Green Cay (Caye Verte)
Green Cay, the small wild islet off Orient Bay
Green Cay (Caye Verte in French) is the small rocky islet sitting on the horizon when you look out from Orient Bay, about 600 metres offshore. The islet belongs to the National Nature Reserve and is closer to a low rocky outcrop crowned with scrub than to a real beach: visitors come mainly for the crossing, the loop around the islet and the snorkeling.
Access is by kayak or paddleboard from Orient Bay (south end, Coco Beach / Kontiki area). Several beach operators rent gear by the half-day and give you the daily briefing: wind direction, sea state, areas to avoid. The crossing takes 15 to 25 minutes depending on conditions; go early in the morning, when the trade winds are calmest. Some snorkeling tours from Orient Bay also stop at the mooring.
A loop around the islet is one of the best snorkeling spots in north-east Saint Martin: seagrass beds and coral heads attract green turtles, southern stingrays, parrotfish, sergeant-majors, damselfish and occasional barracudas. Watch out for long-spined sea urchins near the rocks - water shoes are a good idea. The east side of Green Cay, exposed to open water, is rougher and channels currents: stick to the west side, facing Orient Bay.
Important: there is no comfortable sandy beach on the islet, just rocky coves and small sand entries. Landing is on foot, carefully, avoiding the coral. The site is protected: no fishing, no taking, no walking on the vegetation, and do not disturb any seabirds nesting on it.
On the islet, no services: no shade, no water, no toilets. Bring a signaling buoy, mask & snorkel, water, dry bag and reef-safe mineral sunscreen. Do not attempt the crossing in strong wind, rough seas or thunderstorms - you cross at your own risk.
Gallery
Practical Info
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Location
Green Cay islet, off Orient Bay, 97150 Saint Martin
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Access
Kayak or paddleboard 600 m from Orient Bay (south); also via snorkeling tours
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Parking
Orient Bay car parks (Coco Beach / Kontiki) then gear rental
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Amenities
No facilities on the islet. Rent or bring everything from Orient Bay.
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Safety
Risky crossing in wind or swell. Currents on the east side. Rocks, coral, urchins — water shoes recommended.
A mini-adventure from Orient Bay
Leave early, check the forecast, stay on the west side of the islet and keep your visit short to respect the Reserve.