The small but stunning island of St. Martin, located in the West Indies between the Atlantic Ocean and the blue green Caribbean Sea, is known for its gorgeous soft-sand beaches, high-end shopping districts, and incredible cuisine. Considered the culinary capital of the Caribbean, it’s home to hundreds of restaurants — from open-air lolos and on-the-beach cafes to high-end spots serving sophisticated island and global cuisine.
The southern half of the island is a Dutch territory best known for its casinos and vibrant nightlife. The northern half — where your Equity Estates home is located — is an Overseas Collective of France, renowned for its quiet beaches, lush green hills, and friendly islanders.
There, you can visit the waterfront capital city of Marigot to explore historic landmarks, Creole and colonial-era architecture, and French-inspired shopping centers. You can enjoy blissful days soaking up the sun on beaches that are just minutes away, get out on the water for boat trips and snorkeling, or head inland for hiking and other adventures.
The combination of European influence and Caribbean culture, along with year-round warm weather and stunning coastline makes St. Martin a unique and popular vacation destination.
With so many things to see and do, our Destination Manager has put together a dream itinerary for three perfect days in this Caribbean paradise.
DAY 1: Beach Day and Marigot
On your first full day in St. Martin, wake to morning light streaming in through the villa’s large picture windows and glass doors and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on one of the covered patios overlooking the pool. Your Local Host will make sure the kitchen is stocked with your favorite foods before you arrive to make the morning meal time quick and easy.
After breakfast, pack up snacks, sunscreen, and beach gear and make the short walk to Plum Bay Beach, just eight minutes away. There’s little-to-no shade on parts of the walk, so a hat and sunglasses could come in handy. If you prefer to drive, there’s also a free public parking lot at the beach entrance.
Plum Bay is one of the quieter beaches in St. Martin, so there’s room to spread out towels or chairs on the golden sand and spend the morning sunning, swimming, snorkeling, and walking along shore. It’s also one of the prettiest, with calm, clear water, a few shaded spots under palm trees, and expansive views.
After a morning of salt and sand, drive into Marigot for an authentic Caribbean Creole lunch at Rosemary’s, one of the waterfront lolos. The wait can be long at times at this popular no-frills, establishment, but there’s no better place to get Jerk chicken, pan-fried fish, or stewed oxtail with rice and beans.
If you prefer a lighter lunch of French favorites, pay a visit to the rooftop La Terrasse Restaurant instead. Their menu changes daily based on what’s in season and what they have flown in from France, but two dishes — the house special baked egg cocotte and the sea scallops in risotto — are typically available and are really delicious.
Post-lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the town, shopping, and seeing the sights.
Stroll rue de Charles de Gaulle and rue de la Liberté to find locally owned businesses alongside small, French boutiques. Or visit the bustling Marigot Market, with over 100 stalls selling everything from fresh fish and tropical fruits to spices, clothing, and other local products.
Keep an eye out for the colorful murals on buildings throughout the city and consider taking a tour of the Roland Richardson Gallery Museum, set in a beautifully restored 19th century Creole townhouse — with a lovely hidden courtyard garden — to view the work of the “father of Caribbean impressionism.”
Later in the day, relax and cool off in the pool at your Equity Estates home before going out to dinner that night. Your Destination Manager will have reservations for you at nearby Mezzaluna, where you’ll dine on fabulous pizzas, house-made pastas, and Italian entrees in a beautiful waterside setting.
We recommend starting with the charcuterie plate or Burrata with prosciutto, followed by the grilled lamb chops or gnocchi with garlic pesto, and finish with one of their amazing desserts — the creamy panna cotta with pureed fruit, homemade tiramisu, or the sweet ricotta pie with ice cream.
DAY 2: Sunshine, St. Barths, and a Private Dinner at Home
Start the day early with a morning walk on Plum Beach followed by coffee or breakfast at home.
Mid-morning, you’ll take a luxurious private yacht charter to St. Barths, arranged by your Destination Manager. Sit back, relax and enjoy the feel of wind in your hair and the comfort of the boat as you cruise the 14+ miles between the two islands, taking in the stunning sights of island coastline and wide expanse of blue-green water.
On St. Barths, take a walk around the island’s capital Gustavia, located on the western coast. Charming and upscale with historic landmarks set among modern shops and restaurants, it’s a lovely way to spend a few hours. The colorful commercial center, with its recognizable white-walled, red-roofed buildings is where you’ll find some of the finest shops in the Caribbean — local boutiques and high-end brands such as Prada, Bulgari, and Louis Vuitton.
For a truly unforgettable lunch experience, dine at Beefbar, an elegant restaurant serving creative, high-end street food in a gorgeous indoor/outdoor dining room overlooking the water. The yellowtail pastrami and king crab tacos are excellent à la carte choices, but try the set lunch menu if you can for a delicious two-course meal of fresh starter and main course or entrée and dessert, with water and hot beverages included.
After your St. Barths excursion, your yacht charter will take you out onto the water for an incredible afternoon of snorkeling and sunbathing before heading back to St. Martin.
That night, unwind from the day’s activities with a private chef dinner prepared for you in the villa. The talented Chef Valentin will create and prepare a custom meal specific to your preferences while you relax with a cocktail or glass of wine. A perfect way to wrap up a busy day of island hopping.
DAY 3: Adventure, Spa Day, and Sunset Cruise
For the third day of your epic St. Martin vacation, travel inland to Loterie Farm, an incredible tropical nature reserve (and former 18th century sugar plantation) set on over 100 acres near the center of the island. There, you’ll find hiking trails, outdoor activities, and luxurious amenities such as private treehouses and an oasis-like swimming pool.
For an extra dose of adrenaline, take to the treetops on Fly Zone, Loterie’s zipline adventure course where you’ll safely navigate tight ropes, monkey bridges, and other obstacles before ziplining over the lush canopy of mango and mahogany trees. With professional guides leading you through the experience, it’s an exhilarating way to enjoy amazing views of the forest and the sea, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or first-time adventurer.
For lunch, dine on seasonal salads, burgers, or special entrees at the onsite Jungle Room Restaurant. The mahi-mahi steak brings the flavor with a delicious Creole sauce and a side of rice, though the shrimp in garlic lime cream sauce is also fantastic, and the fresh-made poke bowls can’t be beat.
That afternoon, chill by the pool at your Equity Estates villa and let yourself be pampered with luxurious in-home spa services arranged by your Destination Manager.
Later, you’ll wrap up the day — and an amazing St. Martin vacation — with a private 2.5-hour sunset cruise on board a 42’ sailing catamaran complete with drinks and tapas-style light bites. Watch the sun sink orange and red into the water and toast to an amazing trip.
Afterwards, you’ll have late-dinner reservations at the sophisticated La Cigale, one of the most stunning restaurants on the island, where you’ll enjoy French fine dining in a lagoon beach setting under coconut trees. Everything on the menu — from the goat cheese puff pastries and lobster bisque to the duck with mushrooms, roasted veal, and fresh sea bass — are perfectly prepared and beautifully plated, making for a truly inspired and unforgettable meal.
At Home in St. Martin with Equity Estates
Set in the upscale, gated-community of Terres Basses, this spacious four-bedroom island villa is a true showstopper — with remarkable architectural details and impressive water features. The home’s contemporary design is stunning against the lush green tropical landscape and features wonderful ocean and sunset views.
Multiple levels of indoor/outdoor living spaces include a large gourmet kitchen, sheltered outdoor lounge areas, an open floorplan living room, bedrooms that open to the pool area, and luxurious bathrooms. Al fresco dining areas, two large private pools, and a hot tub are an invitation to relax outdoors and soak up the sun, while the home’s proximity to three different sandy beaches encourages guests to get out and explore.
It’s the perfect home — and perfect destination — for a couple’s getaway, friends trip, or a family vacation with teens and adult children.
Your Destination Manager will work with you to plan your itinerary before you arrive and make sure your stay is effortless. Leave the details to us and arrive to a fully stocked kitchen and bar with groceries of your choice. With Equity Estates, comfort and luxury are yours.
Travel with Equity Estates for a unique and memorable experience. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or click to schedule a call. Your unforgettable St. Martin vacation awaits!
