Saint Martin Petites Cayes Beach Travel Guide

St. Martin / St. Maarten is well known for having beautiful and private areas such as Petites Cayes where couples can have lovely and memorable romantic dates. Petites Cayes is a beach that is located on the north-eastern coast of St. Martin. Petites Cayes is one of the top hidden beaches on the island of St. Martin / St. Maarten. The Baie of Petite Cayes has perfectly powdery golden sand, blue water, and impressive views of the mountains. Usually, tourists go to Petites Cayes by hiking from nearby Anse Marcel Beach for 3 miles (5 km) which can be done in approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour.

When visiting Petites Cayes It is necessary to bring drinks and food since there are no restaurants in the area or amenities on the beach. Petites Cayes is the perfect location for many activities such as a beach picnic, hiking, swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and more. Tourists can walk from the nearby Grandes Cayes beach until the Baie of Petites Cayes for about 2.79 miles (4.5 km). Tourists can also reach Petites Cayes via the Sentier des Froussards also known as the “Froussards Trail”.

Petites Cayes is a perfect location for all those looking to spend some quality time with their significant other, or family without the crowds of some of the other beaches in St. Martin. The beautiful white sand and crystalline water will no doubt draw you back to this beautiful beach and St. Maarten in general.

What is the location of Petites Cayes?

Petites Cayes is located on the French side of St. Martin near Anse Marcel Beach. Petites Cayes is located 10.4 miles (16.8 km) away from Princess Juliana International Airport and 3.6 miles (5.8 km) away from Grand Case. The coordinates from Petites Cayes are 18°06’47.7″N 63°02’21.6″W.

Which country governs Petites Cayes?

Petites Cayes is governed by the French government. It is important to know that there is a border division in St. Martin. The island is divided between the French and Dutch governments. There are no restrictions to getting from one side to the other, and both sides live in peace.

What are the ways to go to Petites Cayes?

There are a few different ways to go to Petites Cayes including walking, driving, taking the bus, hailing a cab, and hiking. The different ways to go to Petites Cayes are listed and explained below.

  • By walking: Tourists who are visiting the Anse Marcel Marina or who are staying in the town of Cul de Sac on the French side can walk for about 30 minutes until reaching Petites Cayes. Tourists can also follow the trail along the coast from Grandes Cayes until the bay of Petites Cayes for about 2.79 miles (4.5 km).
  • By renting a car: Tourists can rent a car and drive to Petites Cayes. Some tourists who spend more time on the island of St. Martin / St. Maarten prefer to rent a car. Tourists can rent a car next to Princess Juliana International Airport or at the many other car rental establishments on the island. The price of renting a car in St. Maarten starts at $28 (€27) per day.
  • By hailing a cab: Tourists can hail a cab from any place in St. Maarten or St. Martin to visit Petites Cayes. Some hotels or restaurants have cab-hailing services for tourists. The cost of hailing a cab in St. Maarten is $8 to $45 (€7 to €44) per ride. When hailing a cab, only cash is accepted. There are no Uber or Lyft services on the island of St. Maarten.
  • By taking the bus: Tourists in Philipsburg or any other big city such as Simpson Bay, Marigot, Grand Case, Maho, and more, can take the bus until they reach Petites Cayes. There are many different bus stops in St. Maarten. The buses have a sign in the front window that shows their final destination. A bus trip can cost $1 to $3 (€0.98 to €2.93) per person.
  • By hiking: Tourists who want to get to Petites Cayes can park at the service road for the water treatment plant on Anse Marcel, cross the chain, and hike the road to the nursery. There is going to be a metal culvert to the right which indicates the beginning of the overgrown path. Tourists can take the 25-minute route by parking at Grandes Cayes, taking a right in Cul de Sac before the hill to Anse Marcel, and hiking along the coast. It is important to know that tourists will need both hands free for the trail.

When is the best time to go to Petites Cayes?

The best time to go to Petites Cayes is from January to August during the period of the year known as the dry season. During these months, tourists can avoid the hurricane season and enjoy pleasant weather. The weather in Petites Cayes from December to August ranges from 77.9°F to 83°F (25.5°C to 28°C).

What are the best clubs in Petites Cayes?

There are no nightclubs in Petites Cayes. The best clubs in St. Martin can be found on the Dutch side of the island. Some of the best clubs near Petites Cayes are listed and explained below.

