Broke Backpacking In Saint Marten: The Ultimate Guide

Tucked away in the northeastern Caribbean, Saint Martin is a tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters, powder-like white sand beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. This small island, shared between France and the Netherlands, can be called a treasure of thrilling experiences, from snorkeling and diving to colonial towns and delectable Creole food.
But with its high-end resorts and luxury amenities, Saint Martin may seem like an unlikely destination for the budget-conscious traveler. Think again! With a little insider knowledge and some clever planning, you can experience the best of Saint Martin without breaking the bank. From affordable accommodations and transportation to free activities and cheap eats, we’ll share our top tips and tricks for exploring this stunning island on a broke budget.
In this blog, we are going to give you a rundown of what exactly broke backpacking in Saint Martin entails: where to go, how to get around on the cheap, and what to eat that’s local and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just starting to plan your next adventure, this guide is designed to help you make the most of your time in Saint Martin-without emptying your wallet.

How to get there:

Getting to this island paradise can be a challenge, especially for those on a tight budget. While flying is a convenient option, it can be expensive. Fortunately, there are affordable alternatives. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to reach Saint Martin using public transportation from neighboring countries.

From Anguilla

Anguilla, a British overseas territory, is located just north of Saint Martin. To get to Saint Martin from Anguilla, you can take the ferry from Anguilla’s Blowing Point Ferry Terminal to Marigot, the capital of Saint Martin’s French side. The ferry ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes and costs around $20-$30 USD for a one-way ticket. From Marigot, you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination.

From Saba

Saba, a special municipality of the Netherlands, is located south of Saint Martin. To get to Saint Martin from Saba, you can take the ferry from Saba’s Fort Bay Harbor to Philipsburg, the capital of Saint Martin’s Dutch side. The ferry ride takes approximately 1-2 hours and costs around $40-$60 USD for a one-way ticket. From Philipsburg, you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination.

From Saint Barthélemy (Saint Barts)

Saint Barthélemy, commonly known as Saint Barts, is a French overseas collectivity located southeast of Saint Martin. To get to Saint Martin from Saint Barts, you can take the ferry from Saint Barts’ Gustavia Harbor to Marigot, the capital of Saint Martin’s French side. The ferry ride takes approximately 1-2 hours and costs around $40-$60 USD for a one-way ticket. From Marigot, you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination.

From Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, a US territory in the northeastern Caribbean, is a major transportation hub. To get to Saint Martin from Puerto Rico, you can take a ferry from Puerto Rico’s Fajardo Terminal to Saint Martin’s Philipsburg. However, this option is not as frequent as flights and may not be available daily. The ferry ride takes approximately 4-6 hours and costs around $100-$150 USD for a one-way ticket. From Philipsburg, you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination.

When to go:

High Season (December to April)

Pros:
Cooler temperatures (70s-80s Fahrenheit)
Less rainfall
More tourist infrastructure and activities available
Cons:
Peak tourist season, meaning larger crowds and higher prices
Accommodation rates are at their highest
Flights and ferry tickets may be more expensive

Shoulder Season (May to June or November to December)

Pros:
Fewer crowds, making for a more relaxed atmosphere
Lower accommodation rates and package deals
Warm weather (80s-90s Fahrenheit) without the scorching summer heat
Cons:
Some tourist facilities and activities might be closed or operate on reduced schedules
Rainfall increases during these periods, with May being the start of the wet season and November marking the end

Low Season (July to October)

Pros:
Lowest accommodation rates and package deals
Fewer crowds, making for a peaceful and serene atmosphere
Hurricane season is less likely to impact Saint Martin during the early months (July-August)
Cons:
Hot and humid weather (90s Fahrenheit), with frequent rain showers
Many tourist facilities and activities are closed or operate on reduced schedules
Hurricane risk increases during the late months (September-October)

Special Events and Festivals

Saint Martin Day (November 11th): A cultural celebration marking the island’s discovery, featuring traditional food, music, and activities.

