Le Karibuni,
Iconic Beach Restaurant
on Pinel Island, Saint Martin
A Unique Restaurant in the Heart of the Cul-de-Sac Natural Reserve
Located on the famous Pinel Island in the protected Cul-de-Sac Natural Reserve, Le Karibuni offers one of the most unique beach restaurant experiences in Saint Martin.
Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon and a preserved nature, our restaurant is renowned for its Caribbean fine dining, fresh grilled lobster, relaxed island atmosphere and unforgettable beachfront lunches on Pinel Island.
Whether you are looking for the best beach restaurant in Saint Martin, a romantic lunch by the sea, or an authentic Caribbean dining experience, Le Karibuni invites you to discover the true spirit of Pinel Island.
Our restaurant is just a short boat ride away from from French Cul-de-Sac.
One of the Most Unique Restaurants in Saint Martin
Unlike traditional restaurants in Saint Martin, Le Karibuni offers a true island escape experience.
Located directly on Pinel Island and surrounded by protected nature, the restaurant has become one of the most iconic beach destinations on the island.
Visitors from around the world come to experience:
- the beauty of Pinel Island,
- the authenticity of the Caribbean,
- exceptional seafood,
- and the relaxed elegance that defines Le Karibuni.
The Restaurant
Created in 1988, the Karibuni has become, thanks to the quality of its service, one of the most popular restaurants in Saint-Martin. Open 7 days a week, during the high season, we welcome you from 9:30 am to 5 p.m. (to the rhythm of the public ferry that takes you to Pinel).
Perfectly integrated into its environment, the restaurant offers an authentic and friendly atmosphere by the crystal clear water of the bay. The decoration is tastefully elaborated and uses natural materials: wood, palm leaves, fibres… Each space in the restaurant is unique and will offer a different atmosphere to your lunch.
A Caribbean Restaurant Surrounded by Nature
At Le Karibuni, nature is part of the experience.
Located directly on the beach of Pinel Island, the restaurant is surrounded by calm turquoise waters, white sand and the preserved landscapes of the Saint Martin Natural Reserve.
Far from crowded beach clubs and busy tourist areas, Le Karibuni offers a peaceful Caribbean atmosphere where guests reconnect with nature, the sea and island lifestyle.
The sound of the waves, the sea breeze and the relaxed rhythm of Pinel Island create an unforgettable setting for lunch in Saint Martin.
Caribbean Fine Dining on Pinel Island
A la carte, we offer authentic Caribbean-inspired cuisine that we take pleasure in preparing with fresh products.
We offer seafood products in Tapas, cod fritters, ceviche, fish carpaccio... We also prepare meat and burgers as well as our vegetarian options: salads, pokebowl...
Renowned for our lobsters and fresh fish grilled on the barbecue, it is possible that you witness the arrival of these fresh products! Indeed the catch of the day and the lobsters are delivered to the restaurant by the fishermen themselves. If you choose a lobster as the main course, you can also accompany your server to select your own lobster from our tank.
Finally, to end your meal, we invite you to discover our classics: chocolate fondant, coco blancmange... or let yourself be tempted by our revisited desserts (mojito tart, tiramisu, etc.).
To accompany every moment of your meal, our bar team offers delicious cocktails and a wide selection of wines and spirits.
Le Karibuni,
the Lobster Experience
Le Karibuni is famous throughout Saint Martin for its fresh lobster experience.
Guests can personally choose their lobster directly from the lobster tank before it is grilled on the barbecue and served on the beach facing the turquoise waters of Pinel Island.
This signature experience has become one of the culinary highlights of Saint Martin.
More Than a Restaurant — A Caribbean Escape
A visit to Le Karibuni is not simply lunch. It is a full Caribbean day experience.
After a short boat transfer from Cul-de-Sac, guests arrive on Pinel Island and discover a hidden paradise inside the natural reserve.
Spend the day
- relaxing on beach chairs,
- swimming in crystal-clear water,
- snorkeling nearby,
- enjoying cocktails under coconut trees,
- and sharing an unforgettable beachfront lunch.
Le Karibuni perfectly combines beach relaxation, gastronomy and Caribbean lifestyle.
Our restaurant
has been awarded
the
Green Key label in 2026
The Karibuni team is proud to have been awarded the Green Key label for the first time in 2026. We are now among the 3,035(*)
certified establishments in France committed to sustainable tourism and dining!
This label, developed in France by the Teragir association, recognizes our commitment to sustainable development. It constitutes official recognition of the positive impact of our business and our responsible food offer.
(*) as of the date of our certification
Sustainable tourism label
for tourist accommodations and restaurants
https://www.laclefverte.org/
Getting to the restaurant
To reach Pinel Island, you can take the public ferry or cross the bay by kayak or paddleboard. In addition, a private boat transfer service is offered to residents of our hotel, the
Karibuni Boutique Hotel.
Ferry public
Departure: Cul de Sac pier
Service: from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Duration of the crossing: approximately 5 minutes
Price: 10 euros / $12 (round trip per person)
Kayak and paddleboard rental
Available near the Cul-de-Sac pier
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Le Karibuni located?
Le Karibuni is a beach restaurant located on Pinel Island, in the Cul-de-Sac Natural Reserve in Saint Martin, in the French Caribbean.
Is Pinel Island part of a natural reserve?
Yes. Pinel Island is located inside the protected Saint Martin Natural Reserve.
How do you get to Le Karibuni?
Guests reach Le Karibuni Restaurant, on Pinel Island, thanks to the ferry service operating from the Cul-de-Sac pier. The corssing lasts about 5 minutes. Pinel can also be reached by kayak, paddle from French Cul-de-Sac.
Can you spend the day on the beach at Le Karibuni?
Yes. Guests can reserve beach chairs and enjoy a full beach day experience on Pinel Island. The beach is open from 10am till about 5pm (depending on the season).
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during high season and weekends.
Is Le Karibuni restaurant good for couples?
Absolutely. Le Karibuni is one of the most romantic beach restaurants in Saint Martin thanks to its peaceful setting and natural beauty.
Is Le Karibuni Good for Families and Groups of Friends?
Pinel Island is known for its peaceful lagoon making it one of the most family-friendly beach destinations in Saint Martin. Indeed, the crystal-clear shallow waters make swimming easy and enjoyable for children, allowing parents to relax while enjoying lunch and the beach. Besides, the relaxed barefoot Caribbean atmosphere makes Le Karibuni one of the most enjoyable places to gather with friends in Saint Martin.