  1. Lagoonies Bistro & Bar is a nightclub located in Simpson Bay. Lagoonies Bistro & Bar is located 9.9 miles (15.9 km) away from Petites Cayes. Lagoonies Bistro & Bar is considered a local gem because of its exquisite cuisine and exciting drinks that are served there. There is happy hour at Lagoonies Bistro & Bar from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM from Friday to Sunday. The price for a night at Lagoonies Bistro & Bar usually ranges from $20 to $60 (€19 to €58) per person. The staff at Lagoonies Bistro & Bar is known to be very friendly.
  2. The Platinum Room is an adult nightclub located in Maho. The Platinum room is located 11.6 miles (18.7 km) from Petites Cayes. Some tourists say that the Platinum Room features the best live shows and entertainment in St. Maarten / St. Martin. The Platinum Room also features a full bar with a lot of different drink options. The drinks at The Platinum Room usually start at $6 (€5). The prices at The Platinum Room range from $30 to $60 (€29 to €58) per person. The Platinum Room is open from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
  3. Rhythm N’ Booze is a nightclub located inside the Royal Resorts Caribbean Hotel in Simpson Bay just 9.7 miles (15.6 km) from Petites Cayes. Rhythm N’ Booze features live DJs and music from different eras from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Guests at Rhythm N’ Booze can get free tapas with a purchase of two drinks during the happy hour from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Tourists enjoy the delicious cocktails made by skilled mixologists at Rhythm N’ Booze. The prices per night at the Rhythm N’ Booze usually range from $10 to $25 (€9 to €24).

What are the best restaurants in Petites Cayes?

There are no restaurants in Petites Cayes. The best restaurants in St. Martin near Petites Cayes can be found at the resorts situated near Anse Marcel beach. The prices at the restaurants at Anse Marcel Beach range between $23 to $40 (€22 to €39) per plate and at least $18 (€17) for children’s meals. The best restaurants in Anse Marcel near Petites Cayes are listed and explained below.

  1. Anse Marcel Beach Restaurant is located just 2.6 miles (4.1 km) from Petites Cayes. The Anse Marcel Beach Restaurant features French and European cuisine and specializes in seafood. There are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available at Anse Marcel Beach Restaurant.
  2. Le Calypso is located at Anse Marcel just 2.5 miles (3.9 km) from Petites Cayes. Le Calypso is a restaurant that features Italian and French cuisine. Le Calypso has different food options such as shrimp cocktail, salads, pasta, mollusks, and more. Le Calypso is open from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM every day of the week.
  3. Ristorante Del Arti is an Italian restaurant located in Anse Marcel just 2.5 miles (4 km) from Petites Cayes. The menu at Ristorante Del Arti includes pasta, risotto, pizza, salad, dessert, and more. The prices at Ristorante Del Arti range from $21.40 to $40.78 (€21 to €40) per plate. Ristorante Del Arti is open every day from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

What are the best resorts in Petites Cayes?

There are no resorts in Petites Cayes. The resorts near Petites Cayes are located in Anse Marcel Beach such as Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa, Anse Marcel Beach Resort, and Blue Sail Hotel. The best rated resorts in Saint Martin near Petites Cayes are listed below.

  1. Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa is located in Anse Marcel just 2.5 miles (4.1 km) from Petites Cayes. Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa is a modern adults-only resort that is also pet-friendly. Some of the amenities offered at the Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa are valet parking, free high-speed internet, a sauna, and more. Many guests who stay at Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa enjoy the lovely French-style ambiance and the friendly staff. Guests also enjoy the different activities available at the Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa such as aerobics classes, yoga classes, swimming, and more. The prices at Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa range from $454 to $531 (€445 to €521) per night. Anse Marcel Beach Resort is located in Anse Marcel just 2.6 miles (4.1 km) from Petites Cayes. The beach at Anse Marcel Beach Resort has fine white sand and crystal clear water. The beach at the Anse Marcel Beach Resort is accessible by land or sea. The Anse Marcel Beach Resort features colorful buildings surrounded by a picturesque tropical park and accommodations such as an outdoor pool, a terrace, and a restaurant. The prices at the Anse Marcel Beach Resort start at $117 (€114). Blue Sail Hotel is a beachfront hotel located on Anse Marcel, just 2.6 miles (4.1 km) from Petites Cayes. The accommodations at the Blue Sail Hotel include free private parking, a bar, a restaurant, and a terrace. Guests can participate in activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and swimming while staying at the Blue Sail Hotel. The prices at the Blue Sail Hotel range from $143 to $152 (€140 to €149) per night.