Carnival (April-May): A vibrant celebration with parades, music, and street food.

Heineken Regatta (March): A popular sailing event that attracts visitors from around the world.

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Philipsburg, the capital of Saint Martin’s Dutch side. Visit the Philipsburg Market, Fort Amsterdam, and the Courthouse. Enjoy the beautiful beaches like Great Bay Beach or Little Bay Beach.
Day 2: Take a ferry to Pinel Island, a small island off the coast of Saint Martin. Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. Return to Saint Martin in the evening and explore the nightlife in Philipsburg.
Day 3: Visit the Loterie Farm, a 135-acre nature reserve with hiking trails, zip lines, and a pool. End the day with a beautiful sunset at Maho Beach, famous for its low-flying planes.

1-Week Itinerary

Day 1-2: Explore Philipsburg and its surroundings, including the beaches and historical sites.
Day 3: Take a ferry to Anguilla and spend the day exploring this neighboring island.
Day 4: Visit the French side of Saint Martin, including the capital Marigot and the scenic coastal road.
Day 5: Go hiking in the hills of Saint Martin, exploring the island’s natural beauty.
Day 6-7: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Saint Martin, such as Mullet Bay Beach or Cupecoy Beach.

2-Week Itinerary

Week 1: Follow the 1-week itinerary above.
Week 2:
Day 8-9: Take a ferry to Saint Barthélemy (Saint Barts) and explore this luxurious island.
Day 10: Return to Saint Martin and visit the Saint Martin Museum to learn about the island’s history and culture.
Day 11: Go snorkeling or diving to explore Saint Martin’s underwater world.
Day 12-14: Relax on the beach, explore the island’s capital, or take a day trip to a nearby island.

1-Month Itinerary

Weeks 1-2: Follow the 2-week itinerary above.
Weeks 3-4:
Day 15-21: Explore the French side of Saint Martin in-depth, including the towns of Marigot and Grand Case.
Day 22-28: Take a ferry to Saba, a nearby island known for its stunning natural beauty and diving opportunities.
Day 29-30: Return to Saint Martin and spend the last days of your trip relaxing on the beach or exploring the island’s capital.

Transportation:

Saint Martin offers a range of public transportation options that make it easy to get around without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of public transportation available in Saint Martin, including buses, taxis, and ferries.

Buses

Saint Martin has an extensive network of buses that connect the island’s main towns and villages. The buses are affordable, reliable, and a great way to experience the local culture.

Bus Routes: Buses run regularly between Philipsburg, Marigot, and other major towns.
Bus Fares: Fares are around $2-$3 USD per ride.
Bus Schedules: Buses typically run from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with reduced schedules on Sundays and holidays.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Saint Martin and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.

Taxi Fares: Fares are around $10-$20 USD for a short ride, depending on the distance and traffic.
Taxi Services: Some taxi services offer island tours and airport transfers.

Ferries

Ferries connect Saint Martin to neighboring islands, including Anguilla, Saint Barthélemy (Saint Barts), and Saba.

Ferry Routes: Ferries run regularly between Saint Martin and the neighboring islands.
Ferry Fares: Fares vary depending on the route and operator, but expect to pay around $20-$50 USD for a one-way ticket.
Ferry Schedules: Ferry schedules vary depending on the route and operator, but most ferries run daily.

Rental Cars and Scooters

If you prefer to explore the island at your own pace, rental cars and scooters are available.

Rental Scooter Fares: Fares vary depending on the rental agency and type of scooter, but expect to pay around $20-$30 USD per day.

Rental Car Fares: Fares vary depending on the rental agency and type of vehicle, but expect to pay around $40-$60 USD per day.

Top things to do:

Philipsburg (Dutch Side)

Great Bay Beach: A beautiful beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Free admission.
Philipsburg Market: A bustling marketplace where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food. Free admission.
Fort Amsterdam: A historic fort that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Free admission.
The Courthouse: A beautiful colonial-style building that now serves as a museum. Free admission.
St. Maarten Museum: A museum that showcases the island’s history and culture. Admission fee: around $5 USD.
Walter Plantz Square: A scenic square with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views. Free admission.

