This hidden gem of sand, rock, and coastal heathland can be accessed by shuttle boat from the Cul-de-Sac jetty, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling world.
You will be amazed by the tranquillity and warmth emanating from this one-of-a-kind place. Spend a day among this tiny island's blue and gold hues adorned with palm trees and cacti.
Finding a spot in the vast parking lot in front of the Cul-de-Sac jetty is easy, and you can leave your vehicle there all day. The shuttle boats to Pinel Island run every day, every 30 minutes, with the last boat going at 4:30 p.m. The fare for the trip is 10 euros or 12 dollars, and the journey only takes 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can go there on any vessel, such as a sea kayak paddleboard or even a small inflatable boat. You can see the islet from the jetty, just off the coast. The ocean in this channel is shallow and calm, making it easy to cross. The bay is sheltered and caressed by gentle trade winds, making it a pleasant experience to listen to them.
Pinel Island is a small yet stunning landmass that showcases the beauty of Saint Martin in all its glory. With its awe-inspiring tranquillity, it feels like a promised land. As you stand on the island, you will be surrounded by the heaven on earth and the heaven at sea.
Pinel Island has two beautiful beaches, each with its unique character. The first beach, opposite Cul-de-Sac, is a well-sheltered strip of sand. Here, the turquoise water and immaculate white sand offer a heavenly journey. You can't resist the call of the water, so take a dip and explore the beautiful coastline. You can also enjoy the Caribbean specialities, local fish, and freshly caught lobster at Le Karibuni, one of the two restaurants on this beach. Private beach services are also available here. Yellow Beach is another restaurant on the same stretch of sand that offers food and personal beach services. You can relax in your deck chair and enjoy a house cocktail in the middle of the afternoon.
However, this islet has no running water, a protected area within the Nature Reserve. So, the restaurants can only serve bottled mineral water. It's best to bring a bottle or two in your bag to last all afternoon. Composting toilets are also available for your convenience above Karibuni.
On the second beach, a stony wilderness awaits you on the other side of the island. Nothing has been built on this virgin beach. You can reach it by taking a 10-minute walk through the coastal heath on a narrow path that winds its way across the islet. The site's beauty is an invitation to wander along the shores and search among the thousands of seashells between the stones. You can also watch the waves thrash the coastline rocks. The Atlantic Ocean shows off its full power and energy on this beach.
Pinel Island is also a magnificent spot for snorkelling enthusiasts. The Nature Reserve's underwater snorkelling trail starts at the shuttle-boat landing jetty. You can see some of the most beautiful marine creatures where the waters of the sandy, sheltered cove meet the waves that roll onto the wild beach. Turtles, conch snails, and tons of multicoloured fish are easy to spot at depths of 15 to 30 feet.
Spend a day on Pinel Island, a hidden gem in the Atlantic. Experience the joy of discovering unspoiled territory on a magical journey. The first shuttle boat departs at 10 a.m. every day and sails every half-hour. About 40 passengers can embark on each trip, and seats are assigned based on the order of arrival at the jetty. No advanced booking is available, and the last boat leaves at 4:30 p.m. Once everyone is off the islet, Pinel returns to its natural solitary state, protecting its treasures until the following day. Join other adventure-seekers and become a budding Robinson Crusoe on Pinel Island!
