Beach guide · Saint Martin
Luxury villa rentals in Happy Bay and Friar’s Bay
Two neighbouring bays on the north coast: Happy Bay for nature and seclusion, Friar’s Bay for an easy-going beach with more services close at hand.
Two beaches, two moods
Choose between a wild cove and a relaxed, welcoming bay.
Happy Bay is a small, secluded natural beach reached by a roughly ten-to-fifteen-minute trail from Friar’s Bay or by boat. With no permanent facilities, it appeals to travellers looking for quiet, clear water and an undeveloped setting.
Friar’s Bay is easier to reach and suits uncomplicated beach days: the cove is generally sheltered, the water entry is gentle and a few places serve lunch beside the sand. Grand Case is only a short drive away for dinners and evenings out.

Life on the north coast
A quieter setting without feeling isolated.
Happy Bay
A wilder beach reached on foot, ideal for quiet swimming and unhurried time in nature.
Friar’s Bay
A sheltered, family-friendly cove with easier access and a few places to eat beside the sand.
Grand Case
The island’s dining village is a short drive away for restaurant evenings and Caribbean sunsets.
The Eden selection
Our villas in Happy Bay and Friar’s Bay.
Villa L’Heure Bleue overlooks Happy Bay with two pools and panoramic views. Villa Ravenala sits in Friar’s Bay with the beach within walking distance.
View all villasHappy Bay Saint-Martin
From $1,170 / night
Villa L’Heure Bleue
5bedrooms Up to 10 guests
A panoramic three-to-five-bedroom retreat above Happy Bay, with two heated pools, a whirlpool and a private wellness area.
View the villa→Friar's Bay Saint-Martin
From $520 / night
Villa Ravenala
4bedrooms Up to 8 guests
A four-bedroom hillside retreat with a private pool, panoramic Caribbean views and Friar's Bay beach only a short walk away.
View the villa→Estelle’s perspective
What to know before you choose.
Who is it for?
Families, couples and groups of friends looking for a quieter coast, beautiful swimming and easy access to Grand Case.
Which beach suits you?
Friar’s Bay is more convenient with children. Happy Bay suits guests who enjoy a short walk and prefer a more natural setting.
Do you need a car?
Yes, we recommend one for groceries, Grand Case restaurants and exploring the rest of the island freely.
Frequently asked questions
Planning your stay in Happy Bay and Friar’s Bay.
How do you reach Happy Bay?
The beach is mainly reached by a roughly ten-to-fifteen-minute trail from Friar’s Bay, or by boat. There are no permanent facilities on the beach.
Is Friar’s Bay suitable for families?
Yes. The cove is generally sheltered and the water entry is gentle, making it enjoyable for children when conditions are suitable.
Is Grand Case easy to reach?
Yes. Grand Case is only a short drive away, so you can stay in a quiet setting while enjoying its restaurants with ease.
How can I receive a villa selection?
Share your dates, group size and preferred atmosphere. Estelle will reply personally with suitable villas that are genuinely available.
Your stay in Saint Martin
Let’s find your villa on the north coast.
Share your dates and priorities. We will send a personal selection across Happy Bay, Friar’s Bay and Grand Case.
Request a selection