Marigot (French Side)

Marigot Market: A bustling marketplace where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food. Free admission.
Fort Louis: A historic fort that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Free admission.
Marigot Waterfront: A picturesque waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views. Free admission.
Musée Saint-Martin: A museum that showcases the island’s history and culture. Admission fee: around $5 USD.
Marigot Harbor: A scenic harbor with beautiful views and a variety of boats. Free admission.

Maho Beach (Dutch Side)

Maho Beach: A famous beach where planes fly low overhead. Free admission.
Sunset Bar: A popular bar that’s perfect for watching the sunset. Free admission.
Maho Beach Restaurants: A row of restaurants that offer stunning views of the beach. Prices vary.

Cupecoy Beach (Dutch Side)

Cupecoy Beach: A beautiful beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Free admission.
The Cupecoy Beach Restaurants: A row of restaurants that offer stunning views of the beach. Prices vary.
Cupecoy Cave: A scenic cave with stunning views of the surrounding area. Free admission.

Pinel Island (French Side)

Pinel Island: A small island off the coast of Saint Martin that’s perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Free admission.
Pinel Island Restaurants: A few restaurants on the island that offer fresh seafood and stunning views. Prices vary.
Pinel Island Beach: A beautiful beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Free admission.

Lottery Farm (Dutch Side)

Lottery Farm: A 135-acre nature reserve with hiking trails, zip lines, and a pool. Admission fee: around $10 USD.
The Farm Restaurant: A restaurant on the farm that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Prices vary.

Orient Bay (French Side)

Orient Bay Beach: A beautiful beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Free admission.
Orient Bay Restaurants: A row of restaurants that offer stunning views of the beach. Prices vary.
Orient Bay Water Sports: A variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Prices vary.

Grand Case (French Side)

Grand Case Beach: A beautiful beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Free admission.
Grand Case Restaurants: A row of restaurants that offer stunning views of the beach. Prices vary.
Grand Case Street Art: A variety of street art and murals throughout the town. Free admission.

Simpson Bay (Dutch Side)

Simpson Bay Beach: A beautiful beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Free admission.
Simpson Bay Restaurants: A row of restaurants that offer stunning views of the beach. Prices vary.
Simpson Bay Lagoon: A scenic lagoon with beautiful views and a variety of boats. Free admission.

Other Activities

Island Tours: Take a guided tour of the island to explore its hidden gems and learn about its history and culture. Prices vary.
Snorkeling and Diving: Explore Saint Martin’s underwater world, with numerous snorkeling and diving spots around the island. Prices vary.
Hiking: Saint Martin has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island. Free admission.
Beach-Hopping: With 37 beaches to choose from, you can spend your days exploring the island’s beautiful coastline. Free admission.

Food:

This small island in the northeastern Caribbean is a melting pot of culinary delights. The unique cultural heritage of the island, molded by its French, Dutch, and African influences, is reflected in its diverse and vibrant food scene. From traditional Creole cuisine to fresh seafood, and from French patisseries to Dutch cheese shops, Saint Martin is a foodie’s paradise.
The island’s cuisine is deeply rooted in its history and geography. A blend of influences from Africa, Europe, and indigenous populations has produced a particular flavor profile that is so familiar, yet so exotic. Traditional dishes such as callaloo-a type of leafy-green and root-vegetable soup-and johnnycakes, also known as fried dough pockets, form the basis of island cuisine. These dishes are often served with a side of rice and peas, or fried plantains, and are flavored with a blend of spices and herbs that add depth and complexity to the dishes.
Besides traditional Creole cuisine, Saint Martin is also famous for its fresh seafood. The island’s location open to all the coasts and rich marine life creates a perfect combination for seafood lovers. From lobster and conch to mahi-mahi and snapper, the island’s seafood restaurants offer a wide range of fresh catches. Many of these restaurants are located on the beach, offering stunning views of the ocean and a relaxed, casual atmosphere.
The French and Dutch influences can also be seen in Saint Martin’s bakeries and pastry shops. The island is dotted with French patisseries where all types of delicious pastries, cakes, and breads are available. The Dutch influence comes through on the island in the different cheese shops where several types of artisanal cheeses and other specialties from Holland can be found.
A good way to experience the cuisine of the island is to visit one of the many markets. The Philipsburg Market on the Dutch side and the Marigot Market on the French side are among the most popular markets, each having fresh produce, meats, and seafood to offer. You can also find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food at these markets.
In addition to the markets, Saint Martin also boasts a host of excellent restaurants. From fine dining experiences through to casual beach bars, the range is varied to suit each and every taste and budget. Most popular are the traditionally Creole restaurants, seafood restaurants, and restaurants serving French and Dutch cuisines.
This small island offers a great deal of food for every taste and budget. From traditional Creole food to fresh seafood, from French pastries to Dutch cheese, this island is a foodie’s dream come true, begging to be discovered. Be a foodie, an adrenaline junkie, or just here to relax; the diverse and vibrant food scene of Saint Martin will surely delight.
Also, try some local drinks as you go in search of the island’s food delights. Saint Martin is famous for its guavaberry colada-a delicious mix of guavaberry liqueur, rum, and pineapple juice. You will be free to taste the island’s local beers, such as Heineken or Amstel, or taste some fresh coconut water.
In addition to the culinary magic, Saint Martin is an excellent destination for those foodies interested in cooking. The island offers a number of cooking classes, including learning to prepare traditional Creole dishes such as callaloo and johnnycakes. You can also visit one of the many farms on this island to learn about sustainable farming practices and try some fresh produce.
As the sun sets, Saint Martin livens up with music and dance. Many restaurants and bars offer live music and entertainment, ranging from traditional Creole music to modern pop and rock. You could also visit one of the many festivals that the island hosts, which celebrate everything from music and dance to food and culture.
In the end, Saint Martin is a foodie’s paradise, offering something for every taste and budget. From traditional Creole cuisine to fresh seafood, and from French pastries to Dutch cheese, the island is a culinary delight that is waiting to be explored. Be it a foodie, an adrenaline junkie, or just a laid-back vacationer, the diverse and vibrant food scene of Saint Martin will surely delight. So come and delight your senses with the culinary wonders of Saint Martin. Your taste buds will thank you!

Culture:

