors are urged to preserve the ecosystem by taking all trash with them.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment. This includes not littering and being mindful of the wildlife.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include hiking, swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing on pristine beaches, and exploring unique natural landscapes like Loterie Farm's pools and Tintamarre's wild shores.
Yes, there are beautiful and sometimes strenuous hiking trails, particularly around Anse Marcel, offering stunning water views.
The reserve protects diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities to see marine life while snorkeling and various flora and fauna on land.
Facilities are very limited within the reserve. It's best to come prepared and use facilities before entering more remote areas.
Some areas like Pinel Island are more accessible and family-friendly. Strenuous hikes might be challenging for very young children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Pinel Island has two restaurants, Le Karibuni and Yellow Beach. Loterie Farm also offers dining. For authentic island flavors, Captain Rib Shack and Pirate Hideout Beach Bar & Restaurant are recommended.
Yes, it's highly recommended to bring your own food and drinks, especially for day trips to islands like Tintamarre, as there are no facilities.
Yes, Pinel Island has beach bars and restaurants.
Expect classic island food, grilled lobster, and Caribbean comfort food.
It's advisable to bring cash, as some establishments may prefer it or have limited card facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Pinel Island's turquoise waters, Tintamarre's untouched beaches, and Loterie Farm's lush greenery offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful shots, with softer shadows.
The elevated trails on the hike to the beach near Anse Marcel offer panoramic views.
A wide-angle lens for landscapes and a waterproof camera or phone case for beach and water shots would be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Loterie Farm also offers a unique experience with its natural pools and zip lines, which can be fun for older children. +1 Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are scarce in many parts of the reserve. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+2🏖️ Beach Lovers
+3 The hike to the beach near Anse Marcel is also a great option for those seeking a beautiful, secluded spot. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Pinel Island
+2On the island, you'll find two popular restaurants, Le Karibuni and Yellow Beach, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and tropical drinks with your feet in the sand. Remember to bring cash, as not all vendors may accept cards. It's also a great place to rent snorkeling gear and explore the vibrant underwater world.
+1Pinel Island is part of the national nature reserve, emphasizing the importance of preserving its natural beauty. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the environment and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
The Wild Charm of Tintamarre
+2Reaching Tintamarre involves ferries from French Cul de Sac or private charters. The island is a protected area, flourishing with both land and underwater life, largely untouched by human intervention. It's a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in raw natural beauty.
+1Visitors to Tintamarre should be prepared for a lack of amenities. It's essential to pack ample water, food, and sun protection, as there is minimal shade. The pristine environment is a key draw, and visitors are reminded to help preserve it by taking all their belongings and trash with them.
Loterie Farm: A Private Oasis
+2The reserve provides a range of activities, including hiking trails, zip-lining adventures, and opportunities to relax in private cabanas. It's an ideal spot for those seeking a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, with a restaurant and bars on-site for convenience.
+1Loterie Farm is a testament to preserving natural beauty while offering curated experiences. It's a place where you can connect with nature in a protected and beautifully maintained environment, making it a memorable addition to any Saint Martin itinerary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit