Tranquil Escape on the French Side: Friars bay st martin
Nestled between Marigot and Grand Case, Friars bay st martin is a hidden treasure for families and beachgoers. With its gentle, clear waters and soft sand, it offers a laid-back alternative to the busier beaches—making it a perfect seaside respite for cruise passengers or stay-over guests.
Why Friar’s Bay Stands Out
- Family-friendly shores with calm, shallow water ideal for kids
- Beachside cafés & bars offering French–Caribbean cuisine and refreshing drinks
- Easy access via car, taxi, or bus near Marigot
- Gateway to a scenic hike — you can walk north to Happy Bay Beach (cross-link highlighted)
What to Expect at This French-Side Beach Escape
From arrival to lounging, here’s what your visit could look like:
- Arrive: Drive or catch a bus/taxi to Marigot, then a short walk to the bay.
- Settle in: Choose a shady spot or rent chairs by the water.
- Dine & Refresh: Visit Friar’s Bay Beach Café or Kali’s Beach Bar—great for lunch, light bites, or a sunset drink.
- Play & Swim: Children can wade safely; snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking are popular nearby.
- Explore: Hike the coastal trail to Happy Bay Beach St Martin, discovering a quieter cove in just 10 minutes.
- Relax: Stay until evening to join Kali’s bonfire or full-moon events.
Ideal For…
- Cruise guests wanting easy-access water fun
- Stay-over families seeking calm swimming and local cuisine
- Beach lovers looking for a peaceful Caribbean day trip with amenities nearby
Adjacent Keywords Used (Highlighted for Review):
- Family-friendly shores
- Beachside cafés & bars
- French–Caribbean cuisine
- Scenic hike
- French-side beach escape
- Easy-access water fun
- Caribbean day trip
Location & Access Guide
- By car/taxi: Drive via Route du Mourne Valois toward Marigot, then follow Rue de Friar’s Bay. Parking available near the beach.
- By bus: Take the bus to Marigot; walk or taxi to the beach (around 1 km).
- By foot: Guests at nearby villas or staying in Marigot can walk in a 10-minute stroll.
Things to Do
| Activity | Details |
| Swimming & Wading | Calm waters, protected bay—perfect for families |
| Water Sports | Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding rentals available |
| Beach Cafés | Try Friar’s Bay Beach Café for lunch or Kali’s for drinks and atmosphere |
| Hiking to Happy Bay | Short coastal trail leading to a secluded cove—photo-worthy and scenic |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Friar’s Bay safe for children?
Yes — the shallow, protected waters and gentle beach slope make it ideal for young swimmers.
Are there food and refreshment options?
Absolutely. Two main beach cafés offer casual French-Caribbean menus, plus chair/umbrella rentals.
Can I hike to Happy Bay?
Yes. A light hike along the coast takes around 10 minutes (or find more details on our Happy Bay Beach page).
Is it suitable for cruise visitors?
Very much so. It’s a top choice for an easy Caribbean day trip, with transport and amenities nearby.
Other Family-Friendly Beaches Worth Visiting
- Happy Bay Beach St Martin – a serene sandy cove via coastal hike
- Maho Beach: A Unique Aviation Encounter
- Orient Beach Splash Tour
Enjoy the Serenity of Friar’s Bay *
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful family day, a spot for water sports, or a gateway to uncover hidden coves, Friars bay st martin delivers. Add it to your itinerary for a true taste of French-side charm and Caribbean relaxation.
Read: The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour: Your Ultimate Guide