What are the casinos in Petites Cayes?

There are no casinos in Petites Cayes. All of the casinos in St. Martin are located on the Dutch side of the island. Some of the casinos near Petites Cayes are Princess Casino, Hollywood Casino, and The Coliseum Princess Casino. The casinos near Petites Cayes are listed and described below.

  1. The Princess Casino is a casino located in Cole Bay, inside the luxurious Port de Plaisance Resort. The Princess Casino is located 9.3 miles (15 km) away from Petites Plages. The Princess Casino is well known as the “little Vegas of Sint Maarten”. The Princess Casino hosts important events such as gambling tournaments, wine and cheese tastings, and more. Princess Casino features 500 slot machines and 15 table games such as Texas hold ‘em, poker, roulette, craps, bingo, and more. The Princess Casino is open 24 hours every day of the week. The Hollywood Casino is located in Simpson Bay just 10.9 miles (17.6 km) from Petites Cayes. The Hollywood Casino is located within less than a 10-minute walking distance from a lot of resorts. Tourists can find the Hollywood Casino next to one of the most popular and successful restaurants on the island of St. Maarten which is called “Isola Ristorante”. The Hollywood Casino features a wide array of slot machines and 20 table games such as poker, baccarat, and more. The Hollywood Casino is open from 1:00 PM to 4:00 AM every day of the week. The Coliseum Princess Casino is located in Philipsburg just 9.7 miles (15.6 km) from Petites Cayes. The Coliseum Princess Casino is a colorful 3-floor casino with a restaurant, live entertainment, and a bar called “Gladiator bar”. The Coliseum Princess Casino features over 380 slot machines and 11 table games such as Caribbean Stud, blackjack, roulette, 3 card poker, and craps. There are different promotions for guests at the Coliseum Princess Casino such as free bets, cash giveaways, and bingo cards. The different promotions offered at the Coliseum Princess Casino are available on the weekends. The Coliseum Princess Casino is open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 AM every day.

What are the beaches near Petites Cayes?

There are a few other beaches located near Petites Cayes. Some of the beaches near Petites Cayes can be considered some of the best beaches on the island of St. Maarten. Some of the beaches located near Petites Cayes are Anse Marcel Beach, Petite Plage, Duck’s Beach, and Orient Bay Beach. The best beaches near Petites Cayes are listed and explained below.

  1. Orient Bay Beach is located in the Quarter of Orleans on the north-eastern shore of St. Martin. Orient Beach features soft white sand, crystal clear water, and beautiful green palm trees. There are a few activities that tourists can enjoy while visiting Orient Beach such as windsurfing, snorkeling, having a picnic, kayaking, jet skiing, banana boat, and more. The entrance to Orient Beach is free of charge.
  2. Anse Marcel is located in a cove in the northern area of the island of St. Martin, just 3.1 miles (5 km) from Petites Cayes. Tourists can also hike from Anse Marcel until reaching Petites Cayes. Anse Marcel Beach is a relaxing spot with breathtaking views of abundant flora that covers the surrounding hills as well as crystal clear blue waters. Anse Marcel Beach offers water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, jet skiing, paddle boarding, and more. The entrance to Anse Marcel is free of charge.
  3. Duck’s Beach is located next to Anse Marcel and just 2.7 miles (4.3 km) from Petites Cayes. Duck’s Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach on French St. Martin. Tourists who want an adventure can hike to Duck’s Beach from Petite Plage by following the white arrows marked on the rocks or even white pieces of cloth. In order to hike to Duck’s Beach, tourists must have experience in hiking. There are no restaurants or facilities at Duck’s Beach. The entrance to Duck’s Beach is free of charge.
  4. Petite Plage is a secluded beach located next to Grand Case on French St. Martin, just 4.1 miles (6.5 km) from Petites Cayes. Tourists who want to reach Petite Plage can find it at the end of Grand Case main street. At Petite Plage tourists can find some relaxation near a really vibrant city like Grand Case. Petite Plage is a small pristine beach also right in front of Creole Rock, one of the most important spots for snorkeling on the island of St. Maarten / St. Martin. Tourists can rent umbrellas and chairs on Petite Plage. The entrance to Petite Plage is free of charge.