The small island of Saint Martin in the northeastern Caribbean is a melting pot of cultures: French, Dutch, African, and indigenous all combine in a unique cultural heritage that permeates every facet of island life, from its infectious music and dance to its delectable cuisine and colorful festivals. As you explore the island, you’ll discover a rich and diverse culture that is both fascinating and infectious.
The cultural identity of the island is deeply linked to its history. Saint Martin was first inhabited by the Arawak people, an indigenous tribe migrating from South America. In the 17th century, the island was colonized by both the French and the Dutch, which caused a division in its culture. To this day, that division remains and can be seen in the northern part of the island being French and the southern part being Dutch. Despite this divide, the islanders have developed a distinct cultural identity that blends the best of both worlds.
Music and dance are the inseparable parts of Saint Martin’s culture. Several styles of music, such as zouk, kompa, and reggae, can be heard in bars, restaurants, and clubs across the island. Dance is also a big part of the island’s culture, with many locals still practicing traditional dances such as the ponum. These dances can often be seen during festivals and other celebrations, adding to the island’s vibrant cultural atmosphere.
Other very important features of Saint Martin’s culture include cuisine. The unique mixture of French, Dutch, and African influences makes for delicious Saint Martin cuisine. Traditional dishes that have made it to the top include callaloo, a thick, nourishing soup prepared with leafy greens and root vegetables, while others like johnnycakes, fried dough, form part of the staple cuisine. In abundance is fresh seafood, and restaurants present a number of different dishes like lobster, conch, and mahi-mahi. The cuisine is not only delectable but an expression of the rich cultural heritage of the island as well.
Saint Martin festivals and celebrations are part of the culture. The island has several festivals that take place annually, such as the Saint Martin Carnival, Heineken Regatta, and the Saint Martin Food and Wine Festival. These festivals are an excellent insight into the vibrant culture of the island with live music, dance, great food, and drink. The hospitality of the islanders also is well-known, considering they make the visitors a part of their celebration.
The island’s cultural identity is also reflected in its language. Both French and Dutch are the official languages, although English, Spanish, and a native dialect known as Papiamento are spoken. This thus reflects the cultural melting pot, with influences throughout the globe. As one travels through the island, various languages are spoken, which in fact add to the island’s vibrant cultural atmosphere.
In addition to its vibrant culture, Saint Martin is also home to a number of museums and cultural centers. The Saint Martin Museum, located in Philipsburg, offers a glimpse into the island’s history and culture, with exhibits on everything from the island’s indigenous people to its colonial past. The island is also home to a number of art galleries, showcasing the work of local artists and artisans.
As you go around the island, you notice a proud culture among the people of the island. They want you to be exposed to their way of life, customs, and traditions. The culture reflects on the buildings with their colors and even the music and the dances that they have within the island.
The cultural identity of the island has also been reflected in its building architecture. The capital city, Philipsburg, is full of charm, with colonial-style building architecture, colorful markets, and busy streets. The architecture of this town shows the rich heritage of the island, reflecting influences from Holland, France, and Africa in its construction. As you navigate through the streets of this quaint town, you will find it filled with cultures and architectural variety.
Besides the cultural attractions, Saint Martin has a number of natural attractions, too. With its beautiful beaches, rich forests, and great hiking routes, it is a place of real importance for everyone who loves nature. The amazing views of the coastline of the island, together with the tranquil atmosphere of its woods, turn Saint Martin into a spot where natural beauty perfectly suits the vibrant culture.
On the island, you can sense that the people are anxious to preserve their cultural heritage; this can be seen in how they protect their traditions, customs, and ways of living, considering modernization and progress. Cultural preservation on the island is portrayed through the many cultural festivals and events, which celebrate the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Its cultural identity is also reflected in its arts and crafts. There are several talented artists and artisans on the island who make lovely pieces reflecting the island’s cultural heritage. In fact, traditional crafts such as woodcarving and pottery have found a place with modern art forms like painting and sculpture on this island.

Accommodations:

Saint Martin may not necessarily be the first destination that comes to mind as a broke backpacker, but this small island in the northeastern Caribbean is for the true adventurers who like to take the less traveled road. When it comes to places to stay, Saint Martin’s hostels reflect that same laid-back, unpredictable vibe that defines the island.
The cheapest hostels are often the most unique, crazy, and amazing experiences. You might not have all the frills that you would at other, more expensive places, but the authentic experience and real immersion into the atmosphere will leave you with memories you will never forget.
It will hit you hard as soon as you set a step in, unless you have been to very, very many of these, really cheap hostels that are just so laidback-for an island. The furniture may be worn, eclectic decor, but the place is always alive and bubbly; you will be greeted with other travelers from all parts of the world, with stories of their adventures or misfortunes.
One of the most exciting aspects of staying in a budget hostel in Saint Martin is the unpredictability of it all. You never quite know what to expect, from the colorful characters you’ll meet to the spontaneous parties that may erupt in the common room. It’s not uncommon for hostels to host impromptu jam sessions, potluck dinners, or even yoga classes on the beach.
Of course, there is also a certain degree of flexibility and adaptability that is required when staying in a budget hostel in Saint Martin. You may find yourself sharing a dorm room with strangers, or you may have to deal with the occasional power outage or shortage of water. For many travelers, however, these small inconveniences are well worth the unforgettable experiences and connections they make along the way.
As you make your rounds in the Saint Martin hostel scene, you’ll start to realize that the island’s carefree spirit is contagious. You’ll find yourself embracing the unpredictability of it all, and reveling in the freedom and spontaneity that comes with traveling on a broke budget.
You will meet other travelers who have been on the road for months, sharing stories of their adventures and giving you tips on the best places to visit. You will make friends with the hostel staff, who will tell you stories about the island’s history and culture. And you will find yourself swept up in the island’s vibrant energy as you dance the night away to the sounds of reggae and calypso.
In the end, it is not just about saving money when you stay in a budget hostel in St. Martin; it is about embracing a way of life. It is about opening up to new experiences, new people, and further adventures. And it’s about creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after you leave the island behind.
As you settle into your dorm room, amidst the sounds and smells of the island, you will feel grateful to have found such a gem. The hostel scene in Saint Martin is so much more than just a place to rest your head: it’s a community, a family, and a way of life. And as you drift off to sleep, lulled by the sound of the waves and the laughter of your fellow travelers, you’ll know that you’ve found a true gem in the heart of the Caribbean.

