There is a reason why this is arguably one of the best beaches on the island. With crystal clear waters, white sand, and glitzy beach clubs that rival those in the South of France, Grand Case should be high on your list during your next visit. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about visiting this must visit spot on the French side of St Martin.

Location and How to Get There

Grand Case is just a stone’s throw from Grand Case Airport, or a short 30 minute drive from the more accessible SXM airport on the Dutch side. Taxis are readily available from both airports, however if you plan on spending a little bit of time on the island I recommend renting a car so you can explore at your own pace. I paid around $35 a day for my rental car, which I booked on arrival at SXM airport.

The Grand Case Airport is literally just around the corner, which also makes for some great plane spotting while you are in the area. There are not a ton of flights into this airport, so it is usually better to fly into Princess Juliana Airport SXM on the Dutch side and make the short drive up. There is no gate or immigration as you pass from one side of the island to the other, it feels more like crossing a state line and is very straightforward.

You will notice a remarkable difference between the two sides of the island, most noticeably around Grand Case, but do not let that put you off. After Hurricane Irma, I was told the Dutch government was more generous with their funding for rebuilding compared to the French, which is why some buildings around Grand Case are still damaged and looking a bit shabby. That said, among the buildings that escaped the hurricane or were repaired and renovated are some absolute gems in the culinary and hospitality world.

If you choose to rent a car, you will need to find street parking. There are plenty of spaces, although it can get a bit busy during rush hour. There are also a few designated parking lots if you struggle to find a spot, you may just need to walk a little further.

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Where to stay

Love Boutique Hotel
Before booking this hotel, I found very few reviews online and their website was a little challenging to navigate. What sold me were the beachfront views from the rooms, which really are just as beautiful as the photos. Be sure to book a sea view room rather than a village view, it is worth the extra few dollars. The balconies and terraces are stunning and still usable when it rains, and they are a stellar spot to watch the sunset. For groups or families, they also offer duplex rooms with an additional bedroom and ensuite bathroom upstairs. I highly recommend this gem of a hotel, you can read my full review here.

Hotel LTC
Located in a prime spot right on Grand Case Beach and with a fantastic beach club onsite, you really cannot go wrong with Hotel LTC. I visited a couple of times to eat and loved the trendy vibe, spot on service, and central location right in the heart of Grand Case.

Grand Case Beach Club
Located on a peninsula at the far end of Grand Case, this apartment style hotel benefits from a prime location on two beaches, a pool, and an onsite restaurant. All rooms have full kitchens, giving you the option to cook your own meals while still being just steps away from some of the best restaurants on the island. With studios and one or two bedroom apartments available, this is a great choice for families, offering a little more privacy while still being close enough to walk to everything Grand Case has to offer.

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Where to Eat and Drink

Rainbow Cafe
I had been wanting to visit Rainbow Cafe ever since it started popping up all over social media. Not just because of the name, which is very on brand for me, but because of their famous breakfast and brunch menu served on the rooftop. There are not many beachfront places open for breakfast, but Rainbow Cafe really shines with an eclectic menu and a view that wows. Prices are a little steep, but it is worth visiting at least once. They are also open for lunch and dinner, and you can rent loungers with umbrellas on the beach for a full day experience.

LTC Restaurant
This was genuinely one of the best meals I had on the island, paired with a stunning beachfront location. The upstairs dining area is filled with stylish furniture and a drinks menu to match. They were incredibly knowledgeable about dietary restrictions and even custom made me a gluten free dish without me asking. Their beach club is also very popular, with servers on the sand taking orders and setting up loungers for guests.

Ocean 82
This is the place to go if you are looking for a special meal or celebrating something. This fine dining restaurant is one of the best on the island. Ask for a table by the water, as they have underwater lights so you can watch the fish once the sun goes down. They also have a unique setup where you can choose your own lobster for dinner.

Tropic’s Beach Bar
Located at the far end of Grand Case Beach next to Captain Frenchy’s, this laid back beach bar offers an extensive drinks menu and a limited food menu at attractive prices.

Java
This modern Mediterranean inspired restaurant sits right on the beach and offers live music most nights. It is more of a beach club and restaurant hybrid, with an atmosphere that feels very St Tropez.

Captain Frenchy’s
Another beautiful beachfront spot with plenty of seating options to soak up the view. Prices here are more affordable than some of the other beach clubs further along the beach, and their breakfast menu is a particular highlight. They also have a small boutique by the entrance.

Lolos
It would not be an article about Grand Case without mentioning the lolos. These open air BBQ stalls line the length of Grand Case and are popular with locals and tourists alike. They are the go to spots for authentic and affordable street food. Notable mentions include Rib Shack Lolo and Cynthia’s Talk of the Town. Be sure to try the conch and ribs.

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Things To Do

• Hit the shops. Many of the beach clubs have their own onsite boutiques selling branded pieces as well as beautiful resort wear. I especially recommend the boutique on the top floor of Rainbow Cafe, I could have spent half my mortgage there. Other great stores include Voila and Sexyfruits.

• Hire a lounger or beach chair at one of the beach clubs such as LTC or Rainbow Cafe and enjoy beachside service in a beautiful setting.

• Book a day pass at Grand Case Beach Club. For around $100 at the time of writing, you can enjoy use of both beaches, the pool, pool and beach chairs, a welcome cocktail, wifi, non motorised watersports, and the fitness centre.

• Le Mardis de Grand Case. If you are visiting in February or March, with dates changing slightly each year, the area transforms into a vibrant Tuesday night festival. Expect carnival dancers, live music, pop up cocktail bars, local artisans, and plenty of delicious street food. Be sure to double check dates before planning your itinerary around it.

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Other tips and tricks for your first visit to Grand Case

• The official currency is the euro, but USD is widely accepted and most menus display both. Most establishments accept credit cards, although some of the lolos are cash only.

• If you are coming from the United States, you will need a European plug adapter. The voltage is higher here, so be careful with high powered devices like hair dryers and clothes steamers, as they can easily be damaged.

• If you arrive on a Sunday, be aware that many places are closed, including supermarkets and some restaurants, so plan ahead and bring enough supplies for your first night.

• Although many people say it is safe to drink the tap water, I recommend avoiding it if you are not used to it. Stick to bottled water, which is always offered at restaurants or easy to buy at supermarkets. Alternatively, a UV sanitizing water bottle is a great option. I use mine on every trip and it has been with me on over 30 trips.

• They drive on the right hand side of the road, similar to the United States. Road conditions are generally good, but there are a lot of speed bumps, often without warning signs, so keep your eyes peeled.

Fancy exploring more? Read my Ultimate Travel Guide to St Martin/Maarten here!

You can find out more about my stay on my “St Martin/Maarten” Highlights on Instagram @chase.the.rainbows.

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