What are the tours for Saint Martin at Petites Cayes?

The tours for Saint Martin at Petites Cayes are “Eco Tour Nature Hike Secret Beach St. Maarten / St. Martin”, and “Explore and Enjoy St Martin’s beautiful Nature, Hike to the unspoiled Secret Beach”. The tours for Saint Martin Petites Cayes are listed and explained below.

  1. The Eco Tour Nature Hike Secret Beach St. Maarten / St. Martin allows tourists to explore and enjoy the gorgeous flora of the island of St. Maarten / St. Martin by hiking from Anse Marcel to Petites Cayes. Tourists will also enjoy the pristine bay of Petites Cayes with golden sand, crystal blue water, and gorgeous and lush green mountains. The views while hiking are breathtaking. When arriving at Petites Cayes guests can swim at the beautiful beach. The price for the Eco Tour Nature Hike Secret Beach St. Maarten / St. Martin is $69 (€67) for adults and $54 (€53) for children up to 12 years old. The Eco Tour Nature Hike Secret Beach St. Maarten / St. Martin is for groups of a maximum of 6 guests per tour. It is possible to include more people on the Eco Tour, but it is necessary to ask for a different reservation on a Private Tour. The Eco Tour Nature Hike Secret Beach St. Maarten / St. Martin lasts from 7:30 AM to 11: 30 AM. Explore and Enjoy St Martin’s beautiful Nature, Hike to the unspoiled Secret Beach allow guests to explore the wild side of St. Maarten, learn about the different flowers and swim on the beautiful bay of Petites Cayes. Guests can hike from Anse Marcel to the almost secret Petites Cayes in approximately 40 to 45 minutes. The bay of Petites Cayes has crystal blue water, golden sand, and stunning mountains. Guests of the tour “Explore and Enjoy St Martin’s beautiful Nature, Hike to the unspoiled Secret Beach” will also visit “Pic Paradis”, the highest point on the island of St. Martin / St. Maarten. The tour “Explore and Enjoy St Martin’s beautiful Nature, Hike to the unspoiled Secret Beach” has a duration of 4 hours and costs $425 (€418) per group of 4 people.

What should you wear in Petites Cayes?

Things that tourists visiting Petites Cayes should wear are listed below.

  1. Shorts
  2. T-Shirts
  3. Swimsuits
  4. Sundresses
  5. Sandals
  6. Sunscreen
  7. Sneakers
  8. Water shoes
  9. Sunglasses
  10. Sandals or flip flops

What are the popular things to do in Petites Cayes?

There are many things to do in Saint Martin and also nearby Petites Cayes such as swimming, hiking, sailing, and more. The popular things to do in Petite Cayes are listed below.

  1. Hiking
  2. Swimming
  3. Sailing
  4. Jet Skiing
  5. Having a picnic on the beach

What are the best attractions in Petites Cayes?

There are no attractions in Petites Cayes. The best attractions near Petites Cayes are in the nearby town of Anse Marcel. Some of the best attractions near Petites Cayes are listed below.

  1. The hiking area of Red Rock
  2. The hiking area of Green Valley
  3. Grande Cayes Reserve
  4. National Nature Reserve of St. Martin

What are the facts about Petites Cayes?

There are some interesting facts about Petites Cayes. The facts about Petites Cayes are listed below.

  1. It is possible to reach Petites Cayes from Anse Marcel by hiking.
  2. Petites Cayes is a secluded and almost remote area.
  3. Petites Cayes is a convenient option for couples who want to spend a secluded quality time together on the beach.
  4. The entrance to Petites Cayes is free of charge.
  5. There are no facilities at Petites Cayes.

How do Hurricanes affect Petites Cayes?

Petites Cayes has not suffered any serious hurricane damage. There are no restaurants, hotels, or any other types of property at Petites Cayes, so the Hurricanes that have occurred on the island have not significantly affected the area.

Is Petites Cayes safe?

Yes, Petites Cayes is a safe place to visit. The entire island of St. Maarten is safe to visit, especially when compared to other islands in the Caribbean. Tourists visiting Petites Cayes can take the same precautions as those visiting other countries such as avoiding walking alone at night and avoiding carrying a lot of money or jewelry and valuables with them while exploring the island.