Nightlife:

As the sun sets below the horizon, Saint Martin becomes a pulsating party place. From the Caribbean rhythms to European flair and American energy, the nightlife of this island is an experience that is inimitable for visitors. From beachside bars to dance clubs, from live music places to casinos, Saint Martin’s nightlife offers something for every taste and style.
The island’s unique mix of cultures reflects in their nightlife, blending French and Dutch influences with the Caribbean. This place is going to call out to you, with echoing reggae, calypso, and zouk vibes out of bars and into the clubs. The atmosphere is energetic, always light-hearted, yet easy-going, where locals get together with visitors, dancing or having drinks.
As you explore the island’s nightlife scene, you will find that the action is pretty much spread out across the island-from the bustling streets of Philipsburg to the trendy bars in Maho, from beachside clubs in Cupecoy to casinos in Marigot, there is always something going on somewhere. You might come across a spontaneous beach party, replete with bonfires, drumming, and dancing under the stars. Or you could end up in a pulsating nightclub surrounded by pulsating lights and infected energy from the crowd. One of the finest things about Saint Martin’s nightlife is its spontaneity-you never know quite what’s going to happen next, or where the night will take you. You could be quietly having an evening drink at a beachside bar, and then suddenly find yourself in a conga line of revelers dancing through the streets. Alternatively, you might chance upon live music in some local club, from jazz and blues to rock and reggae.
As the night wears on, the energy only builds, with the island’s nightlife scene pulsating like a living, breathing creature. You’ll find yourself caught up in the infectious rhythm of the music, the laughter and chatter of the crowd, and the sheer joy of being alive and carefree in one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean.
Of course, Saint Martin’s nightlife scene isn’t just about the partying and the dancing-it’s about the people. You’ll meet fellow travelers from all over the world, sharing stories of their adventures and making new friends. You’ll encounter locals who will regale you with tales of the island’s history and culture. And you’ll find yourself swept up in a community that is warm, welcoming, and always ready to party.
As the first light of dawn begins to creep over the horizon, the island’s nightlife scene slowly begins to wind down. The music fades away, the lights are turned off, and the crowds disperse, exhausted but exhilarated from the night’s adventures. As you stumble back to your accommodations, you’ll know that you’ve experienced something truly special-the unforgettable nightlife of Saint Martin.
The island’s nightlife scene is also deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. You’ll hear the sounds of traditional Caribbean music, such as calypso and reggae, blending with modern styles like hip-hop and electronic dance music. You’ll see the vibrant colors and energetic movements of Caribbean dance, from the sensual rhythms of salsa to the high-energy beats of soca.
As you explore the island’s nightlife scene, you’ll also discover that it’s not all about the partying and the dancing; it is also about the food and drink. You will come across a wide range of delicious cuisine-from traditional Caribbean dishes like jerk chicken and conch fritters to international flavors like Italian, French, and Asian. And you’ll wash it all down with a cold beer, a refreshing cocktail, or a glass of fine wine.
Another great place to find new companions and friends will be Saint Martin’s nightlife. You will love how the laid-back attitude of the island and its friendliness toward visitors allow you to easily make acquaintances among strangers, which might turn into long-time friends. Whether solo traveling, a couple, or a group of friends, on this island, you will find something for every taste.
As night falls, this island bursts into its full colors. Being swept away by music, dances, and the unbridled laughter of all those happy people-the energy on the island is so alive, contagious, and impossible to resist. Whether you are dancing the night away in a crowded club, sipping cocktails on a beachside patio, or just enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of a local bar, you’ll know that you’re experiencing something truly special-the unforgettable nightlife of Saint Martin.
When the first light of dawn starts peeking over the horizon, the nightlife on the island finally begins to wind down. The music stops, the lights are turned off, and the crowds go their separate ways, exhausted but exhilarated from the night’s adventures. You’ll know you’ve experienced something special as you stumble back to your accommodations.

