I've been to St. Martin many times (not within the last 5 years) but never with kids. I plan to stay at Cupecoy in a villa in February with my husband and two children, a boy, age 2; and a girl, 3 months. Any suggestions for calm beaches, playgrounds, kid-friendly restaurants or anything else? Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks!

We've taken kids to Grand Case beach for it's extremely calm waters. There are many selections of restaurants for kid friendly meals and if all else fails, there's McDonalds and Burger King (if it comes to that).<BR><BR>You might also try a day trip to Shoal Bay on Anguilla. I know kids really enjoy the beach there, as well.<BR><BR>I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Have fun.<BR>

I agree with Statia; the Grand Case beach is very calm and it doesn't get deep quickly. The water at the clothing-optional end of Orient is also quite calm; further along by Kontiki there are definite waves rolling in; however on my last trip there (about 3 weeks ago) there were plenty of families with young ones playing at the edge of the water. Remember you can also rent umbrellas along the beach to provide shade for the little ones. As to kid-friendly restaurants most except for the most expensive can accomodate kids. Try the lolos or rib shacks in Grand Case, Pedros on the beach at Orient. In the marina area in Marigot try Brasserie de La Gare, La Belle Epoque; at the harbourfront in Marigot there's Bar de La Mer.

Easier than a day trip to Anguilla, give Pinel Island a try. Near Orient, it's a couple minute boat ride, very shallow waters, great food, many families with small children love it here.

Depending on the Day, Mullet (very close to Coupecoy) could be very calm or wavy, depends on the day. Pinel is a great day, also try Le Gallion, spend the morning at the Butterfly Farm, and then the rest at LeGallion, very, very calm and a restaurant. They rent chairs and umbrellas also.