Backpacking Saint Marten costs:

As a broke backpacker, it’s essential to keep costs to a minimum while still experiencing the best of Saint Martin. Here’s a rough budget breakdown for a day and a week in Saint Martin, focusing on very cheap options:

Daily Budget Breakdown:

Accommodation: $10-20 (dorm room in a budget hostel)
Food: $5-10 (street food, local markets, and cooking own meals)
Transportation: $2-5 (walking, hitchhiking, or using public transportation)
Activities: $5-10 (beach-hopping, hiking, and exploring local markets)

Total: $22-45

Weekly Budget Breakdown:

Accommodation: $70-140 (dorm room in a budget hostel for 7 nights)
Food: $35-70 (street food, local markets, and cooking own meals for 7 days)
Transportation: $14-35 (walking, hitchhiking, or using public transportation for 7 days)
Activities: $35-70 (beach-hopping, hiking, and exploring local markets for 7 days)

Total: $154-315

Tips for Saving Money:

Stay in budget hostels or guesthouses.
Cook your own meals or eat street food.
Use public transportation or walk/hitchhike.
Avoid touristy areas and opt for local markets and beaches.
Negotiate prices for accommodations and activities.
Bring a refillable water bottle to reduce plastic waste and save money.
Take advantage of free activities like hiking, beach-hopping, and exploring local markets.

By following these tips and sticking to a budget, you can have an amazing time in Saint Martin without breaking the bank.

Conclusion:

As you conclude your journey through the sun-kissed island of Saint Martin, you’ll likely be reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and memories you’ve created. On a tight budget, you have immersed yourself in the vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and infectious energy that this island has to offer.
You have realized that Saint Martin is a place that can welcome all kinds of tourists, either on a low or high budget. From attractive beaches, nice hiking paths, and vibrant nightlife to delicious cuisine, the island has something for every kind of tourist.
You are a broke backpacker who has learned to appreciate the little things in life: the stunning sunset, the cold beer, or the delicious meal cooked on a camping stove. You find yourself being swept by the carefree spirit of the island, and you also know that even on a broke budget, you will have an amazing time.
As you get ready to leave Saint Martin and head off further, the feeling of sadness will be inevitable. You’ll miss the island’s warm sunshine, its crystal-clear waters, and its vibrant cultural scene. But deep inside, you will also know that you have experienced something very special-a taste of the island’s carefree spirit and a reminder that even on a tight budget, you can still have an unforgettable adventure.
Now that Saint Martin beckons an adieu and you move around with your tour, remember an open mind, sense of adventure, and a willingness to take roads least traversed. By doing so, memories for sure will be made to cherish lifelong, and the essence of Saint Martin-experiencing a carefree, vibrant time that is unforgettable.